[vc_row fwp_boxed=”0″ fwp_offset=”0″ el_class=”white”][vc_column width=”2/3″][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]A warm and beautiful Southern California summer is in full swing, and that means a number of adventures await Bigs and Littles!
Here, find fun and affordable activities to bond during the summer months.[/fwp-anim-text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]
AGES 6-12
[/fwp-anim-text][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]Storytime at the Library
The Newport Beach Public Library is a perfect haven for a bookworm on a humid summer day. Complete with a cafe, a view of the beach and a park adjacent to the building, the library also hosts kid-friendly events like Storytime, which invites children to listen to stories and create crafts to take home. For dates and times, click here.
Playground on the Beach
Located on the corner of West Balboa Boulevard and 14th Street on the Balboa Peninsula, Newport Elementary boasts a playground on the sand that’s open to the public outside of school hours. Climb, slide and swing for an afternoon together then retreat to the boardwalk for an oceanside lunch or snack.
A Day at the Park
With train rides, paddleboard and kayak rentals, a zoo, pony rides and hiking trails, Irvine Regional Park’s attractions easily lend to a summer day packed with adventures and activity. A farmers market takes place Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and snack bars at the lake and the train station are other budget-friendly food options.
Adventures with Animals
The Reptile Zoo at Prehistoric Pets in Fountain Valley offers an educational experience as well as the opportunity to see more than 100 species of exotic snakes, lizards and tortoises! Admission costs $5 and other experiences like tortoise feedings or a photo with a python can also be purchased.[/fwp-anim-text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]
AGES 13-18
[/fwp-anim-text][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]Hike with a View
There are a number of hiking trails by the coast that offer spectacular views. For one, a hike up the Top of the World Trail in Laguna Beach rewards hikers with breathtaking mountains and canyons at its summit. For a less rigorous hike, walk along the paved trails in Crystal Cove State Park, which lead to the beach and tide pools.
Artwork in Laguna Beach
The Sawdust Festival features a rotating display of artisan crafts from blown glass to jewelry, plus live entertainment, art demonstrations and classes. The festival runs from June 30 to Sept. 3 and is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m daily. To purchase tickets, click here.
Celebrate the Surf
The 2017 Vans U.S. Open of Surfing takes place July 29 to Aug. 6 in Huntington Beach alongside the pier. The surf competition is free to watch, as well as skating competitions, BMX biking and other entertainment on the boardwalk. For the complete schedule and shuttle/parking information, click here.[/fwp-anim-text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1467330098898{background-color: #5c2d91 !important;}”][fwp-anim-text extra_class=””]Big Brothers Big Sisters Match Events
This summer, don’t miss Big Brothers Big Sisters signature match events with hundreds of other Bigs and Littles.
THE NEWPORT SEA BASE
Saturday, August 5
10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Newport Sea Base
Kayak or canoe and participate in a marine life lab!
Click here to RSVP by July 21
THE RANCH
Sunday, August 20
12:30-5:30 p.m.
The Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center
Zipline, complete the ropes course, explore a mine and more!
Click here to RSVP by August 4
SANDCASTLE DAY
Saturday, September 9
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Huntington Beach, Tower 15
Build sandcastles and enjoy a day at the beach!
Click here to RSVP by August 26[/fwp-anim-text][vc_empty_space height=”12px”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
