Water is an incredible resource given by God. Not only does it keep us alive and healthy – we’re made of around 60% water – but it’s also vital for the planet. Over 70% of the world’s surface is covered by water! Which means water date ideas could be the perfect way to make a splash together, whether you’re just getting to know each other or ready to dive in deeper.

Take a boat trip

If you’re not ready to actually immerse yourselves in water, floating along the surface can be the perfect way to spend some time. You may be fortunate enough to have local rivers or lakes that are popular boating spots. If you want a low effort date where you can concentrate on the view and chatting, look out for river cruises or sightseeing trips. You could make it a day trip, finding out about the local history and getting to know more of where you live.

If you’re feeling more energetic, hiring a row boat or pedalo would involve you working together to enjoy the water – or at least taking it in turns! And if you’re adventurous, you could try canoeing or kayaking. It can be a great way to build trust and work together as a team.

Head to the coast

If you’re within travelling distance of a beach, then there are plenty of opportunities for an enjoyable date. You could have a romantic stroll on the sand – lots of beaches are beautiful in cooler weather too – and maybe even dip your toes in the water.

Sometimes just looking at water will be enough! Enjoy a drink looking at the view, watch the tide come in, wait for a beautiful sunset. There are often beachside cafes to spend some relaxed time together, and a walk by the sea with an ice cream is always a winner!

Go swimming

A swimming date may not be a good first date option but it could appeal when you know each other better! You may both be active and enjoy being in the water regularly and a regular at your local pool. Swimming a few relaxed lengths together or getting competitive.

Swimming outdoors has grown in popularity, particularly wild swimming. This is not for the faint hearted! If you do decide to venture into nature to swim, make sure you’re safe in every way. Check local conditions, and let friends know where you’ll be.

If you really wanted to relax, book a spa day and use the pool at a more leisurely pace. Or ramp up the adrenaline and have a trip to a water park. Who doesn’t love a water slide!

Visit water wildlife

For a date that’s surrounded by water if not technically in it, you could visit an aquarium. There’s something about the slow pace of the fish swimming that is therapeutic, and there are plenty of conversation starters here. It can be tranquil and atmospheric to wander while you gaze at sea creatures.

Enjoy some water sports

If it’s the opposite of tranquil and relaxing you’re looking for, why not get involved in some competitive fun and try some water sports together? Maybe you’re already a keen wind surfer or water volleyball player and would like to show off your skills. You may enjoy riding the waves surfing or paddleboarding and would like to share that with someone. It would be a date you wouldn’t forget quickly!

Glide – or tumble! – on ice

Now is a good time to remember that not all water is wet! Make the most of the freeze and try a skating date. Ice skating can be a fantastic way of getting closer to someone, especially if you have to physically lean on each other for support! You can work together as a team, holding each other up whilst having a laugh and not taking yourselves too seriously – unless you’re Olympic standard and can finally show off your quadruple Axel, of course!

Go fishing

To make a waterside date more interesting, you could go fishing. Really make the most of the tranquility of the water, and enjoy the peace and calm of angling. You can make a day of it, bring a picnic and enjoy good conversation whilst waiting for the catch. If you’re at the coast you could even take a boat trip to go sea fishing – one for the serious devotees.

Go underwater

Whilst being on the water can be fun, going under the water with scuba diving or snorkelling is a whole different experience. Seeing the natural habitat of sealife, sharing the peace of under sea diving is a beautiful thing to encounter, whilst making memories together.

Waterfall hunting

Much loved ‘90s band TLC may have advised against chasing waterfalls, but if it’s a beautiful water date idea you’re seeking, you could give it a go! If you’re blessed to live close to a waterfall, lake, lagoons or other breath taking natural feature, it would make a great trip. It’s worth the hike together to visit places like these to share in the wonder of the natural world and enjoy the view. Sometimes a simple walk by water or time spent taking in creation is good for the soul.

Christians are taught to appreciate the living water of Jesus, but there are also so many opportunities to explore water in our lives too, including water date ideas, and enjoy spending time with each other. The importance of water in the Bible, from the wonderful reminder that “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” (Isaiah 43:2) and knowing that God is with us always and leads us beside quiet waters. Water can have a deep effect on us. Let it draw us closer to Him always, as we spend time with each other.

Been inspired to try a water date idea? Read more date ideas on the Christian Connection blog here