Summer Babies in the PNW: How to Stay Cool, Safe, and Sane
The GREY has subsided… wohoo! As much as we love the moody and crisp days that most of the year brings, we always get excited for summer. Welcoming a baby during a Portland summer comes with its own unique beauty and challenges. The Pacific Northwest offers abundant natural beauty, mild (but sometimes unpredictable) weather, and a variety of opportunities and activities for families. Whether you're preparing for a July home birth or navigating newborn life under the summer sun, we've gathered our favorite doula-approved tips to help you stay cool, safe, and supported.
1. Hydration is Your Best Friend
During pregnancy and postpartum, your body is working hard and needs even more water than usual. Add summer heat, and it becomes essential. Try:
Keeping a large, insulated water bottle nearby at all times.
Infusing your water with cucumber, mint, or berries for a refreshing boost.
Eating water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and citrus.
Pro tip: Coconut water is great for natural electrolytes!
2. Babywearing in the Heat
Babywearing can still be comfortable in warmer months with a few adjustments:
Use breathable carriers like linen ring slings or mesh-structured carriers.
Dress baby (and yourself) in light, natural fabrics.
Stay in shaded areas or use wide-brimmed hats and portable fans.
Watch for signs of overheating: flushed cheeks, irritability, or damp skin.
3. Sun Safety for You and Baby
While sunshine lifts the mood, protecting your skin and your baby's is key:
Babies under 6 months have delicate skin and should avoid prolonged direct sun exposure.
Use shade, umbrellas, or lightweight muslin covers when outside.
For postpartum parents: don't forget mineral-based sunscreen, especially on walks or while nursing outdoors.
4. Portland’s Best Shady Spots for New Families
Summer is a wonderful time to ease back into gentle movement with your baby. These local spots offer mostly stroller-friendly, shaded paths and quiet areas for feeding and resting:
This lovely 31 acre park has paved paths for walking or riding, a duck pond, dog park and of course a play. Meet some friends or have a picnic with the family, while getting some fresh air.
Mt. Tabor's lower trails
This whole park has friendly family options, but we reccomend hitting up the lower trails. head to Alltrails.com to get detailed info on length of hike, ammenties and even see pictures of the trails.
This is an absolute gem in the city and has countless attractions and natural sites for families. Take a stroll through the Hoyt Arboretum, say hello to the tigers at the Oregon Zoo, or play at the park with your littles at the Rose Garden Children’s Playground. In the same park is the Portland Japanese Garden, which is an extremely peaceful and stunning display of Japanese trees, fish ponds and zen gardens. There is a tram that takes you to the top if you don’t want to make the big trek up the hill.
Burnside Park in West Linn
This spot has easy river access that is off the beaten path. If you can’t get enough of water in the summer, come splash in the river with your littles or pull a chair up and relax next to the relaxing Willamette.
This is such a fun spot to invite a few mom friends and get lunch at the food cart pod. There is an open space for kids to run around and includes both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Lee Farms in Tualatin Oregon
We can’t resist the cute farms in summer. There’s kid’s playtime and farm animals through July and then their beautiful lSunflower Festival in August!
Located in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District, the gently sloping steps and shallow water depth make it ideal for babies and toddlers to splash under watchful eyes, without deep zones. With both grassy lawns or wide sandstone steps, parents can relax while watching their kiddos play. There are plenty of shady tree lined areas.
Pro Tip: Summer does bring the tourists - so early morning and evening outings are often cooler and less crowded.
5. Community is Cooler Together
Portland has a thriving community of new parents, and summertime is full of opportunities to connect:
Join a postpartum group (in-person or virtual).
Attend outdoor meetups or baby-friendly yoga in the park.
Reach out to your Doulas of Oregon team—we’re always happy to connect you with local resources or postpartum support that fits your summer rhythm.
A summer baby in the PNW is a special experience—long daylight hours, blossoming gardens, and fresh air make a beautiful backdrop for your new chapter. With the right support, a little planning, and some cool sips of water, you can thrive in this season of sunshine and new life. If you’re looking for personalized guidance or support during this time, our Portland doula team is here for you every step of the way.
