No matter your family's interests, there's a green vacation option for you, says most travel enthusiast like Vikki Nicolai La Crosse. We have compiled a list of five eco-friendly trips your family will love, from camping and hiking to biking and whale watching at the beach. So pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun—and the great outdoors!
Take A Hike In A Nearby Nature Preserve
Spending time in nature is a great way to unwind and recharge, but it can also benefit the environment. One eco-friendly activity that the whole family can enjoy is hiking in a nearby nature preserve. Nature preserves are carefully protected areas of land that are kept wild and free from development. By visiting a nature preserve, you can help to support conservation efforts and get some fresh air at the same time. When hiking in a nature preserve, there are a few things to consider.
First, stay on designated trails to avoid disturbing sensitive plants and wildlife. Second, pack out any trash you bring, including food wrappers and water bottles. Finally, be respectful of other visitors and limit your noise level so everyone can enjoy the peace of the preserve. By following these simple tips, you can have a great time while also helping to protect the environment.
Visit A Local Farmers Market
Another tremendous eco-friendly activity for families is visiting a local farmers' market. Farmers' markets are a great way to get fresh, locally grown produce. When you buy from local farmers, you're supporting the local economy and getting fresher and tastier food than you'd find at the grocery store. Plus, most farmers use sustainable growing practices, which means they're doing their part to protect the environment.
When visiting a farmers market, bring your bags, so you don't have to use plastic or paper. And if possible, try to come by bike or public transportation instead of driving. This will help reduce your carbon footprint, but it'll also give you a chance to explore your community.
Head To The Beach
There's nothing like a day at the beach to relax and have some fun. And luckily, there are plenty of eco-friendly ways to enjoy the sand and surf. First, try to find a beach that has been certified as environmentally friendly by an organization like the Blue Flag Program. This certification means that the beach meets high water quality, safety, and environmental management standards.
When you're at the beach, practice Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out any trash you bring in, respecting wildlife, and being careful with fires. It would be best to avoid touching or disturbing coral reefs, fragile ecosystems that can easily be damaged. By following these simple tips, you can have a great time at the beach while also helping to protect the environment.
Go For A Bike Ride
Vikki Nicolai La Crosse traveler says one of the best things about biking is a green way to get around. Biking saves you money on gas, but it also doesn't produce any emissions. Plus, it's a great workout! If you don't have your bikes, many cities now offer bike-sharing programs that allow you to rent bikes for a day or even an hour.
When you're out on your bike ride, wear a helmet and follow all traffic laws. You should also try to avoid riding on busy roads if possible. Instead, look for quiet side streets or even bicycle trails. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a fun and eco-friendly bike ride.
Check Out A New City Park
Exploring a new city park is a great way to spend some time outdoors. City parks are usually filled with trees, flowers, and open space—and they're often free to visit! Respect the environment by not littering and staying on designated trails when you're at the park. It would be best if you also left any rocks or shells you find in place.
If you want to make exploring city parks even more fun, try going on a scavenger hunt! You can either make your list of things to find or use one of the many available app-based scavenger hunts. Scavenger hunts are a great way to get the whole family to explore the park.
You can find information about eco-friendly parks for families in your area by searching online. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can try planning your trip! Just be sure to research the place you'll be visiting and take steps to protect the environment.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for ways to get active and explore your local community, consider taking a hike in a nearby nature preserve, visiting a local farmers market, heading to the beach for a day of swimming and sunbathing, going for a bike ride around your neighborhood, or checking out a new city park or playground. These are all great ways to enjoy the summer weather and get some exercise simultaneously.
