31 Beach Date Ideas: Fun & Romantic Things to Do In The Sand
I literally live right on the beach, so I’m a little bias about beach date ideas being the best ones. Whether you’re on your first date or 50th, there’s a TON of things you can do.
From getting wet and wild to simply sitting on the sand and enjoying the company of that special someone, there’s an idea out there for everyone. The best part is, you can combine a ton of great ideas into one MASTER date and still save both time and money.
If you live close to the beach, or you’ll be one when you’re ready to take your next date, these beach date ideas are for you. They’ll make your experience unforgettable, fun, and full of romance.
Is going to the beach a good date?
Going to the beach is a classic romantic outing. Beach dates are one of my absolute favorite since they’re perfect for both first and 50th dates.
The beach offers a wide variety of activities that make it ideal for any couple. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous outing or just want to relax and enjoy that special someone’s company, it allows you that!
You can go swimming in the ocean, build sandcastles together or simply stroll along the shoreline hand-in-hand and take in the view.
I also love that it’s a budget-friendly option (so long as you don’t have to travel too far to get there). Simply bring a drink and a few snacks, and you’ve got yourself a full day of it.
To to it all off, the beach is a hella romantic place. Sunrises and sets over a body of water, plus there are typically fewer distractions than when you’re out on a city street or at a restaurant.
Best beach date ideas
1. Beach picnic
Having a picnic on the sand is one of my top beach date ideas. It’s an easy pick for any couple looking for a fun summer afternoon or evening.
For a particularly luxurious experience, pack up a charcuterie board with all of your favorite meats, cheeses, and other snacks. Don’t forget to bring along a picnic basket with a blanket to enjoy your dinner on the sand.
Look for the perfect spot where you can watch the sunset and spend some quality time together!
2. Stargazing
It’s no secret that stargazing is my favorite date activity.
It’s the perfect way to spend an evening with someone special, and your romantic beach date can go long into the night if you want. And what better place to do it from then the beach, with open sky as far as the eyes can see?
Don’t forget to bring your beach blanket and telescope. I’m lucky enough to live right on the Gulf of Mexico where I can stargaze from the comfort of my own front balcony in a hammock!
Image: Amazon
3. Build a sandcastle
No matter your age, sand castle building is a fun and creative way to spend an afternoon at the beach. You just need a bucket, a shovel, and some imagination – no romantic getaway necessary.
Construct towers, moats, and drawbridges to build the ultimate castle together. Or have fun competing against eachother. Don’t forget to lather on sunscreen for protection against the sun!
4. Go for a swim
Swimming is a great cute beach date idea. Throw on your your favorite swimsuit, grab your towel and jump into the water for a refreshing swim. The sun’s rays can give you an amazing tan to show off.
Granted, this may not be the best pick for a first date. But it’s still the perfect place for couples in the earlier stages of their relationship to spend an afternoon, as it offers opportunities to get to know each other while enjoying nature.
5. Ride the waves
Already planning on going into the water? Why not have some extra fun with it? Grab a tube or floatie and ride the waves or hangout in the tide pools!
Of course, this requires you to be somewhere there are actually waves, so it’s a particularly good ocean activity. And you’ll want to make sure you’re a good enough swimmer too!
6. Shopping on the pier
Walking along the pier is a great way to spend an evening or afternoon.
It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the beachside views, find some unique trinkets, or simply take a romantic stroll hand in hand and enjoy the beautiful lights. Plus, there are plenty of oceanside restaurants available to grab a bite to eat during your walk.
This is a GREAT first date idea if you live close to an ocean. It’s public, and easy to call it quits if you’re not enjoying yourself.
Image: Amazon
7. Paint together
Painting the ocean canvas together can be a great way to bond with a significant other. Gather all the supplies you need, such as oil paints, water colors, paint markers, a canvas and an easel for each person.
Then spend some time chatting and painting the beautiful scenery of the ocean. Let your creative side shine by expressing yourself through art and capturing a beautiful moment together.
8. Horseback riding
Horseback riding is a great way to enjoy an afternoon, regardless of your experience level. If you’re absolute beginners, make sure to sign up for a session where someone with knowledge will be hanging out with you.
It’s a great adventurous date idea that can be both thrilling and memorable — but perhaps not the best surprise date. Make sure to discuss it with your partner first before you plan it, that way you can make sure it’s something you both will enjoy.
Image: Amazon
9. Frisbee
Frisbee is a fantastic date idea!
Whether it’s with just you and your partner, or with another couple, it’s an excellent way to have fun in the sun. It couldn’t be simpler, all you need is a frisbee. But don’t forget to bring some sunscreen and water.
The best part is that you can play for hours, so it’s sure to keep the two of you entertained for the entire day!
10. Beach volleyball
Beach volleyball is a great activity to get active on the beach. It’s a fun group game that can be played by friends, family or co-workers.
Unlike frisbee, it is not for just a couple since you really do need multiple players to truly enjoy it. But it does work for a group date or get together.
Whether you’re looking to have some friendly competition or just have some fun in the sun, volleyball is definitely the way to go!
Image: Amazon
11. Bike riding
Renting a bike and heading out along the coast is a great way to spend an afternoon. As you ride along the beach boardwalk, you can take in the amazing views of the ocean and feel the salt air in your hair.
Be sure to make time for lunch and stop for some pizza and ice cream along the way — it’s a great treat after a long ride!
12. Head to the cafe
Stopping at a cafe for a beach date is the perfect low-commitment way to spend time together. You can grab some tea or try something more exotic, taking in the beautiful scenery around you while you do.
It’s also a great opportunity to get to know one another better, so why not give it a go?
Image: Amazon
13. Beach movie night
A movie night in the sand is one of the ultimate summer experiences!
Many beaches host their own movie night, but you can also make your own—just pick your favorite spot, grab some chairs and a beach blanket, and don’t forget the snacks.
To complete the experience, consider renting an inflatable screen or just using an iPad (don’t forget to use caps in the plugs to avoid sand!).
Have fun and enjoy your movie night under the stars!
14. Take a long walk
What better way to end the day than with a romantic walk on the beach at sunset?
Even though it may be a cliche, there’s still something special about watching a beautiful sunset with your significant other.
Taking a romantic stroll on the beach at this time creates an incredible ambiance that sets just the right mood for some quality time together.
15. Watch the sunset
Watching the sunset is right up there with stargazing.
There’s something so calming and peaceful about it that can’t be matched. Grab some chairs, a snack, or just a blanket and head to the beach to enjoy the beautiful sight of the sun setting over the horizon.
Take in all of its beauty as you relax and take time for yourself; it’s an experience like no other!
16. Camp out under the stars
Camping at the beach is one of my favorite summer activities.
It’s a great way to explore the outdoors, plus you can combine a few of my favorite activities: stargazing and watching the sunset. If you want to make it an all-nighter, you can throw in the sunrise too.
If you’re planning on sleeping under the stars, you probably don’t need to add a tent to your beach camping list. However, you will want some kind of air mattress to keep comfy. Bring a dinner that you can enjoy on the beach, like sandwiches or wraps, and don’t forget bug spray!
Sleeping outside under the stars is an incredible beach date experience for couples that have been together a while, you’ll make some real special memories. Just make sure if you’re going to have yourself some sexy time, you do it on a private beach!
Image: Amazon
17. Explore the reefs
If you’re an adventurous couple looking for an unforgettable experience, then signing up for a professional tour to explore the colorful underwater reefs is the way to go. Of course this requires you to be at a beach with a reef nearby, so I’d recommend Mexico.
With an experienced guide, you can observe some of the most beautiful settings in nature. Before your departure, make sure to rent snorkel gear so you can dive into the depths of the ocean and get a closer look at the stunning scenery.
18. Watch the sunrise
If you’re an early riser, watching the sunrise is the perfect way to start your day. The sunrise is a little bit harder to catch than sunset for some people, but it’s well worth it if you do.
For a romantic evening with a special someone, combine four of my favorite picks: camping on the beach, stargazing, watching the sunset and then watching it rise again.
Image: Amazon
19. Beach bonfire
Spending an evening at the beach with a beach bonfire is a great way to relax and enjoy being outdoors. Make sure you bring all the necessary ingredients for s’mores and maybe even some hotdog dressings!
Always check if it’s safe to have a fire in that area. It’s not always safe to have a fire everywhere, you want to make sure there aren’t any bas on. Have fun, but also make sure your safety is prioritized.
20. Watch the dolphins
Living on the beach has it’s advantages, and one of those is being able to occasionally spot dolphins from my balcony.
To catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures though, you need to be somewhere with active dolphins. That usually means a full-on ocean, and maybe even a dolphin tour.
If you are going to go with a tour, make sure it’s eco-friendly. It’s really cool to see these creatures up close, but you want to make sure you aren’t disturbing them in their natural habitat!
Image: Amazon
21. DIY beach yoga
Yoga at the beach is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery. Grab some beach-friendly mats that can easily be wiped off so you don’t have to worry about sand getting stuck in them.
Morning or evening tend to be the best times to do yoga on the beach as it tends to be cooler then. Doing yoga on the beach allows you to relax, get a good stretch and take in the beauty of nature all at once.
22. Plan a scavenger hunt
Organizing a beach scavenger hunt can be a great way to have fun with a date.
To make it as exciting as possible, it’s important to plan ahead and either hide clues or create a list of items to find. Items on this list could include things like finding a starfish, a curly shell, or even something more abstract like finding the “best sunset spot.”
With some careful planning, the beach scavenger hunt is sure to be an unforgettable experience for everyone!
Image: Amazon
23. Kayak
Renting a kayak is a great way to enjoy a calm day on the water, whether you do it together with someone or you decide to kayak separately.
Beforehand, make sure to decide who is doing what and when, so that both of you can have a fun and safe time out on the water.
Kayaking is a wonderful way to immerse in nature, soak up some sun and get an enjoyable workout at the same time.
24. Take a day cruise
A day trip or tour to the beach is a great way to get out and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without having to live close by.
You can even find tours that include drinks and meals, so you can have a fun-filled day without having to worry about organizing all of the details.
It’s also a great way to meet new people as an couple and make some memories!
Image: Amazon
25. Look for seashells
Beach combing or shelling is a great activity for morning beach goers! It’s an opportunity to explore the sand and see what the tide has brought in.
To make it extra fun, try making a seashell scavenger hunt out of it, but make sure not to take anything that is still alive back with you!
26. Go stand up paddle boarding
If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous date idea, why not try out stand up paddle boarding?Apparently it’s not too difficult to do — though, full disclosure, I’ve never tried it myself!
On a relatively calm day, stand up paddle boarding could be the perfect way to get some fresh air and have some fun with your partner. What better way to spice things up than hitting the open water!
Image: Amazon
27. Have a BBQ
Let’s get the party started! Grab your portable BBQ and head to the beach for a day of delicious grilling.
From mini-pizzas to traditional burgers, you can do it all with your BBQ and make the experience even more enjoyable by combining a swim in the ocean or watching the sun set with a bottle of wine (just be sure that it’s legal!).
With some good company, food and drinks, you can make any beach trip more fun.
28. Hit up the amusements
If you’re lucky enough to be near a beach that has an amusement park, definitely take advantage of it!
Jump on the Ferris wheel and get breathtaking views of the coast or take a ride on a small roller coaster for some fun thrills.
Whatever you choose, it’ll make for a memorable experience that you won’t forget anytime soon… but don’t forget to pack your comfy shoes!
29. Rent a boat or jet-ski
If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy the water, consider renting a boat or jet ski. It’s an exciting and fun way to experience the outdoors!
Plus, with a boat rental, you can grab a tube and take your adventure to the next level.
Just be sure that whoever is driving the boat has a valid license so everyone can stay safe and have a great time.
Image: Amazon
30. Go treasure hunting
Every morning and evening, a man visits the beach near my house with his metal detector. He’s always on the hunt for hidden treasures, and you never know what he might find.
If you’re looking for adventure and want to try something new, I would suggest getting a metal detector and hitting the beach.
Who knows — maybe you’ll discover something amazing that no one else has seen before!
31. Give surfing a try
I wish I lived somewhere with the right kind of waves for surfing, but unfortunately the Gulf doesn’t have them.
However, if you’re brave enough to give it a go, you can start from square one! Get a lesson from an instructor or take one from your date 😉
It’s all part of the fun and definitely worth a try for any surfer looking for an adventure.
Image: Amazon
What should I bring to a beach date?
You want to make sure you prepare for your beach date, otherwise it might not be the activity you originally planned. While what you bring depends on what you’re doing, here are a few things you don’t want to forget:
Water
You DO NOT want to drink the water along the beach. Even if it’s fresh water, bring potable stuff from elsewhere to consume.
Sunscreen
Even on the most cloudy days, the rays of the sun can get you. Make sure you put a ton on and reapply often, especially if you’re going to be in the water.
Bug spray
I ALWAYS get bitten at the beach and I never realize until I get home. Prepare ahead of time by making sure you bring along your bug spray.
Sun hat
I’m not one to wear a hat myself, but you really do need one if you’re going to spend all day in the sun. Even if you don’t wear it the whole time, bring it along.
Towel or beach blanket
If you’re going in the water, a towel is more appropriate. However, having a beach blanket along to enjoy is going to be a great idea. If you want to step it up a notch, bring yourselves beach chairs too.
Beach date ideas FAQs
What can you do on a beach date?
There are plenty of great romantic beach date ideas from finding the perfect place to watch the sun go down to strolling along the board walk and grabbing some ice cream – whatever you’re into you can do it at the beach!
What can I do at the beach with my wife?
If you’re headed to the beach for a day trip with your parter, whether it’s Southern California or the Gulf shores, pick something for your romantic beach date that you BOTH like doing. Active couple? Grab a jet ski and enjoy the water, more laid back entertainment folks? Find some live music and take it all in.
How do you make a beach not boring?
The beach is NOT a boring place, though grabbing a couple of beach chairs and lounging the day away isn’t everyone’s top pick. Instead, get up, and do something you WANT to do. It’s your date.
How do you flirt on the beach?
If you spend time on the beach and find someone you might be interested in, there are a few tips you’ll want to keep in mind when trying to flirt:
- Avoid physical compliments – they’re easy, but a lot of people are self-conscious about their bodies and they might not go over as charmingly as you think
- Come straight out and ask for their number, the worst they’ll say is no
- Don’t hover – get it over with and head off to enjoy the ocean views
What is the most popular beach activity?
There are a ton of great activities to do from beach soccer to finding the perfect spot and enjoying the Bay Area. However, the most popular activities are walking along the beach, followed by swimming in the water.
Wrap up: Beach date ideas
Next to Disneyland, beach date ideas are probably my favorite.
Granted, I’ll probably never have a great first date at Disney (even if it is on the TOP of my list), but I live right on the beach and it’s a great place to get together with someone.
There are plenty of great beach activities. I love just watching the sunset and hanging out with the pup, but riding the waves or playing sports can be fun too.
Whatever you do, make sure that it’s an activity that both you and your date enjoy, or are interested in trying out. You’ll have a grand ole time if everyone’s on board.
Read this far and still looking for more date ideas? Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Stargazing
- Go on an adventure
- Top Golf, baby!
