The key to a long-lasting relationship is keeping things fresh and exciting. Here are 10 San Francisco date night ideas to try on your next outing!

San Francisco Date Night Activities

Whether you’re visiting on a couples getaway, or you’re a local in search of best date spots in SF, these Bay Area activities are sure to spice up your love life.

1. Explore SFMOMA’s contemporary art exhibit.

SFMOMA, or San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, was the very first museum on the west coast to devote itself to modern and contemporary art.

From Andy Warhol to Diego Rivera, their collection is one of the largest in all of the United States.

Tip: General admission is $25 per person.

2. Enjoy umbrella drinks and live music at Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar.

Located inside Fairmont, Tonga Room is a tiki-themed lounge that specializes in Polynesian-fusion dishes alongside live entertainment and tropical storm shows.

They unfortunately do not take reservations for groups under ten guests. It is first come first serve.

If you can’t secure a table for a sit-down dinner, you can order drinks and vibe out by the bar instead. (You get the best view of the band here anyways.)

3. Row a boat through Stow Lake.

This is one of my most beloved San Francisco date ideas, especially on a sunny day.

It costs $26 USD/hour to rent a rowboat. Alternatively, you can opt for a pedal boat for $32.50/hour. (The rowboat is more work, but it’s a cute photo op!)

4. Book a romantic vacation/staycation in town.

Having stayed at several different properties in San Francisco, I can honestly say that Four Seasons is hands down the number one best luxury hotel in the Bay Area. (There are two Four Seasons. The one I stayed at was the Market Street location.)

Fairmont is definitely a close second. Their Singapore Suite is incredibly spacious and you can’t beat its gorgeous skyline views.

While technically situated in Menlo Park and not in San Francisco, Rosewood Sand Hill is another personal favorite that I highly recommend as well.

5. Treat yourselves to a luxury picnic.

Yummy charcuterie boards, chocolate fondues, donut walls, bubble machines… This is bound to be one of the most romantic dates in San Francisco!

It’s no news that the pandemic has negatively impacted all of our lives. However, it also gave rise to new business ideas like luxury picnics.

Picnic ‘n Chill is one of the early pioneers in this industry. They take the hassle out of picnic prep. Plus, there’s no need to clean up after you’re done. Just show up and have a good time!

6. French kiss a mermaid at Leo’s Oyster Bar.

Tom Robbins once said that eating a raw oyster is like french kissing a mermaid.

If you and babe are seafood lovers, a visit to Leo’s is a must.

This award-winning 3-star cocktail and seafood restaurant is known for its variety of oysters in addition to its vintage champagne and craft cocktails.

Tip: If you’re planning to gram this experience, come right at opening (4:00PM) to secure a seat by their IG-famous palm leaf wallpaper.

7. Grab sunset drinks at Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge.

Sunset drinks at Charmaine’s is another one of the most popular date night ideas in San Francisco.

Located inside San Francisco Proper, Charmaine’s is arguably the number one rooftop bar in town.

I’d been wanting to come here for the longest time and of course I chose the one day in three years that it’s ever rained in San Francisco to visit.

Despite not being greeted with cotton candy skies, I still very much enjoyed the intimate atmosphere. The food and drinks were delightful too, and I’ll certainly be back!

8. Go on a tandem bike adventure around Crissy Field.

One of the best ways to strengthen you and your partner’s connection is to try new things together.

Now tandem biking might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually super fun and easy. In fact, I don’t even know how to ride a bike, and my boyfriend and I managed just fine.

I recommend renting from Blazing Saddles. Their daily rates start at as low as $28.80 USD. Additionally, they provide you with optional ferry tickets. (You only pay when you use them.) If you’re feeling a little more confident/adventurous, you can bike over Golden Gate Bridge then take a ferry back to the city.

9. Admire the San Francisco skyline at Twin Peaks.

Twin Peaks, as its name suggests, consists of two hills that rise almost 1,000 feet above the city. You get a fantastic panoramic view. Not to mention, sunset here is absolutely mesmerizing. Perfect for date nights in San Francisco!

10. Walk the Illuminate SF Light Art Trail.

Every year from Thanksgiving until New Year’s, San Francisco is lit up in bright light art displays.

“Day for Night” by Jim Campbell at Salesforce Tower; tallest public art installation in the country.

Illuminate SF is an annual festival featuring over 60 permanent and temporary art installations across 17 neighborhoods.

A few must-sees include Jim Campbell’s “Day for Night” pictured above as well as “The Bay Lights,” “Love Over Rules,” and “Point Cloud.” Don’t forget to wear comfy walking shoes and dress in layers!

Tip: You can download the trail map here.

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