Sunshine and savings: how to have a memorable (and free!) summer break
Kylie Marchewka ’26
Staff Editor
Have you ever sat around during summer break wishing you left your house, but didn’t know what to do? Lots of the time we regret our summer breaks because we sat inside and complained that we didn’t have enough money to do anything eventful. But there are a lot of things you can do without spending too much. Here are some cheap and easy ways to get out of your house this summer break!
Sometimes, the simple things like going on a hike, taking a trip to the beach, or going thrifting with your friends can end up creating the most memories. You can go on hikes like Escondido Falls to experience the beautiful waterfall in Malibu and have a picnic on the beach after to watch the sunset.
You can also go hiking at the Griffith Park trails and then visit the Griffith Observatory after, which has free entry to the building, exhibits and telescopes. Exhibits that might interest you are “The Cosmic Connection” and the public telescope to see our wonderful solar system. Not only does the inside have amazing exhibits, but the outside has panoramic views of LA, downtown, and the Hollywood sign.
As for evening activities, you can spend the night looking at all the city lights around you while listening to music with your friends. There are many places commonly known as “look outs” all around with amazing views like Topanga, Mulholland Highway, Reseda Point and many more.
If you are someone who enjoys driving and blasting music with your friends, take a day trip down to La Jolla in San Diego to see the clear waters, seals on the beach, and snorkel for free (if you have the gear). You can also explore all around San Diego to get out of the hustle and bustle of LA to relax.
Many of us complain about not having enough clothes, but there are many affordable places to go shopping with your friends. At local thrift stores like Goodwill, The Closet and Hidden Treasures, you can get so much for a great deal. It could even be fun to do a fashion show for your friends and you with all the clothes you find. The little things like that make the best memories and laughs.
You can also have a relaxing day with your family by going to a farmers market near you. Although it might not seem like much, you can try many foods, listen to live music and enjoy the outdoors with your loved ones. Try playing the games that some farmer markets offer and have a friendly competition with your family.
Many of us forget about the benefits of buying fresh vegetables and fruits at farmers markets and supporting the local small businesses. To learn more about what some farmers markets have to offer and the local businesses there, check out Kelly Capo ’27’s Arts & Entertainment article where she reviews the Calabasas farmers market!
Although all these may seem like small adventures, you can also create your own fun. There are lots of local museums such as The Broad, The Getty, and LACMA that have free entry for students at certain times of the week.
Try getting out of your house this summer break and make it a memorable week with your friends and family. Go try a new hobby or find a new place to drive to, all while making an adventure out of it. Don’t regret wasting it by laying in your bed! Enjoy the warm sun and laugh with the people around you.