Summer is finally here! And, it’s the perfect time to prioritize self-care and focus on your well-being.
Summer should be a time of relaxation, fun, and rejuvenation and that’s where summer self-care comes in.
Whether you take a break from work, travel to new places, or just enjoy the warm weather, it’s essential to take care of yourself both physically and mentally.
Today on the blog, we will explore 25 summer self-care ideas that you can try to make the most of this season and improve your overall well-being.
So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to indulge in some much-needed summer self-care!
25 Ideas for Summer Self-Care
1. Eat some watermelon
Something about summer and watermelon just go perfectly together. Have a slice. Make a fruit salad with it. Or, put it in your favorite mocktail/cocktail. It’s the perfect summer self-care treat.
2. Drink water
Seriously. This is probably one of the best summer self-care tips out there. It’s no secret that summer is hot. So make sure you are staying hydrated. If you struggle with drinking plain water, consider adding a supplement to aid with hydration.
3. Keep a routine
With kids out of school or summer vacation plans, it can be easy to fall out of your typical routine. But one of the best things you can do for your summer self-care is to keep some type of routine.
Maybe the kids even read or do an educational activity at some point in the day just to keep them in the habit of “learning” too. Whatever your routine is throughout the year, try to keep at least some of the same habits.
4. Have some summer fun
Play some mini-golf, have a water balloon fight, run through the sprinklers, use super soakers, eat ice cream. Grab the kids or your best friends and do something fun and summer-specific.
5. Have your morning coffee outside
Your morning coffee is probably a ritual. I get it because it is for me too. If you have a deck or patio, it’s the perfect spot to drink your coffee in the morning. The temperature will be just right and you can take a few minutes and practice some summer self-care.
6. Get the swimsuit
Seriously, whatever swimsuit or summer dress you are looking at or have saved in your shopping cart (I’m guilty of this!), just get it. Who cares what others think? Do something for yourself that makes you happy.
Wear the swimsuit; wear the dress. Be happy with who you are because you are beautiful.
7. Take a vacation
If you can afford it, try to get away for a few days, even if it’s just a weekend. Go to a lake, visit the beach, go camping. Do something outside in nature with your family or friends. It is summer after all!
8. Read a summer book
Reading a book is a great way to practice self-care during the summer. I suggest a summer-themed book that is light and airy like “The Summer Book” by Tove Jansson or check out a summer reads book list.
9. Wear sunscreen
Taking care of yourself and your body is what self-care is all about. And wearing sunscreen is important year-round, but especially in the summer when the sun is out longer and UV rays are often higher. I burn very easily, so I always make sure to apply some if I’m going to be in the sun for an extended period of time.
10. Try a new ice cream flavor
Summer is the perfect time to eat ice cream, so why not have some fun with it and try a new flavor every week? Or every two weeks if your wallet and waistline need a break! Many ice cream shops are only open in the summer, so it’s fun to try every flavor while you can!
11. Take a nap in a hammock
Of course, naps are vital for babies and toddlers, but even as you get older naps are still beneficial now and again. So one day this summer take a nap in a hammock. Just be sure you wear some sunscreen or are in a shaded spot so you don’t get sunburned!
12. See a flower farm
Flower farms are amazing! And, one of the best times of year to visit flower farms are often in the summer. Check out this list of awesome flower farms you can find across the US.
13. Pick berries
Local blueberry farms and strawberry farms are around. It doesn’t matter if you are in a big city or a small town; just search Google and see what comes up near your home.
14. Attend a concert or festival
Summer concerts or festivals are exciting! Not only does it give you something to look forward to as it is a break from your usual routine, but you also get to enjoy a unique experience. Concerts in general are often emotionally cathartic and energizing, which prompts your mental and emotional well-being.
15. Have a backyard BBQ with friends and family
Having a backyard BBQ with friends and family is a fantastic way to enjoy quality time together while savoring delicious food. It creates an opportunity for bonding, laughter, and creating lasting memories as you gather around the grill, share stories, and indulge in the flavors of summertime. So fire up the grill and set up the outdoor seating!
16. Try a new summer drink or cocktail recipe
Summer is the perfect time to try a new refreshing drink or cocktail recipe. Whether it’s a fruity mocktail, a tropical cocktail, or a unique coffee concoction, experimenting with new summer beverages can be a delightful way to treat yourself and indulge in the flavors of the season.
17. Take a scenic drive
Hop in your car, roll down the windows, and take a scenic drive. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, connect with nature, and explore the beauty of your surroundings. Plus it’s free!
Long, leisurely drives allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in stunning landscapes. So turn on your favorite tunes and embrace the Sunday driver mindset.
18. Spend time with animals
Try horseback riding or visit a petting zoo if you have kids. You could even volunteer at a local animal shelter. Animals not only provide a mood boost, they often bring out the best in us too!
19. Go to an outdoor movie or theater event
Attending an outdoor movie or theater event as a form of summer self-care offers a unique opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate in a refreshing setting, surrounded by nature or a vibrant atmosphere.
You can escape from daily stresses, immerse yourself in captivating storytelling, and enjoy the therapeutic effects of entertainment under the open sky, promoting relaxation and a sense of joy.
20. Attend a sporting event or game
Attending a sporting event is an immersive and thrilling experience. It’s also a chance to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the excitement, energy, and camaraderie that comes with cheering on your favorite team or athlete.
21. Practice gratitude
Practicing gratitude can improve overall well-being by shifting focus toward positive aspects of life, fostering a sense of contentment, and reducing stress. Gratitude encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment, cultivating a more positive outlook and strengthening relationships.
22. Drink a smoothie
Take those berries you picked earlier and make a smoothie! Something about a smoothie in the summer is so refreshing and a great pick-me-up. Check out these amazing smoothie recipes perfect for summer!
23. Try an outdoor watersport
Think paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing. Anything on the water that you’ve never done before. Summer is the perfect time to take the plunge and try something new a fun!
24. Do a random act of kindness
A while back someone at a local diner picked up our dinner bill and I have never forgotten it. In particular, I was having a rough day (hence eating out because this mama didn’t want to make dinner!). I have no idea who this person was, I didn’t even see them or get a chance to say thank you. But, It was a bright spot at the end of a rough day.
So find a way to help out a stranger this summer. Buy them a coffee, open the door for them, offer to return their shopping cart for them. You never know what someone is going through and something that might seem minor can go a long way.
25. Let things go
It’s summer. Don’t worry about being perfect (actually, you shouldn’t ever worry about that…). But seriously, just as much as you should try to keep a bit of your usual routine learn to let things go too. Just go with the flow this summer and see how you feel.
Summer self-care ideas should be activities that help you relax, recharge, and enjoy the season.
From outdoor activities to spending time with loved ones, practicing gratitude, and trying new things there is something for everyone to try this summer.
Whatever self-care activities you choose, just make sure they help you feel refreshed, energized, and happy!
For more self-care ideas check out these posts:
10 thoughts on “Revive and Thrive: 25 Refreshing Summer Self-Care Ideas to Recharge Your Soul”
I love posts like these! This is a great list because these are such lowkey ideas that sound so refreshing just reading about. Especially trying a new ice cream flavor and napping in a hammock. Thanks for the tips!
So happy you enjoyed this Olivia! Enjoy the summer!
I want to go to a flower farm so bad this summer! I love this list and hope do to a lot of these while the weather is still warm. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Hannah! I hope you get to visit a flower farm this summer! They are so much fun!
I love your ideas for summer self-care. My favorite is to visit a flower farm which I need to add to my bucket list. I’m very passionate about practicing self-care daily as it is so important for our well-being.
Thanks so much Karen! Flower farms are so beautiful and so much fun to visit. I agree daily self-care is a must for everyone.
Wearing sunscreen is a must for me, and now that I have my license, I will definitely be taking some scenic drives.
That’s awesome! I hope you get to enjoy some scenic drives this summer!
Reading a summer book is a must!!
I agree! Doing it while sitting outside or relaxing by the water is even better too!