Not sure what to do this time of year? Today I’m sharing my my summer wellness checklist, filled with dozens of things to do in summer at home with friends, family, or alone. Granted, It’s easy to let the days slip by without a plan, but this year, I want to make the most of my time. Last summer, I felt so much more fulfilled knowing I was actively engaging in things I loved.
Most of the options are fun free summer activities except a few affordable bucket list 2024 additions.
For more self-care ideas, check out my full morning routine checklist and these 15 easy ways to simplify your life and home in 30 days.
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Fun Activities & Ideas for Your Summer Wellness Checklist
Summer is the ultimate time to recharge and engage in fun activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re looking to cultivate new skills, enjoy the outdoors, or simply have the time of your life with friends, this summer wellness checklist has got you covered.
Why doing fun summer activities at home or outdoors is so important, I hear you ask. I know firsthand that fulfilling experiences release endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that can reduce stress and boost your mood.
According to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, people who regularly participate in enjoyable activities experience lower levels of stress and higher overall happiness. So, no matter if it’s a beach day or a game night with friends, fun activities are a great way to keep those stress levels in check.
Not to mention that people who prioritize experiences over material possessions report higher levels of happiness.
Another fantastic benefit of participating in fun summer activities for adults is the positive social interactions – because let’s be honest, adult life can be a bit isolating.
Now, I know, it takes effort, courage, and a bit of stepping out of your comfort zone. I remember how anxious I felt the first time I joined a community garden group on a mission to finish my list of summer wellness ideas before September. I worried about not knowing anyone and not having a green thumb. However, those jitters faded away as soon as I started digging into the soil and connecting with fellow gardeners.
So, this summer, let’s make a pact to push our boundaries, try new things, and discover the amazing benefits they bring to our mental well-being.
20 Summer Wellness Ideas to Do Alone Or With Friends in 2024
1. Set A Reading Goal
Summer and reading go hand-in-hand – that’s why books are always at the top of my fun summer activities list! Whether lounging by the pool, chilling at home or sitting in the shade of a tree, a good book can transport you to another world. Not to mention the numerous mental health benefits! For example, one study found that after participating in a stressful task and then reading for 60 minutes, you’ll most likely experience a significant reduction in anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure. So, this summer, my personal goal is to read 10 books.
They can be anything from thrilling novels to insightful non-fiction. I remember last summer, I finally got around to reading “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern, and it was enchanting! Don’t forget to mix it up with genres and maybe even revisit a childhood favourite.
- If you need some inspo, check out my list of 18 books to add to your summer reading list.
2. Learn How to Make Sourdough
Moving on to one of the most exciting things to do in summer at home alone or with friends! The sourdough craze isn’t going anywhere and for a good reason. Not only is homemade sourdough delicious but the process of making it is incredibly rewarding and relaxing! I’m always drawn to fresh sourdough at the bakery and I’m determined to have this be a fun weekly ritual to feed it and watch it grow. There are plenty of tutorials online, so grab some flour and get kneading!
3. Grow My Own Micro-Greens
Next up is a great summer bucket list idea for adults who don’t really have a green thumb. Microgreens are packed with nutrients and are super easy to grow. All you need is a shallow tray, some soil, and seeds. Within a week or two, you’ll have a fresh batch of greens ready to garnish your salads or smoothies.
I just started growing micro-greens on my kitchen windowsill with the help of this Sun and Sprouts Complete Sprouting Kit , and it was so satisfying to see them sprout up so quickly. Plus, they add a vibrant touch to any dish. Now, I proudly grow my own herbs outdoors!
4. Learn How To Use Up The Produce I Grow In The Garden
Gardening is a fantastic way to spend time outdoors and grow your own food. However, sometimes it can be overwhelming to know what to do with all that produce. This summer, I will really challenge myself to find creative ways to use everything I grow.
P.S. Last year, I had an abundance of zucchini and ended up making zucchini bread, zoodles, and even zucchini fritters!
5. Go to the Farmer’s Market Regularly
There’s something special about strolling through a farmer’s market, basket in hand, and picking out fresh, locally grown produce. This summer, make it a habit to visit your local farmer’s market regularly. The colors, the smells, and the friendly vendors make it a delightful experience. I love chatting with the farmers about their produce and often come home with recipe ideas and new ingredients to try.
6. Explore Different Trails/Walks Around Town
Summer is the ideal time to lace up your walking shoes and explore the trails around your town. You might think you already know your city pretty darn well – but you are mistaken, I can assure you! Make it an adventure by taking different routes and seeing where they lead you.
7. Start Playing Tennis Again
When it comes to my favorite summer wellness ideas, exercise is at the top of my list. Even a few minutes of exercise can pump up your endorphins (aka your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters). So, it’s the best way to reduce that overwhelming feeling of living in today’s fast-paced world.
I grew up playing tennis and used to enjoy it so much, so why not pick up your racket again this summer? Tennis is a great way to get some exercise and have fun. Grab a friend or join a local club to make it a social activity too. The local tennis club in my town has a weekly ladies night and a weekly men’s night, and there’s a good chance yours does too!
8. Have a Beach Day
It goes without saying that beach days are among the most common of everyone’s fun summer activities for adults and kids alike. Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. Pack a picnic, non-toxic sunscreen, and a good book, and head to the nearest beach or lake. Whether you prefer swimming, building sandcastles, or just lounging in the sun, a beach day is a perfect way to relax and soak up some vitamin D.
9. Try Stand-Up Paddle-Boarding (SUP)
If you live near any body of water, stand-up paddleboarding is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and get a full-body workout. It’s surprisingly calming to glide across the water while taking in the surrounding nature. Granted, your first time trying SUP will be a bit wobbly and awkward, but after a few tries, you’ll find your balance and have an absolute blast.
10. Host Something For Friends Once Each Month
Summer is all about spending time with loved ones. Make it a goal to host a gathering for your friends once a month. It could be a barbecue, a game night with some fresh appetizers, or a simple summer dinner. Last summer, I hosted a monthly themed dinner party, and it became a highlight for everyone. It’s a wonderful way to stay connected and create lasting memories.
- Need some inspiration? Here are my all time favorite cookbooks.
11. Make Focaccia
Baking focaccia is a fun and creative summer activity for the entire family. The dough is easy to work with, and you can get artistic with the toppings. From rosemary and sea salt to cherry tomatoes and olives, and even edible flowers, the possibilities are endless. My first attempt at making focaccia resulted in a delicious, golden bread that my family devoured in minutes. It’s a great project for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
12. Make Homemade Bagels
If you’ve never tasted a fresh, homemade bagel, you’re in for a treat. Making bagels from scratch might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple and so rewarding. I tried it for the first time 3 years ago and now, there’s no going back! Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything but the bagel seasoning. It’s one of the easiest brunch recipes to do at home.
13. Take Up Yoga or Pilates
Summer is a great time to start a new fitness routine, and yoga or Pilates can be incredibly beneficial for both your body and mind. Whether you join a local class, follow online tutorials, or practice in your backyard, you’ll enjoy increased flexibility, strength, and relaxation. I started doing yoga in the mornings, and it transformed my days, making me feel more centered and energized because it combines physical movements with meditation and calm breathing techniques.
14. Have a Digital Detox Weekend
One of my absolutely favorite summer wellness tips has to do with social media. With the constant bombardment of digital screens, taking a break can do wonders for your mental health. So, why not plan a digital detox weekend where you unplug from your devices and engage in offline activities like reading, hiking, cooking, or spending quality time with loved ones?
15. Volunteer for a Local Charity
I really wanted to add volunteer work to my wellness list of summer activities for adults and kids because giving back to the community is a fulfilling way to spend your time. Find a local charity or cause you’re passionate about and volunteer your time. It could be anything from helping at a food bank, participating in a neighbourhood cleanup, or mentoring kids.
Just google the name of your city + “Volunteer” and you’ll find plenty of opportunities. A few years back I volunteered at an animal shelter and found it incredibly rewarding to help care for the animals.
16. Create a Summer Scrapbook
Did you know that scrapbooking can be one of the most relaxing and fun summer wellness ideas? Here’s a full breakdown of all the benefits of scrapbooking – you’ll be surprised! Document your summer adventures by collecting photos, ticket stubs, pressed flowers, and other memorabilia from your activities and compile them into a scrapbook. It’s a creative project that allows you to relive and cherish your summer memories.
- Here’s an easy beginner scrapbook tutorial to help you get started today.
- Amazon has dozens of scrapbook kits to help you get started.
17. Take a Road Trip
There’s nothing like the freedom of the open road, and that’s why it’s one of my absolute favorite things to do in summer with friends and family. Plan a road trip to explore new places, whether it’s a neighboring town or a scenic route you’ve always wanted to take. Pack some snacks, create a playlist, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. My spontaneous road trip to the mountains last summer turned out to be one of my best experiences.
18. Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Incorporating mindfulness meditation into your routine can significantly enhance your well-being. It can actively help reduce anxiety, social anxiety, fears, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors, according to doctors. Find a quiet spot in your home or garden and spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath and being present in the moment. I started a mindfulness practice years ago and found it incredibly helpful in managing stress and staying grounded. Now, it’s an important part of my evening routine checklist. Especially when I want to declutter my mind.
- Check out this 10-minute meditation for beginners tutorial.
19. Attend a Local Workshop or Class
Nearly 1 in 4 adults feel lonely, a new survey finds. Summer is a great time to learn something new and meet some lovely new people in the process. Check out local workshops or classes that interest you, such as painting, cooking, pottery, or dance. I attended a watercolour class last fall and not only learned a new skill but also met some wonderful people in my community.
20. Start a Journaling Practice
Journaling is my holy grail of self-care and one of the most important summer wellness tips on this list! Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and emotional well-being. Psychologists point out that it can reduce anxiety, help you break away from a nonstop cycle of obsessive thinking and brooding, and regulate emotions. Dedicate a few minutes each day to jot down your thoughts, goals, and experiences. You can use prompts, gratitude lists, or simply free-write whatever comes to mind. If you need some help to get started, here are my 10 journal prompts for self-discovery, and some of my all-time favourite prompts for mental decluttering.
Summer Wellness Ideas & Activities FAQ
How can I make summer more fun?
One way to kick off the season is by creating a wellness checklist filled with exciting activities. Think about all the things you’ve always wanted to try or the hobbies you’ve set aside and start incorporating them into your plans. Visit the farmer’s market regularly and experiment with fresh, seasonal produce in your cooking. You could also discover new hiking trails or parks in your town—each walk can become a mini-adventure. Additionally, social activities are a surefire way to boost your fun quotient. Organize casual get-togethers like beach days, potluck BBQs, or even backyard movie nights. Don’t forget the power of learning something new. It could be anything from taking up tennis again, like I’m doing this summer, to trying your hand at gardening.
What are the best things to do in summer at home?
Try experimenting with new recipes, especially those that highlight seasonal ingredients. Learning to make homemade treats like focaccia or bagels can be both fun and delicious—I surprised myself with how therapeutic and rewarding baking became for me. Getting creative with DIY projects is another fantastic way to spend your summer days at home. Whether it’s refurbishing old furniture, starting a new craft project, or redecorating a room, DIY activities allow you to express yourself and spruce up your living space. Also, staying active without leaving home is easier than you think. You can start a home workout routine, practice yoga in your living room, or even set up a mini home gym with basic equipment.
What are some fun summer activities for adults?
One of my favourite summer activities for adults is exploring local trails and parks. Take advantage of the warmer weather by going for scenic hikes or leisurely walks with friends or solo. Another fun activity to consider is joining a local sports league or fitness class. Whether it’s tennis, volleyball, yoga in the park, or even paddle-boarding, staying active outdoors can be both invigorating and social. You can also attend outdoor concerts, theatre performances, or art festivals in your community. Plus, If you’re looking to unwind and recharge, consider planning a weekend getaway or staycation. Explore nearby towns, visit wineries or breweries, or simply relax by the pool or beach.
What couples’ summer activities should be on my 2024 bucket list?
- Pack a basket with your favourite snacks and beverages, and head to a scenic lake or waterfront park for a romantic sunset picnic.
- Sign up for a couples’ cooking class and learn to prepare a gourmet meal together. Whether it’s mastering the art of making sushi, crafting handmade pasta, or creating decadent desserts, cooking classes offer a fun and interactive way to bond over shared culinary interests.
- Choose a scenic route, pack essentials like snacks and a playlist of your favorite tunes, and hit the open road. Stop at quirky roadside attractions, visit charming towns, and make unplanned detours to discover hidden gems along the way.
- Transform your backyard into a cozy outdoor theater for a romantic movie night under the stars. Set up a projector, string fairy lights around the seating area, and snuggle up together with blankets and popcorn. Choose a classic film or a romantic comedy to enjoy under the night sky.
- Create a relaxing spa experience at home with a couples’ spa day. Set the mood with soothing music, and light candles, and indulge in pampering treatments like massages, facials, and aromatherapy baths. Take turns pampering each other and unwind together in the comfort of your own space.
This post was about the best fun activities & ideas for your summer wellness checklist
I hope you enjoyed my summer bucket list ideas for adults! Even if trying new, fun summer activities at home or outdoors can feel intimidating or scary, there are ways to ease into it and stay on track. Start by setting small, achievable goals that align with your interests and comfort level. It’s important to celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, to build confidence and reinforce positive behaviour. Remember, every new experience is an opportunity for personal growth and discovery, helping you expand your horizons and enrich your life in ways you may not have imagined. Fun, summer wellness ideas, and activities “force” us to get out of our comfort zone, nurture our mental health, and create lasting memories.
