Spring Lake Activities

A lake offers a naturally romantic setting for a date, providing a serene and beautiful backdrop for two people to connect. Here, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, time slows down, allowing you and your date to be truly present in the moment.
There are tons of activities you can enjoy at a lake in springtime, from a quiet picnic or a leisurely nature walk to a rigorous hike or a kayaking excursion. No matter what you choose to do, you’ll get to connect with nature—and your date—and you’ll leave with a sense of calm and contentment. Ready to head outdoors and explore? Here are ten activities you can enjoy at a lake this spring:

Pack a picnic with fresh spring produce and enjoy a meal with a view. Lay out your picnic blanket under a blooming tree or by the water's edge for a relaxing and scenic dining experience.

Many lakes are restocked in the spring, making it a prime time for fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time, fishing can be a tranquil and rewarding way to spend your day. Be sure to check whether you need a fishing license before casting your line. If you’re not practicing catch-and-release, then bring a cooler to store your spoils—and invite your date over for a fish fry-up afterward.

Spring is a fantastic season for bird watching, as many species return from their winter migrations. Bring binoculars and a guidebook to identify different birds around the lake. Bonus points for whoever spots the most.

Explore the nature trails around the lake. Spring offers unique sights like wildflowers, budding trees, and active wildlife, making a hike not just exercise, but an exploration of nature's rebirth. Spring conditions can be fairly muddy, so wear proper hiking boots if you have them.

Capture the beauty of the season with a photography session. The combination of water, wildlife, and blooming landscapes can provide stunning shots and a fun way to practice your photography skills together.

If the area permits, camping by the lake in spring can be a magical experience. Enjoy the starry skies, the sound of water, and the fresh, crisp air. (It goes without saying that we would never suggest an overnight trip for a first date. Make sure you and your Bumble match get to know each other before pitching a tent together!)

Many lakeside areas offer guided tours that can teach you about the local ecosystem, flora, and fauna. It's a great way to learn more about the environment—and you can keep an eye out for edible ingredients to forage.

For a bit of exercise and a new perspective on the lake, try stand-up paddleboarding. It's a fun way to explore the waters and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Organize a barbecue by a spring lake, where the tranquil waters and gentle breezes create the perfect setting for a romantic cookout. Many lakes have communal grills, so all you need to bring is charcoal, matches, and plenty of good food. Share the task of flipping burgers or skewering vegetables, turning the cooking into a fun, collaborative effort.

If the area permits, plan an evening where the two of you build a campfire by the lake's edge, turning a simple date into an enchanting experience. Start the date by collecting firewood together, giving you both a sense of teamwork and accomplishment as you prepare for the evening. As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, gather around your own little beacon of warmth and light. 
As the fire crackles to life, settle down on a comfortable blanket or beach chairs, and cook some s'mores (remember to pack marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers). Or if you want something heartier, bake potatoes in the embers (bring some tin foil, salt and butter). If you’re musically inclined, bring along a guitar or ukulele—after all, what’s more romantic than being serenaded by a fire? But if you’re not, a speaker and a playlist of favorites will do the trick. 

Spend an afternoon unleashing your creative sides by the lake. Bring along sketchbooks, watercolors, or any other preferred art supplies. Find a comfortable spot with a scenic view and set up your art station. You can choose to paint the landscape, draw each other, or even write poetry inspired by your surroundings. End the session by sharing your creations with each other. This is a great way to see a different, more artistic, side of your date.

Start your day together with a peaceful kayak trip across the lake at sunrise. The stillness of the morning, paired with the gentle sound of water lapping against the kayak, creates a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Pack a breakfast picnic with coffee and pastries to enjoy on a secluded shore or while floating gently on the water. 

If the weather is warm enough for swimming, then why don't you and your date take the plunge? Simply wear your swimsuits to the lake, pack some towels, and you're ready to go. Here are five swimming lake date ideas to try:

Find a quiet, more secluded part of the lake where you and your date can enjoy some privacy. Start with a leisurely swim together, enjoying the cool water and tranquil surroundings. Afterward, relax and sunbathe on the shore. Bring a couple of beach towels or a large blanket, some sunscreen, and a portable umbrella for shade. Lying in the sun or under a tree, you can have intimate conversations, read books together, or simply enjoy the peacefulness of the lake.

Bring an inflatable raft or a couple of inner tubes to the lake and spend the day floating around together. Pack a waterproof bag with snacks, water, and perhaps a speaker for some music. You can tie your rafts together so you won't drift apart and can chat easily—just remember to watch out for deep water and stay safe. This is a relaxing way to enjoy the water, soak up some sun, and spend quality time together.

If the lake has a pier or dock, bring a picnic to enjoy over the water. You can take a swim first to work up an appetite and then dry off and settle in for a meal with a view. Pack a basket with mess-free foods like sandwiches, fruit, cheese, and crackers. Don't forget a cooler with some refreshing beverages.

If the lake's water is clear enough, consider bringing snorkeling gear for a fun adventure below the surface. Explore the underwater world of the lake together, looking at fish, rocks, and plants. Even better, bring an underwater camera to document what you see—and then laugh at how silly you look in the photos afterward.

Plan your date for the late afternoon so you can enjoy a swim as the sun begins to set. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere.