ummer’s here and it’s time to soak up the sun! There are endless activities to keep your kids busy this time of year, but when it’s a little too hot, some extra planning is needed. Make sure to hydrate and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. HERE ARE TEN OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO ON A SUPER HOT DAY.
HIT THE BEACH
The peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches around. If you want a short, kid-friendly hike that leads to spectacular views, head south to Garrapata Beach, which is also a wonderful place to grab some family photos during sunset. If you are looking for protection from the wind and large swells, Lovers Point Beach can’t be beat. Our personal favorite is the Carmel Lagoon Beach. We like to set up on the river side so the kids can play in calm water and it’s a short walk from the parking lot.
TAKE A DIP IN THE POOL
The Monterey Sports Center has a large indoor pool with an amazing water slide for your older kids. Check their website for swim hours. Carmel Valley Community Pool is outdoors and is usually sunny all summer long. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park after you cool off.
REST BY THE RIVER
The river is an amazing place for safe water play on the shore, wildlife watching, and treasure hunting. One of our favorite places to enjoy the river is Garland Ranch Regional Park. You can have the chance to see fish, ducks, hawks, lizards, butterflies, and so much more.
SPLASH AROUND AT A WATER PARK
Gilroy Gardens has expanded its waterpark, the Water Oasis. They have a gentle water play area for little ones, and for older kids, the expansion includes water slides, a giant tipping bucket, and so many more exciting features. There are also comfortable beach chairs for Mom and Dad.
TAKE A STROLL UNDER THE TREES
With the right tree cover, a family walk is a wonderful option on a hot day. Check out Mission Trail Park in Carmel or Rip Van Winkle Open Space in Pacific Grove. Both of these beautiful areas have heavy tree cover and luscious greenery to shade you from the summer sun.
TAKE A DAY TRIP TO BIG SUR
Make sure to check the road conditions before embarking on this adventure. To start, head to Deetjen’s for the coziest breakfast in town. Then make your way to Pfeiffer State Park for a day of hiking, swimming, and exploring. The most famous trails are handicap and stroller accessible.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, venture down the road to the Big Sur River Inn. Nothing beats eating a burger and fries with your feet in the river. Our kids love to bring their soccer ball to kick around on the lawn. If you’re in need of a sweet treat, stop by their ice cream bus.
When it comes to sunsets, Big Sur’s are one of a kind. You can’t go wrong with stopping at a turnout to enjoy them, but if you are feeling extra adventurous at the end of the day, watch the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach. The purple sand and Keyhole Arch are truly breathtaking.
If you have older children who are interested in the history of the area, you can book a three-hour tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse. The view from the lighthouse is one you will never forget.
STAY HOME BUT GET OUTSIDE
With so many activities during these summer months, it’s sometimes nice to stay home and enjoy your own backyard. Our kids love their water table, kiddie pool, and bubble machine. For a special activity, create your own sensory bin with frozen toys. I place small dinosaurs, action figures, and princesses in large ice cube trays and freeze them overnight. Your kiddo can have fun watching them melt or even cracking them open with their tools. Of course, most of ours end up in the pool but much fun is had!
OR . . .STAY COOL INSIDE
If you are in need of a relaxing day out of the sun, stay home and enjoy some arts and crafts. One of our favorite projects this time of year is making suncatchers. All you need is a paper plate, contact paper, and nature treasures. My kids use leaves and flower petals. Cut the middle out of the paper plate, replace it with contact paper, and have your kids stick the petals and leaves in the middle. Hang it in the window to see the sun shine through. We also love to make fresh smoothies and popsicles by freezing fruit juices.
WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM!
Last but certainly not least, ice cream! After a long day in the sun, stop by one of our local ice cream shops for a sweet treat. We love Myo Frozen Yogurt, Revival Ice Cream, and Moonscoops Ice Creamery.
Leave a Reply