10 Great Date-Night Ideas In San Francisco, California - Updated 2024

date night ideas in san francisco
Andini
Andini 
Updated
| 4 min read

As the song goes, “I left my heart in San Francisco”. San Francisco — otherwise known as the Bay Area — is the most populated city in Northern California. Its world-famous Golden Gate welcomes all to its vibrant city, which is known for its colorful and eclectic architecture set on rolling hills overlooking the picturesque bay. With all its beauty, it’s hard not to fall in love with San Francisco — and it’s hard not to fall in love in San Francisco. For that reason, date nights in the Bay Area are just so much more romantic. Take a look at our list of great date-night ideas in San Francisco, California that you and your significant other can do together.

1. Have a bowling date at Mission Bowling Club

In case you didn't see us and our burger on Food Network's "Top 5" you now have the opportunity to see it tomorrow!...

Posted by Mission Bowling Club on Sunday, 13 March 2016

Who doesn’t love a retro bowling date? Mission Bowling Club is the place to be for a fun-filled date with some amazing food that won’t disappoint. Score a game or a two in this boutique bowling alley and when all the fun builds up a hungry appetite, head over to their dining area where you can order a variety of delicious Western meals such as the Mission Burger, herb-marinated steak, or vegan burger for those opting for plant-based options.

Mission Bowling Club

Address: 3176 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Website: Mission Bowling Club

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 3pm - 11pm; Thu - Sat: 3pm - 12am; Sat: 11am - 12am; Sun: 11am - 11pm

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2. Enjoy a party on skates at Church of 8 Wheels

Posted by The Church of 8 Wheels on Friday, 10 January 2020

Ever thought of going to church … to have a roller-skate date? It might sound pretty strange, but wait until you experience roller-skating at The Church of 8 Wheels! This roller-skating rink, located in an abandoned Catholic church on Fillmore Street, constantly attracts large crowds seeking a good time while the DJ kicks it with some old-school hits. Do note that the Saturday Adult Sessions from 7pm to 10pm is strictly for ages 18 and older and the Sunday Night Skate is reserved for those aged 21 and above only.

Church of 8 Wheels

Address: 554 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Website: Church of 8 Wheels

Opening hours: Fri: 5pm - 7pm, 8pm - 12am; Sat: 3pm - 5pm, 7pm - 11pm; Sun: 7pm - 10pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

Price: 10 USD for entrance

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3. Reminisce the old Hollywood era at Monroe

Doors open at 10pm tonight no cover with IG follow

Posted by Monroe SF on Saturday, 30 June 2018

If you and your significant other are more into the nightlife scene, try out San Francisco’s upscale Art Deco lounge, Monroe. Located in the historic Jazz Workshop building on Bay Area’s Northbeach District, this night club draws inspiration from the 1920’s old Hollywood era. The vibe here would also probably remind you of the iconic movie The Great Gatsby. Its music ranges from throwback hits to recent club bangers so it’s always an enjoyable time for everyone in this club.

Monroe

Address: 473 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Website: Monroe

Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 8pm - 12am; Fri: 5pm - 12am; Sat: 10pm - 2am; Sun: 6am - 12pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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4. Listen to the blues at Mr. Tipple's Recording Studio

Come down tonight to try out Cameron's lazzaroni amaretto sour with city of London gin. It is going to be promoted in...

Posted by Mr. Tipple's Recording Studio on Monday, 16 July 2018

Another nightlife option in San Francisco is Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio, a retro/blues club located on Fell Street. Enjoy their live jazz music performances every night with a drink of their delicious craft cocktail (or two) in hand — a truly romantic vibe that’ll make for a great date. In addition, they also offer bar-food options such as fried chicken, ribs, and mac and cheese that you can never go wrong with. It’s always good vibes at Mr. Tipple’s!

Mr. Tipple's Recording Studio

Address: 39 Fell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Website: Mr Tipple’s Recording Studio

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 12am; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 1am (closed on Sun)

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5. Put on a bonfire at Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach in San Francisco at sunrise
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Brocken Inaglory used under CC BY-SA 3.0

There’s something so romantic about beach dates overlooking the crashing ocean waves. Lucky for you, the Bay Area is home to a number of picturesque beaches. The largest of them, Ocean Beach, spans across the city’s Sunset District just adjacent to the famous Golden Gate Park. Bring your own firewood and have a romantic bonfire with your significant other as you enjoy the chilly, night breeze. Do note that rules and regulations do apply for conducting bonfires. Visit their website for more information.

Bonfire at Ocean Beach

Address: San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Website: Ocean Beach

Opening hours: 6am - 9:30pm (daily)

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6. Marvel at the seaside views at Cliff House

Cliff House from Ocean Beach
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Brocken Inaglory used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A romantic date at San Francisco’s Cliff House is a moment to remember. The historic Cliff House is a famous grand restaurant from the 1800s situated high above the cliffs of Ocean Beach. Its unique character and historical appeal — not to mention its breathtaking, full panoramic views of the ocean — make it a popular place for dining and is dearly loved by locals and tourists from all corners of the globe for over 150 years. We recommend having their seafood offerings, which is cooked from the freshest produce of the sea below.

Cliff House

Address: 1090 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Website: Cliff House

Opening hours: 9am - 9:30pm (daily)

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7. Take an evening stroll along Embarcadero

USA, California, San Francisco, Pier 39
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Lucas·G used under CC BY-SA 4.0

San Francisco is a beautiful city, and there’s nothing like an evening stroll at the Embarcadero. Decked with popular waterfront attractions — including the iconic clock tower and the landmark 1800s-built Ferry Building — it’s arguably one of the liveliest and picturesque areas in the city with loads of activities to do and sights to see. Take a bite from their extensive variety of food options ranging from seafood to Western classics. Plus, say hi to the adorable seals at Pier 39.

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8. Participate in a sunset cruise along San Francisco Bay (from USD 85.0)

You simply can’t visit San Francisco without going on their splendid cruises. Take your significant other to witness the breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets and the moon lights up the skyline in this sunset cruise. Highlights of this cruise include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, as well as the infamous Alcatraz Island that formerly housed a prison where the notorious gangster and mob boss Al Capone was held captive for four-and-a-half years.

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San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge

Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes

1147 reviews

9. Take part in California Academy of Sciences' NightLife scene (from USD 23.0)

If you’ve seen the movie Night At The Museum, then this is your chance experience it yourself with your romantic partner — but with a fun party-vibe twist. There’s always something new here at California Academy of Sciences’ NightLife, with different and exciting themes each week. Explore a whole new world of science while grooving to the DJ’s lively music and sipping a cocktail in hand. NightLife is held every Thursday of the year, and is available for patrons aged 21 and above.

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California Academy of Sciences NightLife Admission Ticket

Duration: 4 hours

50 reviews

10. Embark on a sunset helicopter tour (from USD 415.0)

Explore San Francisco from the sky and sea with this helicopter and cruise tours. Witness a bird’s-eye view of the picturesque city by the bay before catching the sunset at a yacht cruise over a delicious four-course dinner affair along with live music. Get the best views of San Francisco’s many famous landmarks — including the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Marin Headlands, as well as Alcatraz Island.

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San Francisco Bay Helicopter Tour and Sunset Dinner Cruise

Duration: 5 hours

25 reviews

Love is in the air in San Francisco

Love is always in the air in San Francisco and it fills the city’s street with joy. Dates with your significant other are never the same here in the Bay Area with so much interesting things to do. From science museum raves to Old Hollywood night clubs, sunset cruises, and roller-skating in a church, you’re sure to always have a date to remember while in the city. It’s no wonder people fall in love with San Francisco.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Andini, who is originally from Jakarta, Indonesia, was driven by an insatiable curiosity for diverse cultures and uncharted destinations. She relocated to Singapore to explore and attend the...Read more

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