Rainy Day at the Beach. Now What?

This is vacation – toes in the sand, reading my book, getting a tan (read: burn) and hearing waves lap the shore. Could I be happier? Probably not.

SweetLemonMag-RainyDayNowWhat:Beach

But on some days, we aren’t so lucky.

However, thanks to my rainy, gross, not-a-tan-producing day, I found a need for a guide to non-sunny activities. Check out these fun ideas to help you beat the rainy day blues:

1. Throw a rainy day party.

Everyone else is stuck indoors (and not at the beach) too, so find something to do together! Head to the local market, grab appetizers and drink ingredients, and toast to days spent doing nothing. Better yet, try out one of those Pinterest recipes that you know you would never do otherwise.

2. Play cards with the family.

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Just about the most inexpensive fun out there, my family spends rainy days playing old games, learning new ones and starting up the old family rivalries. Our family favorite is Canfield, in which you play Solitaire on each other’s aces. The more people you have, the more fun (or ruthless family feuds).

3. Break out the board games.

When was the last time you played Yahtzee? Clue? These games made great childhood memories for a reason! You can spend the day teasing cousins or friends in games mostly based on luck (but, of course, feel free to blame your own inherent board game skills). Some of my very best family memories took place around our game table.

4. Head to the gym.

There is no way to get more bikini-ready (and justify a trip to your favorite ice cream place) than an extra-long killer work out. Many local gyms sell day passes, and resorts often house a fitness center for guest use. You can also buy an app to get yourself started. Find friends and family to join you, dream of the ice cream ahead and run the extra few miles. There are few things more satisfying than the feeling that you’ve pushed yourself at the gym. Heck, you could even Google nearby Bikram Yoga classes.

5. Explore local treasures.

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While I use my family home in Cape Cod as an example, every vacation spot has its own local culture and history. I like to visit the Cape Cod Potato Chips factory (which gives tours). Or learn about local wildlife – who said you can’t learn something while on vacation!?

Don’t forget: you can always read a book. Rainy days are perfect for curling upon the couch and finally reading that book you’ve been putting off. Don’t be discouraged by a rainy day; you can always tan tomorrow!

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