Valentine's Day Activities
Valentine's Day is celebrated on 14 February and is the day to express love and affection through gifts, cards and romantic Valentine's Day activities. A little bit of planning will go a long way toward making the day romantic. Choosing the right location, gift and Valentine's Day activities for you and your loved one will ensure that you both enjoy this special day.
Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day
Sending your loved one flowers on Valentine's Day is a traditional way of expressing your love and affection. Red roses are the symbol of love and you could send a single red rose or an arrangement.
Valentine's Day cards are plentiful, so it should be easy to pick a card that your partner will love. Add a personal message about how much you care, or even make a handmade card for that special touch. If you are making a handmade card, have a look at websites with arts and crafts information. Some sites provide templates for cards and helpful decorating tips.
Some men don't like to receive flowers, so if you're looking for a Valentine's Day gift for a man, think of something masculine that he will appreciate. Most men love technology, so the latest iPod, iPad or accessory will be a hit. An action film, TV series, or a music CD of your man's favourite shows or music will also be appreciated.
Jewellery or perfume will delight most women and you can add a personal touch by choosing a favourite scent, or having an item of jewellery engraved with a special romantic message.
Valentine's Day Activities for the Adventurous
Are you wondering about Valentine's Day activities which will bring out a sense of adventure? If you want to do something different this Valentine's Day, here are some suggestions for an exciting and fun filled day.
Tandem Parasailing
A tandem parasail is a unique way to spend Valentine's Day. Share the exhilarating experience of flying a hundred metres in the sky as you enjoy the breathtaking views below. Tandem parasailing is available in capital cities and other locations - just imagine soaring above Sydney Harbour or the Gold Coast on Valentine's Day.
Horse Riding on the Beach
Enjoy the pristine natural beauty of Australia's coastline as you enjoy the romance of sharing a beach horse ride. Ride operators cater for everyone from beginners to experienced riders, so why not surprise your loved one with horse riding on the beach. One of the most romantic Valentine's Day activities around!
Swim with Dolphins
Have you or your partner always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? There are several tour operators around Australia who organise swims with dolphins, seals and other sea life. Why not book a romantic weekend away together and enjoy the wonders of Australia's ocean life as you swim with dolphins.
Scenic Flight for Two
For a unique view of Australia's spectacular coastline, take a seaplane flight on Valentine's Day. Some operators offer romantic picnic packages where you will be dropped off at a secluded beach with a delicious picnic, rug and umbrella. After some time to relax and enjoy yourselves, your plane will return to fly you back to base.
Valentine's Day Activities on the Water
Romantic dinner cruises are available in many locations throughout Australia. In Sydney, you have a choice of a twilight sail on a catamaran or a sleek cruiser as you enjoy delicious a la carte dining in style. Watch the city come alive after sunset as you share this romantic Valentine's Day together.
Cruise Brisbane River on an elegant timber paddle wheeler and soak up the romantic ambience of days gone by. Surprise your loved one with a romantic gondola ride on Perth's Swan River while you sip champagne and indulge in Swiss chocolates. What could be more romantic than a gondola!
Dinner and Theatre for Valentine's Day
Enjoying a romantic dinner is a popular Valentine's Day activity. Is there a restaurant which holds fond memories for you both? If so, why not book your Valentine's Day dinner there, perhaps even at the same table as before. Your partner will appreciate your thoughtfulness and enjoy the romance of returning to a restaurant which has special meaning in your relationship.
To add something distinctive to your Valentine's Day activities, take your Valentine to dinner and a show. Australia has a vibrant live entertainment scene and you will be able to choose between theatre, music, opera and more.
Romantic Valentine's Day Destinations
A short holiday to one of Australia's many romantic destinations is the ultimate Valentine's Day indulgence. There are so many places to choose from so it is a good idea to think about what type of trip you would both enjoy. From tropical beaches to wine growing regions to the remotest spots in the country, Australia has something for everyone. Check out the following holiday ideas for romantic Valentine's Day activities.
Mission Beach, Queensland
Stay in a rainforest hut at this beautiful palm lined beach. The accommodation is eco-friendly and is surrounded by lush rainforest and teeming with fascinating wildlife. The Great Barrier Reef comes up very close to the beach and nearly meets the rainforest; a truly spectacular and unique part of the world. Mission Beach is still fairly isolated and never crowded, so you can spend plenty of time together in privacy and enjoy a Valentine's Day to remember.
Freycinet National Park, Tasmania Freycinet Lodge is located right inside Freycinet National Park and offers luxury accommodation and five star dining in absolutely pristine surroundings. Freycinet Lodge has been constructed with minimal impact on the stunning landscape and wildlife of the national park and has some of the best views in the state. Enjoy a romantic Valentine's Day dinner as you watch the sunset over Coles Bay before retiring to your luxury cabin.
Cape Tribulation, Queensland
The romantic allure of Cape Tribulation is its wildness. Right on the edge of the Daintree Rainforest, this is one of the most beautiful spots in the country. Only a few shops and five star eco-resorts are in the area, from which couples can enjoy a horse ride on the beach, tour the world heritage listed rainforest or take a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef. For Valentine's Day, why not watch the sunrise over the Coral Sea from the tip of the Cape and enjoy this stunning light show with your partner. The sea life will take your breath away, with dolphins, turtles and reef sharks and even whales at the right time of year.
Margaret River, Western Australia
The Margaret River region is perfectly designed for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway. The area abounds with fantastic wineries, gourmet foods and some of the state's best accommodation. Take your loved one on a winery tour and enjoy some fine food along the way, or pick up some gourmet goodies and have a romantic picnic by the river. Mount Warning, New South Wales
Imagine kissing your valentine just as the sun kisses the peak of this spectacular summit. Mount Warning is the first place on the Australian mainland which receives the morning sun and has long been a mecca for romantics. The peak features a magnificent 360 degree view taking in Byron Bay, the Tweed Valley and the Gold Coast, well worth the 2.5 hour climb. To be at the summit for sunrise on Valentine's Day, you'll need to climb in the dark so make you pack torches, along with water, camera etc. Several nearby guesthouses cater for those wanting a sunrise climb and will provide breakfast as early as 3am.
Red Centre Road Trip, Northern Territory
Celebrate Valentine's Day with a weeklong trip in the Northern Territory. Start at Alice Springs and explore its many attractions, take a romantic sunset helicopter flight over this amazing landscape as you sip champagne with your valentine. Drive to Uluru, and take in the stunning natural wonders along the way and don't miss star gazing in the desert. Uluru is a sight to behold and is a must-see at both sunrise and sunset. Hold hands with your valentine and soak in this remarkable sight.
With so many different Valentine's Day activities to choose from there truly is something for everyone and every budget. Remember it is not the size or cost of the gift or activity but the thought that counts. Simple gifts such as chocolate heart, handmade cards with a poem or message are very romantic.
Surprise your loved one at work or home with a special Roses Only Valentine's Day gift. Choose from single roses, or boxes of roses combined with champagne, chocolates and gifts.