H Here! It’s been a while since you heard from me guys, so… hey there!! I can’t tell you all how happy I am Summer is here. I’m not usually summer’s biggest fan (hint: it’s the heaaaat) but this year I’ve been all backwards with the seasons and I’m just itchin’ for all the usual summer essentials - beach time and slip ’n’ slides, come at me!! We started the season right and headed to the beach just the other day (cue photo overload).
Something I love about having young kids is how aware you become of the simple little traditions that mean so much to you - I find myself being so intentional about recreating them for my littlies, and I get to enjoy it all that much more through them. With that sentiment in mind, I’ve created this little “Beachtime Checklist” with the simplest but always memorable beach time essentials. Whether you print it off and complete it with your kiddos - treasure hunt style - (and if you care to, share it and hashtag us when you do!) or just let it inspire you to have your own beach day, I wish you some very happy beach-ing, and a fantastic summer!
H x (ps: check our C's summer ideas further down!)
C’s weigh in… with some great ideas on places to see and things to do…
There are some things you just MUST DO before your little ones head off again or possibly even for the first time. We always have grand plans to get to the beach 5 times and see a show for Christmas but never do ... so this year make it your goal to do the things your family wants. Or even just something you want! Have a look at OUR list of must do's ... maybe it will help you kick summer into gear!
A beach day! There is nothing quite like a quick day trip to the beach and it is always high on my list. Some of you may already have a beach holiday planned... doesn't mean another spot of beaching isn't much needed before the summer ends! Find a rock pool, dig up some crabs and hit the waves!
Trip to a waterfall... Aren't they just lovely... a little hike, the cool breeze, a quick dip! Something for everyone and a lovely day trip together. Cedar Creek (near Samford) is my favourite place to escape if I am home in Brisbane.
Lunch with a view. This is my favourite thing to do. And there are plenty of child friendly places with a view or a different experience. A farm shop, a surf club, a look out...? The options are endless.
One on one time. Before they are off again and while they are sick of their siblings after weeks of holidays take some time out with them alone. Do something they want to do with you! We make so many of the decisions but I think this one is for them to make for you.
See a show! There are plenty of great shows on at local theatres and the larger ones. Not just christmas themed but many other wonderful pieces around this time of year. Check you local hot spots for free shows like a local play house.
The outdoor cinema. Not that we can complain about being locked inside all that much due to weather but in any case, make sure you take full advantage while the weather is in tip top shape! The Ben and Jerry's outdoor cinema is in all major cities through the summer with children's, family and adult shows... serving snacks, alcohol and bean bags galore!
Top places on my list to visit and explore in the south east this summer are…
- Cabaritta beach. If you can, stay the night! This is my favourite country beach town with plenty to do surrounding it! Between rivers, inlets, beaches, inland walks, headlands, dolphins, whale watching.
- Moreton Island. You can make it a day trip or stay a few nights (camping or in the Tangalooma resort). A magical sunset not to be missed on the western side of the island.
- Brunswick heads. A great spot for a swim, a spot of local shopping and a great pub lunch at the Brunswick hotel!
- Bungalow, the country town just inland off the motorway near Byron Bay. A nice little market town surrounded by countryside, rolling hills, farm shops and a fantastic antique shed full of all the things of the past.
- The Farm. A wonderful venue just off the motorway to Byron Bay. Restaurant, animals, playground, flower market and more! This is a gorgeous spot to stop on your way into byron for a swim or a look at the views from it's iconic lighthouse!
- The Cudgen creek, Mulumbimby area between Tweed and Brunswick Heads boasts all sorts of fun! There is an old antique maritime shop beside a great fish and chip shop in Cudgerah, dolphins swimming down the inlets for the Cudgen creek both at Kingscliffe and Hastings point, and the gorgeous crystal castle with amazing views over the hinterland.
Stop contacting those books and tidying up those decorations before the summer is over and everyone is back into 'real' life. Head to the beach and leave that for future you....
Oh, and a few wonderful summer destinations close to home (if you are a South East Queenslander)... You may even be able to manage a few stops if you are game enough! The ultimate road trip - A day trip I cannot recommend highly enough for our South East Queensland followers is a trip down to Byron passing by some wonderful sites. Leave as early as you can manage in the morning and make your way towards the very North of the NSW coast. Stop at Currumbin wildlife sanctuary on your way before continuing down to "The Farm" just off the motorway for Byron. If you want a stop at the beach head into Cabartitta ... my favourite coastal country town. Or if you want the hilly country vibe head into Bangalow for amazing food and a nice stroll. )
Cx
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