9 Gifts Dad Does NOT Want For Father’s Day

Thinking of the perfect Father’s Day gift for Dad can be tricky. But while it’s the thought that counts, you want Dad to cherish your gift and know you spent time lovingly choosing it. If you’re starting to sweat and getting closer to clicking “Buy Now” on the sock of the month club, stop!  We’re here to help. 

Today, we’re sharing nine gifts Dad does NOT want for Father’s Day and what to buy him instead. 

1 - Skip the shaving kit. 

So what if Dad really needs the shaving kit? Is that what he truly wants? If you’re going to get him something for skincare, opt instead for some cool new sunglasses to protect his eyes, a fun lake hat, or a sporty new sun-protective shirt that he can wear in and out of the lake this summer. 

He hates applying sunscreen anyway, so he’ll thank you for keeping him grease-free and sunburn-free this season. Many sun shirts come in different styles, patterns, sizes, and lengths. Opt for ones that are moisture-wicking or quick-drying and which offer UPF 50+ for best results. 

2 - Forgo the home improvement tools. 

Let Dad have a day off from his “honey-do” list. Instead of buying him tools to fix the dishwasher that’s broken again, give him tools to do something fun! New fishing poles, lures, an (installation-included) fish finder, or a new Yeti cooler to take on fishing expeditions will provide Dad with hours of fun living his best life at the lake. 

*Bonus points if you spring for the dishwasher, too. 

3 - Forget the obligatory tie. 

Ok, Dad might still wear a tie to church now and again, but he probably has enough ties to last three lifetimes. Instead, imagine him styling on the patio sporting a pair of high-end flip-flops. Brands like Vionic, Reef, OluKai, and Teva offer fashionable and comfortable flip-flops and sandals for everyone. Many even provide specialized arch support, grip, or even a fit that rivals a custom orthotic while not giving up on style. 

4 - Just say ‘no’ to an online workout subscription. 

We want Dad to be just as healthy as you do, but how much use will he get out of an online exercise class? Instead, help Dad get outside and active. Take him down to Twin Creeks Marina and rent a couple of kayaks or paddleboards. Dad will feel the love while spending quality time with you on the lake. You’ll have the chance to see if he falls in love with kayaking or paddleboarding without having to invest in expensive equipment before you’re sure. 

5 - Resist the urge to give grandkid photos. 

Don’t fight the messenger! Dad loves his grandkids more than life itself, but instead of a framed family photo for Father’s Day, why not get together for a family fun day at the lake instead? Dad will relish every moment of pulling grandkids on a tube or wakeboard, having lunch at Drafts and Watercrafts together or watching the grandkids shriek with delight as they jump for joy on the Jungle Boat at Twin Creeks. 

You’ll be building memories that last a lifetime. Besides, you can use the picture frame you already bought for the occasion to memorialize the day’s adventure. Fill it with a candid lake shot from the day and give it to him the next time you see him. See, now you’ve given him two gifts! Don’t have a boat? Rent a state-of-the-art pontoon boat for the whole family.   

6- Don’t force-feed him healthy food. 

We don’t know who needs to hear this, but he knew that last batch of brownies was reduced-fat. We know you mean well, and you want Dad to be around for years to come. Tell you what, if you’re going to make him something healthy, just make sure you find a recipe with a LOT of five-star reviews that reference “picky eaters.” And, we’ll do our part to keep this between us.  

7- Ignore the bourbon-making kit. 

Actually, this is still an awesome gift. Forget we said anything. 

8 - Steer clear of anything Dad has to put together. 

Unless Dad loves tinkering, don’t give him another job to do. Grills, fire pits, and patio furniture can be great additions to Dad’s backyard, but take the hassle factor out of these presents. Commit to putting it together for him or spring for it to arrive ready-for-action. He’ll thank you for it, and he’ll probably cook you a burger on it, too. 

9 - Pass up the same old restaurant. 

Don’t just take Dad to the same restaurant you’ve eaten at twice a week for the last 20 years. Give Dad a new experience. Bring him down for a great time at Drafts and Watercrafts. Is Dad fun-loving? Every week, there’s something new going on. Bring him down for terrific food, amazing drinks, and have a spectacular time celebrating the best dad ever:

Mondays:  Trivia Night from 6:30-8:00 pm

Thursdays: Lake Idol singing competition (watch or participate!) starting at 7:00 pm

Fridays: Live music from 6:30-9:30 pm

Saturdays:  Live music from 8:00-10:00 pm. Check out our Facebook for the scheduled artists.

Sundays: Live music from 1:00-4:00 pm. 

Visit Facebook for weekly schedules and news of other upcoming events.

Show Dad some serious love this Father’s Day and you’ll be at the top of the favorite’s list. At last, until your next sibling announces they’re expecting.