Summer means longer days, warmer nights, and a much more open schedule just begging to be filled with fun. So if you’re looking to break away from the routine of lounging by the pool, this summer could be the perfect time to explore a new hobby. From getting creative and connecting with yourself to staying active, there are endless possibilities to discover what truly sparks joy during your free time. Let’s dive into some exciting summer activities that can turn into lifelong hobbies!
Also read: 12 Things to Do in Baguio — the Summer Capital of the Philippines
Exciting new summer activities to try
1. Hiking
Adventurers, now’s your time to shine! Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trails this summer. Hiking offers a chance to explore majestic hidden waterfalls, trek through emerald green hills, and conquer scenic routes — all with the warm sun guiding you through each step. It’s a workout that feels anything but, with breathtaking views as your final reward.
Some hiking spots you may want to include in your list this summer:
- Mount Pinatubo, Zambales Mountains
- Mount Pulag, Benguet
- Mt. Gulugod Baboy, Mabini, Batangas
- Mount Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna
- Marlboro Hill, Sagada
Also read: 10 Rookie-Friendly Mountains Around the Philippines
2. Camping
Escape the ordinary this summer and swap the couch for a cosy campsite! Camping offers an exhilarating adventure for travellers of all ages. Picture this: trading city lights for a blanket of stars, listening to the sound of nature, and waking up to a breath of fresh air. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, go beyond your limits, and bond with friends and family under the open sky.
If you’re not up for the ultimate camping experience just yet, you can also try glamping — a type of camping that provides you with more essentials such as a bed or mattress to sleep on, cooking essentials to prepare meals, and sometimes even an air conditioner!
Some camping spots to consider:
- Anawangin Cove, San Antonio, Zambales
- Lambingan Hills, Tanay, Rizal
- Kwentong Dagat, Subic, Zambales
- WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds, Tanay, Rizal
- Mapanuepe Lake, San Marcelino, Zambales
Also read: 12 Airbnb Campsites Near Manila for Weekend Trips
3. Freediving
If you’re made for the ocean, freediving could be your ultimate summer activity. Unlike scuba diving, freediving relies solely on your ability to hold your breath, allowing you to connect with the ocean in a more silent and intimate way. Just imagine swimming effortlessly through crystal clear waters and encountering marine life up close — all these while experiencing the tranquillity of the ocean. Freediving is an amazing way to challenge yourself physically and mentally, and there are a lot of classes you can take, some of them in Metro Manila!
Some freediving spots in the Philippines:
Also read: 7 Outdoor Tourist Activities in Manila for Mini-Adventures
4. Running
Don’t underestimate the thrill of a good run! The warm embrace of summer mornings and long evenings is ideal for hitting the pavement, no matter what day it is. Running can be an adventure where you can explore new trails, chase sunrises, or join a fun run to immortalise your new summer hobby. For most people, running is healing for both their physical and mental health.
So, grab your favourite pair of running shoes, lace up, put on a good running playlist, and chase sunrises and sunsets away!
5. Yoga
Unwind and energise this summer with yoga! It’s more than just stretching — yoga actually combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and mindfulness to create a workout that is both invigorating and calming. You can learn it on your own, or find outdoor classes to feel the warmth of summer! What may first seem like a hard feat might just leave you feeling centred and strong in the long run, ready to embrace all the adventures that summer has to offer.
6. Wall climbing
Wall climbing is another great way to beat the heat indoors while getting a full-body workout. It’s one summer activity that’s both physically challenging and mentally stimulating, scaling colourful climbing routes that test your problem-solving skills and build strength and coordination. So whether you conquer a first easy climb or push yourself on a more advanced route, the sense of accomplishment every time you reach the top is truly unbeatable.
Some climbing spots in Metro Manila:
- The Bouldering Hive, Makati
- Climb Central Manila, Mandaluyong
- Power Up, Alabang & Quezon City
7. Pottery
Aside from basking in the warmth of the sun, summer is also a time to get your hands dirty, and pottery is one amazing way to do just that! This artistic craft allows you to transform a lump of clay into beautiful mugs, bowls, or even sculptures. It’s a stress-relieving activity, and the process of moulding the clay and watching your masterpiece come together is incredibly rewarding. Plus, pottery studios are often cool and refreshing escapes from the summer heat, some even double as a cafe!
Some pottery studios to consider:
- Wabi Sabi Studio, San Juan
- Bumi & Ashe Pottery, Cubao
- AMT Ceramic Studio, Quezon City
- Kibō Studio, Mandaluyong
Also read: Pampanga Pottery Has Affordable Courses to Learn the Clay-Shaping Craft
8. Photography
Summer offers a plethora of dream canvases for photographers — seasoned or not. Photography allows you to capture the essence of long, lazy days by the beach, the beauty of nature, or the electrifying atmosphere of outdoor festivals. With a camera in hand, you can transform everyday mundane moments of summer into stunning works of art, all while exploring the world around anew. It’s also a great way to document your other summer activities!
9. Baking
Ignite your inner baker this summer! Imagine whipping up batches of red velvet cheesecake bars or moist chocolate cake. Baking is a creative outlet that lets you experiment with flavours and decorate your work however you want to. Fuel your summer activities with sweets and treats that you made with your own two hands.
There are plenty of beginner-friendly recipes online. But if you’re not confident enough to start baking on your own, get a little help by taking baking classes or signing up for DIY bake sessions with your friends.
10. Learning a new language
This year, embark on a linguistic journey adventure by learning a new language! It’s an enriching hobby that keeps your mind sharp and opens doors to new cultures. Just imagine strolling down the streets of Seoul and confidently ordering a delicious meal in the local tongue, or making new friends from different parts of the world. With the abundance of language learning apps and websites, online courses, and conversation groups on social media, summer is the perfect time to unlock your potential to learn a new language (or two!).
Also read: Learning Japanese: This Online Program Helps You Master the Language
11. Nail art
Nail art has been the talk of the town lately, so just imagine how you can turn this into a potential source of income when you come to love this new hobby! With endless designs to explore, it’s the perfect way to express your personal style. Spice up your outfit with a matching nail set or practise nail art on your friends.
It’s a low-cost hobby that you can enjoy solo or with friends for a fun summer get-together. So grab your favourite polishes, draw inspiration from Pinterest, and get ready to unleash your inner nail artist!
12. Journaling
Don’t underestimate the power of a pen and paper — journaling is a great way to let out your thoughts and keep track of your emotions. Picking up this new hobby also allows you to capture unforgettable moments and fun summer activities, flipping back through pages full of epic water balloon fights, swimming at the beach, hiking challenging trails, and conquering the great outdoors.
Also read: 10 Malaybalay Airbnb Homes to Relax in the Southern Summer Capital
Ditch the summer slump and embrace the endless opportunities this season brings! With a little exploration, you might just discover your next new favourite hobby that sparks joy, keeps you active, or even teaches you valuable life skills. After all, summer isn’t just about relaxation; it’s also a chance to grow, discover new passions, and focus on self-development. Get out there and make the most out of your summer activities!
