25 first date ideas in Australia (that aren’t just drinks)

Drinks are the default first date for a reason: they’re easy. But a date where you do something together takes the pressure off and gives you something to talk about. Here are 25 ideas that work all over Australia.

Cheap and cheerful

1. A coffee and a walk. The classic for a reason: short, cheap and easy to extend.
2. A coastal or river walk. Every Australian city has one.
3. Fish and chips at the beach. Bonus points for sunset.
4. A picnic in the botanic gardens. Bring a blanket and something to share.
5. A farmers market. Grazing and wandering means no awkward silences.
6. Free gallery entry. Most state and national galleries are free to enter.
7. Gelato crawl. Try three places and rank them.

Active

1. A short hike. Pick something easy so you can talk.
2. Bouldering or indoor climbing. It’s fun, a bit silly and great for laughs.
3. Hire bikes. Many cities have share bikes or scooters along the foreshore.
4. Stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, on calm water.
5. A sunrise swim, between the flags, followed by breakfast.
6. Lawn bowls. Barefoot bowls is a very Australian, very social first date.

Something to talk about

1. Trivia night. You’ll learn how they think, and whether they’re competitive.
2. A comedy show. Laughing together is a great sign.
3. A live gig. Pick a local band at a small venue.
4. An outdoor cinema. Summer favourite in most cities.
5. A cooking class. Better as a second date, when you know you like each other.
6. A bookshop date. Pick a book for each other under $20.

Rainy-day options

1. Museum date. Interesting, indoors and usually free.
2. Arcade or pinball bar.
3. Board game café.
4. A hot chocolate or dessert bar.
5. Cinema followed by a debrief. Talking about the film afterwards is the real date.
6. A cosy pub with a fireplace. Perfect for a Hobart, Canberra or Melbourne winter.

Keep it safe and simple

Whatever you choose, keep the first date somewhere public, tell a friend where you’re going and organise your own transport. Aim for about an hour. If it’s going well, you can always keep going, and a short date that leaves you wanting more is better than a long one that drags.

Want local ideas? Browse our city guides for Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and more.