Searching for the best date ideas in San Diego? You’ve come to the right place!! For those dating in San Diego, there are so many options to choose from when it comes to planning a perfect date.
So, if you’ve connected with someone new and you’re trying to choose between heading to La Jolla for a cocktail or going on a romantic gondola cruise, we’re here to help! Below, we’ve put together our list of some of the best San Diego date ideas to get you started!
The Best Date Ideas in San Diego: 19 Top Suggestions to Get You Inspired
1. Set the mood at Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
Surrounded by the flower of love, romance is certainly in the air at the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. The fact that this is one of the most popular wedding venues says it all. If you want to put your crush in the mood for love, this is one of the best date spots in San Diego. Best of all, it’s free! So you don’t have to spend a fortune to make a good impression.
2. Embrace nature on the Cowles Mountain Trail
Get active on your next San Diego date and explore the spectacular views that the Cowless Mountain Trail has to offer. It’s open all year round, so you and your date can go hiking whenever you’re in the mood for some time in nature.
3. Take in the stunning views at Solana Beach
Soak up the sunshine at the secluded Solana Beach. It’s a bit more difficult to reach, but that just makes it even more special. The high cliffs and beautiful ocean are definitely worth the trip. Undoubtedly one of the best date spots in San Diego.
4. Head to La Jolla for an action-packed date
With its fancy homes and upmarket shopping opportunities, it’s easy to see why La Jolla is referred to as “The Jewel” of San Diego. Alongside the stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of activities for you and your date to do here.
If you’re an adrenaline junky, try out gliding or take to the water in a kayak for a date that’s hard to forget. As far as fun date ideas in San Diego go, this one’s hard to beat!
5. Jump into science fiction at the Comic-Con Museum
Is your crush into comics? Score extra brownie points by planning a trip to the Comic-Con Museum. Open all year round, this museum offers more than just comic books. Expect to see popular art and science fiction literature, career talks, movie screenings, book signings and so much more. What’s not to love?!
6. Take in the San Diego sunset on a gondola cruise
When it comes to romantic date ideas in San Diego, this one’s tough to top! And trust us, a gondola cruise through the canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays will set the mood for romance.
For an extra helping of romance, book the sunset gondola cruise. It costs a bit extra, but you won’t regret it! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views while enjoying chocolate truffles and good company. It’s sure to lead to that tantalizing first date kiss!
7. Experience an adrenaline rush at San Diego Bay
Looking for a thrill? Head over to San Diego Bay, rent a private speedboat and go for a cruise out on the open water. For those looking for things to do in San Diego for couples, this is a popular choice. It sure beats a boring date night at home.
8. Check out a farmers market
Calling all the foodies out there! Keep it casual and enjoy one of San Diego’s many farmers markets. Get to know the community better, buy some locally-made crafts and eat organic, fresh produce.
San Diego’s farmers markets are especially good for an easy first date. Wandering around and checking out all that the market has to offer is a great way to break the ice with someone new and distract from those first date nerves.
9. Relax for a spa day
When it comes to things to do in San Diego for couples, nothing quite beats a spa day. It’s a classic for a reason and it can really help you and your date to wind down and connect.
Choose from the best spas in San Diego, get pampered with a massage, and feel the stress of your busy week melt away.
10. Fly high with a trapeze lesson
For those looking for fun date ideas in San Diego, look no further! Surprise your partner with a trapeze lesson at Trapeze High. Whether you’re on a first date or you’re in a long-term, exclusive relationship, this unique and unforgettable date idea is a great way for you and your partner to bond. Plus, it’s a great workout too!
11. Take in a theatre show
You can’t go wrong with this classic date idea. Book a theatre show and then head out for dinner and drinks afterward. Our top tip: Check out what’s on at the Balboa or Civic Theatre and book tickets in advance to grab the best seats in the house!
12. Get in touch with your artistic side at the Sparks Gallery
Treat your date to a day out at the Sparks Gallery. Take a stroll through the exhibits or book a ticket for one of their exciting events.
13. Go cycling
Go cycling at the Silver Strand Bikeway. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one there. You and your partner will enjoy the beautiful views along San Diego’s stunning coastline. Just make sure that you stop for a swim in the ocean along the way.
14. Try out a wine tasting
You’re guaranteed to have a fun time while wine tasting at one of San Diego’s wineries. Try Altipiano vineyard and winery or Speckle Rock Vineyards.
15. Head over to Waterfront Park
Looking for a great day out on a budget? Head to the Waterfront Park where you can have a picnic, watch a free movie, or stroll through the picturesque gardens. It’s an affordable option but still ranks as one of the best date ideas in San Diego.
16. Enjoy some downtime at the Meditation Gardens
Enjoy quality time together at the meditation gardens. This is your chance to reconnect with your partner and discover your inner peace.
17. Plan a picnic
Pack the perfect picnic and head to Brengle Terrace Park or Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. With San Diego’s sunny weather, an outdoor picnic is the perfect date idea.
18. Play golf at Morley Field
Visit Morley Field Golf Course and check out this renowned disc golf course. While the course isn’t long, you’ll need to be up to the challenge of navigating past trees and handling tough pin placements. Add a little competition to your relationship with this fun date in San Diego!
19. Attend a music festival
Treat your partner to tickets for a music festival. There are a bunch of options to choose from in San Diego, making it easy to find exactly the right vibe for you and your date. Kaaboo is a popular festival where you can expect to see top-quality performances.
Start Planning the Perfect Date
Finding the best date ideas in San Diego can feel overwhelming at first. But, there are so many great options to choose from, all you need to do is think outside the box to get started. Just remember that — whichever cool date ideas in San Diego you go for — the most important thing is to spend time together with your loved one without any distractions.
