Budget Date Ideas in Hong Kong

As Valentine’s Day draws closer and you search for ways to impress your special someone, it’s hard not to be tempted into buying luxury gifts and experiences. But if you’re looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day on for less this year, fear not. We have rounded up a selection of fun, quirky and romantic budget date ideas in Hong Kong that will ensure you have a fantastic time without breaking the bank.

Pamper yourself

Pay a visit to your local Sasa store. From Japan’s popular LuLuLun moisturising facial sheet masks to Mediheal’s Warming Eye Masks that target anti-dark circles and puffiness, you will find everything you would need (and more) for a DIY pamper night. Alternatively, do some research and make your very own homemade face mask using everyday ingredients from honey and turmeric to avocado and bananas. Now, all you’ve got to do is choose a new series on Netflix and settle in for a night of relaxation.

Bowling

Whether its your first Valentine’s Day together or your tenth, this oldie-but-goodie never disappoints. Not only is it affordable and fun, it’s also a great conversation starter for those early dates.  No matter whether you’re a pro or terribly bad at it, there will be plenty to laugh and talk about. With a number of budget options around including SCAA, Bel-Air Bowling Centre or Thunder Bowl, enjoy a game of bowling can start as low as $33 per adult, depending on the time of day. So strap up your bowling shoes and get ready to impress your date with a strike or two.

Play bartender for the night

If you’ve spent many a date night sipping on cocktails, why not surprise your partner and mix things up with a DIY cocktail-making session at home? Find recipes for your favourite cocktails, pick up the ingredients, and then all that’s left to do is purchase a budget-friendly cocktail-mixing kit. Etsy offers an array of affordable cocktail shakers and sets, some of which can be personalised, making it a great gift option too. This fun idea is sure to gain you some brownie points.

Camping 

With over 41 designated campsites in Hong Kong and the perfect season upon us, why not pack some beers and get ready to toast some marshmallows over the fire as you set off on a romantic adventure in the great outdoors. From Pui O for beach lovers to Nam Shan for tranquil woodlands, there are plenty of spots to ensure you’re a happy camper. Whether you choose a Mongolian ger or a star-gazing dome, we think camping makes for the most adventurous of date nights. Find all the 41 designated camp sites in HK, including Pui O and Nam Shan, right here.

Games Night 

For a fun but cozy night indoors, dig out your favourite board games and puzzles and prepare yourself for a night of friendly competition. Alternatively, plan a trip to ToysRUs and run around like kids as you reminisce about your long-forgotten favorites and find a new game to play together. Up the fun factor by raising stakes. The loser cooks dinner the next day and the winner selects the recipe. One thing’s for certain, you’re definitely in for a night of fun and laughter.

Wine and scrapbooks  

A great one for long-time couples. Get together over your favorite takeaway and bottle of wine while looking through old photos to reflect on how far you’ve come. You can even have some fun creating a scrapbook or mood board reflecting all the things you’d like to accomplish within the next year. These could include bucket list trips, home décor, new recipes to cook together or even new restaurants to visit. This date night not only provides quality time together but will have you feeling accomplished and excited for the future.

Take a drip down memory lane

There’s no better way to reignite the flame than by taking a trip down memory lane. Have a little fun with recreating your first date, or perhaps one of your favorites. This may include returning to your first-date restaurant, renting the movie you first watched together at the cinema, or even listening to the music of an artist whose concert you first went to together. To keep things exciting, why not surprise your partner with clues before Valentine’s Day using pictures from the first date or by writing down some of the memorable or funny things that were said that day.

Spread the love 

Since Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, why not take the time to spread some happiness to those who may not be so fortunate. Think of an elderly member of family, a friend who may be spending Valentine’s Day alone, or someone who just needs a hug, and pop over to show them some love. Treat them to dinner or simply drop some chocolates or flowers around to remind them that you are thinking of them. After all, love is love, romantic or platonic. 

Looking for more in-depth stories about Hong Kong? Check out our city living section.