Craving for Some Me-Time? Try These 20 Fun Solo Date Ideas

Wanting to get on a solo date perplexes some people, as they think doing things alone is boring or sad. But contrary to popular belief, there’s nothing wrong with it, and it certainly isn’t pathetic like some might think. In fact, it’s an essential way to grow and discover more about yourself.

So, whether you’ve never tried taking yourself on a date or you’re looking for fresh ideas, scroll down for some fun inspiration!

Benefits of Taking Yourself on a Date

One of the biggest misconceptions about solo dates is that only single people do it out of necessity. That’s definitely not the case! In fact, more and more women and men are taking time for themselves because of the many benefits:

1It pushes you out of your comfort zone.

One of the best things about regular solo dates is that they help you grow. New experiences, people, and challenges foster independence, improve communication skills, and boost confidence in making decisions. As quoted by Dhaval Gaudier: “The only thing that is stopping you from where you are to where you want to go is your comfort zone.”

2It’s a great way to reset.

Ever had those days when stress seems to take over? While staying in might seem like a way to relax, it can sometimes make things worse, leaving you stuck in your head. Instead, stepping out for some fresh air, sipping on a latte, and enjoying the vibrancy of the outside world can help you reset and leave the stress behind.

3It allows you to learn more about yourself.

Having solo dates not only helps you grow but also allows you to discover what you truly like. It could be as simple as figuring out your preferred cuisine—you won’t know unless you step out and try new places instead of staying home and ordering from the same spots.

Solo dating also allows you to reflect on deeper questions, like “What do you want out of life?” or “What brings you joy?” Having some time for yourself helps you unplug, giving you some moments for self-reflection.

4It provides valuable personal space in relationships.

One common issue couples face is the need for individuality, especially when living together. They do everything together—shop, eat, and sometimes even work together. While this constant togetherness can be a positive aspect of a relationship, sometimes one or both partners might feel suffocated and start losing their sense of self.

To avoid this, relationship experts suggest creating some distance by doing things differently, whether setting personal time apart at home or taking solo dates to reconnect with themselves. As relationship coach Dudu Madonsela puts it, “We are not one person; we are one team, but we aren’t in fact one person. You are each your own person, and it’s important for you to maintain that in the relationship because enmeshment is also not healthy. A relationship will not thrive when people are enmeshed.’’

5You’re free to do whatever you want.

You know what’s amazing with having a solo date? You don’t have to compromise or impress anyone. You have the freedom to do exactly what you want—whether it’s visiting those art galleries your friends don’t get or eating at a restaurant you’ve been dying to try but couldn’t because your partner is allergic to most dishes.

With solo dates, you’re catering only to your desires and preferences, making the experience fun and liberating!

Solo Date Ideas

Planning a solo date but not sure what to do? Start by listing things you’d like to try in a journal and go from there. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our suggested places below.

1Relax at a cozy café.

A great way to kickstart your solo dating journey is by visiting a new local café and simply relaxing. Bring a book, watch some series, or jot down some thoughts in your journal. If the barista isn’t too busy, you can strike up a quick conversation or even chat with other people enjoying the café’s vibe.

Here are some awesome coffee spots to check out within Metro Manila:

• Gourmet’s Cafe 
• Tomoro Coffee Philippines
• Aichi Cafe
• Huguardo’s Cafe
• Crema & Cream Cafe Bistro + Coffee Lab

2Plan a picnic in your favorite park.

Be one with nature with this solo date idea. All you need is a blanket or mat, some snacks, and your journal. Head to your favorite park and enjoy the relaxing breeze, letting go of the stresses and responsibilities of daily life.

The best part about this one is that you don’t need to bring much—just a simple meal for yourself and a small mat to sit on. This makes setup and cleanup a whole lot easier.

Here are some parks to check out:

• Quezon Memorial Circle
• La Mesa Ecopark
• Rizal Park
• Arroceros Forest Park

3Spend a peaceful day at the public library.

If you’re looking for a creative solo date that lets you focus on personal projects, consider visiting a nearby public library. Not only are these places peaceful and perfect for concentration, but they’re also filled with valuable literary works that can inspire your creative projects and help you connect with cultural heritage. Plus, libraries are perfect for solo time since talking is usually kept to a minimum!

Check out these libraries and make sure to verify their opening hours and any requirements beforehand to ensure a smooth-sailing visit:

• National Library of the Philippines
• Quezon City Public Library
• Valenzuela City Library
• Ortigas Foundation Library

4Catch a movie at your local cinema.

Another simple yet fun solo activity is grabbing some buttered popcorn and heading to the cinema! Since you’re flying solo, there’s no need to debate between a thriller or an indie rom-com—you can watch whatever you like.

To make the most of your viewing experience, check out the recommended cinemas in Metro Manila from the r/FilmClubPH subreddit. They also have a list of cinemas to avoid, so be sure to check that out as well.

5Treat yourself to a staycation!

Want a change of scenery without the hassle of long travels or pricey hotel fees? Try a staycation! Book an Airbnb nearby and enjoy the amenities like the pool, gym, or gaming consoles. It’s the perfect way to recharge and reset.

While you can do some of these things at home, being in your own space, especially if you’re working remotely, can feel suffocating. The constant sight of chores and responsibilities can make it hard to fully relax. Renting a room for a day or two can give you the break you need.

6Stay in and binge-watch your favorite shows.

If renting an Airbnb isn’t in the cards, don’t worry—you can still recharge at home with a “lazy day.”

The day before, ensure all your important errands are done, then clear out any work-related items from your bedroom. Prepare your favorite snacks, grab your laptop or tablet, and spend the day watching your favorite shows or catching up on that to-watch list. It’s the perfect way to unwind without leaving the comfort of home.

7Take a stroll with your camera and capture the day.

Another affordable solo date idea is to be a photographer for the day—no need to buy a fancy camera; whatever you have on hand will do! Head to nearby places and start snapping photos—whether it’s cats, people chatting in cafes, lush greenery, or the peaceful blue sky. Capture whatever catches your eye.

The goal isn’t to win some contest, so don’t get pressured into getting a perfect shot; this activity is just a way to get moving, enjoy the scenery, and recharge.

8Pamper yourself with a spa day.

If you’ve got some extra funds to splurge, why not spend the day at your favorite spa for the ultimate pampering session? Treat yourself to a massage, facial, hair treatment, manicure, and pedicure—you deserve all those relaxing treatments!

9Try a new restaurant!

Here’s another fun solo date idea: if you have the budget, try visiting a new restaurant and sample its bestsellers. It’s a great way to expand your culinary knowledge, and who doesn’t love good food? Plus, if you’re single, it gives you some great ideas to share with a future date.

10Volunteer with a charity group.

Consider volunteering for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as these groups rely on volunteers to keep their programs running and raise awareness. Not only that, but volunteering also helps you build connections and improve your communication skills as you interact with different people.

Here are some well-loved charity groups to consider, but we recommend doing your own research to find a cause that aligns with your advocacies:

• The Philippine Animal Welfare Society
• Love Yourself Inc. – HIV Advocacy Group in the Philippines
• Animal Kingdom Foundation
• Likhaan Center for Women’s Health Inc.

11Have a quick road trip!

If you have a car or motorcycle, why not take yourself on a solo road trip? Feel the refreshing breeze as you cruise along scenic routes. After that, take a break at a cozy café with stunning views before returning home. Popular out-of-town locations for Metro Manila residents include Antipolo, Tagaytay, and Pampanga.

12Enjoy live music at a local bar.

Another laid-back solo dating idea would be heading to your local bar to watch gigs. It could be your favorite band or, even better, a group you’ve never heard of. You might discover a new favorite! Who knows? That band or group could get big in the future, and you’d be one of the lucky few to see them up close.

13Treat yourself to a shopping spree at your favorite mall.

Love to shop? Take a stroll around your favorite mall and discover some cool finds! If you’ve got extra funds, go ahead and treat yourself. On a tight budget? No worries—window shopping works, too. Just note the items you’d love to grab in the future!

14Wander through a museum and soak in the culture.

If you’re into history, anthropology, or the arts, visiting a museum is a vibe! You’ll learn something new, move around, and snap some cool photos. Just bring a small tripod for some awesome portraits while you stroll through the exhibits. Below are some of the museums to check out in the Metro:

• National Museum of Natural History
• National Museum of Anthropology
• National Museum of Fine Arts
• Ayala Museum

15Take some time for a self-pleasure session.

Aside from trying out new activities and experiences, give yourself ample time for pleasure! Turn your bedroom into an erotic sanctuary by removing all distractions like work-related gadgets, lighting some scented candles, and setting up ambient lighting.

Grab your favorite sex toys—or treat yourself to one if you don’t have one yet—or use your hands to please your hottest spots. Keep the pace slow and sensual to truly get your body in the mood. What’s even amazing about masturbation is since you’re going solo, there’s no pressure to perform. You can fully focus on your pleasure.

16Join a class and learn something new.

Have you ever wanted to try hip-hop dancing or improve your baking skills? Consider joining a class!

Many places offer affordable options, but if you’re on a tight budget, you can always take the class at home. Just grab the necessary tools and watch some tutorials on YouTube. While having an instructor can make a big difference, you can still make great progress with video lessons.

Here are some fun classes to check out:

• ZERØ Studio PH (Dance)
• First Gourmet Academy (Baking)
• Bumi & Ashe (Pottery)
• Sip & Gogh – (Painting)

17Laugh the night away at a comedy show.

Another fun solo date idea is catching a comedy show. Enjoy some laughs with talented comedians, and if you’re sitting up front, be ready for a playful call-out—it’s all in good fun! You can check out the local gigs on The Comedy Crew here.

18Feel the thrill at an amusement park!

Who says amusement parks are just for groups? Going solo can be just as fun! The best part about exploring an amusement park alone is having full control over where to go and what to eat. Want to repeat a ride or skip certain attractions? You can do that without anyone holding you back. Need photos? Just ask some staff for a quick hand. Enjoy the freedom and make it your own adventure.

Here are some amusement park recommendations:

• Enchanted Kingdom
• Star City
• Sky Ranch Tagaytay

19Escape into nature with a camping trip.

If you’re craving much-needed peace and quiet, consider going on a camping trip. Rent a tent or bring your own, pack some snacks, and spend the day surrounded by nature. Enjoy the soothing sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves as the cool breeze passes by. You can explore the trails around the campsite or simply relax in your tent with a good book.

20Watch a musical or play.

To wrap up our solo date ideas, why check out some musicals or stage plays in the Metro? Not only will you experience the incredible talent on our local theatre stage, but you’ll also be supporting homegrown artists! You can find upcoming shows through Theater Fans Manila and similar websites.

Tips

After learning some solo dating ideas, you’re probably eager to try them out— and you absolutely should! But before you book that resto, event, or trip, here are a few tips to remember:

1It’s okay to start with something simple.

A simple solo date guaranteed to happen is much better than a grand one you keep postponing. If you’re short on resources to explore new places or dine at trendy spots, bring the experience home instead. You can create memorable moments in your own space while saving up for those dream solo dates. Eventually, you’ll enjoy the activities and visit the places you’ve always longed to see.

2Let someone know your whereabouts.

If you’re heading out solo, always let your partner or a trusted friend know your plans and location. Keep them updated, and if you’re taking motorcycle or car taxis, share ride details with them. This way, if something feels off or you become unreachable, they can quickly act and notify authorities. While this might sound dark and serious, it’s an essential precaution—especially when traveling alone or venturing out of town.

3Be cautious when interacting with strangers.

Another downside of solo dating is the risk of encountering scammers or sketchy individuals. That’s why staying vigilant is crucial. If someone approaches you, it’s best to be cautious and avoid engaging, no matter how friendly they seem. Of course, it depends on the situation, but always trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.

4Call the establishment beforehand if you’re visiting places typically done in groups.

Solo dating works in most scenarios, but some places, such as group activities like escape rooms or Korean barbecue (samgyeopsal) spots, might not be ideal for individuals. These places often accommodate solo diners but may charge an extra fee. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and check if solo visitors are allowed and whether the fee fits your budget.

5Limit your screen time!

Don’t spend all the time and effort reaching a scenic spot just to stay glued to your phone. Take it all in! The experience is right before you; no social media story or reel can truly capture that.

Takeaway

Now that you’ve learned about the best solo date activities, we hope you find one that aligns with your interests. Of course, there are plenty more activities out there waiting to be discovered, so keep exploring.

Just remember to follow our safety tips—solo dating is fun, but it comes with its own set of risks. Stay safe and enjoy!