25 Romantic Beach Date Ideas for Some Epic Fun in the Sun

Warm weather is the perfect excuse to grab bae's hand, run out the door, and spend some quality time together under the warmth of cheery sunshine. Obvi, some of the best summertime dates involve the beach—and there's so much to do beyond lounging in the sand. Beach date ideas can range from ultra-romantic (think charcuterie board on a fancy yacht) to super adventurous activities (did someone say sunrise surfing?) to classically cute beach date ideas like sandy picnics with a side of seashell collecting. Whether you live near the shore or are planning a coastal vacation, we pooled together all sorts of beach date ideas to assist you in your planning.

1. Chef-Curated Beach Picnic

Photo: Courtesy of Lido House Newport Beach

You've done a picnic before, but what about a chef-curated picnic? Having a food pro take the wheel for this charming outdoor date idea is the perfect way to level up. If you're staying at a hotel, inquire about this service. For example, Lido House in Newport Beach, California, offers a "Dine Like a Mayor" tasting menu that plays off their on-site restaurant experience. "Our chefs curate a picnic featuring the freshest ingredients, from hand-picked local produce to artisanal cheeses and seasonal treats," says Rory Emslie, the hotel's manager. Plan it for sunset for some seriously gorgeous photo ops.

2. Beachy Bingo

We love this option for a low-key, loungey beach date idea for couples. Simply bring a DIY bingo card filled with beach-themed things you're apt to spot—like someone collecting seashells, a couple in matching outfits or a kid building a sandcastle. Snacks, bevs and a shady umbrella make this way more fun.

3. Charter a Private Yacht

Photo: Courtesy of Balboa Bay Resort

Nothing says epic romance and "living the luxe life" quite like cruising around a private yacht. Level up the whole thing by adding a charcuterie board and some bubbly—perfect for celebrating a milestone or even popping the question! Many hotels and rental companies, such as Balboa Bay Resort's Host of the Coast, allow you to charter a yacht with an experienced captain at the helm.

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"Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a romantic getaway, couples can customize their cruise with curated culinary delights like champagne, cheese and charcuterie," says Haley Moscos, catering and events manager for Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, California. It's a magical, intimate setting!

4. Coastal Massage

Poke around town to see if any resorts or spas provide private massages near or on the shoreline. A couple's massage is already an indulgent treat, but adding the relaxing, real-life sounds of water and salty air takes the whole experience to another level.

5. Whale Watching Tour

Imagine jetting along in a boat and seeing gigantic whales and dolphins crest the water's surface. These sea mammals are easily some of the most incredible creatures on earth, and a whale watching tour guide knows exactly where to take you to see them up close and personal. This adventurous beach date idea is one for the books, for sure.

6. Surfing Lessons

Neither of you has to be a surfing expert to get a surfing lesson. Whether you go in the early hours of the morning or the afternoon, there's no doubt this beach date will bring you closer together. "Learning something new together strengthens a relationship's bond and opens up a new line of communication and playfulness," explains Alyssa Mairanz, LMHC, clinical therapist director of Empower Your Mind Therapy Practice.

7. Ice Cream on the Boardwalk

Getting in the water is good fun, but sometimes you just want to gaze out at the sparkling shoreline with a treat in hand. Turn your beach trip into a fun little dessert tour but hitting up one or two ice cream, shaved ice or gelato stands and rate your scoops.

8. Go Boogie Boarding

Boogie boarding is another adventurous and sporty thing to do—and you don't need to be an experienced surfer to partake. Rent a boogie board at a nearby rental kiosk and see who can ride the wave the longest!

9. Adventurous Trailblazing

Want a little bit of a thrill? Most beaches feature secluded coves and hidden beaches just waiting for you to discover. "Spend a day as beach trailblazers, kayaking up and down the coast or trekking beach trails to find your own little bit of paradise," suggests Vukan Simic, founder and CEO of BoatBooker. "The thrill of stumbling on something not so well traveled reinforces your bond of friendship and leaves you with a story that's yours alone."

10. Build a Sandcastle Together

Harken back to those innocent childhood years and build a sandcastle together. All you need is a bucket or two, your hands, and perhaps a little shovel. Mairanz says this is an excellent way to encourage a sense of playfulness, "which helps to increase the bond between you two."

11. Creative Couples Photoshoot

Bring silly props, draw hearts or initials in the sand, and take turns staging funny or even romantic pictures of each other, suggests Viviana McGovern, LMFT, CEO and clinical director at Full Vida Therapy. She adds, "You can even try recreating iconic movie scenes or dramatic poses. This is such a fun, low-pressure date, and then you end up with memories you can actually look back on and laugh about later."

12. Watercolor the Waves

Speaking of getting creative, this beach date idea is an excellent way to pass the time, bond with one another and flex your creative muscles. Bring small watercolor painting kits, brushes and paper and channel your inner Bob Ross. Paint a pretty picture of the shore, waves or cute beach streets.

13. Cruise Around in a Moke

Photo: Courtesy of Lido House Newport Beach

For the perfect "not quite a car" and "not a scooter" beach date idea, consider renting out a Moke to cruise around the shoreline. These electric cars have a retro, beachy vibe, perfect for cruising along the coastline or streets, says Emslie. "Drive to hidden gems, stop at local cafes or simply take in the ocean views," he says. "You can make it extra fun by having a playlist of your favorite tunes to serenade the ride."

14. Play a Game of 1:1 Beach Volleyball

Want a beach date idea that gets your heart pumping? This sporty option encourages some healthy competition while working up your appetite. Happy hour, complete with a seafood tower, is the perfect way to celebrate the winner.

15. Sandy Stargazing

Beach dates often mean loads of sunshine, but you can get cozy with bae even once the sun sets! Stargazing along the shore is perfect since there's often less light pollution. Plus, beaches are way less busy in the evenings, which makes them quiet and peaceful, says Steve Schwab, travel expert and CEO of Casago. He adds, "Bring some towels or beach chairs and plenty of blankets to stay warm. Also, lots of beaches have fire pits that you can use as well to make s'mores to enjoy together."

16. DIY Seashell Hunt Challenge

Channel your inner kiddo and see who can collect the prettiest (or maybe even the weirdest?) seashells in 30 minutes. Give each other quirky categories like "most likely to possess magic" or "cutest pastel tone," and crown a winner with a beachy prize—like an ocean-dipped kiss.

17. Sunset Sailboat

There's something incredibly magical about watching the sun set over the water. "Taking a small boat for a few hours gives couples a chance at some privacy and a unique view of the coastline," Simic says. "The motion of the boat, the soft lapping of water against the hull, and the stunning colors that color the sky are the perfect combination for a romantic evening."

18. BYO Tiki Night

You can always hit a local tiki bar, but sometimes it's fun to build your own. For this cute beach date idea, pack some wow-worthy tiki cups, a mini speaker and tropical snacks to create your own island-inspired happy hour. Whether it's mocktails or rum runners, this vibey date is one you'll remember forever.

19. Yoga on the Shoreline

Yoga is a low-key fitness date idea that'll have you both stretching in tandem. It's a great way to connect—both with yourself and your breath—and it's basically impossible to beat the views of a yoga sesh on the shore.

20. Snorkeling Adventure

A snorkeling date is equal parts adventure and awe. Slip beneath the surface and discover a whole other world filled with colorful fish, swaying coral, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. It's quiet underwater, which makes the experience feel even more intimate and otherworldly. Hold hands as you explore side by side, then pop up for air and to swap stories about what you spotted.

21. Deep Sea Fishing

For ultra-adventurous couples who crave a zing of adventure, chartering a boat for a deep-sea fishing trip makes for an unforgettable day together. Side by side, you'll bond over the excitement of potentially reeling in a big catch or cheering each other on if one gets away. In between, enjoy the open ocean views, snacks, and maybe even spot dolphins or whales.

22. Fly a Kite

Aside from swimming and collecting seashells, is there anything more quintessential for a beach day than flying a kite? Watching the bright fabric soar against the endless blue sky, tugging gently in the breeze, unlocks childhood glee and is sure to bring about some laughs.

23. Guided Seaside Foraging

Make your beach date a taste adventure by learning to forage for edible seaweed, shellfish and beach greens (where permitted and safe). "Guided foraging tours are available at coastal destinations where you'll find a secret world of beach-to-table ingredients," Simic says. Once you've gathered your bounty, create a small campfire and prepare a simple, fresh seafood meal together right on the beach.

24. Build a Beach Fort

Another beach date idea for night is to build your very own beach fort together. Bring blankets, towels, and a few collapsible chairs or lightweight sheets to build your own beach fort. "After sunset, you can pull out all the snacks, string lights or lanterns, and cozy up together to stargaze and listen to the ocean waves," McGovern says. "This is a great way to feel nostalgic while also being romantic, especially for couples who need a break from the day-to-day responsibilities."

25. Ocean Sound Meditation

Say farewell to the noise of everyday life and hello to the rhythmic lull of waves and seabirds. Lay side by side on a blanket with your eyes closed, focusing on your breath and the natural sounds around you. You can guide each other through an easy meditation or simply stay quiet and let the ocean do the work. It's grounding, peaceful, and a unique way to connect on a deeper, more mindful level.