Summer for me used to involve drinking on the patio and then laying in the sun to sweat out the toxins I had put into my body. When I got sober, Summers were really hard because they were associated with so many memories involving drinking. The minute we would have those first few days of heat, my cravings would go into high gear, and I just honestly didn’t know what I even liked to do. (Also read my post about why warm weather makes us want to drink here.)

Summer is the perfect time to break away from the routine and try something new. There are so many more options for activities that refresh your body and mind. Here are 12 sober activities that I will adding to my summer bucket list.

Social and Sober Summer

1. Coffee Dates – Gone are the days of me wanting to stay out late. Start your morning with coffee and friend. Try some local shop, try a new drink. Catch up and actually remember the experience.
2. Mocktail Parties – Host a mocktail party with friends. Experiment with different recipes for non-alcoholic drinks that are both delicious and refreshing. Think along the lines of virgin mojitos, fruit spritzers, and herb-infused lemonades.
3. Try a New Brunch Spot – If you are anything like me, you drive by a new spot and say, “we should try that sometime.” Do it. Keep a notebook in the car and write that shit down when you see it (Because if you are also anything like me, you will decide to go to brunch and then not be able to think of a place to go). Spend a morning with your partner or your girlfriends and not waste the whole day feeling like crap from the bottomless mimosas.
4. Appetizer/Mocktail Crawl – With a kiddo, date nights were few and far between for us, so we used to love to try as many places as we could when we did get out. We pick a few places to try and then get apps and drinks at each one. Do some research in your area. Find places that have a mocktail menu and enjoy.

Active and Alcohol Free

1. Hiking and Nature Walks – I love a good walk in my neighborhood, but sometimes its just so nice to change up the scenery. Explore nearby trails, nature reserves, or national parks. Hiking not only offers a great workout but also allows you to connect with nature, clear your mind, and discover breathtaking views.
2. Plant a Garden – My thumb is not green. I’ve planted a garden the last few years and haven’t stuck with it long enough to see the results (ie. I may or may not have forgotten to water it). This year, the vegetables are in the ground and I’m committed. This gives you something to commit to, to check in on and to care for. We have these raised beds in our yard – order here
3. Water Sports – Spend a day at the beach swimming, relaxing, or trying out water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing. The beach offers endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Look for a place where you can rent some equipment to try out.
4. Bike/Bike Tour – Dust off your own bike, rent one, borrow one. This is a great way to explore more of your city. Plan a destination, or just explore. My bike tours typically end with ice cream, so its a win-win.
5. Start a Fitness Challenge – Take on a summer fitness challenge. I thrive when it comes to a challenge. Whether it’s training for a marathon, joining a boot camp, or simply setting personal fitness goals, summer is a great time to get active and stay motivated.

Sober Relaxation

1. Reading or a Book Club – Spend time reading books from your favorite genres or explore new ones. Join a book club to share your thoughts and discuss with others, adding a social element to your reading habit. Here is what I am currently reading: The Book of Boundaries – Order it Here
2. Spa Day – Sometimes you just need to treat yourself.
3. Take an Online Class – Enroll in online classes to learn something new. Whether it’s a language, a new skill, or a subject you’re passionate about, online classes can be a great way to keep your mind active during the summer.

Sober Summer offers a multitude of opportunities to enjoy life without the need for alcohol. From physical activities and cultural experiences to creative pursuits and community involvement, there’s something for everyone. So, this summer, embrace the sunshine and discover new ways to make lasting memories.

What are your favorite summer activities? Share in the comments below!