In the Heat of the Night: The Key to Having a Romantic Summer Date

Summer dates consist of you and your significant other (S.O.) sharing one soda with two straws, with toes dug into the sand and sun hats perched on their heads. In other words, the key to successful summertime dating is to make the most of the warm sunshine and summer fun. If you’re trying to plan some memorable summer dates for you and your S.O., try implementing some of these ideas.

1. Changing Up Dinner Dates

Dinner dates seem to be standard fare when it comes to summer dating. While there is a reason that this go-to option remains popular, it’s nice to change it up a bit. For example, you and your significant other may want to try cooking a romantic AND healthy summertime dinner. Money Crashers recommends that you and yours take a trek to the local farmer’s market for some fresh produce to make that happen.

There, you can pick up some delicious bell peppers, tomatoes, basil and other things and take them home to cook with. You can then grill them up outside on your patio along with some chicken or whatever else you like to eat on your grill. To help make the evening even more special, make sure that you have a really delicious drink prepared to go along with it. Think sweet tea or a chilled coffee with lots of flavor to it.

2. Waterskiing and Jet Skiing

A water adventure counts as the quintessential summertime date. It takes advantage of the warmer temperatures mixed with cool lake water and adds a shot of adrenaline for good measure. If you and your S.O. don’t own this equipment, try renting it. You can pick up a Jet Ski rental for about $75 at most locations. However, don’t just take the Jet Skis out to just any location. Plan ahead and go to a lake with lots of scenery. This will help create an even more romantic mood.

3. Movies on the Lawn

For not very much money, you can set up a blow-up screen and rent a projector to create your own private backyard outdoor movie theater. Gather your favorite romantic movies, chill some Chardonnay wine, and wrap yourself in blankets to keep warm.

As an alternative to having your own backyard movie setup, you can check to see if your town offers a summertime movie night. It’s the same type of setup, only on a grander scale. The best part about this setup is that it usually takes place in a city park so it’s free.

4. Go Sailing

Spending an evening sailing is one of the most romantic ways to spend time with your S.O. To get ready, pack up a romantic picnic, slip on your canvas shoes, and set sail for a secluded spot offshore somewhere. You and your S.O. can sip champagne and smooch as the moon casts its reflection on the water.

Setting up a romantic summer date is all about taking advantage of the season. These dates are filled with the sensual scents of fresh fruits and vegetables, adrenaline-pumping summer activities, and time alone for two.

Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake. For your flavorful coffee needs, Hannah recommends Monin.