It’s illegal to drink alcohol at most public beaches. However, people often still do. Maybe drinking at the beach was one of your pastimes when you were addicted and it’s hard to think about spending time at the beach without alcohol being involved. You’re certainly not alone in this. In fact, many people have to reframe the way they view certain activities when they get sober. Consequently, a part of this process is intentionally establishing new ways to enjoy leisure time.
If you find yourself wondering how you’ll enjoy the beach sober this summer (for the first time ever), we want you to know that there are plenty of ways to do so! Whether you hit the beach on your own this summer or with a group of friends, here are some ideas for great, beachside fun.
9 Sober Activities for the Beach
Play sports
Ever tried running in the sand? Yeah, it’s hard! But, beach sports are great exercise and they’re also great fun. Whether you play frisbee, sand volleyball, football, soccer, or you try your hand at boogie boarding, skimboarding, or surfing, you’re bound to have a great time at the beach.
Read a book
While you’re laying under your beach umbrella, pick up one of those books you’ve been meaning to read for the last few months. Or, catch up on some Big Book reading for your recovery program. Regardless, the beach can be an incredibly relaxing and quiet place to read, so soak it up and enjoy the time spent in a good book.
Walk or run the shoreline
If walking or running is one of your favorite ways to exercise, try doing it on the beach this summer. Not only will it provide a nice change of scenery from the treadmill or your normal neighborhood trail, but you’ll also get to enjoy the feeling of the salty wet breeze and the wet sand beneath your toes as you make your way down the beach.
Listen to a podcast
Sometimes, it can be hard to find time to catch up on your favorite podcast episodes. While you’re at the beach, sit back in your chair with a cold glass of water and enjoy the sun as you listen to all your favorite shows. As a result, you’ll return home relaxed and refreshed.
Grab a bite to eat seaside
A great way to spend time with friends at the beach is by planning a picnic on the beach or hitting up a seaside restaurant. Depending on which beach you visit, lots of restaurants on the beach offer deck seating outside so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the beach while you munch on delicious food and catch up with friends.
Meditate
The relaxing sounds of the waves lapping against the shore, the seagulls and pelicans singing their tunes, and kids playing off in the distance is a great backdrop for some meditation. There’s never been a better place to just sit and be while enjoying the present. Plus, meditation is one of the best sober activities for the beach because all you need is yourself and a beach. No money or supplies necessary.
Go kayaking
What’s more, some beaches also offer kayak rentals, which is a great way to spend a day at the beach with friends. When it comes to sober activities for the beach, there’s just something incredibly relaxing about being out on the water, away from the demands of everyday life and getting out on the water with friends is even more enjoyable.
Try snorkeling
If you enjoy the nautical wildlife at the beach, you might want to give snorkeling a try. Depending on the location of the beach, you could find yourself face-to-face with some incredibly beautiful underwater creatures. For example, brightly colored coral reefs or a variety of different species of fish.
Have a sandcastle competition with friends
If you live in a sober home, this is a great ice-breaker and sober activity for the beach as you’re getting to know your housemates. First, organize a sandcastle competition and create teams for a little friendly competition. Then, whichever team builds the most majestic (or creative) sandcastle wins a small prize.
