Summer is the season for making the most of family time and enjoying the outdoors! We’ve put together the ultimate Family Summer Bucket List to give you some ideas on how to make this summer one you’ll be talking about for years to come.
We know that going on a big summer trip isn’t in the cards for every family. Or maybe just not every year is it possible. Travel & adventure can look different for everyone based on life circumstances. So our suggestions range from easy backyard adventures to far-away explorations, ensuring that there are options for every family’s comfort and wanderlust capacity.
If you are looking for more family itineraries in some of our favorite destinations, check out our Family Travel page.
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Family Summer Bucket List
1. Play in the Sand
Get messy in the sand with the kids by going to the beach! What is summer without a trip to the beach, amiright?!?! I grew up in places that had nice beaches, so it takes me back to my childhood to be covered head to toe in sand, digging and building anything you can think of. Sand just opens up the opportunity for creative fun for the whole family. And nothing quite compares to the warm sand on your skin, the crashing of the waves drowning everything else out around you, and the absolute exhaustion that comes at the end of a beach day.
Some of my favorite beaches are in San Diego, CA and on Oahu, HI. I have posts about my faves if you are visiting either of those destinations here:
–Rocky Point, Mexico with Kids
If you don’t have the budget this summer for a big trip to the beach and you don’t live close enough to the ocean, I still have a few options for you. Don’t worry 😉
Summer Bucket List
In Arizona, the closest thing we have to an ocean is a lake. And surprisingly, there is a nice little beach area at the lake! Maybe you aren’t close to an ocean either, but you could find something similar nearby. You might not get to build ginormous sand castles or bury yourself in the sand, but you will still get some quality creative time in the sun with your kids.
The last option I have for you is to bring the beach directly to your house! Grab some sand, sea shells, and small sand toys (maybe from your last trip to the beach!) and put them in a big storage bin. Set it outside and let the kids go to town!
You can also buy special kits like these if you don’t already have some sand that will work and it is super affordable and the best thing to keep your young kids busy with. Sensory activities are great for passing the summer days. Just make yourself a pina colada to go along with it while sitting in the sun, and you’ll almost trick yourself that youre on an island 😉
2. Watch the Sunset
Yes, it’s romantic. But it’s also just beautiful! Watching the sunset with your kids (&spouse) can be a really special moment. A “glimmer” if you will. (I learned that’s a term that is the opposite of a “trigger” & so now I’m using it more & trying to recognize them more!).
We made it a goal for a month to watch the sunset every day & it became a really fun tradition that we still do almost every day. It’s been cool to me to see the appreciation my daughter has for the beautiful sky & I love that it’s so different each day. I believe that teaching our kids from a young age to appreciate the earth & the beauty of nature is important because it helps you slow down and be present. So this is why watching a sunset is on the list for your family summer bucket list!
Now, Arizona does have some of the best sunsets so maybe we are spoiled getting to see the best sunsets around 😉 but you can come visit AZ for yourself and see how you think it compares. We have plenty of guides for things to do while you’re here!
3. Watch the Sunrise
I know, I know. The sun rises pretty early in the morning during summertime. And what’s the difference between watching the sunrise & sunset other than having to wake up way too early?
Well, I think the sunrise is extra special because a lot of the world is still sleeping & you can feel more of that calm energy of the start of the day. Again, I think it’s a good way to teach kids to slow down, be present, and appreciate the things around them. Make it fun & go to a new destination to watch the sunrise & then grab breakfast out somewhere! I promise you won’t regret it!
4. Family Bike Ride
One of my favorite summertime memories is family bike rides around Coronado Island in San Diego, CA. We did when I was a kid, and then just recently we did it as a family with my husband and two kids. It was the best day and we now have intentions of going back to do that again every year from now on!
Again, if you don’t have the budget for going all the way out to San Diego, CA- going for a bike ride at your local park or in your neighborhood is just as good and just as good of an opportunity for bonding as a family. Kids love bike rides! And if they aren’t old enough to ride their own bike, grab a bike seat here:
5. Go Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding offers a thrilling adventure for the whole family, combining a bit of exercise with the serene beauty of nature. Glide across the water together, whether it’s on a calm lake or along the gentle waves of the ocean. For beginners, it’s a fantastic way to learn balance and coordination while soaking up the sun. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a waterproof camera to capture those unforgettable moments as you explore the waters together.
Here is my board if you are looking to purchase one of your own:
No matter where you are, there is somewhere you can find to go paddleboarding, so add it to this year’s summer bucket list! Even if you have young kids, they will love going on the board with you, just make sure they wear a life jacket.
6. Go on a Hike
Next, embark on a family hiking adventure to discover the natural wonders in your area. Whether it’s a short nature trail or a challenging mountain path, hiking provides an opportunity for quality time together while immersing yourselves in the great outdoors. Encourage everyone to observe the flora and fauna along the way, and don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep energy levels up. Remember to take breaks, snap some photos, and enjoy the breathtaking views as you create lasting memories together.
In the Phoenix Valley? Here are the Best Hikes to do with Kids in the East Valley.
7. Have a Picnic
There’s something magical about enjoying a picnic on a warm summer day with loved ones. Gather your favorite snacks, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks, then head to a nearby park or scenic spot. Spread out a blanket under the shade of a tree or set up at a picnic table, and let the kids run free while you relax and savor each moment. Don’t forget to pack games like frisbee or a deck of cards to keep the fun going long after the food is gone.
8. Tourists in your Own City
I know, I know. It’s cliche. But have you ever actually done it?? Had a mini staycation in your own city?? Visit local landmarks, museums, or cultural attractions that you’ve always wanted to explore but never had the chance to. Take a leisurely stroll through vibrant neighborhoods, sample street food from food trucks, and engage in activities that showcase the unique character of your hometown. You might be surprised by how much you can discover and appreciate about your own city when you see it through fresh eyes.
9. Go camping
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by immersing yourselves in the tranquility of nature with a family camping trip. Set up tents, roast marshmallows over a crackling campfire, and share stories under the starlit sky. Whether you choose to camp in a designated campground or venture into the wilderness for a more rugged experience, camping provides an opportunity to unplug from technology and reconnect with each other while forging unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.
Be sure and grab all the essentials by using our Camping Gear Guide!
10. Play a Family Sport
Engage in friendly competition and physical activity by playing a family sport together. Whether it’s a game of soccer, basketball, or volleyball at the local park, or a round of mini-golf or disc golf, there are endless options to get active and have fun as a family. Don’t worry about keeping score—focus on teamwork, laughter, and enjoying each other’s company as you bond over friendly matches and playful banter.
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the USA, and for a good reason. It is the best sport for all ages and all skill levels. It is truly a sport that you can go out and play without having to have any prior experience. Grab some paddles HERE to get started.. But watch out, it is pretty addicting!
11. Watch the Stars
Add spending an evening marveling at the wonders of the night sky to your family summer bucket list! Set up blankets and pillows in the backyard or head to a nearby stargazing spot away from city lights. Bring along a telescope or binoculars to get a closer look at constellations, planets, and shooting stars. Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and questions about the universe as you gaze up at the twinkling stars above, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity that will last long after the night has ended.
Many cities have observatories that you can visit with kids. Visiting places like that as a kid was when I actually retained the things I learned because it was so hands-on and I could literally see what we were talking about instead of just reading it in a book. So it’s a win, win. They learn. You enjoy yourself. They have fun too!
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