Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to capture the essence of vacation fun in our drawings. Whether you’re at the beach, in the mountains, or just enjoying the warmth of the season, these prompts will help you get into the summer spirit. Let’s get started with some exciting drawing prompts inspired by summer vacations!
✏️ Tips Before Starting
Before we begin, make sure you’re fully equipped with the right tools and techniques! Check out my Drawing Prompt Guide for how to effectively use drawing prompts and how these creative exercises improve your skills. Additionally, my Choosing Your Artist Tools Guide will help you select the perfect materials to bring your artistic visions to life. With these guides, you’ll have everything you need to start on your artistic journey with confidence.
Drawing Prompt #1 – Family Bicyle Ride (Day 1)
Picture a family enjoying a bright, sunny day out for a bicycle ride in their local park. They’re riding along scenic trails, with the parents leisurely pedaling while watching their children race ahead to a nearby tree or rock. Capture the joy and excitement on the children’s faces as they compete, and the warm smiles on the parents’ faces as they watch their kids having fun.
Drawing Prompt #2 – Strawberry picking (Day 2)
Imagine a family venturing into the countryside early one morning to pick fresh strawberries on a farm. Picture the cool breeze and fresh air as the children eagerly fill their baskets, trying their best not to eat every strawberry they find. Visualize the lively conversations about what they plan to make with their strawberries, and capture the expressions of joy and anticipation on the family’s faces. Illustrate this precious summer moment.
Drawing Prompt #3 – Sailboat Adventures (Day 3)
Envision a family on a sunny day, setting sail on a serene lake. The parents expertly navigate the sailboat while the children marvel at the sparkling water and the gentle breeze filling the sails. Picture the joy on the children’s faces as they lean over the edge, watching fish swim beneath them, and the parents’ content expressions as they guide the boat. Capture the sense of adventure and togetherness in this delightful family sailboat journey.
Drawing Prompt #4 – Scuba Diving for Two (Day 4)
Think of a couple exploring the vibrant underwater world on a scuba diving adventure. Picture the crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs. The couple, equipped with their diving gear, swim side by side, discovering the wonders of the deep sea together. Capture the awe and excitement on their faces as they encounter various marine creatures and the sense of wonder and connection they share on this extraordinary journey.
Drawing Prompt #5 – A Zoo Trip to Remember (Day 5)
Picture a group of friends spending a fun-filled day at the zoo. Imagine their wide-eyed amazement as they watch elephants play, monkeys swing from branches, and colorful birds fly overhead. They laugh and chat as they point out different animals and share interesting facts. Capture the excitement and curiosity on their faces, the joy and wonder of discovering the animal kingdom, and the camaraderie and happiness of sharing this special day together.
Drawing Prompt #7 – Rafting the River (Day 7)
A group of friends enjoying a warm summer day as they float down a gently flowing river on a raft. Picture them relaxed and happy, with some steering the raft while others splash and play in the water. Capture the serene beauty of the riverbanks, adorned with lush greenery and perhaps a few wildflowers. Illustrate the joy and camaraderie of the moment, with sunlight filtering through the trees and reflecting off the sparkling water, creating a perfect summer escape.
Drawing Prompt #8 – Water Fun (Day 8)
Capture the thrill of a jet skiing adventure on a sunny summer day. Picture friends or family members zipping across the sparkling water on their jet skis, leaving trails of frothy waves behind them. Capture the excitement and exhilaration on their faces as they navigate the waves, with the sun shining brightly overhead and the vast expanse of the water stretching out around them. Illustrate the sense of speed and freedom, the vibrant blue of the water, and the clear sky, creating an energetic and fun-filled scene.
Drawing Prompt #9 – Competition on the Beach (Day 9)
Picture a lively game of beach volleyball on a sunny summer day. Imagine players divided into teams, their feet sinking into the warm sand as they jump and dive to hit the ball. Capture the intense focus and determination on their faces, the joy of making a great play, and the laughter shared between points. Illustrate the vibrant atmosphere with a bright blue sky, the ocean waves in the background, and spectators cheering from the sidelines. Show the energy, excitement, and fun of this classic beach activity.
Drawing Prompt #10 – A Day at the Water Park(Day 10)
Draw a family enjoying an exciting day at a water park. Picture the parents and children eagerly exploring various attractions, from thrilling water slides to lazy rivers. Capture the excitement on the children’s faces as they race down the slides, the joy of splashing in the wave pool, and the laughter shared as they float along the lazy river. Illustrate the vibrant colors of the park, the bright sun overhead, and the refreshing splashes of water, creating a scene filled with energy, happiness, and family fun.
Drawing Prompt #11 – Exploring a Botanical Garden (Day 11)
A person is enjoying a peaceful vacation day exploring a beautiful botanical garden. Picture them strolling along winding paths, surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery. Capture the sense of wonder and tranquility on their face as they pause to admire a colorful bloom or take in the scent of fragrant blossoms. Illustrate the intricate details of the garden, with its diverse plant life, charming benches, and perhaps a tranquil pond or fountain, creating a scene of serenity and natural beauty.
Drawing Prompt #12 – Through the Mountains (Day 12)
Imagine a couple enjoying a serene horseback tour through majestic mountain trails. Picture them riding side by side on sturdy horses, the breathtaking scenery unfolding around them with towering peaks, lush forests, and clear blue skies. Capture the sense of adventure and connection as they share this experience, their faces reflecting joy and awe. Illustrate the natural beauty of the mountains, with winding paths, wildflowers, and perhaps a distant waterfall. Create a wonderful wilderness wonderland, filled with tranquility, and the splendor of nature.
Drawing Prompt #13 – First Museum Visit (Day 13)
Think about a child visiting a special museum for the first time, filled with excitement and curiosity. Picture them standing wide-eyed in front of a fascinating exhibit, whether it’s a towering dinosaur skeleton, a dazzling display of gemstones, or an interactive science exhibit. Capture the sense of wonder and amazement on their face as they explore the different rooms and displays. Illustrate the vibrant details of the museum, with its captivating exhibits, informative plaques, and the bustling atmosphere of other visitors, creating a scene that highlights the magic of discovery and learning.
Drawing Prompt #14 – A Visit to Stonehenge (Day 14)
A young man is standing before the ancient and mysterious Stonehenge for the first time. Picture him gazing in awe at the towering stone structures, feeling a sense of wonder and curiosity. Capture the expression of amazement on his face as he takes in the historical and cultural significance of the site. Illustrate the details of the massive stones, the grassy landscape, and the wide-open sky, creating a scene filled with the majesty and mystery of this iconic landmark.
Drawing Prompt #15 – Tour Bus Adventure (Day 15)
Visualize a family on a double-decker tour bus, exploring a bustling new city like London, New York, Hong Kong, or Taipei. Picture them sitting on the upper deck, excitedly pointing out famous landmarks and skyscrapers. Capture the expressions of wonder and excitement on their faces as they listen to the guide narrate interesting facts about the city’s history and culture. Illustrate the vibrant cityscape around them, with iconic buildings, busy streets, and diverse crowds, creating a scene filled with adventure and discovery in an urban setting.
Drawing Prompt #16 – Family Shopping(Day 16)
Illustrate a family exploring vibrant markets or bustling shopping districts while visiting another country. Picture them excitedly browsing through stalls or shops filled with unique clothing, exotic foods, and intriguing cultural items. Capture the joy and curiosity on their faces as they try on colorful garments, sample delicious treats, and admire handcrafted souvenirs. Illustrate the rich details of the market environment, with its lively atmosphere, diverse products, and the architectural charm of the surroundings, creating a scene of cultural immersion and discovery.
Drawing Prompt #18 – First Time Seeing an Ocean Turtle (Day 18)
Imagine a young girl standing in awe in front of a large aquarium tank, where a majestic ocean turtle glides gracefully through the water. Picture her wide-eyed and curious, captivated by the turtle’s slow, serene movements and the intricate patterns on its shell. Capture the sense of wonder and fascination on her face as she gazes at this new and exciting sight. Illustrate the details of the aquarium, with its clear, shimmering water, the vibrant marine life around the turtle, and the soft lighting that highlights the turtle’s elegant form, creating a moment of pure amazement and discovery.
Drawing Prompt #19 – Cuisine Abroad (Day 19)
A family is sitting at a cozy, vibrant restaurant in a foreign land, savoring local cuisine with great enthusiasm. Picture them relishing the unique flavors and aromatic dishes that are new to them. Capture their expressions of delight and satisfaction as they taste the food, with a hint of longing as they wish they could enjoy these flavors back home. Illustrate the colorful, enticing dishes on their table, the warm ambiance of the restaurant, and the lively atmosphere of the surroundings, creating a scene filled with culinary joy and the bittersweet desire to take a piece of their travel experience home.
Drawing Prompt #20 – A Night at the Theater (Day 20)
It’s a lovely evening. A couple is sitting together, engrossed in a cultural theatrical presentation during their vacation. Picture them seated in an ornate theater or an open-air venue, surrounded by the rich ambiance of the performance. The stage is alive with colorful costumes, traditional music, and dramatic storytelling that brings the region’s history and culture to life. Capture the couple’s expressions of fascination and engagement as they watch the performance, their faces illuminated by the stage lights. Illustrate the vivid details of the scene, including the elaborate costumes, dynamic stage action, and the immersive atmosphere, creating a moment of shared cultural appreciation and enjoyment.
Drawing Prompt #21 – Bird Watching Abroad (Day 21)
It’s a quiet and peaceful afternoon. An elderly person sitting peacefully in a serene natural setting while on vacation abroad, intently observing a bird they have never seen before. Picture them seated on a comfortable bench or at a quiet spot in a park, with binoculars in hand and a look of serene concentration on their face. Capture the moment of discovery as they watch the unique bird, taking in its colors, markings, and behavior. Illustrate the tranquil environment around them, including lush greenery, perhaps a nearby pond or trees, and the delicate details of the bird, creating a scene filled with calm, curiosity, and the joy of discovering new wonders in nature.
Drawing Prompt #22 – River Boat Tour (Day 22)
A family is on a glass-bottom river boat tour, gliding through the clear waters of a picturesque river. Picture them seated comfortably as they look through the transparent floor of the boat, fascinated by the underwater world below. Capture their expressions of awe and excitement as they observe colorful fish, aquatic plants, and perhaps even a glimpse of other wildlife swimming beneath the surface. Illustrate the serene beauty of the river, surrounded by lush greenery or dramatic rock formations, creating a scene of family adventure and discovery.
Drawing Prompt #23 – Mountain Sunset (Day 23)
The fresh air and the sounds of the forest. A lone mountain hiker sitting peacefully atop a rugged mountain peak, gazing at a breathtaking sunset. Picture the hiker, weary yet content, with their backpack beside them, as they take in the stunning view of the sun dipping below the horizon. Capture the tranquil expression on their face, the warm hues of the sunset casting a golden glow over the landscape, and the expansive view of the rolling mountains or valleys below. Illustrate the serene atmosphere, with the vibrant sky transitioning through shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a moment of solitude and reflection amid nature’s beauty.
Drawing Prompt #24 – Cave Exploration (Day 24)
Two friends embarking on an exciting cave exploration adventure. Picture them inside a dimly lit cave, equipped with safety gear like helmets with headlamps, sturdy gloves, and harnesses. Capture their expressions of curiosity and excitement as they navigate through the cave’s winding passages, their headlamps illuminating the impressive rock formations and sparkling mineral deposits around them. Illustrate the intriguing textures of the cave walls, the play of light and shadow, and the sense of wonder as they discover the cave’s hidden wonders together, creating a scene filled with adventure and wonder.
Drawing Prompt #25 – Thrilling Rapids (Day 25)
Excitement is in the air. A person is intensely navigating through the thrilling white-water rapids of a river. Picture them in an agile kayak, wearing safety gear including a helmet, life vest, and paddling with powerful strokes. Capture the excitement and focus on their face as they skillfully maneuver through the turbulent waters, with frothy waves crashing around them. Illustrate the dynamic movement of the kayak cutting through the rapids, the spray of water, and the rugged river environment, creating a scene of adrenaline, adventure, and determination.
Drawing Prompt #26 – Water Skiing With Friends (Day 26)
Imagine a group of friends enjoying an energetic day of water skiing on a sparkling lake. Picture them each taking turns on the skis, with one or two friends being towed behind a speedboat, their faces lit up with excitement and joy. Capture the dynamic action of the skis cutting through the water, the spray of droplets, and the boat gliding across the lake. Illustrate the friends cheering each other on, with their vibrant swimwear and enthusiastic expressions, as they enjoy a perfect summer day of water fun.
Drawing Prompt #27 – Jungle Excitement (Day 27)
Draw a group of friends zip-lining through a lush, vibrant jungle. Picture them suspended high above the ground, gripping the harnesses and cables with a mix of thrill and slight apprehension. Capture the excitement and exhilaration on their faces as they soar through the treetops, with the dense canopy of green and occasional bursts of colorful flowers below. Illustrate the dramatic perspective of the zip line stretching across the jungle, the friends’ dynamic poses as they glide through the air, and the sense of adventure mixed with a touch of nervousness, creating a scene filled with adrenaline and wonder.
Drawing Prompt #28 – Golf for Icecream (Day 28)
A family is enjoying a lively round of miniature golf at a colorful, whimsical course. Picture them engaged in friendly competition, with each family member focused on making their putts and aiming for the win. Capture the playful intensity on their faces as they cheer each other on and strategize their shots. Illustrate the vibrant, quirky elements of the miniature golf course, such as whimsical obstacles and themed decorations. Add a fun detail of the winners holding their scores high, excited about their reward of an extra scoop of ice cream, creating a scene filled with competition, laughter, and the joy of family fun.
Drawing Prompt #29 – Whimsical Joy at the Lighthouse (Day 29)
It’s the salty ocean and you see someone leaning carefully yet whimsically over the railing of a lighthouse, gazing out over the vast ocean. Picture them with a look of pure joy on their face, savoring the fresh, salty sea air. Capture the carefree, playful posture as they take in the sweeping view of the ocean below, with the lighthouse’s sturdy structure framing the scene. Illustrate the expansive ocean, the gentle waves, and the bright sky, creating a sense of serene delight and connection with the natural beauty surrounding them.
Drawing Prompt #30 – Scaling a the Cliffs (Day 30)
Think about someone hard at work climbing a rugged cliff edge, their face showing determination and a hint of sweat on their forehead. Picture them equipped with all the necessary safety gear, including a helmet, harness, and climbing ropes. Capture the focus and resolve in their expression as they grip the rocks and carefully make their way up the challenging terrain. Illustrate the dramatic, textured surface of the cliff, the sweeping views below, and the sense of accomplishment and joy in their smile as they inch closer to the summit, creating a scene of perseverance and adventure.
Conclusion
Summer vacations are a time to kick back, explore new places, and soak up the sun. These drawing prompts are crafted to reflect the joy and adventure that summer brings. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking through mountains on horseback, exploring caves, enjoying an amusement park, or exploring an old lighthouse, there’s endless inspiration around you. I hope these prompts ignite your creativity and add a touch of summer fun to your drawings. Have a fantastic summer and happy drawing!
Looking for more drawing prompts?
Check out the drawing prompts for the other months of the year!