Summer Activities to Enjoy Before Fall Arrives

seasidelivingco
Aug 1
2 min read

As TikTok fills with videos of autumn decor, pumpkin lattes and cozy recipes, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of fall—even while temperatures are still in the 80s. But before you swap your beach towel for a throw blanket, there’s still time to soak up the final weeks of summer on the Central Coast.

The days are still long, and the weather’s warm enough to enjoy everything the season has to offer. Here are a few summer activities to take advantage of before fall officially begins.

Hike at Montaña de Oro

The Central Coast is home to dozens of hiking trails, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. While popular spots like Bishop Peak, the Pismo Preserve and Avila Ridge are well-traveled, Montaña de Oro State Park offers a refreshing change of scenery.

With a variety of trails—from gentle coastal walks to more strenuous inland routes—Montaña de Oro is a great escape for anyone seeking solitude or adventure. The park is typically overcast, but when the sun breaks through, it’s an ideal place to catch a scenic sunset. Be sure to check the weather before you go, and keep an eye out for snakes along the trail.

Camp at Lake Nacimiento

While beach days are a summer staple, they can sometimes feel repetitive—or frustrating when parking is scarce. For a change of pace, head inland to Lake Nacimiento for a weekend camping trip with family or friends.

The lake offers a full slate of outdoor activities, from swimming and boating to waterskiing, wakesurfing and jet skiing. In the evening, enjoy a traditional camping experience: gather around the fire, roast marshmallows and listen to the sounds of local wildlife. Spend your downtime playing games, reading or just relaxing under the sun before the cooler weather arrives.

Plan a Picnic at Shell Beach

Camping isn’t for everyone—bugs, heat and rustic amenities aren’t always a selling point. For a more comfortable summer outing, consider a beachside picnic. While Pismo and Avila Beach are well known, Shell Beach is a quieter, often-overlooked gem perfect for a peaceful meal by the ocean.

Pack your favorite snacks from Trader Joe’s in Arroyo Grande, or grab a sandwich from Sando’s Deli before heading to the water. If you’d rather avoid getting sandy, head to Dinosaur Caves Park at Shell Beach, which offers picnic tables and panoramic coastal views.

Bake With Summer Fruits

No season is complete without a bit of baking. As summer produce reaches its peak, now is the time to experiment with fruits you might not normally use—especially stone fruit, which is at its sweetest.

Try baking a cherry tart, plum cobbler or apricot galette for your next family gathering. If you’re short on time, whip up a mango mousse or homemade jam to pair with a charcuterie board. For the freshest ingredients, shop at a local farmers market to support small growers and get the best flavor summer has to offer.