Still sunny, just cozier

Fall is calling let’s go. Early fall is my favorite season. The days still feel like summer, but the evenings cool down and make you want to grab a sweater. It is the perfect time to get outside with the kids and enjoy a few last warm weekends. Here are three of our family’s go-to spots.

Bridgeview Trailhead, Oakland

The Bridgeview Trailhead is a short and easy hike that keeps everyone engaged. At just 1.4 miles, it feels like a quick outing, but along the way you hunt for hidden wooden trolls tucked into the trees. The search keeps kids excited and grown ups entertained, and the trail moves fast because there is something to spot around every turn.

After the hike we like to stop in the Laurel District at Ghost Town Brewery. The beer is cold, the food is casual, and it makes for the perfect finish to a family adventure.

Round Hill Pines Beach Resort, Zephyr Cove, Nevada

Round Hill Pines Beach Resort sits on National Forest land with a half mile of sandy beach and views of Mt. Tallac, Emerald Bay, and the West Shore. It is one of the most beautiful stretches of Tahoe, with mountains rising above the lake in every direction.

It is also an easy choice for families. Parking is close, the walk to the sand is short, and once you are there everything is on site. There is a beach bar, a snack bar, and plenty of space to spread out.

We always bring paddle boards because the calm fall water is perfect for an easy paddle. A pop up beach tent is another must. The kids move back and forth from the sand to the water while we settle in and take it slow.

Even in shoulder season it is best to arrive early. The light is golden, the crowds are smaller, and the whole place feels relaxed in a way that makes the day stretch longer.

Johnson’s Beach, Guerneville

Johnson’s Beach is a classic Sonoma County getaway and a favorite for families. Open through the end of September, it has everything you need for a relaxed day on the river.

Umbrella rentals are available and the staff sets them up for you, which makes it easy to settle in. You can rent chairs or bring your own, and a cooler full of snacks is always a good idea. The burger from the airstream is a must and in our opinion the best in Sonoma County.

The river is calm and easy for kids to play in while adults float, swim, or just lounge on the sand. The vibe is laid back, the setting is simple, and it always feels like the perfect way to close out summer.

Fall adventures do not need to be big or complicated. Sometimes the best memories come from a short drive and a simple plan. Whether it is a troll hunt in Oakland, a quiet day at Tahoe, or a lazy afternoon at Johnson’s Beach, early fall is the season we love most to be outside together.