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I can't believe we've almost made it to summer! Honestly spring and summer feel pretty similar in the Bay Area. We've been enjoying upper 70's and low 80's temperatures recently and I can't complain. Since we're still technically in spring (and other parts of the country are just starting to warm up), I thought I'd combine my spring and summer bucket list ideas. I hope this gives you some inspiration to get outside and enjoy the sunshine!
Spring + Summer Bucket List Ideas
Picnic In The Park
Obviously I had to include this one because look at all these gorgeous picnic photos 🙂 I also mentioned picnics in my New York City spring guide. This is one of my favorite things to do whenever the weather permits. If you're local to the Bay Area, I highly recommend a picnic in the San Jose Rose Garden. May and June are optimal for peak bloom.
Have A Pool Day
I love being in water. Whether it's the pool, beach, lake, hot springs or river, sign me up! Unfortunately we don't have easy access to a pool right now. My go to last summer was using ResortPass. This service allows you to purchase a day (or hourly) pass to various hotels. Note: not all the hotels are glamourous. I didn't have a lot of fancy options near me but it was nice to spend a few hours poolside with a good book. I'm also interested in trying Swimply this year. Apparently it's like airbnb for pools by the hour. I noticed there's a ton in my area but it seems like it might only be worth the price if you go with a group. I'll keep you updated if I try it!
Go Berry Picking
If you've followed me for longer than a year, you'll know that I love to pick berries in the summer months. I grew up picking olallieberries in Santa Cruz every summer. Joe and I have kept the tradition alive. If you're looking for u-pick farms in the Bay Area, check out my berry picking post from last summer. One of these u-picks is even located down the road from an amazing goat farm - you have to check it out.
Plan The Ultimate Vacation
I'm fortunate enough to have a few fun trips in the works this summer. I'm looking forward to my first trip to the Bahamas followed by a beach trip to San Luis Obispo for our wedding anniversary and finally to Salem, Cape Cod & Nantucket to wrap up some fun in the sun.
Movies In The Park
A lot of cities offer community summer events like movies in the park. Last summer we watched Up at a park in downtown San Jose. There were several we checked out when we lived in New York. I highly recommend searching your area. Make sure to pack lawn chairs, blankets, and plenty of snacks.
Make Ice Cream
My parents got me an ice cream maker a few years ago. Joe and I love pulling it out in the summer. We're big fans of these mixes. We also like this lemon curd ice cream that our cousin makes.
Stroll Through The Farmer's Market
With summer comes stone fruit season, which is my absolute favorite. I discovered this most incredible peaches at the San Francisco Ferry Building Farmer's Market a couple years ago but wasn't able to track them down last year. Along the way, I found mango nectarines, doughnut peaches, and plucots. My mission for this summer is to find the best yellow peaches.
Swim In The Ocean
It wouldn't be summer without a beach day. I'm looking forward to several beach trips this summer. First, we have our upcoming trip to the Bahamas. Then, in June, we have our anniversary trip to San Luis Obispo & Pismo Beach. Finally, we're heading to Cape Cod & Nantucket in July.
Visit Lake Tahoe
If you live in Northern California, you've likely visited Lake Tahoe. Joe and I try to visit each summer and dip our toes in the lake. Unfortunately our trip in 2021 clashed with the fires and we had to drive home a day after we arrived. We have the same weekend booked this year and are crossing our fingers!
Eek I'm getting so excited for summer after writing this post! I hope you have some fun plans to look forward to in the coming months. Share what you're up to with me on Instagram.
Photos: Emily Kim Photography
