Summer in Los Angeles is vibrant, sunny, and full of opportunity. But for men in recovery, it can also be filled with triggers: beer at barbecues, rooftop parties, and the pressure to “cut loose.” The good news? LA has plenty to offer that aligns with your sober lifestyle.

Whether you’re newly sober or years into recovery, summer doesn’t have to feel like a minefield. It can be a season of rediscovery—where you reconnect with your city, your body, and your purpose. Here’s how to experience the best of LA this summer—without sacrificing your sobriety.

Explore LA’s Natural Beauty

There’s more to Los Angeles than nightlife and Hollywood glitz. Get grounded and energized by the natural world:

• Hike Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park: Get your steps in with breathtaking views and maybe spot a celeb—or a mountain lion.
• Beach Day at El Matador or Zuma: Malibu beaches are stunning and far more relaxed than Venice or Santa Monica.
• Kayaking in Marina del Rey: Get out on the water and experience peaceful ocean breezes, no booze needed.

Outdoor activities are a great way to regulate your mood, build confidence, and stay present.

Try Sober Social Hangouts

Having a sober summer doesn’t mean being antisocial. In fact, LA has a growing sober community offering a variety of gatherings and hangouts:

• Sober Open Mic Nights – Spots like The Recovery Collective host open mics, art nights, and sober music events.
• Alcohol-Free Cafés – Try places like Café Gratitude or De Buena Planta for healthy, chill vibes without a drink menu.
• Men’s Recovery Meetups – Look for 12-step-based or secular men’s groups that also do beach walks, volleyball, or just grab tacos and hang out.

Take a Sober Fitness Challenge

Physical movement is crucial in recovery—and summer is the perfect time to kick it up a notch:

• Sign Up for a Local 5K – There are tons of races all over LA, from community fun runs to charity events.
• Join an Outdoor Fitness Class – Yoga in the park, boxing at the beach, or calisthenics at Muscle Beach in Venice.
• Train with Purpose – Create a 30-day challenge: 10,000 steps a day, 3 new hikes, or try 3 new sports.

Not only will this boost your physical health, but you’ll also build mental discipline and find new outlets for stress and emotion.

Dive into LA’s Cultural Scene

Stay stimulated and inspired with sober-friendly cultural adventures:

• Getty Museum & Villa – Art, gardens, and panoramic views—all for free.
• Summer Outdoor Movie Nights – Check out Street Food Cinema or Rooftop Cinema Club (many are BYO, but you can skip the drinks and bring snacks).
• Live Theater or Comedy – LA has a ton of sober-friendly venues for live entertainment. Laughter is great medicine.

Volunteer or Give Back

Summer is also a great time to deepen your sense of purpose. Volunteer opportunities around LA include:

• LA Food Bank
• TreePeople (urban forestry projects)
• Midnight Mission on Skid Row

Serving others reminds us we’re part of something bigger—and that we matter.

Get Started with Numa Recovery Today

Your summer in Los Angeles doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol or partying. It can be full of meaning, motion, creativity, and connection. The key is intention. Ask yourself: How do I want to feel this summer? What do I want to remember when it's over?

With just a bit of planning, your sober summer in LA can be your best sober summer yet. And if you're looking for some extra support on your journey to and within sobriety, get in touch with one of the team members at Numa Recovery today.