San Francisco is nicknamed The Paris of the West for good reason. You basically can’t run out of things to do when it comes to this city, which is why — as a resident — I’m super excited to share a variety of San Francisco date ideas with you.

My 100-date experiment allowed me to tap into an abundance of SF date ideas, ranging from lighthearted first date ideas to more intimate places for an evening third date. If you follow us here at emlovz, you know that the first three dates are crucial when it comes to assessing whether or not the person you’re seeing could be a compatible, long-term partner. For this reason, it’s integral to the process that you follow my blueprint during these early dating stages….

The first date should be something that is less than an hour and does not exceed $15. The second date should be something that is active and free. The third date is where you can open up your wallet for a romantic, intimate dinner. So let’s start off with first date ideas in San Francisco. ***Note, some of these locations may have been impacted by Covid and we will do our best to update this post over the coming months.

First Date Ideas in San Francisco

The first date is all about building trust and rapport. Ideally, this date should take place during the daytime between 11 am and 2 pm. Saturday is the best day of the week to plan this date, followed by Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Sundays and Mondays are the worst days to plan this — or any — date. Why? People are already in work mode on Sunday and, let’s face it, Mondays are just basically the worst.

SF Date Idea #1: The Interval at Long Now

The Interval at Long Now is my favorite new discovery in San Francisco. This coffee shop turns into a sexy bar at night and is the perfect spot for a sophisticated first date. Enjoy loose-leaf tea brewed in a glass globe and served in a beaker.

The front entrance showcases a clock that is said to last for 10,000 years. Move over Mayans, The Interval has perfected the sundial.

A winding staircase separates the bar from an upstairs lecture hall/library, where the Long Now Foundation holds its meetings (at least I think that’s what it is, they wouldn’t let me up there).

Seated at the bar, you will notice a series of glass orbs showcasing mysterious dark liquids hanging from the ceiling. This is The Bottle Reserve, created by St. George Spirits, who concocted an exclusive gin, bourbon, and single malt whiskey for donors of The Interval. If you really want to impress your date, you can purchase your very own spheroid of the private-label liquor and the barkeep will store it for you in the Bottle Reserve.

The price tag is a bit steeper than I’d recommend for a first date, a bottle of this stuff will run you $1,500. But you’ll also be supporting a good cause, should you choose to make a donation. I wouldn’t recommend purchasing said bottle in front of a woman on a first date, but if you’re looking for a cause to support, it couldn’t hurt your dating life to be a member of the exclusive Bottle Reserve club at The Interval.

Aside from the Bottle Reserve, the bar has a full list of hand-crafted cocktails and delicious coffee and teas to keep your date happy and cost-effective. I recommend keeping the bill under $10, which is easy to do if you go for coffee or tea during the daytime. It’s also a fun spot for a third date if you want to grab drinks in a smart, sexy, unique environment. The only thing they’re missing is a chess set, but perhaps I just haven’t found it yet.

Date Idea #2: Warming Hut

The Warming Hut is a coffee and souvenir shop located underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. This place offers a creative spin on the otherwise typical “coffee date,” thanks to a stunning view of the Golden Gate bridge. The food and coffee are awesome and also offers some great people watching should there be any lulls in conversation.

This is my most recommended San Francisco date ideas (for first dates) because you can grab a coffee with your date and walk along the bay with views of Angel Island, Alcatraz, the Presidio, and the city of course.

Date Idea #3: Starbucks in the Presidio Followed by a Walk

Here’s another way to turn a coffee date into something epic. The Presidio used to be a U.S. Army fort but has since become a massive, epic park. Throughout its sprawling 1,500 acres are plenty of amazing views (including the Golden Gate Bridge) and great-smelling eucalyptus trees.

Walking through the Presidio makes this date a bit more active, so you don’t have to feel like you’re spending the entire time sitting interview-style while drinking your coffee. Being out and about on a date also helps prevent awkward silences (which can happen when you spend the entire time sitting across from each other) and provokes organic conversation. See below for an image of the Starbucks in the Presidio along with images of the short walk you can take along the black asphalt which leads to a waterfall and small pond.

Date Idea #4: Chestnut Coffee Roastery in the Marina, followed by a Walk to the Palace of Fine Arts

The Coffee Roastery is a hip, folksy coffee shop with plenty of seating and eclectic menu items. The Palace of Fine Arts is relatively close by (maybe 1/4 mile). I recommend you grab a coffee at the Roastery and then walk over to the Palace of Fine Arts. This is a great way to include some culture on a first date in San Francisco.

Do some homework and learn a bit about The Palace of Fine Arts before taking your date there. A couple of interesting things I learned about the Palace was that it was constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific exposition and it’s one of the few surviving structures from that event. It was rebuilt in 1965 and it currently hosts art exhibits, a favorite for weddings, and it’s popularity is so large that Disney built a miniature replicate at it’s California Adventure location.

Date Idea #5: Meet at the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero

If you tend to get nervous on first dates — or any date, for that matter —  this date has tons of cool things to distract you from your anxiety. There are an array of chocolate shops, coffee shops and other small businesses that are fun to check out. And, of course, a view of the Bay Bridge is always a great addition to any date.

Below is an image of the Embarcadero building at dusk. Remember my first date rules- if you’re heading out for a first date, make sure it’s during the daytime.

Idea #6: Samovar Tea Lounge

There are two Samovar Tea Lounge locations in San Francisco that I recommend — one in the mission district and the other is in the South of Market (SOMA) district. This place has some crazy good bites along with its eclectic variety of teas and boasts a great ambiance for a first date.

Fun Date Ideas San Francisco #7: Kara’s Cupcakes on Chestnut

If you and your date have a sweet tooth, this will be the perfect first date in the city. Kara’s Cupcakes has a great assortment of on-demand cupcakes and pastries that are made with great ingredients and a ton of TLC. Kara’s is located near the cross streets of Scott/Chestnut in the Marina district.

Idea #8: Swensen’s Ice Cream

Swensen’s is a famous ice cream shop situated on a very steep part of Union Street. They have a ton of awesome flavors, whether you want to satisfy your sweet tooth with some traditional vanilla or chocolate, or something a bit more exotic like the lemon chiffon or Bordeaux cherry.

If you choose this date, be sure to bring cash. It’s cash-only.

Idea #9: Split a Sundae at Ghiradelli Square

Along with being the perfect spot for a decadent sundae or piece of chocolate, Ghiradelli Square is a hotspot for tons of shops and 5-star restaurants. It’s located on the west side of Fisherman’s Wharf, which also happens to be a favorite spot in San Francisco, whether you’re a tourist or a local.

Idea #10: Get a Mrs. Fields Cookie at Fisherman’s Wharf and Go Watch the Seals

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — cute animals make everything better. If you’re unfamiliar with Fisherman’s Wharf, firstly, what is your life? And secondly, Fisherman’s Wharf is amazing and comes equipped with tons of sea lions who take up residence on the docks.

Although I recommend making first dates daytime dates, note that these seals come out in droves during sunset, so I’d be ok with you altering the time of day for the sake of some seal watching. If you go in the afternoon, you’ll likely spot at least a few, and you can suggest doing a later date at sunset where you can really get a show.

#11: Visit Caffe Trieste and Walk Around North Beach

In North Beach, there’s a great old time coffee shop called Caffe Trieste. Make sure that you study up on the history of this cafe (if you don’t know it already) and impress the girl you’re on a date with by sharing that knowledge, letting her know you’re cultured.

Then, walk around North Beach for some light exercise and cool sights.

Idea #12: Go to Hollow Coffee Shop and Then Walk to the 16th Street Stairs

When you go to Hollow, I highly recommend ordering the Titanic coffee drink — it’s amazing. It’s a ramped up Mocha with a huge marsh-mellow in it.

After getting your drinks, you can walk down the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps for an artsy twist. Combining Hollow’s Titanic with these steps makes this one of my favorite San Francisco date ideas.

Idea #13: Tartine Bakery + Dolores Park

Grabbing a coffee at Starbucks is far from a memorable first date. Honestly, coffee shops in general should probably be avoided (unless they’re super dope and on this list).

It’s for this reason that coffee shops should be combined with another place of interest. Case in point, Tartine Bakery + Dolores Park.

Grab your favorite coffee, freshly made sourdough bread, and a pastry or two, and hit Dolores for a midday picnic. If your date is the sporty type even bring a frisbee or a ball to kick or toss.

Idea #14: Jackson’s Place Cafe

This is a quaint outdoor nook in between the Financial District and North Beach. It’s got a great atmosphere and cool menu items.

Keep in mind Jackson’s Place Cafe closes on Saturday and Sunday, so this place works best if you want to sneak in a date after lunch during the work-week (if you date works nearby). 

Idea #15: Any Joe & the Juice Location

Joe & the Juice has various locations in San Francisco. It’s an awesome coffee shop and juice bar that attracts an eclectic crowd and boasts a great atmosphere.

If you have a first date coming up, and she lives in the Pacific Heights district, tell her to meet you at the Joe & The Juice at the cross-streets of Fillmore/Sacramento. Below are a couple of images from this location. 

Idea #16: Any of the Boba Guys Tea Locations

You can tell from this list that I love coffee, but I’m not going to leave out the tea drinkers! Boba Guys Tea is an amazing milk tea shop with tons of cool options to tantalize your taste buds.

First Date Idea #17: A Mochi Date

In case you aren’t familiar, mochi is a Japanese rice cake that can be used as a dessert or in ice cream. It’s absolutely delicious and makes for a unique alternative to grabbing an ice cream or a quick bite. You can find some awesome San Francisco locations that serve mochi here.

Idea #18: Blue Fog Market, Followed By…PUPPIES!

If your date lives in the Cow Hollow district, grab some coffee or tea at Blue Fog Market, and then walk across the street to Allyne Park. Like the Fisherman’s Wharf, this is a San Francisco date idea that I permit taking place during the early evening, even if it’s the first date. At around 5 pm, you can watch a bunch of pups interact with each other at the park.

Again, cute animals make everything better.

San Fran Date Idea #19: Yoda Fountain

May the force be with you on your second date as you two find your way to the Yoda Fountain located just outside the Letterman Digital Arts Center.

Fun First Date Idea San Francisco #20: Dandelion Chocolate Factory Tour

The Dandelion Chocolate factory tour is a great first date idea in the Mission. My boyfriend and I elected to give this a shot on Valentine’s Day 2019. Although you could argue it’s better suited as a second date, try giving it a shot on a first. Why? Well, for a myriad of reasons:

No money will need be exchanged during the factory tour. You can buy tickets online beforehand – and they are only $5 per person. After your tour is complete, they give you a free hot chocolate card, so technically, this is a completely free date idea.

Another reason I recommend this to my clients is because it’s active. You’re moving around inside their facility to each chocolate station – learning about the different steps required to make chocolate. When a date is active, rather than stationary, more sexual tension can be established.

This date idea also doesn’t require much talking, which helps boost sexual tension by maximizing your mystery. The tour guide does the majority of the speaking while you listen, learn, and get to taste chocolate together. Learning and experiencing new things facilitates pair bonding. It makes you feel closer to your date when you experience a novel activity together.

Lastly, Dandelion Chocolate is creative and unique, which makes your date idea stand out from your competitors. Most guys setup typical dates like “drinks” or “dinner.” You’re doing something she probably hasn’t done before, which means she’ll remember you and find you more fascinating than anyone else she might be seeing.

FYI: You’ll be expected to wear a hairnet during the factory tour.

First Date Idea #21: The Baked Bear

The Baked Bear is an incredible first date idea in San Francisco. My boyfriend and I were having dinner in North Beach over the past weekend and we couldn’t help but to finish off the night at this epic ice cream sando spot.

This is a great first date spot in SF if the lady you’re meeting works in the FiDi. If so, tell her to meet you at The Baked Bear right after work. It’s easily walkable from downtown.

Although I’m not a huge sugar addict, having an ice cream sandwich with your date will subconsciously build sexual tension faster – as sugar is heavily linked to dopamine, the feel good hormone.

Best First Date Ideas In SF #22: Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market

One of the country’s best farmer’s markets is in SF… of course it is.

Fresh, local, and diverse is how I’d describe the products and produce you’ll find at this market.

Not only is this date cheap and dynamic but it gives you two plenty to chat about. Dinner or coffee dates are boring and can often be awkward as you two drum up a conversation from out of nowhere. This however gives you conversation topics that you can organically build a conversation around.

Best First Date Ideas In SF #23: Brewery Hopping

Bar hopping is so old school.

If you two are hip and have an IPA tooth, why not get a flight or two are a few breweries? 

To start off your drunken expedition I recommend starting off at Local Brewing Co. You’ll love the building’s architecture and of course their selections of brew.

Best First Date Ideas In SF #24: Treasure Fest

Second Date Ideas San Francisco

The purpose of the second date is to escalate sexual attraction, which is why I suggest this type of date always be active. When you’re active, you can naturally break the touch barrier and intrigue her by introducing a new, compelling experience. And, yes, you can do all of this without spending a dime.

Second Date Idea #25: The de Young Museum

Although it typically costs $15 for adult admission to this museum, there are several free days where you won’t have to pay to visit. Nestled in a gorgeous location (Golden Gate Park), this museum offers plenty of awe-inspiring exhibits that will make a big impression.

Fun Second Date Idea San Francisco #26: Audium-Theatre of Sound-Sculptured Space

Have you ever been to a “sound museum”?

No?

Well, neither has your date.

This makes the Audium-Theatre of Sound Sculptured Space the perfect second date spot. A cool factoid about this museum is that many members of the original Star Wars film would frequent this museum for inspiration.

So why not make a pilgrimage for your next date?

Date Ideas Bay Area #27: Seward Street Slides

How do you know when you’ve arrived at the Seward Street Slides?

You’ll see a sign that reads, “NO ADULTS UNLESS accompanied by a child.”

These urban slides were built in 1963 by a teenager and still stand today.

Located in Eureka Valley, finding these urban slides might be akin to a treasure hunt so make the search an event by asking your date to come along for the ride.

Don’t forget your cardboard!

Fun Date Ideas San Francisco #28: Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze

For those with a penchant for psychedelic first or second dates, head on over to the most psychedelic labyrinth in the Bay Area. Located in Pier 39 in a building you’d otherwise walk right past is Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze.

Normally you’d pay at least $20 for a trip, this experience however will only run you $10. Highly recommended for a first or second date.

Fun Date Ideas San Francisco #29: Alcatraz

Alcatraz Island is the place that all San Franciscans say they want to go but never do. 

Use a TDL and finally make the pilgrimage with your date.

Date Ideas San Francisco #30: Albion Castle

Your queen is worthy of a castle, isn’t she? So give her to one.

This castle functioned not just as a home but as a brewery that supplied beer to over 800 saloons.

Visit this castle while you still can as plans are underway to convert it into a water purifying and bottling business.

Second Date Ideas San Francisco #31: Institute of Illegal Images

Some people like to drop acid while others like to frame it and hang it on the wall as art.

Owner of the Institute of Illegal Images Mark McCloud likes to do both.

Check out this museum full of LSD blotter art free of charge. Just keep your hands off the merchandise.

Second Date Ideas San Francisco #32: Japanese Tea Garden

Are you worried about your second date?

Take a breathe and calm things down when you and your date strut your Zen at the Japanese Tea Garden. Founded in the late 19th century this garden on the east side of Golden Gate Park.

Don’t be surprised if you’ve heard of the garden before.

While the story is highly debated, some still argue that it’s here that the fortune cookie was founded.

Second Date Ideas San Francisco #33: San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers

Gentlemen nowadays are few and far between.

Show her you’re a gent by not bringing her a rose, but rather by bringing her to Cali’s most impressive conservatory of flowers.

Second Date Ideas Bay Area #34: Peephole Cinema

Are you a fan of sketchy second dates?

If so I have the perfect idea for you.

What if I told you that located in a dirty alley in the Mission District you could look through a peephole and watch a 1-minute silent film?

Hot right?

This date won’t last very long (as films are under 2 minutes each and you’re bound to get jumped if you stay too long) so be sure to have a place close by to bring her to.

Second Date Ideas Bay Area #35: Good Vibrations Antique Vibrator Museum

Most women like vibrators.

But not all are gung-ho about hitting a vibrator museum on a second date. If this is the type of thing your date is into, pop the question and ask her to accompany you to probably the world’s only antique vibrator museum. 

Leave your batteries at home.

Second Date Ideas #36: Corgi Con

Imagine packs of Corgis just doing Corgi things.

They dress up, play, goof around, and provide you with endless IG opps.

Twice a year Corgi Con goes down at Ocean Beach. It’s a free and ridiculous spectacle that she’ll never forget.

Best Second Dates In SF #37: Battery Point Sunset

Perhaps the best sunset spot in the Bay Area is Battery Point.

Bring some snacks, a bottle of wine, and get your gaze on.

Second Date Ideas San Francisco #38: Neon Sign Tour

SF is known for its old-school style neon signs.

You can find them on bars, restaurants, roller skating rinks, and everywhere in between.

SF offers neon sign tours in various barrios.

Second Date Ideas Bay Area #39: Wood Line

Any fans of the game Snack out there?

What if you could play Snake outside, in the woods, on a second date?

Located in the Presidio is a secret path marked by a snaking path of salvaged wood, turned tour guide.

Date Idea #40: Lyon Street Steps

The Lyon Street Steps are the steepest steps in San Francisco — yes, really!

I recommend this if you two have established that you both really enjoy being active and she seems game for this. Make sure you let her know to wear running shoes and workout gear. Nothing can ruin the mood quite like calluses and a twisted ankle, so be prepared.

There’s two sections of the Lyon Streep Steps. The first image below showcases the top of the steps (less steep). The second image below shows the tough bottom portion of the climb.

Date Idea #41: Rent a Bike and Go Over the Golden Gate Bridge

On sunny weekend days, my boyfriend and I love jumping on our mountain bikes and adventuring over the Golden Gate bridge. In fact, nothing says “San Francisco” quite like the Golden Gate Bridge, and a bike ride is a perfect way to enjoy it!

If you and your date are up for it, try riding all the way to beautiful Sausalito. It’s about a 7 mile bike ride from the Cow Hollow District, but remember, that’s 14 miles roundtrip.

If you’re exhausted when you arrive in Sausalito don’t worry, you can always take a ferry back to SF. 

Date Idea #42: Go to Dolores Park and Meet Up With Friends Halfway

Walk up to Mission Dolores Park for a gorgeous view of the city skyline and — if it feels appropriate — meet up with some of your friends halfway there. This is a great way to show her a side of you outside of the date and it can also alleviate your nerves since you’re already used to engaging with your friends.

Date Idea #43: Take a Walk Along Ocean Beach

A walk on the beach never gets old. Bring your dogs if you’re animal lovers!

Second Date Idea #44: Go to Baker Beach

Go to Baker Beach with a backpack full of frisbees and fun beach games. If you and you’re date are the athletic type, try running up and down the Sand Ladder a couple of times. It’s a fantastic workout that’ll get your blood pumping and your endorphins flying. Below is an image I took of the Sand Ladder the last time I was there.

Date Ideas Bay Area #45: Lovers’ Lane in the Presidio

This location is guaranteed to be one of the coolest hikes or jogs you’ll experience with a date. Lover’s Lane trail is relatively short, only about .6 miles (but to be honest it feels like 1 mile). This trail is either downhill or uphill, so pick your poison based on your current endurance level.

If you want to jog/hike/walk downhill, then take an Uber to the cross streets of Presidio/Pacific and find the Presidio date pictured below (third image).

If you wish to jog uphill, then start near the Presidio/MacArthur cross streets near the fire hydrant you’ll see in the middle of the road. That’s where the hike information marker is located (see first image below).

If you’re really in shape, try starting from the bottom of the trail. Once you get to the top, head over a block to the famous Lyon Street Steps. Go down the Lyon steps, then back up them, and down Lover’s Lane again. Let me know how you feel afterwards. 🙂

Date Idea #46: Mescaline Grove

Do you like dinosaurs?

Do you also like psychedelic drugs?

If so there’s no better second date spot than Mescaline Grove.

Full of exotic plants and a dinosaur or two you can easily get lost in this grove.

Date Idea #47: Winfield Street Slides

More slides!

No need to bring your cardboard there are plenty of pieces to be found alongside the Winfield Street Slides next to Bernal Heights Park.

Built in 1979 by a city planner that still hadn’t outgrown his childish urges to glide down a sleep side, he decided to build an incredibly steep slide that can be made even faster (read; dangerous) with the use of cardboard.

Date Idea #48: Garden of Fragrance

Worried about smelling bad on a first or second date?

Worry no more when you bring your new lady to the Garden of Fragrance located in SF’s Botanical Gardens.

Date Idea #49: Lands End Lookout Trail

This is another great trail with a stunning view of the Pacific coast. Download the AllTrails hiking app for a complete guide on where to start and finish.

Date Idea #50: Church of 8 Wheels

If you like roller skating, the Church of 8 Wheels will offer an awesome time in an eclectic environment. What used to be a sprawling church (closed since 2004) is now a recreational hub that is sure to offer a unique and fun experience for you and your date.

Date Idea #51: Go Kayaking right behind AT&T Park During a Giants Game

You don’t need tickets to enjoy a Giants game. AT&T park offers an awesome spot to kayak, which will provide a tailgating experience for you and your date like no other. Be warned: you should really only do this date on a warm day.

If you don’t own a kayak don’t worry, you can always rent them from CityKayak

.

Second Date Idea #52: Crissy Field Picnic

Once again, this offers a great view and having a picnic is always a cost-effective but romantic date.

Date Idea #53: Frisbee Golf in Golden Gate Park

Visiting Golden Gate Park is a great date in itself, but why not get a little more creative? Frisbee golf is a cool hybrid of — SURPRISE — frisbee and golf, where players hurl discs at metal targets.

And guess what? There is a free frisbee golf course located right in Golden Gate Park, so all you have to do to play is show up! No assembly required.

Date Idea #54: Visit the San Francisco Botanical Garden

Another great San Francisco second date idea is to visit the Botanical Garden inside Golden Gate Park. This treat for the eyes and the nostrils features of 8,500 different kinds of plants inside over 50 acres of area.

What makes this botanical garden exist is our very unique weather here in San Francisco. We get year-round mild temperatures, an Indian Summer, Karl the Fog, and wet winters to keep the climate here to be constantly shifting. This allows us to host a variety of plants from around the world.

Date Idea #55: Head over to North Beach and Walk up to Coit Tower Together

This creative date idea will give you both some exercise and the reward of a stunning view. Beautiful murals offer some additional eye candy while you wait for the elevator to the top or climb the stairs.

Below is a photo from the backside of Coit Tower (on the Embarcadero side) to show you how high this tower goes.

And below is a photo of the 360-degree views you get when you reach the top of Coit Tower. See North Beach, Angel Island, and the Golden Golden Bridge in the first image. See the Bay Bridge, Transamerica Building, and the Financial District in the second image below.

Date Idea #56: Visit Angel Island and Hike Around This National Park

A visit to Angel Island is sure to impress. This blissful destination is home to a bevy of amazing sights that make for an awesome hike (see the second image below for what you’ll see when you make it to the top of the island).

Angel Island also has a rich history, so be sure to do a little research before your date. Some things you could mention is Angel Island’s first settlers were the Coast Miwok’s, and the island was a great supply stop for many Spanish explorers.

Later in the early 1900’s, the U.S. Immigration department used the island to process thousands of immigrants from Asia, mostly Chinese. During your hike on Angel Island, make sure to visit the Immigration Station to get a glimpse of where and how these immigrants lived at the time. It wasn’t until 1954 that Angel Island transitioned to a state park. Learn more about Angel Island’s rich history here.

View of Angel Island from a distance.

Below is the view when you reach the top of Angel Island.

Date Idea #57: Land’s End Octagon House

It’s abandoned, in the middle of the woods, and surrounded by well, nothing.

Making it the perfect second date spot!

For true crime lovers and history buffs, a light jaunt to this forlorn watch house might be exactly what you need to spark a connection.

Date Idea #58: Take a Class Together

There are tons of free or low-cost classes that you can find around San Francisco with a simple Google search or by visiting websites like Eventbrite. Depending on your shared interests, you could pick something unique and adventurous like jiu-jitsu, a cooking class, spin class, or a chocolate-making class.

Date Idea #59: Explore the City via Scoot

There are tons of free or low-cost options when it comes to exploring the city via scooter. A plus to this option is that it allows you to naturally and innocuously break the touch barrier, since your date may have trouble pushing the scooter off its legs. Check out the Scoot app to find rentable scooters in your area.

My boyfriend and I love crusing around in the city on Scoots. Here’s an image he took of me getting ready for a ride.

Second Date Idea #60: Stow Lake Boat Ride in Golden Gate Park

Ok, so this one breaks the rules a little bit since it costs $22.50-$38.50 to rent a boat for an hour depending on what type of boat you want. Still, this is an amazing daytime date, with tons of great views and opportunities to escalate sexual tension. So if it sounds like the perfect option based on your budget and shared interests, go for it.

Date Idea #61: Do a Marina District Jog

If you and your date are athletic types who enjoy cardio, turn your date into a fun run. Jog through the marina district on a route where you can stop at the Palace of Fine Arts, pop in Crissy Field, and finish at Fort Point, beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Give her a short tour of Fort Point before jogging back (see third image below for Fort Point).

This is a great second date idea in San Francisco because it’s virtually free (you could bring $2-5 to donate to Fort Point), you get to build-up some endorphins with your date, and the scenery is insane!

Date Idea #62: Visit House of Air

Fact: Trampolines are just as fun as an adult as they were when we were kids. If you and your date consider yourselves adrenaline junkies, consider working up a sweat at House of Air. This trampoline park is also located near Fort Point, so you can include it as part of the jogging date I mentioned above.

Second Date Ideas Bay Area #63: Kirby Cove

Last weekend my boyfriend and I opened up our AllTrails hiking app and realized that although we’ve lived in San Francisco for most of our adult lives, but we’ve never visited Kirby Cove. So we jumped into the car, drove across the Golden Gate Bridge, took the first exit on the right. We found a parking spot and hiked down the 1.5 to 2 miles that it takes to get to the amazing secluded beach and campground area of Kirby Cove. Check out the video below for what you’re going to experience on a sunny day.

Note that if you are thinking of taking a woman on second date to Kirby Cove, just make sure that you’ve built up enough rapport with her beforehand. Although there are other people hiking the trail, it’s definitely one of the more uncongested hikes in the Bay Area. This could make your date feel uneasy if she isn’t comfortable being alone with you yet.

San Francisco Second Date Idea #64: Wave Organ

For a fun, free, and historical second date, take her to the Wave Organ in San Francisco’s Marina district. The Wave Organ is an art exhibit created by Peter Richards and George Gonzalez in 1986 that is activated by waves. It’s best to visit during high tide to really hear the full acoustics.

Located adjacent to the Boat Harbor, the Wave Organ sits at the end of a long jetty of land. The large stones you see in the photos below were repurposed from an old cemetery that was demolished. Spooky. The sculpture features 25 PVC pipes that serve as organ pipes for waves to flow through, which creates the sounds you hear.

I love this second date idea because it’s unique, almost a secret, physically active, and free. You could even BYOB if you wanted or bring along a fishing pole to maximize the fun. Check for high tide and plan accordingly, as that’s when you can hear the sounds of the organ best. Also, be sure to tell your date to wear warm clothes and sneakers as it’s a bit of a walk and can be quite breezy on the ocean.

Third Date Ideas in San Francisco 

Now that you’ve established a connection with the first and second date, it’s time to get more intimate. The third date is a crucial one, so make you have some good questions ready to go. This is the date where the two of you will establish whether or not you are a good fit as far as morals and values go. This is often the date where physical intimacy occurs, so make sure you have a good strategy to make it a memorable evening.

Third Date Idea #65: The Franciscan, Followed By a Sunset Cruise to the Golden Gate Bridge

The Franciscan is an amazing seafood restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf. You’re already going to impress her by taking her to a fancy dinner here, but if you really want to knock this date out of the park, follow the dinner with a Red and White Fleet sunset cruise.

If you can’t stomach paying the ticket price for the Red and White Fleet, there is always a couple of independent boat operators in the Wharf area who will take you (and a group of 10-20) out on their smaller boat for $10-15 per person, a nice savings from the Red and White fleet (see third image below).

Date Idea #66: The Brazen Head

This is a small and very intimate restaurant that has an amazing menu and killer customer service. However, they don’t take reservations, so make sure you call ahead to try and schedule something by mentioning you’re going on a special date.

Date Idea #67: Off the Grid

This event happens about every Friday night in Fort Mason (and often times Sunday’s in the Presidio). If you live near the Marina/Cow Hollow districts, you could take a date here for a drink and some food. Afterward, depending on how things are going, you could go to another bar or head back to your place to close the deal.

Date Idea #68: Terzo

Terzo is a swanky Mediterranean restaurant in the Cow Hollow district that features an amazing selection of tapas. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner date.  

Date Night Ideas San Francisco #69: Tropisueno, Followed By a Walk to The View Lounge

Enjoy some great Mexican cuisine and margaritas at Tropisueno. Follow that up with a walk to the nearby View Lounge for a nightcap before bouncing back to your or her place. This spot is a great way to end the date because the handcrafted cocktails paired with a romantic view of the cityscape will really set the mood.

Image of the View Lounge (credit for picture: Marriott)

Date Idea #70: Bourbon & Branch

Everyone thinks getting drinks on a third date is a good idea.

And it is.

But women are tired of going to the same old places and drinking the same old drinks.

Change things up when you hit up this clandestine speakeasy. 

Located in the Tenderloin district, you’ll find a nondescript speakeasy that can trace its roots back to prohibition. If a badass history doesn’t tickle your interest maybe one of their rare spirits might.

Third Date Night San Francisco #71: Il Casaro Pizzeria

Il Casaro is located in the North Beach district and delivers an out-of-this-world thin-crust wood-fired pizza. They also keep fairly late hours, making it a great third date spot. The pizza is also fairly thin crust, so it won’t dampen the mood as you transition for a nightcap or back to your place.

Date Idea #72: Cobb’s Comedy Club

A comedy show is a great way to ease nerves and let a little loose on a third date. If she’s really into stand-up comedy, do a little research and see if a comedian she likes is being featured or someone who has a similar style to what she typically enjoys.

Here’s an image of a recent show that I attended with my boyfriend and friend. Kevin Nealon was great.

Date Idea #73: Absinthe Brasserie

If you’re looking for a place that was basically designed for romantic dates, look no further than Absinthe Brasserie. This French restaurant was even named one of the “Most Romantic Restaurants in San Francisco” by Thrillist. This is a great third date idea if your date lives near the Hayes Valley district.

Date Idea #74: Press Club for a Glass of Vino

Along with many other attributes, San Francisco is a place that doesn’t skimp on delivering great wine. Press Club has the best of the best when it comes to wine, and their vino is sure to impress your date. Although I don’t recommend choosing Sunday as a date night, Press Club does offer a pretty kick-ass Jazz Sunday Series with no cover charge if you and your lady are big jazz fans.

Now that we’ve covered a lot of great third date ideas that allow you to loosen the purse strings, let’s move on to some other ones for you guys that are on a tighter budget.

Date Night San Francisco #75: Fig and Thistle

This wine and beer bar offers an elegant setting and great menu options that won’t break the bank. Grab a glass of wine or beer and enjoy some light bites. My boyfriend took me here once and we loved it. Keep in mind you may have to look hard to see this place. The entrance is on a small side street adjacent to Gough street.

Fig and Thistle is also right across the street from Absinthe, which makes it a great before or after dinner drink if you’re looking to change environments a couple of times before trying to seal the deal on date #3 (yes, dinner at Absinthe and then drinks at Fig and Thistle is a third date, not a second, and definitely not a first!)

Date Idea #76: The Italian Homemade Company

The Italian Homemade Company is a cheaper solution to a fancy third date. They have locations in North Beach and Hollow Cow. It is a-la-carte and delivers some of the best Italian food you’ve ever tasted at an affordable price. The caveat here is that this is not a fancy outing, so you may be taking a bit of a risk if you’re dating someone with high expectations on the third date. I’d recommend having a wine bar (after dinner spot) selected for when you finish eating, as they pump out the food pretty fast at Italian Homemade. 

Third Date Ideas Bay Area #77: Academy of Sciences

If you and your date geek out over science and animals, the California Academy of Sciences could make for the perfect third date spot. Along with a ton of cool exhibitions, there are also Nightlife events on Thursday nights that have food and drink options. This might be one of the more fun date ideas in San Francisco.

Date Idea #78: Cook Up Something Romantic at Your Place

There’s no need for a third date bounce back plan when the date takes place at your home or apartment. Although this type of date idea is going to save you some major moola, you want to make sure you still set a very romantic and elegant tone. Delish and Cosmopolitan offer some great, easy recipe ideas that will impress your date and make her happy to skip the restaurant scene to spend an evening at your place.

Date Idea #79: Take Your Date to Billy Goat Hill

This is one third date option that proves you can be just as romantic during the daytime as you can in the evening. Pack a lunch and enjoy the epic views near the Diamond Heights District.

Third Date Idea #80: Urban Putt (Mission District)

After having an amazing double date at Urban Putt last night, I just had to add this venue/date idea (January 2019) into this article. If you’re following my date plan blueprint, you’ll want to save Urban Putt for a third date.

To structure this date, first, you’ll want to get a dinner reservation on Open Table. When you arrive at the venue, although you might be overwhelmed with the amount of people waiting to start their putt-putt round, just turn left and walk up the stairs to the second floor. This is where you’ll have dinner. It’s a pretty casual menu – burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, salmon, etc.

When you finish dinner, head back downstairs. You’ll find a cashier near the front entrance who you can pay for your Urban Putt round. Note, adult entry is currently $12. Once you complete payment, the cashier will hand you tokens. You’ll insert each token into their custom gumball-ish-remodeled golf ball dispensing system. This is where you get your golf balls.

The Urban Putt course consists of 14 holes. It took the four of us about 40 minutes to complete our round (due to the heavy weekend traffic). One thing you’ll like is that you can bring your drinks along while you putt. Keep in mind- with so many people on the course during the weekend nights, the temperature can get pretty warm. It’s a good idea to stash your jacket/sweaters in the locker area for $1 (located near men’s restroom).

I’d recommend if your date goes well, once you complete your golf round, propose jumping in an Uber/Lyft to grab a nightcap at another bar or lounge nearby your house (select this location beforehand so you’re not foolishly asking her where she wants to go). This will help you escalate the evening back to your place.

Third Date Idea #81: West of Pecos

Have you ever heard of a fluffy taco? I’m guessing your answer is no. On my Valentine’s Day 2019 dinner with my boyfriend, we saw these fluffy tacos on the menu at West of Pecos and had to give them a shot. All I can say is SUPER ADDICTING.

If you’re looking for a unique restaurant in San Francisco for an upcoming third date, give West of Pecos a try. To build up a bit of anticipation, ask your date if she’s ever had a fluffy taco. If she says no, tell her she’s about to experience heaven in her mouth this Saturday night at 7pm (that’s a TDL, btw).

Third Date Idea #82: Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar

The Tonga Room, located in The Fairmont, is one of the most fun, creative, and unique bars in San Francisco. Come for a tiki drink and stay for the live music. A band plays from the boat that sits on a waterway in the middle of the restaurant. An epic third date idea for sure. You can even grab a bite to eat if the mood strikes you. This date location is like a grown-up Rainforest Cafe. Super fun and a must-see.

Third Date Idea #83: Cityscape

Hands down best 360 views of SF’s skyline.

Cityscape is a wine bar with not many gastronomical options but who cares. You’re not coming here for the food but for the views. This is a great pre or post-dinner spot. Just make sure she’s not afraid of heights.

Third Date Idea #84: La Cocina Foodhall

I hate being limited by menus. I’m a massive diner fan and love me a good food hall. La Cocina is an innovative, inclusive food hall that celebrates entrepreneurs and gives them a place to shine. All stalls are women-owned, support Tenderloin residents who typically have the highest rate of unemployment, and oh yeah, the food is amazing.

Third Date Idea #85: Club Fugazi

Why not dazzle her with a show when you two watch the high-energy high-flying Club Fugazi.

The show is acrobatic and is pretty unique for a third-date idea. Be mindful that shows pair well with dinners.

Conclusion: San Francisco Date Ideas

If you’re new to the city, learning how to date in San Francisco can be incredibly challenging. If you’d like individualized help getting dates and finding a fulfilling relationship in the Bay Area, head over to my calendar and book a 1-on-1 Zoom session with me or one of my colleagues today.

During our intro session, we will discuss your dating goals, create an action plan, and see if my coaching program could be right for you.