Summer Date Ideas for 2012

When the weather warms up, it's easy to be creative when it comes to planning dates. Don't settle for the standard coffee or dinner meet-up, but instead try some fun outdoor options that offer something to do. This also helps with conversation - it doesn't feel forced when you're outside enjoying an activity together as opposed to sitting across a table from each other.

Following are some ideas for summer dating to get you inspired:

Outdoor concerts. Summer offers a lot of outdoor music - whether it's a classical concert by the lake, a local band on the pier, or a jazz performance at a neighborhood park. Depending on where you live, there are usually plenty of options (and many are free) so check out your local listings.

Outdoor movie screenings. In L.A., outdoor movie screenings are a popular event, complete with food trucks and blankets on the grass. If you're lucky to have these available in your city, you should really check them out - it gives you a chance to enjoy some classic films, as well as people-watch and share a bottle of wine and a picnic with your date.

Sailing, hiking, or biking. Choosing an activity is sometimes the hardest part of planning - but you can't really go wrong when you spend time outdoors. Try hiking or biking if your date is into it, or if you're lucky to live near a lake or the ocean, rent a boat and go boating or sailing. There are plenty of activities, depending on your tastes.

Food or wine tasting festivals. These are some of my favorite activities, because they introduce you to different foods and beverages that you might normally never try, maybe even some vineyards or restaurants in your area that you never thought to visit. Plus, they are fun to walk around and enjoy free samples. Check your local listings.

Farmer's markets. These offer a great meeting place for first dates - you can go during the day and stay for an hour or so, and if you hit it off, you can grab a few items and have a picnic in a nearby park. A much more interesting option than the coffee date, because you can sample foods and people-watch while talking and getting to know each other.

Star gazing. Looking for something to do but short on cash? A night under the stars is a great choice - just be sure to bring a bottle of wine or some appetizers or take-out to eat, plus a blanket so you can look up at the sky without craning your necks. Pick a place on a hill or slightly outside all the lights of the city. It makes for a romantic evening.