When you think of the perfect Valentine’s Day date, it’s likely that you imagine dinner at a fancy restaurant or a Netflix stay-in. That may be the case for most people, but it doesn’t have to be so for you and your partner! Even though it’s cold, there’s surely nothing that the two of you like more than being outdoors.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we decided to list the best date ideas for outdoorsy couples. Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun outside. So without any further ado, let’s get into it!
Hiking
There’s nothing as rewarding as going out to nature and admiring the beauty of it with your significant other. For your Valentine’s Day date, you’ll probably want to be alone on the trail. Because of that, it’s best if you pick a path both of you know well enough – or the one that’s well marked.
Otherwise, you might have to hire a local guide, which will interrupt those romantic moments. Based on where you live, you might need some extra equipment to head outside, especially if it’s snowing.
If you’re just starting out your relationship, hiking is a great way to spend some time together without the communication pressure. Just imagine all those awkward silences that you might have over dinner!
While being out in nature, the conversation will flow much more smoothly as you comment on the things you’ll experience together. Once the silences occur, you won’t be pressured to fill all of them, as that’s a regular part of hiking!
Now, you’re probably wondering if hiking should be your choice if you’re a seasoned couple. The answer is: yes! Sharing an adventure together will help strengthen the bond you two have.
Make sure to bring all hiking essentials with you, and stay safe on the trail.
Fishing
Going on a fishing date is a great way to connect with your partner. You’ll learn a couple of tricks from them, and teach them something new.
Fishing on Your Own
Wondering if a fishing date is romantic enough?
Just imagine the two of you spending an entire day together in a beautiful location next to a lake or a river stream. One of you prepares a tasty picnic lunch and a bottle of wine, and you’ll bond over teaching each other new knots and tricks and sharing your fishing stories.
Whether you’re a married couple or having your third date, remember to have fun, and don’t stress out about catching a lot of fish. After all, it’s about spending time together, not bragging about your fishing skills.
Even if one of you has a lot more experience than the other, it’s important to stay humble and open to learning new things. They don’t have to think of you as an expert, but rather as someone who’s nice to spend time with. Most people are impressed with the patience and the right attitude, and no one likes a show-off.
Sometimes the fish aren’t biting, and that can be disappointing, but you can always plan ahead and fill these gaps with other fun things to do. Bring a pack of cards or a frisbee.
Depending on where you live, you might even be able to go ice fishing. However, before you plan the date, make sure that the two of you are on the same page. No one likes to be forced into doing something they don’t like.
Go on a Charter Fishing Trip
While hopping on a boat with a captain and crew might not be that private, it’ll give you a completely different kind of thrill. Couples who live in sunny and warm places can book a fishing trip and spend the day out on the water.
Away from your responsibilities, calls, and everyday bustle, the two of you can bond over reeling in some tasty fish. Just imagine spending time out on the water, on a beautiful, sunny day. You’re casting and reeling, sharing your tricks, and making jokes. That’s the perfect way to get to know your new partner, or reconnect if you’ve been dating for a while.
For the ultimate sea experience, you can choose a trip where you can take home your catch. Not only will you be taking home some nice memories, but you’ll also have a tasty, romantic dinner to prepare together.
Visit a Local Farmer’s Market
This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday. That means you can spend an entire day together and enjoy each other’s company. Rise up early and hit the local farmer’s market. If you’re both foodies, there’s no better date than this one.
You’ll stroll among the numerous stands, try out samples of fruit, jam, and hummus. While you’re here, you can buy groceries and cook a meal together once you get home. If you’re early in your relationship, this will be a great way to learn about your partner’s food preferences.
Camping
Now, here’s an idea for those who like to go off the beaten track. For couples who like nothing more than spending a night together in the wilderness, there’s no better suggestion than this one. Pack up your camping gear and head to the woods.
Going on a camping trip probably isn’t the best idea if you just started dating. On the other hand, it might be a great way to bond with your new partner and see their true colors. We’ll leave it up to you to decide what’s best!
For more seasoned couples who love to camp, this is a great way to bond and enjoy some magnificent views. At first, you’ll probably have to drive up to your favorite camping spot. Before the trip, you can prepare a playlist of your favorite songs that remind you of the special moments you’ve spent together.
As camping limits what you’ll be able to cook, you can prepare a special meal at home and bring it with you. Once you’re all settled, you can spend your evening talking and admiring the countless stars you can’t see from your city apartment.
Even though stargazing is a memorable experience, there’s nothing that beats an early morning sunrise in the mountains over a fresh cup of coffee. Wake up early to admire the beauty and sounds of nature as it wakes up.
It’s very important to remember that in some areas, depending on where you live, it might be too cold or unsafe to camp out. Before you plan a date, make sure to check if you have the proper equipment and if it’s safe to be outdoors.
Glamping
Here’s a solution for those who like the outdoors, but hate tents, or those who like camping, but don’t want to do it when it’s cold outside. Glamping is glamorous camping. It typically involves accommodation that is set up in advance, and facilities far more luxurious than traditional camping.
There are many different forms of glamping, from fancy tents set up next to an ocean view to cozy mountain huts, to hobbit holes and RV wagons set up in scenic locations.
If you’re dating someone who’s not that outdoorsy, and you are (and vice versa), glamping might be the best of both worlds. You can spend time near nature, while still taking advantage of the commodities you have at home.
No matter which type of glamping you choose, the huts/tents are usually set up in a way that everyone has enough space and privacy. The two of you will feel like you’re the only people in the world. Frankly, that’s the only thing you need on a Valentine’s Day date.
Visit a Beach
When it comes to visiting a beach on your Valentine’s Day date, you might be limited with options, depending on where you live. However, if you do have a scenic beach nearby, you already have a romantic setup. All you have to do is show up.
There’s nothing more idyllic than walking down a secluded beach, listening to the sound of waves crashing, and talking to your partner. You can even bring lunch with you, and make a seaside picnic.
While fancy dinners may be considered romantic, there’s nothing as romantic as watching a sunset together on a beach. Once the sun goes down, make a bonfire and snuggle to keep yourselves warm. Don’t forget to bring some marshmallows!
The atmosphere around bonfires is always cozy, and it’s a perfect setting to bond and share personal things about yourselves.
Go on a Benefit Walk or a Run
Couples who are looking for a fun date idea that goes beyond benefiting the relationship can sign up for a charity walk/run. Not only will you be doing a good deed, but you’ll also be able to bond over doing this together.
Knowing that you’re making a difference together can strengthen your connection. No matter the length of your relationship, this thought will help deepen your bond.
Bearing in mind that the COVID-19 pandemic is still going on out there, there may be limited safe options for you to choose this year. If you still want to do something good for your community, you can also sign up for a local clean up.
Outdoor Valentine’s Day Dates
There you have it – those were our suggestions for some outdoor activities you can do with your significant other on Valentine’s Day dates. No matter what you decide to do, make sure that both of you are on the same page. Communication is key and it will help you try an activity that both of you actually like together.
Now back to you. Have you ever taken your loved one out on an outdoor date? Are you planning to do so this year? Let us know in the comments below!
