Fun in the sun.
Summertime together.
With the festive season out of the way, we’re looking ahead to the long, lazy days of relaxing, spontaneous barbecues and enjoying every moment together. And with the upcoming Australia Day long weekend and the last weeks of the school holidays coming to a close, we can’t think of any better reasons to make the most of the rest of summer.
Whether you plan to staycation, hit the beach or switch off and escape to the great outdoors, we’ve assembled our fave fun-filled pieces that are sure to inspire good times.
Backyard baller
Your mini Ben Simmons or little Lauren Jackson will love slam dunking and splashing about in this super fun play pool. With two basketball hoops and inflatable basketballs, kids can play, swim and learn in the convenience of your backyard. Inflatable play pool $52, Harvey Norman (online only).
Beach bound
This bright and sunny lounger is the perfect portable spot to relax or supervise your kids in the water. Easy to fold up and carry, it’s sure to be your must-have summertime essential. Palmero beach lounger, $29.95 Pillow Talk.
It’s a knock out
This popular outdoor game is similar to bowling and great for all ages. With durable wooden pins and wooden crate with rope handles for easy carrying, it’s set to be a hit at your next get together or family weekend. Jenjo molkky wood throwing game $54, Harvey Norman (online only).
For your staycation
Staying put this summer? The key to spending the school holidays at home is to make it fun and relaxing for everyone. Plan your days so there’s something different to do and change up your outdoors to entertain the kids outdoors at home. Combine these activities with a visit to a local farmers market, water park, library, aquarium, museum, art gallery or cinema and you’ve got a well-rounded summer to enjoy.
An inflatable pool is a great, easy and affordable option for kids to enjoy summertime swims in the convenience and comfort of your backyard. As well as being simple to set up, fill and pack away, you can enjoy more time together and less time carrying carloads of beach gear down to the sand.
Garden games have become a sure-fire hit for kids and adults like the last couple of years. Giant four in a row, jenga, bocce, croquet and cornhole bean bag toss are destined to become future classics at barbeques, play dates and get togethers.
For your beach days
What better way to spend your sun-drenched days than at the beach? With clear blue waters and stretches of golden sands along stunning coastal landscapes, it’s no wonder Australia is celebrated for some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Whether you’re lucky enough to have a beach nearby or have nabbed a coastal holiday home for a week or two, it’s easy to make your beach days more laid-back, fun and stylish with a few key pieces.
Get yourself a beach lounger with a bright, summery print and enjoy a relaxing day by the water. Simply lean back, pop on your sunnies and devour a good book. It’s a great addition to your beach essentials, alongside your beach bag, cooler bag, umbrella or cabana – not to mention your sunscreen, hat and beach towels of course.
Thrill-seekers can catch waves on a stand-up paddle board, and those happier playing closer to shore can enjoy a game of frisbee or ladder toss.
For your happy campers
Ready to explore the great outdoors? Camping holidays are a great way to reconnect with nature, family and friends, discover hidden gems and experience freedom from the busy-ness of daily life.
Whether you’re planning to hit a national park or a camping hotspot like Byron Bay, Jervis Bay, Great Ocean Road, Venus Bay or Stradbroke Island, a happy camper’s smartest buy is a good quality, waterproof tent that will keep you comfortable and dry.
Next up, get yourself some camping chairs, self-inflating mattresses, sleeping bags, super-comfy kids beds, and all the equipment and tools you’ll need for food. And of course, you’ll need to pack the all-important safety gear, like a first-aid kit, water tank, sunscreen and something to keep the mozzies as bay.
Most importantly, keep your family laughing – and boredom at bay – with outdoor games like ring toss and the super addictive Molkky Finnish throwing game, both sure to bring hours of fun – with no screens in sight!