Summer Date Ideas for 2013

Looking for something different to do this summer? Instead of opting for coffee or drinks on a first date, take advantage of the warmer weather and get outside.

I like dates that incorporate activity. It takes the stress off of trying to make conversation, and allows you to do something fun that you'd want to try anyway. It's a win-win: even if your date isn't so great, you're still getting to spend time doing something you enjoy.

Try some of these summer date ideas:

Hit the water. Live near the ocean or a lake? Take a walk on the beach, or if you're feeling bold and the weather is warm, go for a swim. For the more adventurous, try renting a boat or kayak. When you're drying off, it's a good time to crack open a couple of beers and have a picnic on the sand.

Hiking and biking. If mountains are more your style, then take your date on a local hike or bike ride. Most cities have trails in parks or along the water even if they don't have mountains, so look for a nice place where you can wander rather than work out.

Outdoor movies. There's nothing quite like watching a classic Alfred Hitchcock or Marilyn Monroe movie under the stars. It's almost like a drive-in movie experience, and we know how sexy those can get. Take a large blanket, a couple of beach chairs, some picnic food, and a bottle of wine, and you're all set.

Walking your dogs. Are you both dog lovers? Then instead of meeting at a restaurant that doesn't allow pets, arrange to walk your dogs together, or take them to a dog beach or park. Sure, there's a chance the dogs might not get along, but what's more important is finding out if there's chemistry between you. The dogs will help break the ice.

Farmer's market and picnic. Fresh flowers, fruit and produce abound at farmer's markets this time of year. Take your date and wander around, collecting items that you could share on a picnic or cook together later on.

Food-hopping. Whether it's exploring a cool street with ethnic restaurants (Persian and Ethiopian are some of my favorites) or trying out the goods of local food trucks (Vietnamese burritos or Connecticut lobster rolls anyone?), don't limit yourself to one stop. Have a moveable feast, where you go to different restaurants for different courses. First stop, appetizers, next stop, tapas. Then off to another location for dessert or drinks.

Road trip. If you've been dating for a while and you're feeling a little adventurous, check out some hotspots outside of your own city. There's no need to spend a lot of money on a hotel - make it a day trip. Drive along the coast or through vineyards. See what makes your particular part of the country unique.

Happy summer!