This month Andrew and I celebrate 9 years of marriage!! Yahoo! Along the way, we have it a point to go out on dates together. Sharing experiences together strengthens your relationship and helps it grow. And San Luis Obispo offers a variety of date ideas you can do either day or night!

So after living here for over a decade, we are sharing our top 9 things to do with your partner in San Luis Obispo County.

Wine Tasting in Edna Valley

With 2,000 acres of vines and 27 wine tasting rooms among golden rolling hills, the Edna Valley makes for a delicious getaway. Family-owned and off-the-beaten-path, these boutique wineries each offer something different, but Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reign over most tasting menus. And with a variety of vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts nearby, you can stay right in the middle of wine country. Which winery is your favorite? You’ll have to visit them all to find out.

Farmer’s Market on Thursday Nights

The famous Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market happens every Thursday starting at 6 PM. Experience a farmers’ market like no other: enjoy five blocks of fresh produce, famous BBQ, delicious meals, live music, entertainment, and more!

Sunset Drive-In Movie Theatre

We all know that going to see a movie is a go-to, classic date. However, San Luis Obispo offers an even better option. With tickets for only $9, the drive-in is open every night of the week. Pack some blankets and pillows for the car, pop open the trunk, and enjoy the laid-back environment of a drive-in theatre. And don’t forget to stop by the old-fashioned concession stand.

Hiking in Montana De Oro

With thousands of acres to explore, Montana de Oro lives up to its translated name, “Mountain of Gold.”  There’s something for everybody – sea arches, sea caves, tide pools, sand dunes, beaches, and hills.  You can hike, bike, ride a horse, swim, and camp at this park.  It’s definitely one of the most rugged, beautiful coastlines we’ve ever seen.

Top of Prefumo Canyon

San Luis Obispo is home to the stunning Prefumo Crest. A drive up Prefumo Canyon Road leads to this overlook and its striking views of SLO. Impress your date by bringing some food and a blanket for a picnic while watching the sunset behind the mountains. You can also enjoy some time watching the stars away from the lights of Cal Poly’s campus and downtown.

Tiki Cruise in Morro Bay

The Lost Isle Tiki boat ride was delightful! This 45-minute slow cruise around the harbor was a perfect way for us to end our day. It leaves every hour on the hour (sunset cruises Fridays only). You can purchase drinks (alcoholic and non) on board and bring your dog, too. The captain provides very interesting historical information, with humor blended, about Morro Bay and the marine wildlife in the estuary. We saw many seals and different types of birds. The boat landed on the Sand Pit for anyone to explore for 10 min. Always stay alert and definitely have your camera ready–you never know what surprise awaits. As we left the Sand Pit, a leopard shark appeared in the shallow waters. You can also buy out the whole boat and celebrate a wedding or anniversary!!

Art After Dark

Art is displayed on the first Friday of every month from 6-9 pm in the downtown area. This is a part of Art After Dark. There are more than 20 galleries and venues and it is completely free, meaning this event is a great and easy way to see inspiring art pieces right near Cal Poly’s campus with your date. While downtown, the two of you can also get dinner along the way.

Avila Barn

“The best memories are made on the farm.” At Avila Barn, you and your date can ride the tractor out to the berry patches and fruit orchards to pick some treats yourselves. There are also farm animals you can pet and feed, such as baby calves, goats, and miniature ponies. During the fall, you can also visit their annual pumpkin patch and have a pumpkin carving contest with your date.

Needing help planning fun date ideas? Hire Project XO.