Photo credit: www.mypersonalartist.com
1. Bicycle Built For Two
Put your teamwork to the test as you pedal through scenic Irvine Regional park on a tandem bicycle. Bike rentals are normally $15 an hour, but coupons are available. Surprise your date with a picnic lunch for after the ride, making sure to include snacks and beverages of their liking. The food doesn’t have to be fancy or even homemade, Subway sandwiches or Lunchables work just fine!
Photo credit: www.chopsueycafe.blogspot.com
2. Island Getaway
No, we’re not talking Tahiti. Newport’s very own Balboa Island is only a 10 minute drive from campus. This charming little town is perfect for a romantic stroll and quiet conversation. While you’re there, try the Original Balboa Bar, a delicious, hand-dipped ice cream bar covered in toppings of your choice (warning: cash only). For a little more adventure, board the ferry to enjoy the arcade, ferris wheel, and candy shop on the other side of the dock.
Photo credit: www.charmainepallugna.com
3. Light Up Their World
You don’t need to be a pass holder to enjoy a little Disney magic! With a blanket and thermos of hot cocoa in tow, camp out in the plaza between Disneyland and California Adventure for an excellent view of the 9 PM fireworks. If you need more of an incentive, parking is free in Downtown Disney for 3 hours!
Photo Credit: www.favim.com
4. Art Snobs
Tired of the movies and looking for something a little more…intellectually stimulating, perhaps? Dress in your Sunday’s best and head to the Laguna Art Museum. As you peruse, offer your most-convincing expert analysis of the artwork (think 500 Days of Summer). This is your chance to impress your date with all those terms you had to memorize in art history! Cost of admission is normally $5 with student ID, but is free the first Thursday of every month from 5:00-9:00 PM.
Photo credit: www.geekadelphia.com
5. Up To Par
Contrary to popular belief, mini golf dates are not just for middle schoolers and romantic comedies. There is a reason why this date has become somewhat of a classic-it’s cheap, it’s fun, and it brings out our competitive nature. Spice up the game with a wager: whoever loses has to buy the winner pizza (or any other greasy food of their preference).
Photo credit: www.scare-zone.com
6. Meals on Wheels
Ditch the dining hall and hurry to the gourmet food trucks on Michelson and Harvard for something a little more decadent. Food trucks are renowned for their downright crazy and unheard of, yet delicious, menu choices. Don’t worry, there are milder options available to please even the pickiest of palettes. None of that “I’ll have what you have” business. Order different things and take turns sampling each other’s food. Feel free to use your best Gordon Ramsey voice as you offer your very own food critique.
Photo credit: www.en.paperblog.com
7. Just Desserts
Skip the heavy meal and take your sweetie out for a night of just desserts. Nothing brings two people together like splitting a Pizookie at BJ’s, a slice of red velvet cheesecake at Cheesecake Factory, or an ice cream sundae. Craving something a little more cultural? Indulge in some international favorites like colorful, French macarons from Bon Epi or Italian gelato in Newport.
Photo credit: www.everytrail.com
8. Horsing Around
Break out your denim and riding boots for a relaxing afternoon on the trails! Head to Irvine Regional Park to soak up some Vitamin D as you enjoy breathtaking, natural landscapes on a one -hour horseback ride. Rides are by appointment only and are $45 dollars per person. A little bit pricey, but definitely a date you and your partner will never forget.
http://www.ctriding.com/programs/trail-rides/
Photo credit: www.nyyc.org
9. Paddle Board Party
Stumped on where to take your adventure-seeking date? Look no further than Pirate Coast Paddle Company’s full moon stand up paddleboard party! After a quick lesson, you and your date will set out with a group to paddle under a full moon over Newport Back Bay. Glow sticks are provided to add to the overall ambiance. $35 dollars per person for a 1.5 hour excursion. To reserve a spot, email piratecoastpc@gmail.com.
Photo credit: www.tourjunk.com
10. A Whale of a Good Time
Dust off those binoculars for an afternoon of whale watching at Newport Landing. Before you set sail, make sure that both you and your date are not prone to seasickness. If uncertain, it might be a good idea to bring some meds in case of emergency (unless, of course, you want to spend the trip comforting your sick partner.) Tickets are normally $32 dollars per person, but you can find a coupon for $15 tickets at http://www.newportwhales.com newport_beach_whale_coupon.html.