By Sarah Fertsch
Staff Writer
Summer is fleeting fast, my friends. If you are anything like me, you have mixed feelings about the changing seasons. On one hand, summer means wading in the pool, slurping lemonade, and enjoying everything offered down the shore. While it may be nice to have a break from the oppressive heat, let’s make the most of summer fun before we head back to school or work, or be forced to bring sweaters back into your closet. Throw the calendar to the side and focus on the present. Summer is still here, so here are ten ways to maximize the rest of August before September strikes:
Host a Bonfire
August brings cool evenings and starry nights, so why not enjoy it with friends and family. Pick up all the s’mores ingredients and ask invitees to bring a guitar or some good stories. You’ll remember this night forever.
Take a Hike
Hit up parks such as Birch Grove or Atlantic Country Park. Exploring nature is a great way to spend a summer afternoon (or morning). Find a shady trail and explore until you reach some incredible sights. Make sure to pack some water and granola bars!
Have Fun on the Water
The water is finally warm. Take up paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing or swimming, or simply set sail on a boat and drink some cold beverages while bouncing along the waves. If you fear the ocean, check out Lake Lenape or the Egg Harbor River (both in Mays Landing).
Play an Outdoor Game
You’ll feel like a kid again when you bring out the lawn toys. Cornhole, pickleball, horseshoes or even lawn bowling can liven up a barbeque or picnic. I love playing ultimate frisbee in the park. What kind of games do you prefer?
Shop at Your Local Farmers Market
Late August is the best time to enjoy fresh produce. Pick up watermelon, strawberries, peaches and Jersey-fresh tomatoes and cook up something special for your family. Whip up some pesto with fresh basil and freeze it for those long, heavy winter months.
Attend an Outdoor Concert
Somers Point and Ventnor offer weekly concerts on the beach for free! Gather your family and a couple camp chairs and listen to local bands sing into the sunset. Dare yourself to dance!
Treat Yourself to a Frozen Dessert
Nothing beats ice cream on a hot summer night. Shore Local recommends A La Mode in Ocean City, where they hand-make their own delicious ice cream and offer unique flavors. Other options include Little’s in EHT, One Cent Plain in Margate, and Drip N Scoop in Somers Point and Ocean City.
Ride a Ferris Wheel at Night
You’ll be amazed by the beautiful ocean views. Stop by Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, Playland Castaway Cove, Steel Pier, or Morey’s Piers for a fun, classic ride.
Do Something Adventurous
Have you ever been curious about skydiving, whitewater rafting, ziplining or riding that huge roller coaster? Challenge yourself to make a memory you’ll never forget.
Relax!
Find yourself a hammock in the shade and open up a beach read. Taking a nap in the sun, lounging by the pool, or gardening while listening to podcasts can be healing for the soul. Now is your time to relax!
