Epic Summer 10 Ways to have an

Did you miss part one of this article? Read it in the digital edition of our July issue: www.sandiegofamily.com/magazines/sandiego-family-digital-issues.

1. Have a Bonfire

Gathering around a glowing fire to relax, roast marshmallows and reminisce about the day is an iconic summer pastime. There are several ways to enjoy a bonfire around town:

• Reserve a lakefront firepit during “Fireside by the Lake” from 6–9 pm at Lake Jennings (Lakeside) on Aug. 19, Sept. 16 or Oct. 21. Rental includes lake entrance for up to six people, Adirondack chairs, two bundles of wood, fire starter, set up and clean up. A ranger will help light and extinguish the fire. Reservations required; fixings for s’mores or hot dog tailgate available for an additional fee.

• Hire a local company (such as Beach and Bay Bonfires or Beach Fire Guy) for a hassle-free bonfire experience. These companies take care of set up and clean up at your agreed upon location. Just show up and enjoy!

• Visit a local beach such as La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach, Ocean Beach or Pacific Beach, where fire rings are available for public use.

Know before you go: The City of San Diego states that bonfires at the beach can only be conducted in approved fire rings, burning only wood, charcoal or paper; and not between midnight and 5 am.

2. Become an Insider— If you know, you know!

If you haven’t heard about local discounts and benefits such as the San Diego Hometown Pass, Balboa Park Explorer Pass, ResortPass, and Youth Opportunity Pass, it’s time! Read all about the perks, parameters and prices to start exploring (and saving) at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/out-about.

Enjoy Morning Movies

There are only a few days left of the kid-friendly Summer Series at UltraStar Cinemas in Mission Valley! See select $2 movies Monday through Friday at 11 am until August 11. Missed the morning special? Plan a family movie day any Thursday for half off tickets and popcorn. Learn more at www.ultrastarmovies.com.

4. Dive into Surfing Culture

In addition to going to the beach in Oceanside, families can enjoy the historic O’side fishing pier, grab a fish taco at Tin Fish, then dive into surfing culture at California Surf Museum. Learn about the science and history of surfing, the evolution of the Boogie Board, and explore special exhibits such as Courageous Inspiration, the compelling story (and surfboard) of Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and returned to her beloved sport three weeks later. Open daily until 4 pm; kids 11 & under are free.

Finish your day at the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery in Solana Beach, where visitors enjoy stunning surf- and ocean-themed, large-scale photographs and surfboard sculptures by internationally acclaimed local artist, Aaron Chang. If you’ve never seen Chang’s work, you’re in for a real treat.

5. Cool Down

The Count’s Splash Castle at Sesame Place in Chula Vista is one of San Diego County’s newest summer attractions! The splashy structure on Sesame Island features multiple levels of interactive fun and 111 play elements, including three tipping buckets, four water slides, soakers, hoses, spray jets and more. There are countless ways to get soaked at the Count’s Splash Castle! Note: Kids under 3 are now free at Sesame Place. For more ideas on how to cool off on a hot day, read our article at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-todo/best-of-family-fun/best-ways-forfamilies-to-cool-off-in-san-diego.

6. Plan a Weekend Getaway

If your schedule allows, plan a last-minute getaway to re-charge the family before the kids head back to school. With all the fabulous destinations within driving distance, there’s no need to go far to feel like you’re miles from home. Consider Kona Kai Resort on Shelter Island, for example. It’s situated between a marina and San Diego Bay, right across from expansive grassy areas and playgrounds of Shoreline Park, a paved bayfront walking/biking path and spectacular views of downtown San Diego. Kona Kai amenities include a family pool with a tiki bar (cue island vibes), lawn games, and an onsite Action Sport Rentals where families can rent kayaks, Duffy electric boats, jet skis and more. End the evening on Kona Kai’s private beach, where gas firepits are lit nightly. No airfare or long travel days needed for this “island” vacation!

For more nearby destination ideas, visit www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/travel.

7. Make Summer Learning Fun

San Diego offers a plethora of exciting adventures that infuse learning into fun. Take a family field trip to spots like the USS Midway, Fleet Science Center, Old Town and San Diego Model Railroad Museum or check out local Junior Ranger Programs. Find more outings that explore STEM, outdoor education, culture and history in our article “Fun San Diego Learning Adventures” at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/out-about/funeducational-places-to-go-with-kids.

8. Uncover a Hidden Gem

We were surprised to discover recently that Bahia Resort in Mission Bay is home to two rescued harbor seals, Gracie and Billy, who swim and play in their own beautiful habitat, which is free for anyone to visit. It’s hidden in plain sight between the trees in front of the hotel.

Make a fun evening of your visit with happy hour on the new waterfront patio at Dockside 1953 (kids’ menu available) and a stroll along the water. Or take a sunset cruise across Mission Bay on the sternwheeler, Bahia Belle.

Discover more hidden gems at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-todo/out-about/hidden-spots-in-sandiego-for-families.

9. Be a Night Owl

Plan a family date night at one of two fun events this month:

• Kid-friendly happy hour at Birch Aquarium from 5–6:30 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays through Aug. 30. Enjoy music, outdoor games, hands-on activities, access to all exhibits and spectacular ocean views from Tide Pool Plaza; plus science interactions on Wednesdays. Food and beverage available for purchase. Reservations required.

• Parks After Dark offers free activities for families from 5–8 pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday through Aug. 26 at recreation centers in the communities of Linda Vista, City Heights, Logan Heights and Skyline. Enjoy inflatables, movies, music, arts & crafts, youth sports clinics and open swim (select dates and locations for swimming). Learn more at www.sandiegoparksfoundation.org/ parks-after-dark.

10. Make a “Sand-Bucket” List

If summer got away from you and your family needs more time, don’t worry. San Diego is a fabulous place to explore year-round! Here are two more resources to help: 1. Access San Diego Family’s Ultimate Summer Sand-Bucket List at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/ sand-bucket-list, and 2. If you haven’t had a chance to pick up the new edition of Out & About: San Diego with Kids, be sure to grab a copy for hundreds of ideas that will keep your family exploring throughout the year. v

San Diego Family Managing Editor Lisa Gipson is always on the hunt for epic adventures.