Cozy Things to Do in the Summer Months
Discover cozy, soul-soothing ways to enjoy summer — from slow morning rituals to breezy outdoor dinners. This guide shares simple ideas and favorite product picks to help you create a calm, comfortable vibe all season long.
5/28/20254 min read
☀️ Cozy Things to Do in the Summer
When we think “cozy,” we usually picture chilly nights and chunky blankets — but coziness is a feeling, not a season. Summer coziness is light, slow, and deeply soul-soothing. It's golden evenings, soft fabrics, and peaceful rituals.
Here are a few ways to bring that cozy magic into your summer — plus some favorite finds to make it even more special.
2. Create a Summer Reading Nook
A cozy corner makes a big difference. Find a shady spot — indoors or out — and set it up with a comfy seat, a soft throw, and a small basket of books.
Try this:
🪑 Textured cotton throws - for summer layering
🕯️ E-reader - for easy reading, I use mine daily and love being able to take a whole library in my bag anywhere I go. For those that prefer to read comics or manga, try this.
Don’t forget a chilled drink and maybe a wide-brimmed hat.
3. Embrace Summer Scents
Just like fall, scent is a huge part of the cozy experience. Light a summer-inspired candle during slow evenings, or diffuse essential oils that evoke the beach, garden, or linen breeze.
Try this:
🕯️ Summer Candle (think Coconut, Fig, or Amberwood)
🌿 Ceramic oil diffuser
Smells have a beautiful way of grounding us.
4. Host a Slow Backyard Dinner
Cozy doesn’t have to mean quiet. There’s something deeply nourishing about a laid-back dinner outside with people you love. Use soft lighting, mix-and-match dishware, and serve simple, fresh food.
Try this:
🍽️ Handmade dinnerware or rustic table linens - to set a cozy and fun vibe
💡 Solar fairy string lights or candle lanterns - for those warm summer nights as the party winds down and the long deep talks begin.
Add a linen table runner and let the conversation flow.
5. Make a Soft Summer Playlist
Let music fill your space in the background — think acoustic folk, lo-fi, soft jazz, or nature-inspired instrumentals. It’s the audio version of a warm breeze.
Try this:
🎧 Cute vintage Bluetooth speaker - to set the vibes
Perfect for reading, gardening, or evening winding down.
1. Start the Day with an Iced Coffee Ritual
There’s something so calming about a slow summer morning. Brew a cold coffee or steep an herbal tea, and enjoy it outside while journaling or simply taking in the quiet.
Try this:
🍵 Hand-thrown ceramic mugs — try these cute speckled ceramic mugs for your coffee or tea
📓 Journal — this journal is a favorite for bullet journaling as it has thick dotted paper. Another popular brand is this.
☕️ Nespresso coffee and espresso maker — for an effortless iced latte or smooth espresso, this is a game-changer and a beautiful addition to your kitchen counter. I use mine daily!
Set the tone for a peaceful, intentional day.
6. Lighten Up Your Decor
Swap heavy textures for breathable ones. Use woven baskets, natural wood, and soft cotton to keep your space feeling fresh and grounded.
Try this:
🧺 Wicker baskets - for blanket storage or plants, both of which will help to set a cozy vibe in any season.
🪴 Planters in soft earth tones - Adding a few leafy green plants instantly softens a space, bringing in warmth, texture, and a sense of calm that makes any room feel more inviting and lived-in.
Less clutter, more calm.
7. Savor Seasonal Moments
Make a summer dessert from scratch, go to a farmers market, or make sun tea in a glass jar. Slow, tactile experiences are at the heart of a cozy summer.
Try this:
🍶 Vintage-style glass jars - for sun tea
🛒 Market tote bags - to match your summer farmers market aesthetic.
Let summer live in your senses.
8. End the Day with a Sunset Wind-Down
Light a candle, sip a calming tea, and sit outside while the sun goes down. Let your day soften and fade without rushing into the next thing.
Give yourself permission to rest.
Final Thoughts
Summer coziness is about slowing down and savoring the small, simple joys. Whether it’s the scent of a candle, a soft breeze, or a quiet evening with your favorite mug, you deserve comfort all season long.
P.S. Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting cozy living 💛