20 Sex Positions You Probably Haven't Tried Before

Whether you’re newlyweds still riding the honeymoon high or seasoned partners looking to rekindle the magic, mixing things up in your sex life can do wonders for your connection. That’s where this cheeky guide to the best sex positions comes in!

But exploring comfortable sex positions isn’t just about spicing things up; it’s also a brilliant way to grow closer as a couple.

"Healthy sexual relationships are built on open communication, mutual understanding, and a willingness to explore," explains Georgina Vass, sex and relationship therapist. "It’s important to normalise discussions about sexual compatibility and comfort because these conversations are key to building healthy, respectful relationships," she adds. 

If you're after some inspiration, we’ve rounded up 20 sex positions for couples to suit different moods and preferences. Whether you’re looking for slow and sensual options, romantic sex positions, or fun intimacy ideas for couples, there’s something for every pair to explore.

And don’t worry – there’s no need to be a gymnast. These suggestions are simple to understand, ranging from beginner-friendly choices to slightly more adventurous options, so you can find what feels natural. Why not lead up to them with some spicy sexting ideas or browse some of the best sex toys to buy?

Chatting with your partner about what you both enjoy, or even asking some of these sex questions for couples can be a lovely way to learn more about each other’s desires – and makes trying new things even more fun. So, grab a glass of wine, have a laugh, and explore these different sex positions together.

• 20 Best Sex Positions For Couples
• Sex Positions & Sexual Style: Expert Advice 
• What Sex Positions Are Best For Intimacy?

20 Best Sex Positions for Couples

Ready to turn up the heat? Let’s dive in and explore the 20 best sex positions that are guaranteed to bring you closer – in every way.

1. The Spoon

Perfect for lazy mornings or cozy nights, this intimate position is all about closeness. Lie on your sides with one partner behind the other, curling into a spooning shape. It’s relaxed, comfortable, and allows for whispered sweet nothings or gentle kisses on the neck – pure romantic bliss.

The slower pace also makes it easy to communicate, check in with each other, and simply enjoy being close, making it just as much about emotional intimacy as physical connection.

• Great for: Couples who are burnt out - we get it! Life can get exhausting, and this position is relaxing for both and gives couples a gentle way to reconnect and enjoy quality time together.

2. Face-to-Face

Sit facing each other, either on the bed or a sturdy surface, with legs intertwined. This position keeps things slow and deeply connected, with plenty of opportunity for eye contact and lingering kisses. It’s perfect for couples looking to heighten emotional intimacy while enjoying a close physical bond.

The face-to-face positioning also makes it easy to communicate, read each other’s reactions, and stay fully present, helping you strengthen your connection as you go.

• Great for: A gentle twist on the missionary sex position – but made even more intimate, with plenty of opportunities to connect both emotionally and physically.

3. Standing Embrace

For a playful and spontaneous vibe, try this one! One partner stands with their back against a wall for support while the other faces them, standing close. It’s ideal for those passionate moments when you can’t wait to get closer – just make sure the wall is sturdy!

Even in the heat of the moment, staying close and checking in with each other can make the experience feel more comfortable, confident, and connected.

• Great for: Couples who find it easier to reach orgasm standing – different angles work for different people, and good communication helps you find what feels best together.

4. Lotus

Sit cross-legged, and have your partner sit on your lap, wrapping their legs around you. The closeness is unmatched, with bodies pressed together and hands free to explore. This position encourages intimacy and a gentle rhythm, perfect for long, lingering moments together.

With uninterrupted eye contact and full-body closeness, it's easy to slow down, communicate, and enjoy being fully in the moment with each other.

• Great for: Couples who want to get closer – this position allows for maximum intimacy while encouraging meaningful connection.

5. Side-Saddle

Lie side by side, facing each other, with one partner’s leg draped over the other’s hips. This allows for a slower, more sensual pace and keeps things close and tender. It’s especially lovely for whispering sweet nothings and holding each other tight.

Its relaxed pace makes it easy to focus on comfort, talk openly, and enjoy the closeness without feeling rushed.

• Great for: Couples who want to take their time – positions like this are best enjoyed nice and slow, making time for gazing at each other and steadily increasing arousal.

6. Passionate Plank

For a classic twist, one partner lies on their back while the other is on top, supporting themselves with their hands or forearms. It’s versatile, with room for playful experimentation or gentle intimacy – and all the better with lingering kisses.

The flexibility of this position makes it easy to adjust your pace, comfort, and movement together, encouraging open communication as you discover what feels best for you both.

• Great for: It might sound like your usual missionary sex position, but there is room to experiment here, making it a great choice for couples who are new to switching up positions while staying close and connected.

7. Chair Affair

Grab a sturdy chair and let one partner sit while the other straddles their lap. It’s a brilliant way to mix things up while maintaining eye contact and hands-on connection. Bonus points if the chair’s height allows for some creative angles.

This one also wins the prize for the best sex position names – we love ones that rhyme! Sitting face-to-face naturally encourages conversation, eye contact, and affection, making it just as much about connecting with each other as trying something new.

• Great for: Those who find maximum pleasure in the cowgirl position – this one allows for a similar angle and often means that whoever is on top can control the speed, making it easier for both partners to stay comfortable and communicate what feels good.

8. Lazy Lovers

Lie on the bed with one partner on their back and the other lying across them at a slight angle. This position is all about experimentation, offering the perfect mix of playfulness and relaxation. It’s ideal for those chilled-out evenings when comfort is key.

Its laid-back nature gives you plenty of time to communicate, adjust your position, and discover what feels most comfortable, making the experience just as much about enjoying each other's company as physical intimacy.

• Great for: Couples who aren't in a rush. If you have all the time in the world, you can take your time with this one to find the angle that works best for you while enjoying a relaxed way to reconnect.

9. Standing Spoon

Similar to traditional spooning but on your feet! One partner stands behind the other, allowing for deep physical and emotional closeness. It’s a brilliant choice for spontaneous moments and works well for couples looking for something a bit different.

Because you're moving together, it's easy to adjust your pace, check in with each other, and find a rhythm that feels comfortable for you both.

• Great for: Couples who want to expand their sex life beyond the bed. 

10. Romantic Reverse

One partner lies on their stomach while the other lies on top, facing the same way. This position allows for tender kisses on the neck and shoulders, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere while keeping things simple and relaxed.

With no rush, you can focus on gentle touch, affection, and learning what your partner enjoys, making every movement feel more intentional.

• Great for: Couples who want to get to know each other's bodies in a more intimate way. 

11. The Crossroads

Lie on your back while your partner kneels between your legs at an angle, forming an “X” shape. This position allows for deep connection and playful experimentation with angles, perfect for finding what feels best for both partners while staying close.

There's no single "right" way to do this one, so don't be afraid to laugh, make adjustments, and communicate as you find the angle that works best.

• Great for: Playful couples who aren't afraid to get creative and pull some more daring shapes! 

12. The Overlap

One partner sits on the edge of the bed while the other straddles their lap, facing away. This position offers a new perspective and lets you explore different rhythms while keeping things exciting. Add a mirror for an extra adventurous touch!

Although you're facing different directions, touch and verbal communication can help you stay in sync and make small adjustments for comfort.

• Great for: Couples you love the traditional cowgirl position, but reimagined. This new angle could show you a different way to enjoy it. 

13. The Butterfly

Lie on your back at the edge of a bed or table, while your partner stands or kneels in front. With legs lifted slightly, this position offers a mix of intimacy and sensation – great for those looking to combine passion with a sense of closeness.

A little encouragement goes a long way here. Compliments, reassurance, and checking in with each other can help both partners feel confident and at ease.

• Great for: Confident couples! Whoever is standing up will have a full view of their partner, so make sure you support them with lots of compliments and reassuring touch. 

14. The Bridge

One partner lies on their back with knees bent and hips slightly raised, while the other kneels above. This position creates a lovely sense of support and trust, allowing you to focus on each other completely. Perfect for slow, intimate moments.

Take your time getting comfortable before you begin, and don't be afraid to adjust pillows or positioning if it helps you both relax into it.

• Great for: Women who struggle to find the perfect angle. Raising your hips can help to allow deeper penetration, whilst also increasing friction in the right areas. 

15. The Rider’s Embrace

One partner lies flat while the other straddles them, sitting upright. It’s all about control and connection here, with plenty of opportunities for eye contact, shared smiles, and a pace that suits you both perfectly.

With one partner setting the rhythm, it's easy to slow things down and savour the moment rather than rushing from one position to the next.

• Great for: Romantic couples - you can gaze at each other all night long with this one. 

16. The Pretzel Dip

One partner lies on their back with legs to the side, while the other kneels facing them at an angle. This semi-twisted position allows for close, playful interaction and a bit of variety, perfect for mixing up your routine.

A fun choice when you're both feeling adventurous and want to break away from your usual routine without venturing too far outside your comfort zone.

• Great for: Flexible couples! Just remember to stretch, guys. 

17. The Floating Fan

Sit on a chair or the bed with your legs stretched out, while your partner straddles you and leans back slightly. This position allows for a deep, shared connection and opens the door for physical exploration with your hands.

With your hands free, it's easy to add plenty of affection, whether that's holding each other close, stroking your partner, or sharing the occasional kiss.

• Great for: Couples who want to go even *deeper*. 

18. The Seated Spoon

Both partners sit side by side, facing the same direction. One leans into the other, creating a snug and intimate vibe. It’s perfect for slow, affectionate moments and allows for plenty of skin-to-skin contact.

There's something especially comforting about this position, making it a lovely choice when you simply want to slow down and enjoy being close.

• Great for: Coupes who want to feel more connected - this one is a particularly sensual position which can increase emotional connection.

19. The Stairway to Heaven

For the more adventurous, sit on the stairs, with one partner straddling the other a step above or below. It’s fun, different, and creates new angles – just make sure those stairs are comfy and safe first!

Trying this position together can be an intimate experience, creating space to learn more about each other and enjoy a deeper sense of closeness.

• Great for: This one is best suited to couples who really know each other's bodies well, and have taken time to explore what the other one prefers. That will help you find just the right angle in this slightly more complicated move. 

20. The Reverse Spoon

Lie side by side but facing opposite directions, with your hips aligned. This playful twist on the classic spooning position lets you experiment with a fresh angle while still keeping things relaxed and cozy.

Because there's no pressure to rush, it's a lovely opportunity to enjoy touch, teasing, and building anticipation before taking things further.

• Great for: Sex doesn't always require penetration, so if you want to take it slow, this is a great position to explore each other's bodies with your hands before taking it further. 

Sex Positions & Sexual Style: Expert Advice

Finding your unique sexual style is an essential step toward building deeper intimacy and confidence as a couple.

Just like every relationship is different, so are the ways you connect in the bedroom. Understanding what works for both of you – whether it’s playful, passionate, or exploratory – can make your experiences more fulfilling.

With some expert advice, you’ll feel more attuned to each other and ready to embrace your shared journey. That's why we've done our homework, and gathered expert-approved tips to help improve your sex life. 

What Sex Positions Are Best For Intimacy? 

Of course, the sex position that's best for intimacy is down to personal preference. But, according to Melissa Shields, influencer and coach in confidence and wellness for women who want to better understand their sexual needs and desires, there's one position that tends to bring couples closer. 

"[The seated hug/lotus] is where the giver will sit up with legs crossed, or open which ever is more comfortable and the receiver will sit on top and wrap their legs around. You will be hugging whilst having sex, for me this is the epitome of intimate positions," she says.

"This position can be great for vulva owners as the grinding can stimulate the clitoris as well. You have the opportunity to wrap your arms around one another, gaze into each others eyes and to kiss, which I think is a simple key people forget when having sex, kissing can boost arousal and heighten your connection, so don't forget that!"

Ready to spice things up in the bedroom? We did some investigating and discovered the top 20 sex toys for couples.