Summer love is pretty much a rite of passage for women our age. Think about it: we’re home for only a few months and have tons of free time on our hands. There are usually other college students home for the summer, or new to your hometown for internships. And something about that warm weather makes me feel frisky and adventurous!

Having a “summer fling” might be a cliche, but it’s a cliche because, well, it’s such a common and fun thing to participate in!

I thought it’d be fun to make a list of cool dates for you and your special someone to participate in over your summer vacation. The best part about this list? Any of these activities would be equally as fun with a group of friends as well!

So, whether you’re coupled up or a breezy single gal (like I am 99% of the time!), read on for a list of 10 romantic summer date ideas:

Related reading: 6 Perfect Outfit Ideas for Your Next Date Night

Table of Contents

1. Have a picnic at the park.

There’s nothing more romantic and fun than having a good old fashioned picnic with your sweetie on a sunny day. To keep it as low-maintenance as possible, visit the deli section of your local grocery store for chicken fingers, potato salad, and other ready-made eats packaged in disposable containers – this way, the cooking and clean-up are pretty much taken care of!

Another way to keep a picnic easy and delicious is to pick up sushi or sandwiches to go from your favorite restaurant. My favorite way to enjoy a meal outside, though, is with tons of delectable finger foods – think a gourmet spread of olives, fancy cheeses, whatever berries are on sale at your local farmer’s market, chocolate truffles, and warm, crusty bread. Yum!