A really romantic date idea, that costs next to nothing, is building a fire next to a lake at night. Or, of course, on the beach would be amazing too.
You can roast marshmallows, have hot dogs, or some other type of campfire food. Another thing you can do that’s fun is playing music from a speaker, and—you guessed it—ask him/her to dance.
If you’re musical, play the guitar for her. Girls can’t resist a good guitar. This could also be a perfect place to read a poem for her that you wrote, tell scary stories, or just cuddle up and watch the fire burn.
Or maybe you want to take a moonlight dip in the lake or ocean? Seriously, there are so many possibilities to make this romantic date idea fantastic and memorable.
This also works as a great group date idea, but more special I think with just the two of you. Although, you can start it off as a group date, and then split off as couples and do your own thing for part of the time.
What you need for this romantic date idea:
Begin with a plan, no brainer right? First, you need to find a place to go, within a reasonable driving distance. Although you can certainly do this as an overnighter/camping trip as well.
Nowadays there are fire warnings in certain areas, so before you go somewhere and plan on making a bonfire, make sure it’s allowed. Seems like lately there are all kinds of out-of-control fires wreaking havoc.
Usually, it’s okay if you’re really close to a lake or the ocean, because it would be quite impossible to burn the lake down. But make sure you double-check so you don’t wind up getting a citation; nothing is more embarrassing than getting busted while on a date. Well, I guess there are a few things that would be more embarrassing, but I won’t get into those.
If you are planning on staying the night/camping, make sure to bring all the essentials. Want to roast marshmallows or hot dogs, or eat other food? Plan on bringing drinks and snacks/food to keep you fed. You could even make something special and give it to her/him.
Need some ideas on what to make? Any of these chocolate or dessert ideas from my cooking and baking website will do.
My commentary on this romantic date idea:
I’ve been to many bonfire activities. You can never go wrong with them—it’s so nice to be outside and enjoy nature while basking in the warmth of a fire. Two occasions stand out to me all through neither were a date specifically and were in a group setting.
While in college, I went to a bonfire next to Utah Lake. There were several people there, hanging out and having a good time. I looked on, a little jealous, as couples held hands and kissed next to the fire and lake, lucky ducks!
On another occasion, I was living in California and headed to the beach for a bonfire. A fairly good-sized group was there. I spotted a rather attractive girl sitting across from me, our eyes locked a few times. It was quite a while ago, but if I remember correctly, I didn’t have the guts to talk to her, haha. Can you say, lost opportunity?
Several years ago, one of my best friends had a small group date where they wound up at the lake. They decided to make a fire.
However, they didn’t realize that there was a fire ban going on, and sure enough, the park ranger showed up. He issued them all citations, and they wound up having to do community service. Okay so not the best example, but it is an example of needing to be fully prepared.
Always check to make sure it is okay to have a fire in the first place. Everyone loved the date up to the citation, but hey, they wound up doing the community service together, so I guess they were dating as criminals. I kid, I kid.
To sum up, an awesome romantic date idea for just the two of you or even a group date is building a bonfire or small fire, next to the lake or ocean. Enjoy food, good company, good conversation, and maybe if you are lucky, get a kiss or two or three.
You can buy a copy of the book 101 Creative Dates: ideas, tips, and personal experiences from the life of a hopeless romantic here or visit the shop.
Here are some other Date Ideas you may be interested in: