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I love nature and being outside—so much that I decided to start simplifying my life so I can do more of what I love and be outdoors even more. Being outside is not only fun; it’s actually good for your wellbeing. 

Are you a fellow nature-lover? Or are you looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors? Then you’re going to love this list of fun things to do outside! 

15 Fun and Fantastic Ways to Enjoy The Outdoors!

This list is excellent whether you want to make a whole day of it or just schedule some time to try some fun things to do outside. So here are 15 wonderful ways to enjoy the outdoors!

1. Take a Nature Walk

One of my favorite things to do is take a nature walk. There are so many adorable little creatures and beautiful plants and flowers to see.

Nature is healing. In fact, because of its many benefits, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries created a term called “shinrin-yoku,” which means “forest bathing.”

Basically, forest bathing is being mindful and getting in touch with nature. Rather than having a destination for your walk, you wander around at your own pace. No phones allowed.

Give it a try! It may end up being one of your favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors too. 😉

2. Try Out Paddleboarding

I started Paddleboarding last summer, and I LOVE IT! Paddleboarding is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s great exercise.

Paddleboarding has many health benefits, such as: it improves cardiovascular health and balance, strengthens core muscles, boosts endurance, and more. 

You can paddleboard in rivers, lakes, and even the ocean if you’re up for the challenge. Check out the Bodyglove or Roc inflatable paddleboards available on Amazon and start having some fun in the sun!

3. Forage for Mushrooms and Berries

Did you know there are over 14,000 different types of mushrooms and over 400 species of berries? That’s insane!

Depending on where you live is what you will see, but you may be surprised at all the different types that are native to where you live.

Mushrooms love rain, and it’s good to go before the sun is out too long, so they aren’t all dried up. Foraging for berries and mushrooms is one of the most fun things to do outside, but you need to be sure you know how to identify what is edible and what is toxic! 

So be careful if you decide to pick any to take home. Otherwise, you can simply enjoy looking at how unique and beautiful they are. 

4. Plant a Garden

Gardening is so therapeutic and a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors. There are so many types of gardens you can plant.

You can plant a vegetable garden, herb garden, create a Zen garden, etc. For really fun ideas, check out my post “5 Unique Themed Garden Ideas” for inspiration!

5. Try an Outdoor Photography Challenge

If you love taking pictures, then an outdoor photography challenge is one of the most fun things to do outside. You could find different challenge ideas online or on Pinterest to start with. 

Or you could make up your own theme and make a day of finding flowers or cute critters roaming around.

There are plenty of beautiful and interesting things to take pictures of while you enjoy the outdoors!

6. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of the most majestic and fun things to do outside. It doesn’t matter whether you are an expert rider or have never been on a horse in your life.

You can find places that offer trail rides that are great for beginners.

My next bucket list item is to go horseback riding on the beach! So, hit the rocky trail or gallop along the sea for an ultimate outdoor experience.

7. Treasure Hunt with a Metal Detector 

Searching for lost items beneath the surface is exhilarating. You never know what you are going to find when you scour the ground with the help of a metal detector.

Depending on the type you have or get, you can find old coins, jewelry, gold, and more! There’s no telling what sort of treasure you may dig up!

8. Find a River or Lake

Take a day to relax by a serene lake or find a river to play in. You can find local rivers and lakes by simply googling “rivers and lakes near me” in the search bar.

It may surprise you what beautiful places you have to see close to your area. Grab a couple of lawn chairs, pack a picnic, and take it easy.

9. Go Birdwatching

Birds are so adorable and interesting to watch. Get a pair of binoculars and head somewhere to spy on your feathered friends. If you have a yard, you can put up feeders and watch them in your own backyard. 

Make it even more fun by printing out a chart of your state birds and see how many you spot.

10. Head to a Park

Parks have so many fun things to do outside. Many offer walking paths, playgrounds, swimming, and more. 

You could fly kites, play baseball, or maybe even have a BBQ with some friends and family. Plus, most parks are free to use, so it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors. 

11. Start Collecting Gemstones & Rocks

Rocks ROCK! Okay, that was a bit corny, but rocks, in my opinion, are pretty cool. You can look up what types of gemstones and rocks are found where you live and where to look for them. It’s a lot like treasure hunting too! 

Depending on the location, you can find fossils, gemstones such as amethysts, and more.

I got this awesome gem mining kit on Amazon for just $38.99, and I recommend getting one if you consider trying this fun way to enjoy the outdoors!

12. Bathe in the Sun

My husband teases me and says he is an alligator because he loves soaking up the sun. I love laying out and taking in the vitamin D myself.

Add a bit more of enjoyment by making your favorite drink and putting on some good tunes to relax too. 

13. Journal Outdoors

Journaling is a fantastic way to express yourself, release emotions, and for finding yourself. If you haven’t journaled outside yet, I highly recommend it.

I didn’t think I could find more peace than from journaling my thoughts until I added the outdoors to it.

Find a peaceful place, grab your favorite pen and journal and write your cares away.

14. Watch the sunrise or sunset

One of the best ways to start the day is by watching a mesmerizing sunrise while drinking your morning coffee.  It’s the perfect time to take out even just 10 mindful minutes to appreciate mother nature and all you have in life.

The same goes for beautiful sunsets. Simply sit and watch the magic of the sun kissing the horizon goodnight as it descends into the darkness. 

15. Stroll along the beach

If you are lucky enough to live close to the beach, then this is the most wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors.

Take a stroll along the shore as you look out over the watery blue. This is one of my favorite places to be if I were going to be completely honest. 💕

Take Some Time To Enjoy the Outdoors!

Don’t let life get so busy that you never get to be outside. Even if you have to mark it on your schedule, be sure to take some time out to try out this list and enjoy the outdoors.