9 Ways to Make the Most Out of Summer Before It Ends

We’ve officially turned the calendar over to August, which means there’s only a few weeks of summer left before the kids go back to school and things go back to regular scheduled programming. So now is the time to start ticking things off your summer bucket list. In case you need some inspiration, here we’re sharing some of our favorite family-friendly summer activities. Whatever you do, be sure to slater on the SPF.

Hit the beach

A good old beach day is definitely at the top of everyone’s summer to-do list. Luckily, from Venice to Malibu, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Los Angeles. Before summer comes to a close, round up your friends and family and plan an epic beach adventure complete with delicious food and snacks.

Have a pool day

Pool days are just as fun and refreshing as beach days and don’t require getting sand all over your things. Whether you throw a pool party at home or go to a public pool like the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica, spend as much time as you can splashing around and making memories.

Practice self-care

During the summer, it’s easy to get caught up with all of the fun and put self-care on the back burner. Don’t forget to carve out some alone time too for self-reflection, nourishing yourself inside and out, and even planning out your goals for the rest of the year.

Do nothing

Part of the fun of summer is letting go of strict schedules and agendas and embracing the art of doing nothing. Leave some wiggle room in your summer itinerary to walk barefoot on the grass, soak up the sunshine, lie in a hammock, and just go with the flow.

Ride your bike

Summer is also the perfect time to ditch your car for a bike instead. Rent a beach cruiser and cycle your way down the bike paths at the beach while taking in the beautiful ocean views or go for sunset rides in your neighborhood.

Host a barbecue

There’s nothing like a sun-soaked backyard barbecue with friends and family. End summer with a bang by hosting one of your own. Fire up the grill. Lounge on unicorn pool floaties. Have a water balloon fight. Make freshly squeezed lemonade. Do all the quintessential summer activities that are still on your list.

Attend an outdoor concert

Celebrate summer by dancing under the stars at an outdoor concert. The Santa Monica Pier, for example, hosts Twilight on the Pier, a free music festival every Wednesday from August 21 through September 25. The line-up stars new artists from different genres. You can also look forward to trapeze shows, comedy performers, art installations, and food and drink specials.

Enjoy a picnic at the park

Even if you can’t squeeze in a full on beach day, there are still ways you can make the most out of the summer. For example, instead of eating your lunch at your desk, head out to your nearest park, lay out a blanket, and enjoy your food alfresco under a shady tree. Summer bliss lies in the little things.

Chill on a rooftop

In addition to gorgeous beaches, LA also has an abundance of chic rooftop spots that are perfect for sitting back, sipping a cocktail, and enjoying the summer vibes. Bonus points if the rooftop also has a pool and dreamy ocean views.