30 Summer Hobbies That Make The Most Of Sunny Days

Theres something magical about summer that just hits different. You wake-up more refreshed, energized and motivated to try new things. Like taking up a new hobby just for you. Whether you want to nurture your creative side or spend more time outdoors, there are so many fun things to do. And if you’re looking for inspo for a new hobby then I’ve got plenty of ideas for you.

These 30 summer hobbies will inspire you to soak up the season, have fun and maybe learn a thing or two along the way. Enjoy!

Make This Summer Count – 30 Hobbies To Spark Joy

1. Explore Creative or Junk Journaling

Your summer memories deserve to be captured. Creative journalling is the cutest way to do it. To get started grab a blank journal and let your creativity flow. Think postcards, old magazines, photos, quotes, fabric scraps, gel markers and washi tape. At the end of the season you have a work of art and something special to look back on.

2. Dig Into Gardening

Gardening in the summer is one of those hobbies that just feels good. You don’t need a big yard, herbs or flowers in a few pots totally count. Watching your plants grow is surprisingly satisfying, and it’s a great excuse to get outside. Plus, fresh basil or homegrown blooms are always a win.

3. Explore The Art Of Photography

Besides being selfie gold, soft summer light just begs to be photographed. If you don’t have a fancy camera that’s ok. Your smart phone is more than enough to capture sunsets, wildflowers or a fancy ice cream cone. The fun is in noticing little moments you might usually miss. Plus, flipping back through your photos at the end of the season is its own kind of reward.

4. Start A Summer Reading List Challenge

There’s nothing like getting lost in a good book during the long sunny days. Make a list of titles you’ve been meaning to read, or ask friends for their favorites. You might set a goal, maybe five books by Labor Day, or a mix of genres you wouldn’t normally try. Either way, you’ll end up with a stack of stories and maybe a new favorite author.

5. Explore Summer Art Workshops

Summer is the perfect time to shake things up and try a new art class, even if you haven’t picked up a paintbrush since grade school. From watercolor to pottery or printmaking, there’s a workshop out there with your name on it. Sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge to discover a new passion.

6. Learn The Art Of Flower Pressing

Making art with pressed flowers is the kind of project that feels both nostalgic and fresh. You can grab a flower pressing kit. Or do it the old fashioned way with some heavy books, and a little patience while nature does its thing. Once they’re pressed, you can turn them into cards, bookmarks, or simple framed art.

7. Start A Summer Cocktails Club

Looking for a hobby that’s the perfect excuse to gather your friends for drinks? Then why not start a cocktail club. Each week, pick a different drink to mix up, think fresh fruit spritzers, classic mojitos, or even creative mocktails if you’re keeping it booze-free. It’s low-key, fun, and a great way to keep the laughs going as the sun goes down.

8. Take On A Cookbook Challenge

If you’ve got a cookbook gathering dust, summer is the perfect time to crack it open and try every recipe. Yes, even the weird ones. Cooking your way through a whole book is equal parts adventure and accomplishment, and it definitely keeps dinner interesting.

9. Pick Up A Fibre Art – Learn To Knit or Crochet

Knitting is my go to hobby and I can personally confirm that it’s both relaxing and more than a little addictive. You don’t need much to get started just some yarn, a hook for crocheting or knitting needles. And a bit of patience for those first few rows. It’s perfect for lazy afternoons on the porch or movie nights when you want to keep your hands busy.

10. Explore Local Foraging

Foraging is all about getting outside and discovering what edible plants are growing wild in your area. Think wild blackberries, fiddle heads, or herbs. If you’re new to it join a local foraging walk to learn what’s safe to pick. Remember to always double-check before you taste anything!

11. Take Up Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up paddle boarding is so much fun and looks way harder than it actually is. Most places with lakes or calm rivers offer beginner rentals and lessons, so you can get your feet wet (literally) without any pressure.

12. Make Your Own Kombucha or Kimchi

Making your own kombucha is a little bit science experiment, a little bit kitchen magic, and totally doable. Even if you’ve never tried fermenting before. All you need are a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience while the flavors do their thing. Warning, once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself wanting to ferment everything in sight.

13. Whip Up Your Own Frozen Treats

There’s nothing quite like homemade ice cream on a hot summer day. You can get into the highly addictive Ninja Creami craze, or try a simple, no-churn recipe. The best part? You control exactly what goes in and the sugar level. So every scoop is made just the way you like it.

14. Pick Up A Musical Instrument

Always wanted to play guitar, ukulele, or even the drums? Summer is a great time to learn. Who knows? By the end of the season, you might be able to play your favorite song (or at least impress yourself with a few new chords).

15. Get Crafty With Home Décor

If you’ve been meaning to freshen up your space, DIY décor projects are the way to go. Think painted flower pots, handmade wall art, or a simple furniture flip. Plus, it’s a great excuse to finally tackle that Pinterest board you’ve been saving.

16. Master DIY Manicures

I have been doing my own nails for years and it’s way less intimidating than it sounds. And honestly, kind of addictive once you get started. You can play around with bold summer colors, try out simple nail art, or just focus on getting that perfect glossy finish.

17. Refresh Old Furniture with Upcycling

If you’re itching for a change but don’t want to splurge on something new upcycling is fun option. A bit of paint, some new hardware, or a bold fabric can totally transform a tired piece into something you actually love.

18. Create Dreamy Romantic Floral Arrangements

Fresh flowers have a way of instantly brightening your space and your mood. You don’t need to be a florist, just grab whatever blooms catch your eye at the famers market or your own garden. Then play around with colors and shapes. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, and sometimes the wild, imperfect bunches are the prettiest.

19. DIY Candle Making

Candles can be a pricey indulgence, but not if you make them yourself. You can keep it simple with basic molds and scents, or get adventurous with layered colors and fun shapes. Take a class in person, or start with a simple home kit from Amazon and a youtube tutorial.

20. Geocaching Adventures & Treasure Hunts

Geocaching is basically a modern day treasure hunt. All you need is a smartphone and a sense of adventure to get started. Whether you’re doing it locally or while travelling, each find is a surprise, and you never know what you’ll discover next.

21. Try DIY Jewelry Crafting

Jewelry making has endless options, from beaded bracelets, silver smithing, cute polymer clay earrings, to metal stamping. There are tons of fun classes, both in-person and online. Where you can learn all things jewellery related. You’ll end up with cool unique pieces that feel special because you made them yourself.

22. Hit the Tennis Court or Try Pickleball

Tennis and pickleball are both fun, fantastic ways to get moving. Plus, there are plenty of social leagues or drop-in games if you want to meet new people.

23. Learn Windsurfing

Windsurfing is part workout and adventure, you’ll be hooked after your first ride.

24. Get Into The Art of Fabric Dyeing

If you’re looking for a hands-on project, fabric dyeing is a unique and creative option. Keep it simple with classic tie-dye or experiment with shibori for those cool, Japanese-inspired patterns. The best part? Every piece comes out totally unique, and you’ll end up with wearable art or one-of-a-kind home accents.

25. Learn A New Language

Learning a new language might seem intimidating, but why not give it a go. With so many free apps and online resources, you can squeeze in a little practice whenever you have a spare moment. By the end of the season, you might just be planning your next trip to put your new skills to the test.

26. Challenge Yourself With Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is easier to get into than you might think. Local gyms offer beginner classes, or you can try bouldering or a guided outdoor climb for a real adrenaline rush.

27. Learn To Golf

If you’ve ever been curious about golf, summer is the perfect time to give it a shot – no pun intended.

28. Start A Backyard Bird List

Grab a pair of binoculars, and a field guide and then head outside to your backyard or local park. You’ll be surprised by how many different birds you can spot once you start paying attention.

29. Get Into Kayaking or Canoeing

Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to explore lakes and rivers while getting a gentle workout. It’s peaceful, scenic and perfect for solo time, or a day out with friends. Plus, you’ll discover hidden spots you can’t reach on foot.

30. Make Creative Projects For Your Garden

Spruce up your garden or outdoor space with a few charming DIY projects. Think colorful plant markers and pots. Wind chimes from old cutlery, DIY bird feeders or mosaic stepping stones. These fun creative touches add personality and are super fun way to spend any sunny afternoon.

**What To Read Next**

• Need some “Me Time”? 65 Solo Date Ideas To Try
• 30 Summer Glow Up Self-Care Ideas
• 30 Spring Self Care Ideas For The Ultimate Glow Up
• Bucket List For Couples – 80 Summer Activities
• 20 Summer Self-Care Wellness Rituals For Mind, Body and Spirit

Let’s Get Social Follow Me On:

• Instagram: @DeannaCobden
• Pinterest: @DeannaCobden

Save this list of hobbies and activities to try in the summer for later on Pinterest…