10 Fun Date Ideas Around San Diego for Couples

In addition to plenty of gaming options, Viejas Casino & Resort offers award-winning restaurants, hotels, a full service spa, concerts and entertainment, outlet shopping, bowling, and Southern California's largest outdoor roller rink. You'll easily fill a few hours (or a whole weekend!).

You and your date will get roughly 150-200 axe throws each in your 1 hour time slot at Battle Axe San Diego, and an "Axpert" will help you perfect your technique. Walk-ins are welcome, but book your spot online ahead of time to guarantee space.

This 21+ spot has loads of nostalgic arcade games, plus food and drinks. Check the schedule for your preferred location to see when they offer free play!

Kelly R:  This special planetarium show is held monthly at the Fleet Science Center. The Fleet's astronomer guides the show and discusses a new topic each month. Space is limited, so purchase your tickets in advance. When weather allows, you can participate in free telescope viewing with the San Diego Astronomy Association outdoors after the show.

Take your own private gondola ride through the canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays on a romantic 50-minute cruise with The Gondola Company. Blankets and wine glasses are provided for you, and wine is available for purchase (or bring your own).

Shila:  For a pretty unique and elite dining experience, take it to the Altitude Sky Lounge where panoramic 22-story views of the city await you. From Coronado Island to Petco Park overlooking a Padres game, this date night will double as a San Diego bucket list item.

Shila:  A San Diego cruise is surprisingly simple to book and fun to experience as a couple. The Hornblower offers dinner cruises every single night of the year in San Diego, and private tables are standard. A live band plays on select summer Fridays, too.

In addition, shorter and more family-friendly San Diego tours are also available, such as the 1-2 hour Harbor Cruise starting at $28.

Shila:  The Birch Aquarium offers many experiences to observe sea life and support conservation initiatives. The Green Flash Concert Series (named after a real possible "green flash” caused by refraction of light on the Pacific horizon) showcases live music, spectacular views, and after-hour museum access. For special seating and gourmet food included, consider your date night in the VIP section.

Shila:  This is a unique restaurant in that dramatic ocean waves crash upon the panoramic windows while you feast off a 5-star coastal menu. This experience is only available during high tide hours, and upcoming times are available online for your ease of reservation. La Jolla Restaurant on the Beach also hosts Lobster Nights and cooking classes complete with dinner, which may be fun to do as a couple, as well.

Shila:  There are many organized whale watching tours worth considering in San Diego. But, if you're looking for a more cost-effective and do-it-yourself approach to observing the winter migration of gray whales swimming south to Baja, simply spend some time at Cabrillo National Monument. Mid-January is peak season and the park's Kelp Forest Overlook and Old Point Loma Lighthouse offer optimal views given the cliff's height. Binoculars are available to rent.