193. AVP Beach Volleyball Tourney

Do you need a reason to hit the beach?
As much as I love living by the beach, I'm not a volleyball fan. With that said, I do make a point to partake in the annual AVP Tour. Why? It's the beach scene that makes it a great day date idea, especially for a group date. Game tickets are not free, but walking around the vendor booths is! Some cool freebies include tote bags, frisbees, drinks, snacks and more. Afterward, hit the beach and/or local bars (do it early before everything gets packed).

AVP Hermosa Beach
Originally uploaded by 365 Cheap Dates

For those who do enjoy professional volleyball tournament games, general admission is $20. For the upcoming game in Huntington Beach, buy tickets online now: (a) save 50% for Friday, June 4th, with a discount code AVPBOGO, so it'd be $10 each -OR- (b) save $5 for the rest of the weekend, $15 pp. More discounts may pop up closer to the other tour dates. By the way, sometimes you can watch the warm-up games for free (just look and ask).

The games bounce across the US beaches during summer, but here's the AVP tournament schedule for Southern California:

• June 3-6 Huntington Beach
• July 16-18 Hermosa Beach
• July 24-25 Malibu
• August 19-22 Manhattan Beach
• September 17-19 Hermosa Beach (finals)

However, if you don't like crowds, then you may want to avoid this event. Parking will not be easy, so carpool and come early. In my opinion, the AVP is worth checking out at least once this summer. As always, don't forget your sunblock, towel, hat, sunglasses, camera and whatever you need for fun in the sun. Click HERE for other free and cheap things to do this weekend, June 3-6th.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

185. Free Malibu Beach Safari

Let's go on a Malibu Beach Safari!!
Going to the beach is a not a "special" date idea, especially when one lives by the beach. On the other hand, going on a "Malibu Beach Safari"... now that kicks it up a notch! On Sunday, May 23rd, the LA Urban Rangers will help you discover secret but public beach spots along the 20-mile coastline of Malibu. For FREE, learn how to find, park, walk, picnic and sunbathe legally and safely. The 1.5-hour tours are scheduled for 9 AM, 11:30 AM and 2 PM, but the first one of the day is the best to easily find free street parking. Reservations are not required, but it is first come, first serve and the tours start on time. Click HERE for safari details and directions.

Kenya Safari and beach holiday
Originally uploaded by 1denela

Ever since I learned about this activity last year through @unhipLA (click for blog post & Yelp review), I've been waiting for it start up again this summer. To my dismay (because I am already booked), this Sunday's safaris will be the last ones closing the 3-year project. Nevertheless, I am blogging about it now because it sounds like an awesome cheap (actually, it's free) date idea that YOU can go on and then kiss & tell me about it later (Read: please use comment box below). Then you can come back again as a group date and take your friends to areas other than the overcrowded Zuma and Surfrider.

As with all outdoorsy activities, bring sunblock, bottled water, comfortable clothes, snacks, a beach towel and a camera (optional for kiss and tell). If you miss out on Sunday like I will, click HERE for a free downloadable map to go on your own safari another time.

Disclaimer: The photo used here does not represent Malibu, but it just looked cool for my blog post.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @unhipLA

184. $6 Angels Tickets

Take me out to ball game for only 6 bucks?!
If you are fan of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (long name, I know) or simply like cheap yet fun things to do, get 1/2 off tickets when they play the Toronto Blue Jays early next week, May 24-26th. The Monday and Tuesday games start at 7 PM, so it's doable for a weeknight date. Invite friends and family to make it a group date or family-friendly activity. The weather should be good for an outdoor game, but bundle up since the temperature will drop to 66F on that night.

Angels are #1!
Originally uploaded by sfam

Regular tickets range $12-33, so with a 50% discount, your date can be as cheap as $6 per person! Click HERE to buy your tickets now. Select the game day and enter the promo code TRAVEL. As of this moment, the cheapest tickets that I could find were $6 for "Upper View" and $14-16.50 for "Best Available". As with all online tickets, there is a convenience charge of $2-3.25. Stadium parking is $8. Buy your discounted tickets online now!

If you are a fan of the Dodgers, sorry you missed out on Cheap Date Idea #162.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $8+ Total pp + $8 Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $32+ Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @TravelZooLA

172. Free Bowling at Lucky Strike

Free bowling is a great group date idea!
Lucky Strike at L.A. Live is offering a free game with free shoes on Wednesday, May 12th. All you have to do is show up and say the magic words, "Bangerang Bowling", in honor of the movie, Hook. The alley will be open at 11:30 AM til 1 AM (must be 21+ after 7 PM). Depending on when you go, games are about $6-7 and shoe rental is $5. If Wednesday doesn't work for you, pay for bowling on Monday 5/10 and get a free entree. If free bowling wasn't enticing enough, maybe free food will?

Originally uploaded by arnthora

If those days don't work for you, pick any day during the week! Their Lunch & Bowl special sounds like a pretty good deal too: Pay $7.95 for lunch and get a free game and shoes between 11:30 AM - 4 PM on Mon-Fri. If you prefer drink specials, then Lucky Hour is 4-7 PM daily (yes, including weekends!): $5 well drinks, $3 draft beer, $4 shots, $5 house wine by the glass and various food specials. Check out the website for other specials on Sundays and Tuesdays for 1/2 price bowling. As for parking, L.A. Live parking lot charges $5 for the first 2 hours.

If downtown LA is too far for you, check out these other bowling date ideas:

• Cheap Date Idea #61: Sunday brunch and bowling plus $2 mimosas!
• Cheap Date Idea #70: 2 Buck bowling, beer & more!
• Cheap Date Idea #72: Free bowling on your birthday and more!

UPDATE 05/26/10: The next FREE bowling day at Lucky Strike will be June 14th. To get a free game and shoes, the secret code is "The Dude sent me".


Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $22 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @LuckyStrikeLA and @Andres_ocon

171. Rock Climbing Rockreation

If you are looking for an active date idea, here you go!
In 2001, my boyfriend (now fiance) got me started on rock climbing. At first, I was reluctant but learned this is an excellent sport for exercising and bonding (team building). I actually took lessons at Rockcreation at the Costa Mesa location, so I know that the current offer by Deal Perk is a great cheap date idea: take a 2-hour introductory rock climbing lesson and then practice for 2 weeks with rental equipment included. Buy the voucher now online for only $29 ($60 value!) and use it before Nov 7th. This is not quite a first date idea, but something fun to do with an active partner for 2 weeks. Even if you know how to climb, this is a great deal because a 1-day pass is normally $16! In less than 2 days, you break even.

Rock climbing
Originally uploaded by 365 Cheap Dates

For some sports, you usually need a partner at the same difficulty level, but that's not necessarily true with climbing. Fact: Girls are typically better rock climbers than boys. The reason is that girls use their lower body (legs) while boys tire out their upper body (arms). Once you've mastered indoor rock climbing, you may want to venture outdoors to Point Dume Beach in Malibu (see Cheap Date Idea #10). If you don't want to buy equipment quite yet, REI also offers rentals.

P.S. That's me in the blue shirt climbing on the left of the photo here! It was fun to climb with my brothers and boyfriend.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $29 per person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $120 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @DealPerkOC

170. Santa Monica Festival - 5/8

It's springtime, so the festival season is upon us.
Tomorrow, Saturday, May 8th, will be the 19th Annual Santa Monica Festival at Clover Park off Ocean Park Blvd. There will be 7 hours of nonstop FREE entertainment and activities starting at 11 AM. To highlight a few, you can learn (or watch) ballroom dancing, join the Zumba dance party, listen to live music, participate in hands-on workshops and more (click HERE for the complete schedule). This is a nice day date plus it's family-friendly, but I'm not sure if this event is pet-friendly. UPDATE 05/21/10: Per @LADogEvents, this IS a dog-friendly event!!

Clover Park
Originally uploaded by shishito

Not only is admission free, but parking is too. However, biking to the event is highly encouraged. As such, complimentary bicycle valet is being offered. That service seems to becoming more common but here's the bonus: all bikers can fill out a survey to be entered into a raffle to win a brand new bike! You and your date can roll up on your old bikes and may come away with a shiny new one. According to weather.com, it looks like it will be a perfectly sunny day tomorrow for a bike ride and festival in Santa Monica (63-67 degrees).

UPDATE 05/11/10: Click HERE to view photos of the event by @DrinkEatTravel.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = 100% Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @CitySearchLA

167. Grunion Party, Venice - 4/30

You have to do this at least once!
This is like Cheap Date Idea #127, so I'll keep this short and sweet! The Venice Oceanarium is hosting a Grunion Party TONIGHT, April 30th, at 11 PM, in Venice. It is late, but that's when the silvery fish come out to lay their eggs on our beaches. For details and directions, click HERE. You can do this on your own, but this is a fun group activity, especially for families.

Grunion Run
Originally uploaded by Jessierocks

The grunion are expected to be spawning 10:55 PM - 12:55 AM tonight. You can try catching them but have to throw them back in since it's closed season right now (see schedule online). To best watch and document the work of nature, bring a flash light and a camera. Make sure to bundle up but prepared to roll up your pants and wear flip flops.

Since the Grunion Party doesn't start until 11 PM, go "next door" to Santa Monica for their monthly event, Last Fridays on Main Street (see Cheap Date Idea #140). If you miss this party or Venice is too far, check out Cheap Date Idea #127 for other organized grunion runs in San Pedro.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @KatelynMichele

153. FREE National Park Week - 4/17-25

Going to the park is always a nice outdoorsy date idea, but it's even better when it's FREE.
Visiting a park is usually a cheap date idea, but it's nice to save the entrance fee which typically ranges $5-20. There are 392 national parks, 100+ of which usually charge the entrance fee. Mark your calendars for the Annual Free Entrance Days during:

• National Park Week (April 17-25th)
• Public Lands Day (Sept 25th)
• Veteran's Day (Nov 11th). 

The slideshow above are pictures from our day trip to Joshua Trip exactly one year ago, just in time for the wild flowers. Here are a few of my personal favorites that are a good day trip or weekender from LA and OC. If you are a fan of hiking and camping, the first one on the list is an easy one to do.

• Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego (tide pools, Old Point Loma Lighthouse)
• Joshua Tree National Park (the wild flowers should be blooming again, great for rock climbing)
• Sequoia National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Click HERE for the complete list of 100+ FREE national parks listed by state.

In addition to bringing a picnic or backpack with plenty of water, sun block, sun glasses, hats and a camera, walkie talkies are optional but useful for a group date. For other outdoorsy date ideas, check out Cheap Date Idea #117 at The Flower Fields until Mother's Day and Cheap Date Idea #124 at Anza-Borrego until mid-April. Have fun!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission.

Actual value of the cheap date idea = $5-20 Entrance fee per car.

124. Anza-Borrego Wild Flowers Photos

As requested, I finally uploaded my photos from Cheap Date Idea #124: Hiking in Anza-Borrego for wild flowers (see slideshow below). Actually, it was a FREE date idea (besides the cost of gas to get there). Click HERE for more info. The wild flowers are expected to bloom until April 12th. If you miss it or simply love flowers, check out The Flower Fields on Cheap Date Idea #117. These are great day date ideas, especially if you love hiking or photography. Joshua Tree is also a good date spot. I'll have to find and upload my photos from last Spring (future date idea!).

142. Horseback Riding Tours $12.50

This is an easy & romantic way to explore Griffith Park.
Sunset Ranch Hollywood can take you and your partner all around Griffith Park to enjoy scenic views of the LA basin, the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. These guided tours are normally $25 for 1 hour or $40 for 2 hours. The ranch is open daily 9 AM - 2:30 PM but the best deal is on Tuesdays, breaking down to only $12.50 per person for 1 hour with BOGO coupon (print HERE). All day rides are first come, first serve.

Cowboy at Sunset
Originally uploaded by Wrayne

For something more special, the 2-hour Sunset Ride is $60 (reservation only). For another $25, enjoy the Sunset Ranch BBQ event on April 17th. This is not quite the cheapest date idea, but it's not bad for a romantic evening of 2 hours of horseback riding, music, food and fun. This could be a good group date idea too, especially for a birthday.

Afterward, continue the fun by hiking through Griffith Park (Cheap Date Idea #78) or star-gazaing at the Griffith Observatory (Cheap Date Idea #4).

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $12.50 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $50 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @SoCalCoupons

138. Irvine Park Railroad Easter Eggstravaganza

Train rides, paddle boats and tandem bikes, oh my!
Both kids and adults can jump on the train at the Irvine Park Railroad every day of the week starting at 10 AM until 5 PM on weekends and 4 PM on weekdays. Train tickets are normally $4 per person, but click HERE to print a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) coupon. Bring a date and enjoy the 12-minute train ride through the Irvine Regional Park. Other fun things to do here year round are:

Irvine Park Railroad Easter Eggstravaganza
Originally uploaded by Irvine Park Railroad

• Paddle boats for $12/hour
• Tandem bikes for $15/hour
• Horse rentals for $40/hour
• Orange County Zoo for $2 per person
• Free walking/hiking (7 trails, 1-4 miles each, see wild flowers too)

For this season, you can also enjoy the Easter Eggstravaganza, open daily until April 3rd because it's closed on Easter Sunday. Admission is free but the family-friendly activities are $4 each, which include an Easter egg hunt (kids only), moon bounce, hay ride, cookie decorating (and eating), and carnival games. Bring a camera to take a silly photo at the free picture stands.

Parking is $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends. Click HERE for  and more info. Check the website for other fun activities throughout the year.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $4 Train ticket w/BOGO coupon + $3-5 Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $13 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @DealsDiva and @AAASoCalNews

134. FREE Acoustic Concert, Malibu Creek - 3/27

Free concert with sunset and starlight = Romantic cheap date!

On Saturday, March 27th, 5:30-8:30 PM, enjoy free acoustic performances by several artists, including Natalie Nicole Gilbert, at Malibu Creek State Park. The outdoor stage will be opened up to the crowd where you are invited to bring an instrument and share a song. To hear music samples, RSVP, and get more info, check out the Facebook event page. Reservations are not required but appreciated. Feel free to invite friends and make it a group date!

nnggrove
Originally uploaded
by Natalie Nicole Gilbert

Malibu Creek State Park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains. The address for the park's main gate is 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302. Parking next to the site is $12, or find free parking on Mulholland Drive if you don't mind a 3/4 mile walk.

This spot is great for a day date too! We actually have been here before because I recognized the M*A*S*H site. Yup, this is the film set for the old TV show series, MASH. We plan on going again for more hiking and outdoor rock climbing before the concert. Next time I also want to check out the rest of the park, including Century Lake. For hiking trail maps, camping and other info, click HERE.

Wooden benches surround the outdoor stage and a bonfire will be lit. For your comfort, picnic blankets and lanterns or flashlights would be nice. Based on a 10-day forecast, sunshine is expected with a high of 75, but after sunset at 7:11 PM, the temperature will drop to a low of 47, so bundle up. There will be a break if you want to mix and mingle or break out a picnic for dinner. No alcohol is permitted, but coffee, hot cocoa and tea will be provided. The concert will rap up by 8:30 PM, so that leaves time to continue the fun!

UPDATE 03/24/10: Click HERE for Google Map for easy directions. Thanks, @remywriter!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free + Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @NatalieNicole

128. Escondido Waterfalls

Hikes are ok, but waterfall hikes are awesome!

Hiking in California is a day date idea good for anytime, but the best time for hiking with waterfalls is during springtime or "rainy" season. As you can see in the photo on the right here, the Escondido Waterfalls were quite amazing last month. I'm not fond of rain but it does provide 2 good things: waterfalls and rainbows. Unfortunately (depending on how you see it), no rain is expected in the next 10 days in the Malibu area.

the top fall
Originally uploaded by Gabriel Gets

According to Yelp reviewers, this is a 4.2-mile hike round trip at easy-moderate difficulty with half of the trail covered in concrete. That is unless of course you are the adventurous type and want to scramble to the top of the falls. The trail head starts 1 mile from the parking lot and then go left at the first split. Also, don't stop at the first waterfall (50-feet lower fall), because the 150-feet upper waterfall (biggest one of Santa Monica Mountains) is up ahead. Plan to spend at least 2 hours or more here, but I'd make it at least a half-day trip.

I think I have been here a long time ago (there are a few in Santa Monica Mountains), but it was during summertime, so I need to go back again for the waterfalls (hint hint to my man if he is reading my blog). I was originally going to blog about a fellow Tweeter's suggestion, Millard Canyon Falls, but learned that it was closed down until the Fall 2010 due to mudslide damage (future date idea!). I did discover an interesting website that is all about waterfalls, World of Waterfalls. This site covers different parts around the world and even has a section dedicated to Southern California AND a personalized Google Map for local waterfalls (click HERE). If Escondido Falls is not within reach, check out that site for other hiking spots near you.

For maps and reviews of Escondido Falls, here is a list of resources at your fingertips:

• LAMountains.com (see trail map)
• LocalHikes.com
• World of Waterfalls
• Yelp.com

As with all outdoorsy date ideas, make sure to bring sunblock, bottled water, sunglasses, a hat and a camera (that's optional, but how can you not at this panoramic spot?). Obviously, proper shoes would be smart for crossing the creek a few times and trekking through muddy trails during rainy season and. Packing a picnic would be a romantic yet practical thing to do for this date idea. Have fun!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

127. Grunion Run 2010

This is something worth doing at least once...
The grunion are back to spawn on our California beaches again, like they do every March - August (closed season is April and May). These silvery fish are up for grabs in 2-hour windows around 11 PM - 1 AM on designated days. If you have never done this before, it's worth checking out at least once. When I was a teenager, we went and caught them for dinner in San Diego. It's not my cup of tea, but I can say that I've been there, done that.

Originally uploaded by
Birch Aquarium at Scripps

For a learning experience, come out earlier at 8 PM at the (almost) semi-monthly events at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on: 3/17, 3/31, 4/30, 5/15, 5/28, 6/14, 6/28, 7/13, and 7/27. Click HERE for the schedule and more info, including some videos showing the laying and hatching of the eggs. CMA does charge $5 per person or you can hit one of the beaches on your own for free, but Cabrillo Beach is supposed to be a good spot.

Watching this spectacular act of nature is free, but technically anyone over 16 years needs a fishing license if you "fish" with bare hands and take your catch home. Since it's still nippy out, make sure to bundle up and bring a flashlight and a camera. Waterproof shoes or boots would be good too. For more aqua adventures, check out the free tide pool tours (click HERE) or go on Cheap Date Idea #6. If San Pedro is too far from you, the grunion are running up and down the coast, so check it out a beach near you.

UPDATE 03/30/10: RSVP is not required, but you can on Cabrillo Aquarium's Facebook page for tomorrow's event 3/31 8-11 PM, click HERE.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $5 pp at CMA but FREE otherwise.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

124. Anza-Borrego Wild Flowers

The flowers are here, the flowers are here!
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a nice day trip, less than 3 hours away from LA/OC. The blooming season for the wild flowers is short, so make sure to go before the end of March (UPDATE: blooming expected til at least April 12th). Take advantage of the great weather and go on a hike too. When we go on our "cheap date", I want to go on the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, which leads to a waterfall and the 3rd largest palm oasis in California. If you want to stay longer, camping is available. Click HERE for directions and more info.

anza borrego wild flowers
Originally uploaded by mandar_mulherkar

Since the park is open from dawn til dusk, leave early in the morning to beat LA traffic and enjoy the flowers all day. The visitor center is open 9 AM - 5 PM every day through the end of March. As with all outdoors activities, bring plenty of bottled water, a hat, sunscreen, sunblock and a camera. For a day trip, pack a picnic or pick up something to eat on the way, because there's not much available at the desert.

If you miss Anza-Borrego in March or simply adore flowers, check out the Flower Fields in Carlsbad (see Cheap Date Idea #117), which is open through May. For more ideas on spring trips, check out Sunset Magazine's list online.

UPDATE 03/22/10: Not only is admission FREE, parking is FREE too! I just went to Anza-Borrego last weekend on Saturday 3/20. The wild flowers should be blooming for at least 2 more weeks. It took exactly 3 hours with no traffic when we left at 9 AM from Huntington Beach. I found out that this is the only State Park where you can camp anywhere you want without a permit or reservation (but if you want running water, this is not for you). This is a really cheap date idea! Although the visitor center may close at 5 PM, you should stay past 7 PM in order to enjoy the sunset with a 360-degree panoramic view at Fonts Point. Parking was a bear at noon, but just drop off a friend to pick up a flower map while you do a loop around the parking lot. If you've got a 4WD vehicle, take it so that you drive into hard-to-reach areas, thus avoiding the crowds. I'll post my photos from our trip soon.


UPDATE 03/29/10:  Click HERE to check out my photo slideshow from our trip to Anza-Borrego. The wild flowers are expected to bloom until April 12th, so go before it's too late!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + FREE Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @snellsrv & @AAASoCalNews

122. Kayak though Naples Canals

You don't have to go to Venice to enjoy a romantic day date on the water.

Enjoy a romantic excursion around Naples Canals, a hidden gem in the City of Long Beach. At Kayaks on the Water, the rentals are $8 per person for either a single or a double kayak.  If you are a newbie or simply want to be romantic, take a double kayak. Or make it a group date and race with friends on single kayaks. I've done it both ways and prefer a double so that I can "share" the work of paddling, if you know what I mean.

Jellyfish around Naples Isle, Long Beach
Originally uploaded by JennyOC

With weather permitting, Kayaks on the Water is usually open every day at 9 AM until 1 hour before sunset in April-September and then only on weekends for the rest of the year. The rental is 1 hour minimum and then prorated thereafter, so go at your own pace and simply row yourself back whenever. In my opinion, 1-2 hours is plenty of time unless you take time to admire all the waterfront homes and stop off at one of the 6 allowed spots for restaurants, Starbucks, Jamba Juice and even an ATM. Tip: Pack a small picnic with bottles of water.

Kayaking is a fairly easy to moderate outdoor activity within the harbor here (except when it's a bit windy). Note: This is NOT ocean kayaking, so you don't have to worry about waves and besides these kayaks are too hard to flip over anyway. There is one rule: you have to know how to swim even though everyone is required to wear a life vest. Recommended attire is anything you don't mind getting a little wet in: a swimsuit, board shorts and flip flops/water shoes. Some other helpful items would be a waterproof camera, sunglasses, sunblock, a hat, a ziplock bag for your keys and valuables, a towel, and dry clothes for changing afterward. Metered parking is limited to 2 hours, so come earlier to find free street parking in the neighborhood.

When we went kayaking years ago, there was a nice little surprise on our aqua-adventure: Jellyfish! In a special cove area, those amazing creatures floated right up next to our kayak (just like in the photo on the right here). According to Kayaks on the Water, you can touch these seasonal "moon-jellies" because they do not sting. Heck you don't need to go to an aquarium for sea life: see jellyfish in Long Beach, then go whale watching in Dana Point (see Cheap Date Idea #120). If you enjoy the Naples Canals, check out the ones in Venice on Cheap Date Idea #47. For the land lovers who prefer to stay dry, Meetup offers many outdoor activities, such as free group hikes on Cheap Date Idea #78, or check out FREE Shark Lagoon Nights on Cheap Date Idea #15.


UPDATE 05/14/10: A fellow cheap date "kiss & told" me that they enjoyed Cheap Date Idea #122 on Wednesday, click HERE to see JDB's blog post with photos.


UPDATE 05/21/10: For the folks in Orange County, free kayaking demos are available once per month on Saturday mornings in Newport Beach, click HERE for details.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $10 per person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $30-32 Total.

108. Wii, Karaoke, Guitar Hero Nights, What Else?

Don't be a couch potato at home, so come out and play!

Wii Nintendo is not just for kids! Playing games with your partner can bring out the competitiveness and hopefully teamwork spirit between the two of you, especially when playing against other couples. After investing some money into the gaming system itself (AKA capital), then it's a FREE date idea after that. Invite friends over for a group date night.

Or better yet, head out to Barney's Beanery for some fun on a weeknight. There are 4 bar locations from which to choose across Los Angeles: West Hollywood (WeHo), Burbank, Santa Monica (SM) and Pasadena. These make for good late date night since the start time is usually 8, 9, or 10 PM (check their Google Calendar online for updates at each specific location). One of these weekly themed activities should tickle your fancy:

Wii Tennis: Their Own Enemies (Part Deux)
Originally uploaded by geeky artist librarian

• Bingo Night - Something easy to do on Mondays in WeHo
• Comedy Night - Laughing is always good for the soul on Mondays in Pasadena.
• Wii Sports Night - Feel like you are IN the game with their 10-foot wide big screen on Tuesdays in SM (Wii Sports game include bowling, tennis, golf, baseball and boxing)
• Karaoke Night - Perfect for serenading your partner on mostly Wednesdays everywhere, sometimes Sundays and Tuesdays
• Trivia Night - Show off your useless knowledge on Wednesdays in Burbank and Thursdays in Pasadena
• Guitar Hero Night - Make it a group date night on Thursdays in SM

If weeknights are "school nights" for you, Happy Hour either on weekdays at all locations OR Weekend Happy Hour at the original WeHo Barney's (yes, every Saturday and Sunday!) may work for you, always 4-7 PM. Keep yourself entertained with air hockey tables, pool tables, foosball tables, arcade games, shuffleboard- what else can you ask for? By the way, I've never seen an extensive menu like the one at Barney's Beanery. Seriously, there is something for everybody's palette, plus breakfast is served 24/7!

Or if you prefer to stay at home altogether, try the couple's challenge by EA Active. Click HERE for more info. Thanks to @normzrib for sharing the DIY cheap date idea.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission + Food & Drinks

Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless

104. Shoot Arrows like Cupid for FREE

Ok, maybe not like Cupid, but try out archery for FREE.
Every Saturday morning 9-11 AM, the Pasadena Roving Archers offer a beginning archery class. No reservations are required, but it's first come, first serve. Rise and shine to arrive early by 8:15 AM in order to get fitted for your bow and arrow. The first class (with safety and orientation) is free and then if you end up loving it, then you can sign up for their 6-week Basic Archery Instruction Program for a small donation of $5.

Archery in the UK
Originally uploaded by 365 Cheap Dates

Learning something new with your partner can be a thrilling experience- even if you have absolutely no hands and eye coordination like moi. My man and I tried it when we were in the UK. However, I was not thrilled at first due to possible embarrassment that my arrow would go way off target into the big black hole called a forest. To my (and his) delight and surprise, I hit the bulls eye! Let's just say, bragging rights are priceless.

If you are looking for a unique date idea, I'd say archery has got to be at the top of the list. Here's a better idea: make it a surprise date! Wake up early on Saturday, grab coffee and bagel on the way, and shoot arrows for 2 hours. What else would you be doing on a Saturday morning? Besides sleeping in like me... You may or may not hit the bulls eye, but you are bound to come away with some funny or crazy moments. Bring your camera!

UPDATE 02/11/10: PRA wrote back to me with more info... Wear comfortable layered clothing (but fairly fitted on top, not loose) and closed-toe shoes (no flip flops). Plus bring sunscreen and bottled water. Allow enough time to find the place the first time, especially since parking and equipment run out quickly. Have fun!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @TiffanyRhodes

103. Ballroom Dance Lessons

Ballroom dancing can be a cheap yet classy date idea!

Even if you have 2 left feet, come join the other brave folk on Wednesdays evenings (7-11 PM) through the Santa Monica Bay Woman's Club. The $10 admission (probably cash only) includes a quick dance lesson 7-7:40 PM, so make sure to show up on time! 40 Minutes may sound quick, but you have the rest of the night to practice your new moves. No partner is required, because you'll find plenty on the dance floor. Better yet, grab your partner and learn how to Tango together! Or how about Salsa, Swing, or Cha Cha? A new dance is featured every 1-3 weeks with lessons starting from the basics and building each week. By the way, you can go on any Wednesday night, but don't miss out on the 1st anniversary party on March 3rd (check website for details).

ballroom dancing
Originally uploaded by captain byrne

Be prepared for 4 hours of fun: wear comfortable shoes, bring bottled water for yourself and your partner (light snacks are provided). $10 sounds quite reasonable for a 40-minute lesson immediately followed by 3 hours of putting it to good use. More importantly, there's plenty of room for 2 left feet here on the 3,000 square foot ballroom dance floor. With that much space, I'd assume that the air conditioning in here is sufficient. If you're already an expert, 10 bucks seems to be a pretty good deal for 4 hours of fun. As for parking, there are several parking lots in Santa Monica for a $3 flat rate after 6 PM (click HERE for parking map).

Learning some dance moves could create a spark (for new couples) or re-ignite a flame (for old couples). This could be something fun to do as a group date too! If anything, at least this active date idea gets you off the couch. Heck, ask your significant other afterward for one-on-one dance sessions (just a tip for a follow-up date). The last time I did tango lessons, all the guys were sweating bullets, making it difficult for me to hang onto my partners. Despite that one not-so-positive detail, dance lessons are a great way to meet people, if that's something you want. No matter who your partner is, think of this cheap date idea as a self-improvement project. Ballroom dancing is a skill that's handy whether you're single or married.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $10 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

Kiss & Tell Idea by @YoSantaMonica

100. Active Date Ideas on Valentine's Day

Looking for something active to do on Valentine's Day?
Go on a FREE hike in Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach at 9 AM on 2/14 (or also go on the other Sundays, 2/7 and 2/27). Meet at the El Moro Visitor Center (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park). Parking is not cheap though at $15. Make sure to bring enough water (and sun block) for the 3-5 miles. The schedule online is updated every month for new activities, including FREE tide pool tours (see Cheap Date Idea #44).

Who Cars About Hearts & Flowers...
Originally uploaded by lie_inourgraves

If you prefer to stay in LA, how about a FREE yoga session at Lululemon in El Segundo. Make sure to get there early before it starts at 9:30 AM on Valentine's Day. ...Or make it an on-going date on almost every Sunday (2/7, 2/14, 2/21, check calendar online for updated schedule). Parking at the El Segundo Plaza is easy and free. I suggest bringing a bottle of water, a small towel, and your own yoga mat. Snacks are usually provided after the class, so you can socialize for a little bit afterward. If El Segundo is too far for you, check the website for a Lululemon near you for their calendar of events.

Looking for other things to do on that Sunday? Click HERE for a growing list of cheap and free things to do on V-Day in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE + Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.