We are currently in the middle of a heatwave and enjoying the perfect first weekend of summer! Since I just returned from my 24 hours in Iceland and spent half of this weekend sleeping (or sleepy), I instead dedicated yesterday to planning out our summer to-do list. I always find that it’s best to write down our July/August activity wishlist, as those summer days tend to fill up fast. I am SO excited for summertime, there’s so much to do! Be sure to read on below to find out what our musts are this season.
Go On A Boat
I mean, first we must source someone with a boat. Then, we must convince them to take us on said boat. But I’m very hopeful that we can make this happen – any volunteers?
Become A More Confident Cyclist
Remember our self-guided Bikes and Brews tour last summer? Well, I had so much fun that I finally got my first bike since childhood! I’m honestly over the moon about this Lochside Cycles city cruiser (more about this beauty on the blog soon), and I can’t wait to take it out to become a more confident cyclist.
Take Full Advantage Of Patio Season
I’m talking iced coffees, sangria, mojitos, mint juleps, margs, pimm’s cup, all of the summery drinks! We’re going to utilize patio season as much as possible over the next few months. Bonus points if we can find some patios that Reggie can join us on, he sure hates to be left alone and loves basking in the sun.
Lounge By A Pool
Would it even be summer without a couple pool days? I am determined to check out Kits Pool for the first time and to somehow find us an invitation to a pool party.
Frequent The Farmer’s Markets
One of our favourite traditions is to go to the Trout Lake Farmer’s Market on Saturday afternoon. It is, for reasons unknown, one of the only places we can bring Reggie where he doesn’t care about other dogs. We don’t know why, and we simply don’t question his calm behaviours. I can’t wait until berries are in season, we always go berry crazy at the market.
Try Some New Hikes
I really enjoy hiking, and admittedly there’s a ton of really awesome, well known hikes around here that I’ve yet to experience! I’ve still never done the Grouse Grind, The Chief, Joffre Lake, etc. and I think that this summer is finally the time to do it. What are some of your favourite hikes?
Two Words: Road Trip
I absolutely love hopping in the car and taking a scenic drive. Weekend road trips are extra fun in the summertime and I’m so excited to head up to Nicola Lake next weekend for Canada Day, and to Naramata again for our anniversary weekend.
Lots And Lots Of Ice Cream
One of my favourite things about summer, is to justify an increased ice cream intake. It almost makes the Earnest Ice Cream lineup worth it. Almost.
Source Some Cool Events Around The City
Summer in the city is simply the best. Vancouver positively shines in the sun, and we always love discovering new and fun things to do in summertime around here. Last year, we had a blast at the North Van Shipyards Night Market. I definitely want to go to the Richmond Night Market as well. We’re aiming to go to an outdoor movie and/or the drive-in, as well as the Symphony of Light fireworks.
Also up for honourable mention: BBQ’s in the park, evening tennis, beach days, camping, a spontaneous night drive, and watching the sunrise and/or set! What’s on your summer to-do list? Let me know in the comments below!
Great list!! If you need any hiking recommendations or tips, let me know! Joffre Lakes is a beautiful one to try ❤
Thanks, Candice! Any tips for Joffre Lakes? I always feel a bit nervous the first time I try a hike, so knowing as much as possible helps 🙂
This is such a great summer bucket list!
Mine is pretty simple: recover from surgery and plan our September trip to Italy.
Thank you, Lisa! My goodness, I just read your surgery post. Glad you’re healing up and really hope you’re feeling better soon. Italy in September is going to be AMAZING! Where abouts are you going?!
Hey Alicia – I have a protip for you to tick a couple of those boxes: Buntzen Lake has a network of incredible trails, including Diez Vistas, which offers – you guessed it – 10 different viewpoints of the lower mainland (See: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/sendero-diez-vistas/).
The views are spectacular, and the start of the trail is steep enough to justify stopping off at Rocky Point Ice Cream for a well-earned cone. Bliss.
If you guys do make it waaaay out there, let me know if you’d like a slow-moving guide / bear bait!
Steve, I feel like you’re really onto something here! We would definitely love to do a hike with you guys, I’m slow moving/bear bait as well so it’s sure to be a leisurely, but dangerous walk 🙂 Grew up in the area and I’ve still never hiked Buntzen, which is silly. I’ll get Adam to reach out and we can get something in the calendar!
Aliciaaaa. Can you link to that super cute lace white off-the-shoulder dress you’re wearing on the bike?
Hi Sarah! Looks like it’s sold out at the moment http://bit.ly/2uwyOQp (darn) but keep an eye out because they definitely restocked this season xoxo