Wondering if the beach is a good first date? Short answer: yes. It’s low-pressure, outdoorsy without being exhausting, and easy to tailor—from a breezy walk to a picnic at sunset. Just make a plan that fits your beach (and your date), check basic safety info, and you’re golden.
TL;DR
- Beach first dates are flexible: walk, picnic, sunset, or swim—pick your lane.
- Pack essentials like water, towel, SPF, and shade.
- Sun safety matters—use SPF 30+, reapply every 2 hours, wear UPF clothing.
- Check local beach rules for fires, alcohol, and music.
- Swim near lifeguards and be mindful of tides and currents.
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Why A Beach Date Is A Good First Date
The beach can be whatever you want it to be—a casual walk, a romantic picnic, or a full-blown beach adventure. It’s outdoorsy, low-pressure, and lets you be playful without trying too hard. Some beaches have fancy bars and restaurants, others are perfect for quiet strolls or sunset views. Just make sure your date actually likes the beach; not everyone loves sand, wind, or saltwater!
What Should I Wear On A First Date To The Beach
What couples do at the beach can vary massively, so there are no strict outfit rules. Unless you’re going somewhere upscale, skip your best clothes and dress with comfort in mind. If swimming’s an option, wear or pack a swimsuit and a dry change for afterward—you’ll thank yourself later.
What Should A Guy Wear On A Beach Date
Discuss the vibe with your date ahead of time. If you’re keeping it chill, swim shorts that double as casual wear are perfect. Avoid loud board shorts; pick solid or striped designs and a clean T-shirt. Sunglasses are essential, and sneakers are better for long walks than flip-flops.
On top, I’d probably just chuck on a good (read, not stained or holey) t-shirt.
I like a paired-back style, with stripes or a block color. They don’t look over-the-top and ooze timeless style.
You’ll probably need sunnies too – if you can’t find the pair you bought last year.
Finally, I know it’s tempting to just wear flip-flops, but there is something fundamentally unattractive about a dude in a janky old pair of sandals.
Plus, if you’re going for a walk you probably need something more substantial and I really like minimal running shoes for walking in the city or wearing at the beach.
For Later Or Less Casual Dates
Bring something to change into—smart, comfy pants and an open button-down over your tee works perfectly when the sun goes down. One pair of sneakers will do for both looks.
This is a perfect option for a coverup as the sun goes down and things get cooler. The whole outfit will work with your sneakers, so no need to pack a second pair of shoes!
What Should A Girl Wear On A Beach Date
A swimsuit with a stylish cover-up or a casual day dress is simple and perfect. Choose something you’re comfortable getting a little sandy or salty. Sunglasses, minimal jewelry, and light layers will complete the look.
Pre And Post Beach Skincare
Protect your skin—use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Add a hat and UPF layers for extra defense. Many destinations now ban certain sunscreen chemicals, so opt for mineral-based formulas that are reef-friendly. Keep your daily skincare routine consistent for happy, healthy skin.
Beyond that, do you know what the trick to great skin is? A great skincare routine, duh. So it’s a good idea to keep it up all the time rather than just when your face actually hurts from the sun, sea(salt), and sand.
Okay, I’ll stop going on about skincare now but you’ll regret shushing me when you look like a deflated football at 40!
What To Bring On A Beach First Date
Your beach-date checklist: towels, sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, a blanket, and a trash bag to pack out what you bring. If you’re staying long, add shade—like an umbrella or low-profile sun shelter. Bring a speaker for music but keep it at a respectful volume.
A Day Date At The Beach
On hot days, shade is key. Pack a large beach towel or mat, water, snacks, and a Bluetooth speaker. Don’t forget extra sunscreen and maybe a small cooler for drinks. Stay hydrated and find balance between fun and relaxation.
If You’re Sticking To Dry Land
Beach games like volleyball, paddle ball, or frisbee are great ice-breakers. For quieter vibes, bring a deck of cards or a book to share. Reading side by side can be surprisingly romantic.
If You’re A Water Baby
Wear your swimwear and bring bodyboards or floaties if you want to have fun in the water. Make sure both of you are comfortable swimming and take breaks often—saltwater and sun are draining. Always swim near lifeguards and check tide forecasts.
A Date At The Beach At Night
Evening beach dates are magical. Bring a blanket, battery lights or lanterns, and warm layers. Fires are often permit-only now, so check the rules before planning one. With a legal fire, you can toast marshmallows, sip wine, and stargaze in comfort.
Beach Date Ideas
So, you’ve invited your date to the beach. Now you’re lost. What do you do on a beach date? What is a date? What is the beach? Will the weather be good? Will you have anything to talk about? Will…
Calm down. I’ve got you covered for beach date ideas
Whether you want to keep it low-key and casual or make a really romantic evening of things, there are absolutely loads of options for beach date entertainment ideas. I promise you will not end up staring at each other with nothing to say to a soundtrack of crashing waves!
Romantic Beach Date Ideas
Sunset Walk: Bring a blanket, wine, and music for a relaxed vibe.
Picnic: Pack favorite foods or keep it simple with sandwiches and drinks.
Bonfire Date: Cozy and fun, but check for permit requirements first.
Fun Beach Date Ideas
Beach Games: Volleyball, paddle ball, frisbee—anything lighthearted.
Water Sports: Try surfing, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing for an adventure.
Sand Sculptures or Beachcombing: Creative, fun, and easy to laugh over.
Eco Twist: Pick up litter together—it’s surprisingly bonding and good karma.
A beach barbecue
You can get some great portable barbecues these days that are lightweight, disposable, and it even comes with charcoal so you don’t have to bring a separate pack.
Cooking together can be really fun, and the added adversity of doing it on the beach will only make it more so.
Beach Date Walking Tips
A beach walk is simple, low-cost, and relaxed. Keep conversation light and natural, and let the scenery help set the mood. Always check tides and conditions before walking far, and stay near lifeguarded or well-lit areas if it’s late. Safety first, romance second.
Once you’ve found your location, be it beach or lakeside, you should come up with a few topics to talk about.
Don’t learn a script or you’ll sound like a robot, but cue up a few anecdotes you know go down well, maybe scroll back through your conversations online to remind yourself of your date’s interests, and think of some nice open questions to ask that will make your date feel like you care what they have to say.
As always, you do need to think about safety when meeting a stranger too. This is the case no matter how nice or harmless they seem!
Tell a couple of friends where you’re going (you can do this casually, it doesn’t have to be an ‘if you never hear from me again, this is who killed me’ situation) and make sure your phone is charged before you leave.
On the same note, be aware of the rules of the beach, and if you’re walking at night maybe don’t do so in a totally unlit, deserted area.
I know you’re really into this date, but that’s not a good excuse for completely forgetting the 101s of staying safe you learned when you were, like, ten years old.
Look up a tide table, and make sure you’re not going to get stranded in an inlet with the water slowly encroaching upon the rock you’re both perched on.
I mean, if Jack didn’t share his hunk of wood with Rose in Titanic, do you think this stranger from the internet is going to hesitate if they have to push you into the tumultuous sea to save themselves? No chance.
So, check those tides!
Final Thoughts
A beach date is one of the easiest ways to make a memorable first impression. It’s relaxed, adaptable, and naturally romantic without trying too hard. Just stay safe, plan around your date’s comfort, and let the ocean do the rest. And if you haven’t found someone yet—maybe it’s time to update your dating profile and meet your beach partner in crime!
FAQ
Is the beach safe for a first date?
Yes—choose a lifeguarded beach, meet in public, and let someone know your plans. It’s one of the safest outdoor date options.
What SPF should I use at the beach?
Go for SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum, and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Add a hat and light layers for full protection.
Do I need a permit for a beach bonfire?
In many areas, yes. Always check your local beach regulations and get a permit if required to avoid fines.
How worried should I be about sharks?
Not much at all. Shark incidents are extremely rare; tides and currents are far bigger risks. Swim near lifeguards for peace of mind.
What’s the etiquette for music and drinks?
Keep music volume low and check alcohol rules—some beaches restrict it. Always clean up after yourself.
Which sunscreens are reef-safe?
Mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are usually reef-safe and meet new eco regulations in most destinations.
