Looking for fun date night ideas in Sarasota? You’re in luck!
It’s easy to plan the perfect date night in Sarasota. From sunset picnics on Lido Beach to romantic dinners with bay front views, Sarasota offers an endless array of date night adventures to share with your special someone.
It’s hard not to feel the romantic vibe when you’re surrounded by the world’s finest white sand beaches combined with picturesque sunsets and an art scene that never disappoints. Whether you’re looking to make a first date memorable or celebrating a milestone anniversary, we’ve got you covered.
Check out these 6 unforgettable date night ideas in Sarasota.
1. Enjoy a romantic sunset picnic on Lido Beach or Siesta Key.
Our favorite cost-effective date night has always been picnicking at Lido Beach. In the low season months of May and September, Lido makes for the perfect quick getaway for us. Traffic is not congested and it doesn’t take long to get through St. Armand’s Circle.
We love to pack a cooler with homemade Greek salad, grilled chicken and fresh bread. Combine this with a bottle of white wine and our comfiest beach chairs, and it feels like we’ve gone on an expensive vacation.
Our other favorite getaway date is a sunset walk on Siesta Key Beach. We love to curl up on a blanket and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It feels almost surreal to gaze at the sky as it transforms into a canvas of colors.
2. Dine aboard an evening cruise on the fabulous Marina Jack II.
Once a year, we love to embark on a dinner cruise aboard the Marina Jack II. There’s nothing more romantic than gazing at the twinkling lights of the Sarasota skyline on a yacht! Plus, there’s valet parking, which makes for a stress-free experience.
Afterward, we wander through downtown Sarasota, checking out the nightlife. If we’re in the mood for a sports vibe, we head to Raffurty’s Bar & Grill. We also love checking out live music at The Gator Club.
3. Take in a show at one of Sarasota’s many theaters.
If you’re looking for a date with a purpose, it’s fun to grab dinner downtown and then check out one of the many options in Sarasota’s thriving theater community.
You can’t go wrong with any of the professional theaters in town. Asolo Repertory Theatre and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe are two of our faves. Florida Studio Theatre also tops our list, with the cabaret being a family favorite option.
And always make sure you check out what’s going on at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. This year, I grabbed last-minute front row seats to Kristin Chenowith through Stub Hub. That said, always look at the Van Wezel site first. Tickets are much cheaper.
4. Window shop during one of Sarasota’s many downtown festivals.
Stroll hand in hand with your partner as you window shop, check out local boutiques and enjoy live music performances along the way. Our favorite time to do this is during one of the many downtown festivals that occur throughout the year. Keep an eye on Visit Sarasota’s events and festivals page for ideas.
5. Take a cooking class.
Ignite your culinary passions with an Italian cooking class with chef and cookbook author Giuliano Hazan. You’ll prepare a four-course Italian meal that you can make again and again. Talk about memories!
6. Gaze at the stars on an evening kayaking tour.
Experience the beauty of Sarasota’s waterways under the moonlight with an evening kayaking adventure. For an educational option, consider a tour with Mote Aquarium. Or, check out a glass bottom LED illuminated kayaking tour with Sharkey’s.
Date Night in Sarasota Awaits
From romantic beach picnics to moonlit kayaking tours, Sarasota offers an endless array of options for an unforgettable date night. Whether you’re exploring Siesta Key, dining at one of the many restaurants in St. Armand’s Circle or checking out a festival downtown, Sarasota provides the perfect backdrop for love to blossom and memories to be made.
What are you waiting for?