For fool-proof summer date ideas, take a page from a Nicholas Sparks book.
Nope, not trying to throw you into a timeless cliché. Just being honest.
A good Nicholas Sparks novel is rarely set in the winter. Because truth be told, apart from the cozy ambiance of Christmastime, it can be tough to find an audience who’s willing to believe in the magical allure of slushy streets, icicles, and sharp winds.
So it’s no wonder that Nick, along with so many of us, are keen to craft romantic endeavors around the intoxicating influence of summer months. And for good reason…
Sunkissed skin. Loose layers. Longer days. Glowing sunsets. Lazy beach strolls. Fireflies. Sweet treats. Laughter. Porch swings. Cool grass. The quiet shade of big trees. So many characteristics of the warm season provide the perfect inspiration for summer date ideas — naturally setting the scene for you to enjoy movie-worthy moments with your lucky lad or lady.
Whether you need a new idea to share with an old flame, or are looking to sweep a new summer love off of his or her feet — here are some date ideas that are sweet, simple and guaranteed to leave you both with ‘remember when' stories to smile about for years to come.
Park concerts and performances. There’s no better way to share some blanket space and fresh air. And bonus: they’re usually free! (Don’t forget favorite snacks and perhaps a few select beverages!)
Bike rides! Grab a couple sets of wheels for a laid-back outing. (Or double the bonding fun with a tandem bike!)
Paddleboat rentals. Perfect for those couples who can’t get enough of pedaling.
Beer or wine tastings. A most refreshing, relaxing way to spend a hot day.
Drive-in movies! A cute, clever way to catch a new summer flick.
Sunset walks along the water. Don’t believe anyone who says this is too cliché for summer date ideas. Anyone who’s ever been truly sweet on someone will attest to the pure magic of this moment.
Fireworks! A timeless classic. And why not sweeten the sparkly-sky deal with some ice cream and sprinkles?
Guided city tours. Explore your stomping grounds in new ways, and shake up the typical ‘walk-and-talk’ routine.
Picnic getaway. Easy, romantic, relaxing. (Bonus points if a rowboat is involved.)
Hammock naps. Nothing says summer quite like shade and gently swaying together in the soft summer breeze.
Ice cream trucks! You’re never too old to scream for these gems. And it's even more fun to do with two — just sayin’.
Fun, outdoor date ideas. Have a hankering to escape the fast-paced city life? Take a hike. Float down a peaceful river together. Hop on a horseback trail ride. Or go fishing.
Summer fairs! Nothing trumps classic summer date ideas quite like carnival food, games, and a Ferris wheel ride for two. (Embrace the chance of ‘cheesy' — you know you want to.)
Stargazing. No matter where it happens —dock, rooftop, campsite, top of the car, wherever!— just make sure it does. As much as possible.
Backyard campfires. S’mores, wine and story-swapping are delightful ‘musts' as you bask in the romantic glow.
Lounge around. The lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are the perfect excuse to soak up some sunshine the beach, pool or park.
Action and adventure! Get your hearts racing with adrenaline-pumping summer dates like rafting, kayaking, biplane rides, bungee jumping, race car driving, rock climbing, skydiving, and more!
Dance in that rain! Just do it. You only live once. So loose the shoes, and get ready to get drenched from head to toe with your main squeeze — laughing along to life’s lyrics and the romantic rhythm of the raindrops. It will be awesome. Guaranteed.
Eat, drink and be merry! Take advantage of a drizzly day to try a new restaurant or type of cultural cuisine neither of you have braved before.
Get creative. Tap into your inner artists with summer date ideas as playful and simple as sidewalk chalking together, or as elaborate as a formal class.
Summer sunrises. Even the biggest anti-morning person won’t regret doing this. Ever. That’s a promise.
Think outside the box. Delve into fun dates that are a little less traditional. Think along the lines of disc golf, roller skating, archery, driving ranges, batting cages… Go for quirky but cute date ideas for summer that get you doing something different together.
Embrace thunderstorms. Unplug entirely. Put phones, TV, etc. out of reach. Snuggle into a porch seat or comfy couch. Then watch and listen while nature orchestrates its incredible show.
Whatever you do – make sure you do things that ‘carpe diem!’ this romantic season, with its abundant sunshine and serene nights.
Indulge in summer date ideas that would make Nicholas Sparks himself downright proud. And (more importantly!), that leave you and your other half with unforgettable memories of summer lovin’ for years to come.
