I struggle to make Father’s Day special for my husband, largely because we disagree on the definition of special. My husband is practical and content by nature, so one Father’s Day, I gave him a PowerPoint outlining our favorite things about him. He said it was the best gift of his life — and I believe him because he cried a little.
If you’re looking to impress Dad this year, take time to consider what special means to him. Does he want to go on a family outing? Or would he really appreciate time alone? Here’s a round-up of ideas to get you started.
A Day with the Kids
If Dad wants to make memories with the kids this Father’s Day, skip the restaurant and enjoy some active time as a family. Keep it simple with a hike, bike or picnic. Better yet, branch out and teach the kids something new. Dad can play coach as the children attempt his favorite obscure sport. Racquetball or footgolf, anyone?
Dad Squad
Now that they all have families, Dad probably spends less time with his friends. Encourage them to reconnect with a day on the water. Sailing San Diego Bay is a great choice for bonding and relaxing. Rent a sailboat or have one chartered. They can share snacks, drinks and great music along with stunning views of the city skyline and Coronado Bridge. Go big and book a fishing excursion for extra fun.
Send Dad and his crew to The Whiskey House for top shelf guy time. This Gaslamp bar offers tasting flights, house-made sausages, charcuterie boards and more. With over 2,800 selections, they hold the Guinness World Record for most varieties of whiskey commercially available in the world.
Time with his Dad
Maybe he’d prefer to spend the day with his dad this year. Fathers and sons love a home barbecue. Send them to a first-rate butcher shop like Iowa Meat Farms or The Butchery (new to Del Mar) to select their favorite steaks and sausages. Then, gather the family to prepare sides while they enjoy guy time at the grill.
For a throwback they’ll both appreciate, send Dad and Grandpa to a Padres game. They’ll savor the special time together—right along with those tri-tip nachos.
Flying Solo
Don’t underestimate the value of some sweet alone time. Perhaps the dad in your life would appreciate several kid-free hours to enjoy a day of hobby work. Save the honey-do list for another day. Is there a passion project he’s been dying to start? Encourage him to use those power tools for something fun.
For ultimate dad pampering, book a barber shop shave. Expert barbers use a hot towel and straight razor to provide a lathery shave like he’s never experienced. Check out Pappy’s Barber Shop in Rolando, or Mister Brown’s Barber Shop in North Park. Both offer a relaxing service with a cool, masculine ambiance.
Anne Malinoski is a contributing writer and mother of two boys. Each of these ideas was either suggested or approved by her thoughtful husband, Steven.
Get more ideas for family outings and activities at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/out-about.
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