Cooks is a small community located in the middle of the flat and open Koo-Wee-Rup Swamp landscape of South Gippsland, Victoria in Australia. Located only a few minutes away from the river, this area is known for it's unique flora and fauna and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Cooks is a great place to take a first date - with plenty of activities, places to explore and unique experiences to enjoy.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Cooks is a great place to explore and take a walk together. There are some fantastic walk trails in the area, from short scenic strolls to longer adventures. Check out the Douglas Tract Nature Trail, for a 4km round walk which passes through wetland, grassland and eucalypt forest and offers some great birdwatching opportunities. Or take a leisurely stroll along the Koo-Wee-Rup Swamp boardwalk taking in the marshlands and the birdlife. For a more challenging hike, why not tackle the 19km Koo-Wee-Rup to Lang Lang River Trail, and enjoy some fabulous views of the riverside along the way.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Cooks
Take your date to one of the charming cafes and coffee shops in Cooks. The Coffee Bucket is a popular spot and offers delicious cakes and treats, as well as great coffee. The Marsh Cafe is also a great spot to get a coffee and a chat with some tasty snacks to enjoy. Or why not meet up at Coffee on the Move, a mobile café that serves up fantastic coffee, hot chocolates and milkshakes, as well as bacon and egg rolls and pastries.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Take a visit to the Koo-Wee-Rup Historical Society, which is located in an old stone cottage from the 1870s. Here you can explore the fascinating displays about the local history and culture of the area. The South Gippsland Live Steam Club also has a great museum in Cooks and offers regular train rides with vintage and model steam engines. There are also plenty of art galleries and studios in Cooks, showcasing local crafts and artwork. Why not take a visit to an exhibition or take an art class together?
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Cooks
There are lots of live music and entertainment options in Cooks. Check out the local pubs and bars, which often have live music, or head to the Koo-Wee-Rup Music Festival. For something a little more laid back, why not catch an outdoor movie at the Koo-Wee-Rup Drive-In. If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Phillip Island offers plenty of fun activities such as the world-famous penguin parade, surf beaches and theme parks.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a casual first date, why not try one of the local pubs or restaurants in Cooks? The Cooks Hotel is a great spot to meet up and enjoy a drink in a heritage-listed building. The Stonehenge Cafe is also a popular spot and offers a warm and cosy interior, as well as some delicious food. The Big M Hotel is the place to go for great pub grub and beers, and the Koo-Wee-Rup Hotel is renowned for its traditional country hospitality.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Cooks
Cooks also provides some great opportunities for outdoor activities. If you and your date are looking for an adventure, check out the Koo-Wee-Rup Canoe Trail, which offers paddle trips along the rivers and creeks of the area. Or why not hire a boat for a day and explore the creeks and wetlands? Fishing is popular in Cooks, or you could hire bikes and explore the area together. For a more relaxed date, why not go for a picnic in one of the parks or just find a spot to enjoy the views together.
