Dinner and Drinks Are Overrated—Try These 7 Picnic Dates in Long Beach Instead
Low-pressure, under-an-hour first date ideas that involve walking, great food, and meaningful connection.
I’m sure already know this, but Long Beach, CA is pretty fucking amazing, and has sooo many rave worthy spots. If you're getting back into dating (or just tired of loud bars and awkward small talk), these Long Beach picnic dates are for you. They’re simple, grounded, and made for people who value good conversation, delicious bites, and slowing down enough to actually feel something. All of them take under an hour, include a walk, and offer cozy picnic vibes—no alcohol required (but not off-limits either).
1. Steelhead Coffee + Redondo Stroll
Start at Steelhead Coffee (Redondo location) for a latte or iced tea, then stroll south toward the bluff. Bring a small snack or croissant and find a shaded spot near the ocean.
Vibe: Relaxed, neighborhoody, and perfect for weekday mornings or afternoons.
2. Saturday Farmer’s Market at Bixby Park + Bixby Bluff Picnic
Pick up fresh fruit, tamales, or pastries at the farmers market, then walk over to the bluff overlooking the beach. Sit on a bench or throw down a blanket for a casual bite.
Vibe: Bright, playful, and spontaneous—great for morning people and creatives.
3. Sunday Marina Farmers Market + Marine Stadium Park
Pick up baked goods or a snack from the market and head to the grass at Marine Stadium. It’s breezy and quiet, with water views and space to stretch out.
Vibe: Chill Sunday reset with just enough movement and sun.
4. Naples Canals Walk + Optional Glass of Wine at Marlena
Take a charming walk through the canals of Naples Island. If the moment feels right, grab a glass of wine or sparkling water at Marlena, a cozy wine bar with small plates and romantic vibes.
Vibe: Romantic, charming, and just elevated enough.
5. Empanadas from Obras Kitchen + Shoreline Aquatic Park at Sunset
Pick up takeout from Obras (highly recommend the empanadas) and bring your favorite Poppy soda. Park near Pierpoint Landing and walk to Shoreline Park to catch the sunset by the lighthouse.
Vibe: Golden hour, breezy, and a little nostalgic—perfect for weekday wind-downs.
6. Oh La Vache + Carroll Park
Visit the coolest cheese shop, and pick up some the most beautiful charceuterie and drinks to-go, then head to the circular, shaded beauty of Carroll Park. It’s quiet, historic, and totally underrated for a mini picnic.
Vibe: Cozy, intimate, and a little off the radar.
7. Olives Gourmet Grocer + Colorado Lagoon
Pack a picnic with sandwiches or sides from Olives, then walk over to the lagoon. There's a perfect shady spot under the trees—great for grounding and conversation.
Vibe: Earthy, slow, and perfect for deep talk or quiet company.
Before You Go: Set the Tone for a Great First Date
First dates aren’t about proving your worth or performing perfectly. They’re about noticing how you feel, being present, and getting a sense of the other person’s energy and values.
Here are a few intentions to carry with you as you head into your picnic:
Small Goals for Your First Date:
Focus on connection, not perfection.
Pay attention to how your nervous system feels around them—calm, tense, relaxed?
Notice if the conversation flows both ways. Are they curious about you?
Ask yourself: Do I feel seen, safe, and respected?
Great Questions to Ask (That Go Beyond Small Talk):
These are casual, meaningful prompts that invite real connection:
“What kind of connection are you hoping to build right now?”
“What makes you feel the most like yourself?”
“How do you spend your ideal weekend?”
“What’s something you’ve learned from past relationships?”
“What are your non-negotiables when it comes to dating or partnership?”
“How do you know when you like someone?”
“What does emotional safety look like to you?”
You don’t need to ask all of these—just pick one or two that feel natural and aligned with your vibe.
Gentle Reminder:
You're not trying to decide your future with someone—you’re simply getting curious:
Do I like how I feel around them?
Do I want to keep getting to know them?
Let the date be light, meaningful, and reflective of what you're truly looking for.
Whether you're navigating breakups, re-learning how to date with intention, or building emotional safety in new connections, these kinds of dates support the type of relationship you actually want to create.
