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What is a Solo Date?

“Table for 1, please!”  The term solo date or even self-date is self-explanatory, but it is a date that you go on by yourself, whether you’re single, in a relationship, or married. You’re on a date with “me, myself, and I,” just like how Beyonce sings in her hit single.

Like any other date, the required planning is the same as you would do for another person, someone you’re dating, or your long-term partner before a “regular” date. So, it is time to be creative and make yourself swoon!

Think about sites you’ve wanted to see, your favorite food or restaurant, or whatever you think would be a fun date! Maybe you don’t have to think hard, but just as you want to ensure dates are special for the other person, apply that same thought and energy to your date. So, whatever mood you’re feeling—romantic, adventurous, playful, relaxed, or whichever—just remember to treat yourself on your self-date! 

What Did I Do On My Solo Date?

Ironically, on my solo date, I did a lot of things that I normally do on my own on a regular day. However, being intentional and treating this day as a date made it more special.

First things first, I got dressed up for myself. I put on an outfit that I felt comfortable, confident, and pretty in, along with a little bit more makeup than my normal routine.

It was a beautiful, warm summer day in Barcelona and I knew I wanted to start my date with a cafe con leche and a tapa. So, I took the metro to one of the most famous streets in the center of Barcelona—Rambla de Catalunya—and got a table outside. I enjoy people-watching and I also brought the book I’m finishing up. I took my time with my coffee and snack, and at the same time watched the people and tourists passing by. I also read a chapter of a book all while enjoying my tasty treats as I started my date.

Afterwards, I strolled down Rambla de Catalunya and browsed different shops. This famous street has so many options, so it’s tempting to not walk into any or at least window shop. I also stepped into a book store; I've always wanted to do this on a date but realized I never had. I walked through all of the aisles and opened up covers that caught my eye. It was peaceful and it felt good to check this off my "date bucket list." I continued to take my time throughout the day, strolling, and I felt myself enjoying my own company. One of my favorite things is to just walk through this city, so it felt good to include this on my date!

Next, I went to one of my favorite restaurants in Barcelona, Cerveceria Catalana, and sat on the terrace. I ordered some of my favorite dishes, two glasses of white wine, and finished it with dessert—churros con chocolate. I could easily say that my tummy and heart were full. 

I felt that I had such a good date, that I wrapped it up by stopping by a local florist to buy myself flowers. I bought some french lavender and a pink rose. Yeah, maybe a little cheesy, but I am a bit of a romantic. It felt like a good thing to end the solo date—I enjoy some spontaneity on a date, too. After the florist, I went home and stayed the rest of the evening. I even ended up calling my sister and best friend to explain how well my date went. 

During the date, it was clear that I was by myself and I was okay with that. However, at both restaurants, they thought I was waiting for someone else to come or a little surprised I asked for a table for one! I understand the discomfort people can feel being alone in a public place, especially a restaurant, but I also think that’s what makes a solo date so special. On my date, I felt it was important to stay present, take my time, and focus on enjoying what was right in front of me. 

Other Easy Solo Date Ideas

A Spa Day

Feeling stressed and want to decompress a bit? Locate a spa and give yourself the full treatment as a solo date. Reserve a facial, an hour of a full-body massage, or book some time at the pool. Then, soak up the sun with a glass of champagne (or your favorite drink). Maybe not your style, but making sure to treat yourself is one of the most important parts of a self-date! 

Picnic At The Park

This is also a relaxing option, but you can be creative and cute with this outdoor date! You can plan the menu and pack everything ahead of time. You can even put on your favorite summer outfit, paired with your cool shades to give you the confidence boost you need. Don't forget to take photos! Bring a portable speaker to play all your favorite songs. A picnic is a great solo date idea to enjoy your own company.  

Go For a Hike

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle? Maybe you just like your dates adventurous? Prefer the outdoors? Either way, planning a date for a long hike can be a fun solo date with yourself and Mother Nature. Pack your favorite to-go lunch, your must-have snacks, and download your favorite album or podcasts. Wear your favorite matching workout set or athleisure outfit, and you’re ready for this memorable outdoor self-date.

Dinner and a Movie

Going out to dinner and watching a movie is a classic date idea, but for good reason. You get a balance of entertainment and an opportunity to get to know the other person more. In this case, you get to pick the entertainment, along with soaking up all that makes you great. If not a movie, choose a concert, a play, or a Broadway show. Before or after the show, go to your favorite restaurant and order everything you want on the menu. There is also something ultra-cool about walking into a luxurious restaurant, all dressed up and getting a table for yourself. Treat yourself like the queen you are!

Book an Experience

Yeah, it might sound funny, but this is a solo date that allows you to think outside of your box, so make your dreams come true! You know that sometimes there are just things your partner doesn’t enjoy as much as you do and maybe you’re better off doing it alone. This is time for you to do it! It can be a pasta-making class, sky-diving, a comedy show, or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. Whatever! This is your date and you know what makes you happy (most likely more than others). 

All in all, this is still one of my favorite dates of my life. It was simple; I took my time; and I reminded myself how important it is to also show yourself some TLC in a different way. It also reminded me that I know my needs and wants better than anyone else and it’s important to not put that expectation on a partner. Also, taking yourself out on a date can be a good way to give yourself a reset, especially if you’ve been feeling off and just not yourself.

Whether or not you’ve done this before or are thinking of going on your first solo date, it can be a great way to practice self-care and most importantly, give yourself the same love you often give to others.