Late Summer is the perfect season for couples to spend some quality time out and about. So when the warm weather and sunshine beg the two of you to venture outside, go ahead and throw on your shoes, grab your partner's hand, and jump into these outdoor summer activities for couples.

One of the best parts of taking your date outdoors is that you get to breathe in the fresh air and soak up some rays, getting that all-important vitamin D. Still, always remember to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to keep your skin safe and protected before embarking on your adventures.

5 Outdoor Summer Activities for Couples

1. Plan a Picnic

Juicy watermelon slices, colorful kebabs, and vibrant chilled salads—these are all classic summer foods that are refreshing under the sun. Pack up a picnic basket with your favorite summer foods and take your lunch or dinner outside. Even if your picnic is under a shady tree in your own backyard, this is a great way to connect over a meal while surrounded by nature.

Wrap up the evening watching a romantic sunset. Though the sun's rays are weaker as the day goes on, you should still apply sunscreen in the late afternoon to prevent your skin from burning.

2. Hit the Scenic Trails

Hiking or taking a walk on a scenic trail is great exercise, but it's also a great way to bond. The National Park Service recommends hiking as a way to bring people closer together and build a healthy relationship.

Being in nature and experiencing the sensations of the sunshine, breeze, and earthy smells can calm anxiety and reduce stress. In a fast-paced world, it's nice to simply slow down. Spend the time to appreciate the mountains, oceans, and forests that you can explore. Taking in the views with your partner is a simple way to grow closer.

3. Get Sporty

Sports aren't just for friends and teammates. Couples can team up or do coordinated exercises together to create a setting where you can get active and strengthen your connection at the same time.

Playing a sport like tennis where you can either rally with your significant other or partner up against another couple creates an opportunity to coordinate. Even the simple action of tossing a ball back and forth requires rhythm and sync. Playing sports also gives the two of you a shared goal and sense of accomplishment as a couple.

Plus, this outdoor date idea is one that will never get old because there are many sports to try out, including volleyball, golfing, cycling, and more. You can even try water sports like swimming, surfing, and kayaking. But don't forget a water-resistant sunscreen that won't come off when you break a sweat or take a dip—and be sure to re-apply every 80 minutes for consistent coverage.

4. See the Sights

In today's busy world, it's easy to overlook some of the sightseeing attractions that are right under your nose. For this outdoor date idea, pretend you're tourists in your own area and finally see the sights you've always meant to. This is a great way to get to know your neighborhood and gain new appreciation for your surroundings.

Perhaps there's a national park or a natural attraction nearby that your partner has on their bucket list. Consider stepping up the plan and make it a surprise! Taking your partner to a beautiful waterfall, bridge, or peak can be a sweet and romantic gesture.

5. Start a Garden

Some outdoor summer activities for couples don't even require you to leave your home. Starting a garden or maintaining an existing one is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors. Like playing a sport, watching your garden grow and flourish encourages feelings of accomplishment and teamwork. Gardening also has therapeutic benefits, such as improved mood and reduced stress. If you and your partner put the time in, you might even get the flowers, herbs, and veggies to take that picnic to the next level.

Outdoor date ideas for the lingering summer don't end here. With a little creativity, you can have a fun-filled summer with your partner from the comfort of your own neighborhood—make sure to enjoy the season to the fullest and spend it with the ones you love.

Author

  • Lacey Muinos

    Lacey is a Southern California-based freelance writer who combines her passions—fitness, health, and a vegan lifestyle—with her work to help readers feel and be their best. Her work has been featured in Healthline, Livestrong, Verywell Fit, Eat This Not That, KinderBeauty, and more.