Looking for some of the best date ideas San Diego has to offer? Look no further.

San Diego is home to the beautiful California coastline, surfing at sunrise, and mountain-top whale watching. It’s a vibrant city with such a diverse dating pool that you’re sure to find that special someone to take out. San Diego holds over 1.3 million people, and boasts a fun, young vibe, since the median age is just 33 years old. With a ratio of 51%-49% men to women,  there’s plenty of opportunity to find that special someone.

In this article, we have sourced 50 first, second, and third date ideas from the local San Diego matchmakers, dating coaches, socialites, and our friends and family in the area. It’s time to get swept away and invite that special someone out for a fun date in San Diego, California. 

Before we jump into these date ideas, we must first cover the EmLovz general guidelines of the first, second and third date. All of this information is from my dating blueprint, which I constructed after embarking on my 100-date experiment. Therefore, here are a set of general rules that all singles looking to find love should abide by.

First Date

The first date should be two things: Cost less than $10, and happen during the daytime. A first date should be short and sweet, giving both parties just enough time to see if they like the other. Plus, with so many singles in San Diego, why spend more time or money on someone you aren’t sure about yet?

Second Date

Let’s get physical! No, not in that way! The second date is all about bringing some adrenaline into your new relationship. Go on a bike ride, climb a mountain, or take her surfing- if it gets your heart rate up, then this is the time to do it!

Third Date

Wow, date number three! Chances are, you’re both pretty into each other by now, so time to throw out all the rules and treat her to something nice.

Keeping these guidelines in mind, I have sorted out all the below San Diego date ideas into three categories: first, second, and third dates. For all of you living in Coronado (island right off the coast of SD), we’ve got you covered as well. 

First Date Ideas San Diego

First Date Ideas San Diego #1: Little Lion Cafe

A funky little coffee shop in Ocean Beach, this place is sure to impress with the delicious coffee and yummy snacks. Try their tumeric latte for a healthy treat, and opt to try some of their locally sourced, organic food if you’re feeling peckish.

-Recommendation by Sammi, San Diego Local

First Date Ideas San Diego #2: Farmer’s Market at Ocean Beach

Enjoy a stroll around the Farmer’s Market in Ocean Beach, Wednesdays around 4pm. This casual setting will give you time to get to know each other, while also having something else to focus on to fill any potentially awkward silences. Start to build some memories by finding treasures in other people’s leftovers.

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

#3: Holsem

Holsem is a coffee shop that focuses on creating a true experience for all visitors. Bring your date here to experience any of their 18 “craft coffee cocktails,” such as banana bread, or lavender. Whatever she chooses, it’s sure to be more memorable than your average cold brew!

-Recommendation by Sammi, San Diego Local

#4: A drink outside the Del Coronado

The Del Coronado Hotel is said to have views comparable to Hawaii. Who said you can’t take your date to a hotel? Maybe don’t get a room just yet, but enjoy a drink and take in the views at the Sun Deck just outside. Although a bit on the pricier side with cocktails around $16, this is sure to be a memorable first date!

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

First Date Ideas San Diego #5: Young Hickory

A coffee shop that also serves beer. Need I say more? A fun, welcoming vibe, Young Hickory focuses on making guests feel welcome and enjoy their time there. What a perfect environment for a first date?

-Recommendation by Sammi, San Diego Local

#6: Cats & Coffee (First Date) + Cat Yoga (2nd Date)

If she loves felines, The Cat Cafe is a super compelling first date spot in San Diego. The serve delicious coffees and are home to a variety of adoptable cats that will curl up with the two of you while you get to know each other better over sweet sips and cozy conversation. For a second date with a cat lover, check out their Cats on Mats, a Cat Yoga experience. Whoever thought this up was borderline crazy, borderline genius, I can’t tell which.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#7: Portal Coffee

Ever tried a Vanilla bean latte from Portal Coffee? They make their syrup in house with vanilla bean and lots of love. Definitely a must-try on your next first date.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#8: The Baked Bear

Be prepared to become addicted if you haven’t already tried the delicious treats that Baked Bear has to offer. Choose your cookie flavor, ice cream flavor, and toppings. I just had chocolate chip cookie with cookie dough ice cream and sprinkles around the edges and it was divine! You might also try the peanut butter cookie with coffee ice cream and mini chocolate chips on the edges. Splurge with hot fudge and whipped cream on top. If you share there’s no calories right?

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

#9: Better Buzz Coffee

If you’re looking for creative and colorful ambiance with delicious coffee and ice cream treats, then look no further. When asking a woman to meet you for a date at Better Buzz Coffee try sparking her interest with a menu item like the Mint Mocha Latte (their signature mocha with creme de menthe). You might also ask her if she’s ever had the “Best Drink Ever®.”

No really, it’s an actual drink at Better Buzz Coffee made with their classic americano and signature creamy vanilla. Why not meet there Saturday at 2pm and see if it really is the Best Drink Ever!

-Recommendation by Sammi, San Diego Local

San Diego First Date Ideas #10: Bobboi Natural Gelato

Incredible artisinal gelato meant to taste just like the gelato in Italy, but with their own signature flavors, many of which are seasonal. Bobboi likes to use the freshest ingredients, so they provide seasonal flavors which you can only get when the ingredients are ripe for the picking!

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

#11: Salt & Straw

Known for its unique flavors, Salt & Straw is a great first date spot in any city. It’s easy to make your date invitation sound like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by using the seasonal flavors to your advantage. Try this when asking a woman out. “Have you ever tried coffee and bourbon ice cream?”

Wait for her response. If she doesn’t respond in 48 hours, follow it up with, “Salt & Straw created this amazing new ice cream using James Coffee and blending it with this warm and woodsy Greenbar Distillery Slow Hand Whiskey to make a new spin on coffee ice cream. They’re serving it this Saturday at 2pm. Want to join me for a taste test?”

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

#12: 85 Degree Bakery

Treat your date to something sweet on the first date! This artisan bakery is packed full of cakes, pastries, and breads to satisfy any sweet tooth!

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

#13: Creamistry

Have you ever tried liquid nitrogen ice cream? Apparently it’s the future of ice cream. Scram dip n’ dots. If your date says she’s super adventurous, dare her to order the Elvis Presley, an ice cream sundae made with banana ice cream, banana, peanut butter sauce, and candied bacon.

If she’s more of a girly girl, invite her to try the Unicorn, an ice cream dream made with birthday cake ice cream, mini marshmallows, marshmallow cream, and unicorn dust. It’s nothing short of magical, as is Creamistry – one the most compelling date ideas in San Diego.

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapis

First Date Ideas San Diego #14: MooTime Creamery

Moo Time Creamery offers delicious hand-made ice cream. Check out the sprinkle-covered cone or the fruit loops cereal bar. You might try the dessert nachos. It’s actually located in Coronado, which is the island right off the coast of San Diego.

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

#15: Cauldron Ice Cream

Have you ever had an OG Puffle cone? It’s a famous creation made by Cauldron Ice Cream, a funky new ice cream shop with gorgeously delicious nitrogen ice cream treats. If she says she’s sick of getting coffee and tea on a first date, ask her if she’s ever had Earl Grey Lavender ice cream or Vietnamese Coffee ice cream.

Why go traditional? This unique ice cream shop puts a new spin on the old coffee/tea first date in San Diego.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#16: Somi Somi

For a unique experience, take her to Somi Somi. They offer gold-fish shaped waffle cones with your choice of filling, topped with soft-serve ice cream. If you want to craft a compelling message to entice a woman to join you, you could try the following message sequence. “Have you ever had Ah-Boong?” She’ll be dying to satisfy her curiosity.

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

Second Date Ideas San Diego

Second Date Ideas San Diego #17: Bike along the path from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach 

Biking with your new fling is a great way to get your heart rate up and get those endorphins pumping through your system! Exercise=Endorphins, and Endorphins=Happiness!

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#18: Torrey Pines Glider Port

“An exhilarating, yet incredibly peaceful experience on a tandem paraglider flight with world class instructors overlooking the Torrey Pines cliffs, Pacific Ocean, and hidden beachside mansions”.

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant at Aspiring Families

Looking for a real adrenaline rush? Although peaceful, FlyTorrey paragliding will definitely push you out of your comfort zone! If you have an adventurous date, then this is an experience she will never forget. This is a more costly date though, costing around $175 for paragliding (per person). Make sure to plan ahead if you decide to go this route!

#19: Surrey Ride on Coronado Island

“Surrey ride on the bike path around Coronado island and enjoy the views of San Diego’s downtown, Coronado bridge and historic Del Coronado.”

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

Escape from the usual hustle and bustle and enjoy your time on Coronado, a beautiful spot just outside San Diego. Bonus points if you’re there for sunset. To get there, take a ferry or bus from San Diego. The ferry is ideal, since this 15 minute option is a more peaceful way to escape.

#20: Walk Around the Shops at Bird Rock

Even if you aren’t a big shopper, walking around and experiencing this quirky neighborhood in San Diego is a great way to get to know each other in a fun way. Grab her hand and spend an afternoon giggling through the Bird Rock shops.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

Second Date Ideas San Diego #21: Del Mar Cinepolis

“Stroll the upscale shops at the Del Mar Highlands and end the evening with an awesome luxury movie theater with a full bar, comprehensive meal and drink service, and reclining leather chairs.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant at Aspiring Families

#22: Annie’s Canyon Hike

“A hidden gem in Solana Beach, Annie’s Canyon is a short hike through the narrow canyon that leads to a spectacular view of the ocean.”

– Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

Why not show your date a super special hidden gem? Plus, it’s free! Annie’s Canyon is just that, and more. A beautiful hike, and one that will get those endorphins going, your date is sure to remember this day with you!

#23: Take a Hike!

“There are several beautiful hikes in sunny San Diego. Novice hikers? Check out Mission Trails Regional Park, or the Ho Chi Minh Trail down to Blacks Beach for sunset (and hopefully to catch some dolphins swimming by!). Looking for more of a challenge? Check out Potato Chip Rock!”

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

When you live in a place as beautiful and sunny as San Diego, it’s easy to enjoy time outside, year round! So grab your date and enjoy a fun hike with some killer views. Plus, this option is completely free, so no need to worry about budgeting.

Second Date Ideas San Diego #24: Sail San Diego

“Must love the 3 Ws: Wind, water, and whales. A beautiful sunset sail or early morning up close and personal whale watching tour with only 6-8 adults, wine, champagne, snacks, and blankets.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant

Who doesn’t love time on the water? There is so much incredible marine life in San Diego, and the best way to get up close and personal is to get out there and feel the ocean breeze. Sail San Diego offers a 2 hour sail that’ll cost you about $70 per person, so this is definitely on the costly side. There are several options of trips you can take, so be sure to plan ahead!

#25: Hiking in Torrey Pines State Reserve

“Experience great ocean view, get a glimpse of the world-famous golf course, enjoy the oldest and endangered Torrey Pine trees.”

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

Another beautiful hike idea, but the Torrey Pines State Reserve Hike involves more beach than mountains. Enjoy the scenic California Coastline, and walk hand in hand as you enjoy the warm ocean breeze and soothing sounds of the waves.

#26: San Diego Safari Park (Formerly Wild Animal Park)

“Transport yourself to an alternate ecosystem as you ride the tram through the East African Savannah to observe the elephants, giraffes, lions, and other wild life. Breathtaking and educational.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant

There’s nothing like a day at the Zoo! SD Safari Park is known as one of the best in the world, and although tickets can be a bit pricier ($56/pp, which would fall out of line with my personal second date blueprint), this experience is truly an unforgettable one.

#27: Ride scooters from Ocean Beach to La Jolla

Have you seen those electric scooters on almost every sidewalk around your city? If you haven’t tried one yet, this is the perfect opportunity! They are a ton of fun! Grab a couple scooters and enjoy the beachfront ride from Ocean Beach to La Jolla, or vice-versa.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

Second Date Ideas San Diego #28: Wine Tasting in Temecula

“Temecula has some lovely wineries, and you can take a private limo tour to 3 of your favorites and sample a smorgasbord of wine and delicacies. A delightful and romantic experience for 2 or a group of close friends.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant

Maintaining an adventurous vibe, a wine tour is a sure-fire way to win(e) her heart. Stay safe by maintaining the role of DD- taste your wine and spit it out, so that you stay sober and she can enjoy without worrying.

#29: Kayak the La Jolla Caves

“Kayak through the beautiful caves in La Jolla or take a sunset kayak tour and get close to the marine life such as pelicans, leopard sharks, sea lions and dolphins.”

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

Have an adventure! Let your kayak guide you through crystal clear water, and watch for exciting marine life. Explore the caves and get to know each other from the comfort of your kayak. Grab a tandem kayak for $69 and explore together!

#30: Ride the Roller Coaster at Belmont Park

Find your inner child and enjoy a day riding the roller coasters at Belmont Park! Pro Tip: Make sure she isn’t scared of heights before planning this date…

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#31: Stroll through Balboa Park

Filled with things to see and do, this historic park is an artist’s sanctuary. Built in 1982, this park is filled with museums, beautiful trees, and a plethora of restaurants and shops. Get lost exploring with your date, enjoy the scenery, and maybe snap a pic or two!

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

Second Date Ideas San Diego #32: Sunset Hike with Goats

Here’s a fun one for you! Make your hike a little more exciting by adding goats to the party! If you know that your date is an animal lover, then this will be an experience she’ll never forget! Book this on Airbnb Experiences for $55/ pp.

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

Third Date Ideas San Diego

Third Date Ideas San Diego #33: Pacific Coast Grill

“Sample divine fish, sushi, and mussels while sipping excellent wines overlooking the ocean with gorgeous open air sunsets.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant

Take her up the coast a bit to one of the best restaurants she’ll ever eat at. Entice her senses with delicious cocktails, extraordinary food, and soft ocean breeze.

Third Date Ideas San Diego #34: The Melting Pot

“An intoxicating and sensational experience with a phenomenal variety of lobster, sirloin, cheese, and chocolate… prepare to spend 2-3 hours indulging your senses.”

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant

Who doesn’t love a date that revolves around cheese? Fondue is a fun way to get to know all about your date’s favorite food, and don’t skip the chocolate fondue at the end of the night. What’s more romantic than dipping succulent strawberries into some gooey, delicious chocolate?

#35: Rooftop Cinema Club at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

“In terms of vibe, it feels like a hotel bar and the decor isn’t really that interesting. What makes this a cool first date spot is the view which over looks San Diego Bay and Coronado Island, you can even see all the way south to Mexico. The drinks are pricey and in terms of food they only offer appetizers and dessert, but again, the view is amazing! This is a good option as a pre-dinner date spot.”

-Recommendation by Steven Williams, Local San Diego Musician, Entrepreneur, Photographer, and World Traveler

There’s something about a great view and a glass of champagne that just gets someone in the mood. Give her the perfect evening by providing both, and then sweep her away to a divine dinner of your choosing.

#36: Cafe 21 in the Gaslamp

“Cafe 21 in Gaslamp (Happy Hour from 3-6pm and live music at 7pm).”

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

For delicious drinks, food, and live music, check out Cafe 21! Is there a better way to spend a Friday night with your date?

#37: Tom Hamm’s

“Enjoy dinner at Tom Hamm’s on the ocean looking at the boats.”

-Recommendation by Preeti Presswala-Shah, LMFT Gottman Trained Couples Therapist

Such a beautiful spot that there are frequently weddings here! A seafood-heavy restaurant on the water, the fish is so fresh that she’ll think you went out and caught it yourself!

Third Date Ideas San Diego #38: Dinner at the Prado, Balboa Park

This restaurant is, simply put, stunning. With a Colonial Mexican design, you’ll feel like you have escaped San Diego and ventured to the Mediterranean for your very special date. Walk through the courtyard hand-in-hand, and trust me, she’ll be swooning.

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

#39: Sea 180

“Sea 180 is a nice date spot because you can sit on the patio which is right on the beach. I personally would stick to ordering off of their happy hour menu because I think those options actually taste better than their regular entreés. You can watch the sunset from the dinner table or you can eat a bit earlier and either walk down the beach or out on the pier to catch it. Imperial Beach is fairly close to the border with Mexico so if you walk south on the beach you can see Tijuana and all of the city lights start to speckle as the sun sets over the ocean.”

-Recommendation by Steven Williams, Local San Diego Musician, Entrepreneur, Photographer, and World Traveler

A perfect spot for a sunset dinner, Sea 180 offers some amazing drinks and great seafood options. Plus, the staff has an incredible reputation, so you can rest easy and know that your date will have a fabulous experience.

#40: Pearl Hotel “Dive in” movie night

Once a week, The Pearl Hotel offers poolside movie nights! Check out the lineup on their website, and grab your girl for dinner and a movie, old Hollywood style.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#41: Night at San Diego Symphony

Go fancy or go home! Give her an excuse to get dressed up, and treat her to an extravagant night at the symphony. This does require some planning (deciding on a show, picking out seats, and purchasing tickets ahead of time). However, your thoughtfulness and preparation will only give her more reasons to swoon.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

Third Date Ideas San Diego#42: Tapas at Costa Brava in PB

Why not venture outside your comfort zone with some authentic Spanish food? Treat her to some paella, and watch her swoon. Plus, you can’t go wrong with some sangria to boot.

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

#43: Sunset Picnic on Sunset Cliffs

This is a chance to plan something super special and personal for your third date. Pack a picnic, grab a bottle (or two) of wine, and surprise your date with a sunset picnic on the cliffs. She’ll be swept away, and your thoughtfulness can only earn you bonus points!

-Recommendation by Sammi S., San Diego Local

 #44: C Level

Looking for a delicious steakhouse with a view? Make sure to get here before sunset for a beautiful waterfront experience, and enjoy a yummy steak or seafood dinner. The mussels come highly recommended!

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

#45: Cloak and Petal

A dark, intimate atmosphere, the fanciest cocktails you’ve ever seen, and some yummy sushi? Who can resist? If your date is a sushi lover, this is the place to take her. All of the food is basically art, which is impressive in itself, but when she tastes it, she’ll be even more blown away. This place has a fun, yet mellow vibe, and is a perfect date-night spot. Make sure to make a reservation, because this is a popular spot!

-Recommendation by Azmaira H. Maker, Clinical Psychologist, Author, and Consultant at Aspiring Families

Third Date Ideas San Diego #46: Farmer’s Bottega Restaurant

Farm to Table is all the rage nowadays. Not only is the food healthy, but it’s delicious. Order from the regular menu or opt for the prixe-fix for an extra treat, and don’t skip the limoncello cake for dessert! This little Italian restaurant will have your date smitten as a kitten and wanting more.

-Recommendation by Lisa Lapides Sawicki, San Diego Life Coach

#47: Illusions Theatre and Bar

Dinner and a show? Why not! Enjoy a delicious dinner and a magic show! During this date, you’ll get to experience an interactive magic show, an escape room, and a decadent 3-course meal. Buy your tickets through Goldstar for $20 off!

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

#48: Starlite

A very special restaurant with ambiance that will make your mouth fall open, and food that will never fade in your memories. Treat her to a delicious dinner, but be sure to save some room for the signature Ice Cream Sandwich dessert that she’ll be dreaming about for weeks to come.

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

#49: Trailer Park After Dark

Looking for a unique experience for date #3? Check this place out! More of a bar than a restaurant, but still offering some yummy food that plays on the whole trailer park theme (think mac and cheese!). Extra bonus points if you book a private trailer to enjoy dinner and drinks in. A less expensive option, but definitely a creative spot.

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

Third Date Ideas San Diego #50: Monzu Fresh Pasta

Want to impress your date with your knowledge of Italian food? Look no further than Monzu for some homemade pasta. Lady and the Tramp your way into her heart over a bowl of spaghetti and fresh Focaccia bread (save some of the bread to soup up all the yummy sauce after you finish your pasta, trust me, you’ll need it).

-Recommendation by EmLovz Staff

Bonus Date Ideas in Tijuana, Mexico

Although this isn’t part of San Diego, it’s still a part of San Diego culture. If you are going on a date with someone a bit more adventurous then there are plenty of great options just south of the border. The culinary scene is booming in Tijuana, along with the craft beer and cocktail scene. A few spots I would recommend checking out, which are either walkable or a short Uber/taxi ride ar

“Although this isn’t part of San Diego, it’s still a part of San Diego culture. If you are going on a date with someone a bit more adventurous then there are plenty of great options just south of the border. The culinary scene is booming in Tijuana, along with the craft beer and cocktail scene. A few spots I would recommend checking out, which are either walkable or a short Uber/taxi ride are:

Telefonico Gastro Park

This is basically a food truck park with a lot of different options.

Oryx Capital

Great food and there’s a cool speakeasy located behind the wall at the end of the hallway near the restrooms.

Nativo Coffee 

This is a great little coffee spot with indoor and outdoor seating and is located 1 block east of the PedWest border crossing. It’s in a courtyard with a few good food options and a bar called Cereus. Great spot to go if you just want a quick taste of TJ without investing too much time into the date.

I would recommend walking across at the PedWest border crossing, especially if you don’t have a Sentri pass. If you don’t have a Sentri pass then I would suggest either going on a weekday or plan on crossing back later in the evening on a weekend night when foot traffic is light.

-All Tijuana Recommendations by Steven Williams, Local San Diego Musician, Entrepreneur, Photographer, and World Traveler