4 Adventurous Sex Positions That Deserve a Spot on Your Bedroom Bucket List
New sensations, different angles, and plenty of opportunities to discover what feels good together.
Maybe you've worked your way through every sex toy in your nightstand, exhausted your favorite dirty fantasy, or simply realized you've been having the same missionary sex for six months straight. Either way, adventurous sex positions are a pretty great way to shake things up.
No shade to missionary—it's a classic for a reason—but there's something to be said for branching out. Sometimes, all it takes is trying a new position, switching up the angle, or getting a little creative with where (or how) you're doing it. Now, before you panic, Angie Rowntree, founder and director of ethical porn site Sssh.com, says adventurous sex doesn't have to mean extreme sex. “It’s a myth to think that ‘adventurous sex’ means ‘sex only for athletic bodies,’” she explains. “Everyone deserves to enjoy a thriving and exciting intimate life on their terms.”
As with anything new in the bedroom, communication, consent, and a willingness to laugh when things don't go exactly as planned are key. And even if the position ends up being a total flop, what matters is the bonding that happens while trying something new together.
“Regardless of what flavor of sexual adventures you both enjoy, it’s important that anything you try—including new positions—be explored in the spirit of pleasure, fun, and connection,” says Rowntree. So, if you think you're too inflexible, inexperienced, awkward, or insert excuse here for adventurous sex, think again.
Ahead, adventurous sex positions that are exciting, creative, and a lot more attainable than they look.
The Bee
How To Do It: The penetrating partner gets on top and swaps traditional thrusting for a circular grinding motion while the receiver tilts their hips to help deepen the sensation.
Pros: If you want to feel like every movement is actually hitting something, this one delivers. As Rowntree puts it, “For receivers who like grinding and targeted vaginal stimulation, the bee can create some serious buzz.”
Cons: There's definitely a learning curve. Don't be surprised if it takes a minute (or several) to find your rhythm.
Switch It Up: Slide a pillow or wedge under the receiver's hips for a little extra support and a friendlier angle.
Make It Hotter: Rowntree suggests adding a strong vibrator for an even buzzier experience. (Sorry, had to.)
The Twister
How To Do It: The receiver lies on their side while the penetrating partner positions themselves behind or alongside them, creating a twisted, intertwined setup that changes the angle of penetration.
Pros: If you're bored with your usual go-to positions, this one offers a totally different sensation without requiring circus-level flexibility.
Cons: Depending on your height difference and limb situation, finding a comfortable setup may take a little trial and error.
Switch It Up: “If you need to tone it down or need a starting point to get here, try beginning or ending with a basic but super-intimate side-by-side position,” says Rowntree.
Make It Hotter: Rowntree recommends using a sex pillow or Liberator wedge to support your upper body as your limbs twist together in “fun, friction-friendly ways.”
The Life Raft
How To Do It: Grab a pool float that's sturdy enough to support the receiver. The receiver lies face-down on the raft with their hips above the water while the penetrating partner stands behind in the shallow end.
Pros: All the fun of a pool hookup without spending the entire time wondering why everything suddenly feels so dry and uncomfortable despite being underwater.
Cons: This one definitely requires access to a pool, a float, and enough privacy to avoid a very awkward conversation with security.
Switch It Up: Looking for a bigger challenge? Have the receiver flip over onto their back for a different angle (and a surprisingly solid ab workout).
Make It Hotter: “Not only is this position super fun, it’s also gentler since the water is basically supporting your weight,” says Rowntree. Just don't forget the SPF—or the silicone-based lube, which won't wash away as easily in water.
Stand and Carry
How To Do It: The penetrating partner stands and lifts the receiver, who wraps their arms and legs around them while remaining upright.
Pros: Few positions deliver quite the same level of passion, eye contact, and "can't keep our hands off each other" energy as this one.
Cons: As Rowntree points out, “Most people can't hold a true stand and carry position for longer than a few moments.” Translation: your arms are probably going to tap out before anything else does.
Switch It Up: Love the vibe but not the workout? Lean against a wall for extra support.
Make It Hotter: “It’s a hot position for passionate kissing and feeling 'taken' by your partner,” says Rowntree. Or, if you'd rather outsource the heavy lifting, invest in a sex swing that will do the hoisting for you.
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