Got a tax refund check coming? Here’s 3 adventurous ideas for summer

by Brittany Anas · April 15, 2014

(Scuba diving courses cost about $350 to $450).

By Brittany Anas

Is Uncle Sam cutting you a tax refund check this spring?

Studies show that people who spend their discretionary income on experiences — rather than “things” — tend to be happier. So, if you’ve got some unexpected refund cash coming your way this spring, here’s a few ways to spend it so that you’ll experience the most bang for your buck — just in time for the summer recreation season.

The big splurge: Take a scuba diving class and plan a scuba vacation!

About a year ago, CNN gathered up 50 of the best dive sites across the world. That got us excited about the prospect of a new hobby. Among the most exciting dives? One in the Red Sea where the SS Thistlegorm was attacked and sunk in 1941 when it was en route from Glasgow to Alexandria. The ship sits at the bottom of the ocean and you can get a glimpse of where a German bomb hit it.

A certification class will cost you anywhere from $350 to $450. You’ll want to invest in your own mask, fin, and snorkel — which could tab out at about $150 for beginning scuba divers. If you book a trip for a dive, be sure to save money with ShopAtHome.com’s travel coupons. Book your flight and hotel with Expedia, and earn up to 7 percent Cash Back.

A moderate splurge: Give paddleboarding a go!

A new fitness trend that is gaining popularity is paddleboarding — with everything from paddleboard yoga classes to speed racing. If you’re looking for a new summer hobby, try renting a paddleboard at a local lake or reservoir first. Because renting can get expensive (up to $35 an hour at many places), consider buying a paddleboard of your won. The hobby will help you strengthen your core because of the balance it requires as well as tone your arms.

A small splurge: Buy season passes to a water park or recreation center!

Whether you’re getting a small refund check or you’ve put aside the money in savings (we applaud your willpower), you might still have room in your budget for some fun. Now is a good time to buy season passes to your local water park as the unlimited access prices tend to go up when we get closer to summer. Or, perhaps surprise your family with some punch passes to the local recreation center.