Summer is the perfect time to slow down, have fun, try new things, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you want to spend your days soaking up the sun, enjoying adventures, or simply trying something new, a summer bucket list is a great way to make the most of the season.

This list of 135 summer bucket list ideas is packed with inspiration for adventure, relaxation, self-care, personal growth, and fun experiences. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re spending the season solo, with friends, or with family.

So grab your notebook, your calendar, or your vision board, and let’s dive into the ultimate summer bucket list.

1. Outdoor Adventures

Nothing says summer like fresh air, sunshine, and a little adventure. Here are some ideas to make the most of your time outdoors:

1. Go hiking on a new trail

2. Take a sunrise or sunset walk on the beach

3. Try paddleboarding or kayaking

4. Go camping, even if it’s in your backyard

5. Plan a weekend road trip to explore a nearby town

6. Have a picnic in the park

7. Go zip-lining or try an adventure ropes course

8. Ride a bike on a scenic trail

9. Go horseback riding

10. Try rock climbing (indoor or outdoor)

11. Plan a stargazing night

12. Visit a botanical garden

13. Go on a nature photography walk

14. Explore a local waterfall

15. Go birdwatching

Tip: Take a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a camera—you’ll want to capture these sunny adventures!

2. Water Fun

Summer and water go hand-in-hand. Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, here are ways to splash, swim, and relax:

16. Spend a day at a water park

17. Go tubing or rafting

18. Try surfing or boogie boarding

19. Build a sandcastle on the beach

20. Go snorkeling

21. Have a pool float day

22. Try wakeboarding or waterskiing

23. Go fishing

24. Take a boat ride

25. Swim in a natural spring or lake

26. Try a new water sport you’ve never done before

27. Have a beach bonfire

28. Go cliff diving (safely!)

29. Paddle in a kayak at sunrise

30. Host a pool party with friends

Pro tip: Don’t forget sun protection—your skin will thank you later!

3. Food and Drink Adventures

Summer is full of fresh flavors and delicious treats. Try these ideas to tickle your taste buds:

31. Make homemade ice cream or popsicles

32. Host a summer barbecue

33. Try a new food truck or outdoor market

34. Have a picnic with seasonal fruits

35. Make a fresh fruit salad

36. Try a new smoothie or juice recipe

37. Make s’mores over a fire pit

38. Attend a local food festival

39. Go berry picking

40. Host a backyard lemonade stand for fun

41. Have an ice cream tasting night

42. Try a new summer cocktail or mocktail

43. Bake a seasonal pie (peach, berry, or cherry)

44. Go out for seafood at a local restaurant

45. Make homemade pizzas with summer veggies

Tip: Take photos of your foodie adventures—summer tastes are worth remembering!

4. Travel and Exploration

Whether it’s near or far, summer is the perfect time to explore new places:

46. Take a weekend trip to the mountains

47. Visit a new city

48. Go camping in a national park

49. Take a road trip with friends

50. Go to a local fair or carnival

51. Visit a local historical site

52. Try a scenic train ride

53. Explore a small town you’ve never been to

54. Take a ferry or boat tour

55. Go on a sunrise hot air balloon ride

56. Visit a vineyard or winery for a tour

57. Take a day trip to a nearby island

58. Go glamping

59. Attend an outdoor music festival

60. Explore a nearby farm or orchard

Tip: Don’t forget to pack a journal or travel notebook—you’ll want to record your summer adventures.

5. Fun with Friends

Summer is a great time to connect with friends and make memories together:

61. Host a backyard movie night

62. Plan a themed summer party

63. Go on a group hike

64. Have a beach day with friends

65. Try a new group sport or activity

66. Host a game night outdoors

67. Go to a drive-in theater

68. Plan a summer picnic

69. Go to a local festival or street fair together

70. Take a class together (yoga, painting, or cooking)

71. Have a karaoke night

72. Host a summer scavenger hunt

73. Try paddleboarding with friends

74. Go mini-golfing

75. Plan a pool float parade

Tip: Friend-filled activities make the summer feel extra special. Don’t forget the snacks and laughter!

6. Self-Care and Personal Growth

Summer is also a perfect time to focus on yourself:

76. Start a summer journal

77. Try meditation in the morning sunlight

78. Read a new book every week

79. Take a digital detox day

80. Start a new hobby (gardening, painting, photography)

81. Take a yoga class outdoors

82. Try a guided nature walk for mindfulness

83. Learn to cook a new cuisine

84. Make a gratitude list every morning

85. Do a random act of kindness

86. Try a new workout or fitness challenge

87. Declutter your home and donate unused items

88. Plant flowers or a small vegetable garden

89. Make a vision board for the rest of the year

90. Take yourself on a solo adventure

Tip: Even short self-care practices like morning journaling or walking can make your summer feel meaningful.

7. Creative Projects

Summer is perfect for tapping into your creativity:

91. Make a summer scrapbook

92. Start a summer photo challenge

93. Try DIY crafts or home projects

94. Paint or draw outdoors

95. Make your own candles or bath products

96. Write a short story or poem inspired by summer

97. Create a playlist of your favorite summer songs

98. Learn basic photography techniques

99. Start a summer blog or vlog

100. Try tie-dye clothing

101. Make friendship bracelets

102. Decorate your home with summer-themed crafts

103. Build a vision board

104. Start a summer bucket list journal

105. Paint a mural or wall art at home

Tip: Summer is a great time to experiment—don’t worry about perfection, just enjoy the creative process!

8. Seasonal Experiences

Make the most of everything summer uniquely offers:

106. Go to a local farmer’s market

107. Pick fresh berries or cherries

108. Visit a sunflower or lavender field

109. Attend a local summer festival

110. Take a sunset boat ride

111. Go to an outdoor theater

112. Watch fireworks at a local event

113. Go camping and make s’mores

114. Attend a garden tour or flower show

115. Watch the sunrise from a hill or beach

116. Try ice cream from a new local shop

117. Fly a kite

118. Attend a summer fair or carnival

119. Go on a scenic hike

120. Make homemade lemonade

Tip: Capture the colors, scents, and flavors—summer is a multi-sensory experience!

9. Adventure and Thrill

For those who want a little adrenaline with their summer fun:

121. Try zip-lining

122. Go white-water rafting

123. Learn to surf

124. Take a helicopter ride

125. Try a ropes course or obstacle challenge

126. Go parasailing

127. Try indoor rock climbing

128. Go skydiving or indoor skydiving

129. Go jet skiing

130. Ride a rollercoaster at a theme park

131. Try a hot air balloon ride

132. Go dune buggy racing

133. Try paddleboarding at a lake or river

134. Go kayaking at night with glow sticks

135. Take a sailing lesson

Tip: Safety first! Always take lessons or follow instructions for adventure activities.

Tips to Make Your Summer Bucket List a Reality

1. Write it down – A physical or digital list makes it easier to track progress.

2. Be realistic – Don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick a few items each week.

3. Mix big and small activities – Some days may be a picnic; others a weekend trip.

4. Include solo, friend, and family activities – Balance your summer experiences.

5. Capture memories – Take photos, videos, or keep a journal.

6. Be spontaneous – Leave room for unplanned adventures—they’re often the most memorable.

7. Reflect at the end of the summer – Celebrate your accomplishments and memories.

Summer is a season of sunshine, freedom, and adventure. Whether you’re trying something new, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply enjoying long days outside, a summer bucket list helps you make every moment count.

From outdoor adventures, water fun, and foodie experiences to personal growth, creativity, and thrill-seeking, this list of 135 ideas has something for everyone. Pick your favorites, mix them up, and make this summer the most memorable one yet.

Remember, a bucket list isn’t about checking off every item—it’s about experiencing joy, creating memories, and living intentionally. So grab your notebook, plan your adventures, and dive into the sun-filled, fun-packed season ahead. Summer is here—make it unforgettable.

135+ Summer Bucket List Ideas for This Summer

Summer is the season of sunshine, freedom, and adventure, and a summer bucket list is the perfect way to make every moment count. While the original 135 ideas give you plenty to choose from, let’s dive deeper. In this expanded guide, each idea is enriched with tips, variations, and ways to make it unforgettable, so you can truly live your best summer yet.

Whether you’re planning solo adventures, friend-filled escapades, or family-friendly activities, this guide covers everything. By the end, you’ll have actionable ways to turn ideas into memories, tips for staying organized, and a fresh perspective on how to maximize your summer.

1. Outdoor Adventures – Go Beyond the Basics

Summer is perfect for exploring the great outdoors. It’s more than just stepping outside; it’s about immersing yourself in nature and creating lasting memories. Here’s an expanded look at some outdoor adventure ideas:

1. Go hiking on a new trail – Pick trails of varying difficulty. Bonus points for trails with waterfalls or scenic lookouts.

2. Take a sunrise or sunset walk – Bring a thermos of coffee or herbal tea and enjoy the quiet moments.

3. Try paddleboarding or kayaking – Experiment with calm waters for a relaxing day or rivers with mild rapids for an adrenaline rush.

4. Go camping – If traditional camping isn’t your style, try glamping with a tent, fairy lights, and cozy bedding.

5. Plan a weekend road trip – Map out quirky roadside attractions, local diners, and scenic overlooks.

6. Have a picnic in the park – Upgrade it with a blanket, picnic basket, and a playlist of summer tunes.

7. Go zip-lining or a ropes course – Perfect for thrill-seekers and great for pushing personal limits.

8. Ride a bike on a scenic trail – Consider trails near lakes, rivers, or forest preserves for ultimate summer vibes.

9. Go horseback riding – Try trails that offer sunset rides for unforgettable memories.

10. Try rock climbing – Start with indoor climbing if you’re a beginner, then progress to outdoor cliffs.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera or smartphone with extra battery to capture spontaneous moments—sunsets, wildlife, and laughter make the best memories.

2. Water Fun – Cool Off and Have Fun

Water activities are a summer essential. They’re refreshing, fun, and often a little adventurous. Here’s a detailed guide for water bucket list ideas:

11. Spend a day at a water park – Make a game of riding every slide or floating down lazy rivers all day.

12. Go tubing or rafting – Grab friends and make it a day-long adventure. Bonus: pack snacks and waterproof your phone.

13. Try surfing or boogie boarding – Even beginners can have fun with a short lesson and patience.

14. Build a sandcastle – Go for a giant sculpture or a mini beach village. Competitive friends optional.

15. Go snorkeling – Explore underwater life, even in shallow waters—bright summer sunlight makes coral colors pop.

16. Have a pool float day – Pick fun inflatable floats: giant swans, pizza slices, or flamingos.

17. Try wakeboarding or waterskiing – Challenge yourself and experience a thrilling summer adrenaline rush.

18. Go fishing – A relaxing option—bring a picnic and make it a half-day or full-day excursion.

19. Take a boat ride – Rent a pontoon or join a local tour. Sunrise or sunset rides are especially magical.

20. Swim in a natural spring or lake – Look for hidden gems away from crowded beaches.

Variation Tip: Even if you live far from the coast, check out rivers, lakes, or community pools for unique water experiences.

3. Food and Drink Adventures – Summer on a Plate

Summer tastes incredible, and food adventures are a fun and social way to celebrate the season. Here’s how to expand on foodie ideas:

21. Make homemade ice cream or popsicles – Experiment with flavors like mango-chili or lavender-honey.

22. Host a summer barbecue – Include games like corn hole or a hula hoop contest to make it more fun.

23. Try a new food truck or outdoor market – Plan a food crawl with friends, rating each dish.

24. Have a picnic with seasonal fruits – Watermelon, peaches, berries—don’t forget a chilled beverage!

25. Make a fresh fruit salad – Try unique combos like watermelon, feta, and mint.

26. Try a new smoothie or juice recipe – Bonus: make it Instagram-worthy with layered colors.

27. Make s’mores over a fire pit – Experiment with flavored marshmallows or chocolate types.

28. Attend a local food festival – Try small portions so you can taste everything!

29. Go berry picking – Bring containers for jam-making or desserts.

30. Host a backyard lemonade stand for fun – Invite neighbors or friends for a playful twist.

Pro Tip: Take notes of your favorite recipes to recreate them later—it makes your summer tastes last all year.

4. Travel and Exploration – Discover Something New

Summer is ideal for seeing the world, even if it’s just your local area. Here’s how to make your summer explorations extra special:

31. Take a weekend trip to the mountains – Hiking trails, stargazing, and cozy cabins make for magical memories.

32. Visit a new city – Try a city scavenger hunt or a food-tasting tour.

33. Go camping in a national park – Check if the park has unique activities like ranger-led hikes.

34. Take a road trip with friends – Plan quirky stops like roadside murals, antique shops, or mini museums.

35. Go to a local fair or carnival – Ride the Ferris wheel, play games, and sample seasonal treats.

36. Visit a local historical site – Learn the stories behind your town or nearby city.

37. Try a scenic train ride – Great for relaxing and seeing beautiful landscapes.

38. Explore a small town you’ve never been to – Take a slow approach: coffee shop, antique store, and a walk around town.

39. Take a ferry or boat tour – Even short rides can feel like a mini adventure.

40. Go on a sunrise hot air balloon ride – Perfect for breathtaking photos and an unforgettable experience.

Extra Tip: Make a summer travel map and mark each place you visit—visually tracking your adventures adds to the excitement.

5. Fun with Friends – Shared Summer Memories

Some of the best summer memories are made with friends. Here’s how to maximize those moments:

41. Host a backyard movie night – Project onto a wall or sheet, bring blankets and snacks.

42. Plan a themed summer party – Hawaiian, 90s, or carnival—complete with costumes.

43. Go on a group hike – Make it a photo challenge: who can capture the best scenic shot?

44. Have a beach day with friends – Include games like volleyball, frisbee, or paddleboarding.

45. Try a new group sport or activity – Pickleball, frisbee golf, or a climbing gym visit.

46. Host a game night outdoors – Board games, trivia, or charades under string lights.

47. Go to a drive-in theater – Bring snacks, blankets, and a cooler for a cozy night.

48. Plan a summer picnic – Include themed music playlists and fun snacks.

49. Go to a local festival or street fair together – Food, music, and artisan booths make it special.

50. Take a class together – Yoga, painting, or cooking—fun, social, and productive.

Variation Tip: Capture these moments with a summer memory jar or photo album dedicated to friends’ adventures.

6. Self-Care and Personal Growth – Recharge and Reflect

Summer is also about personal growth, self-reflection, and nurturing your mind and body.

51. Start a summer journal – Record memories, gratitude, or daily reflections.

52. Try meditation outdoors – Let the sun, breeze, and sounds of nature guide you.

53. Read a new book every week – Pick genres you usually wouldn’t explore for new perspectives.

54. Take a digital detox day – Unplug for a day to focus on yourself and nature.

55. Start a new hobby – Gardening, painting, or photography are relaxing and productive.

56. Take a yoga class outdoors – Parks, beaches, or backyards provide refreshing spaces.

57. Try a guided nature walk for mindfulness – Focus on breathing, scents, and movement.

58. Learn to cook a new cuisine – Expand your palette and impress family or friends.

59. Make a gratitude list every morning – Positive mindset sets the tone for your day.

60. Do a random act of kindness – Simple gestures bring joy to others and yourself.

Pro Tip: Summer self-care can be playful—think spa days, nature walks, or creative workshops to rejuvenate mind and body.

7. Creative Projects – Summer DIY Fun

61. Make a summer scrapbook – Include photos, tickets, and souvenirs from adventures.

62. Start a summer photo challenge – Take a picture each day inspired by summer vibes.

63. Try DIY crafts or home projects – Decorate your home with summer-inspired themes.

64. Paint or draw outdoors – Sketch landscapes, flowers, or beach scenes.

65. Make candles or bath products – Scented creations add ambiance to your home.

66. Write a short story or poem inspired by summer – Capture your memories in words.

67. Create a playlist of favorite summer songs – Perfect for road trips or pool days.

68. Learn photography techniques – Experiment with lighting, angles, and filters.

69. Start a summer blog or vlog – Document your adventures for family, friends, or future inspiration.

70. Try tie-dye clothing – Make fun, colorful summer outfits.

Pro Tip: Creativity sparks joy. Even simple projects like making friendship bracelets or painted rocks can bring lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

Summer is a season of possibilities, adventure, and fun. It’s a time to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. A summer bucket list isn’t just a list of activities—it’s a guide to living intentionally, trying new things, and embracing both adventure and relaxation.

The 135 ideas shared in this guide cover everything from outdoor adventures and water fun to self-care, creativity, travel, and thrills. There’s something for everyone—whether you’re spending your summer solo, with friends, or with family. The goal is not to complete every single item, but to engage with the season fully, make it meaningful, and enjoy the moments along the way.

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your summer bucket list:

1. Be intentional, but flexible – Pick a mix of activities that excite you, and don’t stress about completing everything. The joy is in the experience.

2. Document your memories – Take photos, jot notes in a journal, or create a scrapbook. These moments will bring smiles long after summer ends.

3. Mix big and small experiences – A quiet morning paddleboarding can feel just as magical as a weekend road trip.

4. Include a variety of experiences – Balance adventure, relaxation, social time, and solo reflection to create a well-rounded summer.

5. Reflect at the end of the season – Celebrate what you accomplished and the memories you made. Reflecting allows you to carry lessons and joy into the rest of the year.

Summer is the perfect time to dream, explore, and live fully. Use this bucket list as a tool to step out of your routine, embrace new experiences, and make this summer unforgettable.

Remember it’s not about checking boxes—it’s about creating a season of joy, adventure, and memories that you’ll cherish forever. So grab your notebook, your camera, and your sense of adventure and make this summer one for the books.