The ultimate list of Gippsland date night ideas

🌹 Valentine’s Day is around the corner, so it’s time to pluck up the courage and ask your crush whether they’d like to join you for a romantic date night. 

🥂 But don’t worry: first dates don’t have to break the bank to be fun.

❤️ Whether this is the first date of a blossoming relationship or you just need some fresh ideas, the Monitor is happy to act as your cupid.

Here’s our list of budget friendly date ideas while the weather is warm.

Sunset walk along Ninety Mile Beach

Take a peaceful walk on Ninety Mile Beach near Lakes Entrance as the sun sets over the ocean. Rug up and watch the sunset on a picnic blanket as the stars come out.

Price: Free.

Where: Ninety Mile Beach.

Wine tasting and picnic by the lakes

Grab a bottle of wine from a winery around Bairnsdale and head to the Gippsland Lakes for a picnic. Pack a basket, some cheese and dips, and enjoy the serene lakeside views together.

Price: The cost of wine and cheese.

Where: Gippsland Lakes.

Scenic picnic at Agnes Falls

Drive out to Agnes Falls near Toora and enjoy the views together with a homemade picnic. It’s a lovely natural backdrop for a budget date.

Price: The cost of picnic bites.

Where: Agnes Falls.

Farmers market adventure

There’s a plethora of farmers markets around Gippsland that offer delectable sweets and boutique knick-knacks, so why not make the most of them by taking a date there to try out the region's best produce for an affordable price.

Take a look at the Monitor’s farmers market guide here. 

Price: Cost of farmers market produce.

Where: All over Gippsland.

Kayak or paddle together

If you already have gear, take your kayak or paddleboard out on calm waters like Lake Tyers or the Glenmaggie Reservoir for a peaceful and active date.

Price: Just fuel and parking costs.

Where: Lake Tyers or Glenmaggie Reservoir.

Night sky and sunset viewing (look out for a Aurora Australis event)

This is an option for all over Gippsland. There’s plenty of lookouts and beaches to take in the clear night sky, so ask a special someone if they’d like to go star gazing with you.

There are quite often solar storms that add the chance of seeing the Aurora Australis lights in the sky, so keep an eye out on the news for a solar storm warning.

Price: Free.

Where: All over Gippsland.

Fish and chips by the beach in San Remo

If you’re not looking to collect a bottle of wine or put together a cheeseboard then why not make the most of a fish and chip shop.

My personal favourite spot to do this is San Remo, but there’s plenty of spots all over Gippsland.

Price: Cost of fish and chips.

Where: San Remo.