This isn’t your average date night listicle. Whether you’re taking it slow or turning up the heat, SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) is the perfect spot for a date that's a little less ordinary. From winery tours to ATV rents, it’s time to ditch “Netflix and chill” for “hike and thrill.” Get ready to rewrite your dating playbook with our fresh summer date ideas.
Romance Uncorked
Ditch the bar crowds and escape to the rolling vineyards of SLO CAL. But we're not talking about stuffy tours and pretentious pours. Think summer date ideas that involve sun-drenched patios, laid-back laughs and a glass of crisp, local rosé as the sun goes down.
SLO CAL boasts a diverse wine scene, from the award-winning Pinot Noirs of Edna Valley to the crisp Chardonnays of Arroyo Grande. For a taste of Tuscan charm, head to Daou Vineyards & Winery in Paso Robles. Their sprawling estate offers panoramic views of the Adelaida District, and their wines are just as impressive. Book a tasting experience to secure your spot on one of SLO CAL’s most spectacular lawns.
If you're looking for a more intimate experience, Tolosa Winery in Edna Valley is a great choice. Their modern tasting room is surrounded by rolling hills, and their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays are consistently top-notch.
Pro Tip: Take the scenic route to the wineries. SLO CAL's winding roads and breathtaking views make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Drive-in Movie Magic
For summer date night ideas with a dash of nostalgia, roll back to a simpler time with a drive-in movie. Swap sticky floors and cup holders for the cozy comfort of your own car, and get ready for a cinematic experience that's equal parts nostalgia and novelty.
SLO CAL is home to the iconic Sunset Drive-In, a local landmark that's one of California's last drive-in movie theatres. Park under the stars, tune your radio to the designated frequency and let the magic unfold on the giant outdoor screen. The Sunset Drive-In's double features mean you and your date can enjoy two movies for the price of one, making it a budget-friendly date option. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Pro Tip: Bring blankets, pillows, and even sleeping bags to create a comfy nest in your car.
Get Back to Nature
For summer date ideas for young couples and life partners alike, the great outdoors of SLO CAL is a romantic backdrop that’s hard to beat. For the more energetic among us, take in the wonders of Montaña de Oro State Park, where a network of trails wind through coastal bluffs, sandy beaches and canyons teeming with wildlife.
For a more leisurely pace, the Bluff Trail offers a romantic escape along the rugged shoreline, where you can discover hidden tide pools and bask in breathtaking ocean vistas. Another alternative is the Bob Jones Trail, a paved path that meanders through serene scenery and ends at the inviting Avila Beach, perfect for a post-hike dip.
Pro Tip: Remember to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Take a Balloon Ride
Elevate your summer date ideas—literally—with a hot air balloon ride over SLO CAL's stunning wine country. Balloons Over Paso will whisk you and your date away on a sunrise flight that's equal parts breathtaking and romantic. Imagine soaring above vineyards, rolling hills and maybe even catching a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean.
Bear in mind it’s an early start, but there’s something about that crisp morning air that makes it feel extra magical. You can kick off the experience with a champagne toast, then marvel at the patchwork of vineyards and ranchlands as you sail through clear skies.
Afterward, we recommend that you head to Thomas Hill Organics for lunch. It’s an equally elevated farm-to-table dining experience where you can taste the freshest flavors of the central coast, making for a summer date experience that's sure to take you higher.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers; the temperature can change drastically as you ascend!
Get Hearts Racing with an ATV Adventure
If you like your dates a little more adrenaline-pumping, go for an ATV adventure on Pismo's iconic coastal dunes. Feel the wind in your hair as you conquer towering dunes, race along the beach, and soak up the sun-drenched scenery.
There are plenty of companies to choose from, including Arnie’s ATV Rentals and Steve’s ATV Rentals, both of which have been in business for over 20 years. After, we suggest you hit up Pismo Fish and Chips for a little retro charm. This restaurant has been a landmark in Pismo Beach since 1963 and is famous for its seafood chowder, which they make from scratch.
Pro Tip: Even though you’ll be wearing goggles, it’s a good idea to bring a bandana for your face, as these four-wheelers can kick up a lot of sand!
Whale Watching Wonders
If you’re looking for summer date ideas that aren’t just romantic but once-in-a-lifetime experiences, head to Morro Bay for whale watching. Morro Bay Whale Watching Tours will provide you with an expert naturalist who will share fascinating insights into the behavior and migration journey of these epic creatures.
Depending on the season, you can encounter humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales and even orcas! Feel the thrill as whales breach the surface, their massive tails slapping the water and sending up sprays of mist. It's an awe-inspiring experience that connects you with nature and creates lasting memories with your date.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers and bring binoculars to get the best views of the whales. Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out.
Ready to fall in love with SLO CAL? These summer date ideas are just a taste of the adventure and romance that awaits on the beautiful Central California coast. From our rolling vineyards to our sandy beaches, SLO CAL has something to ignite that romantic spark.
