I shudder to think summer could slip away uncelebrated, so here are five ways to soak it up in eco-style.

Better World Club: Last month I made the switch to the auto club that wants to make the world a better place. With BWC, you get the security of knowing you’re covered when you’re on the road and the satisfaction that you’re supporting an org who donates 1% of its profits to environmental causes, gives discounts for hybrids and biodiesel drivers and even offers roadside assistance to bicycle commuters! It’ll even help you land green travel options like eco-tours and carbon offsets.

Yard Sale Treasure Map: Who doesn’t love a yard sale? They let you exercise your creative reuse skills, hone your style radar and rub elbows with your neighbors all at the same time. Enter your address here and find all the sales near you plus the best map of attack for your day. Happy hunting!

Heal the Bay’s CA Beach Report Card: We’ve recommended it before, but HTB’s beach scores are worth another mention. I was pleased to find that the stretch of sand I’ll be sojourning on this weekend-Hermosa -gets an A+. Good marks mean bacterial pollution levels are low and it’s safe to put more than your toes in the surf. (Here’s how to do your part for the ocean even when you’re inland.)

Online book swaps: I’m still big on taking a real, live paperback with me to the beach, the bistro or my own backyard. So if you’re lukewarm on the Kindle but want to read hot books this summer on the cheap, try recycling them (aka swapping). I’ve been using swaptree and paying only shipping costs for about a year now, but trading options abound. (See a smattering of bookswapping possibilities at OZOlife.) I’m also intrigued by BookCrossing, which mimics literary adventure-you register and then leave a book somewhere out there in hopes an eager reader will find it.

Stage a staycation: If you’re opting to live light on wallet and world this summer and staying in town, do it up right and retreat into nature. Turn off the gadgets, put on your good shoes, and find some trees and hills in your area at Nature Rocks. It’s also got a staycation guide for outdoor excursions with kids. Or plan a themed day or weekend. Art: go to a museum or gallery and then get crafty with friends. Food: leisurely shop at a new to you farmer’s market and take a cooking class (may we recommend Spork Foods). You get the idea.

Let us know in the comments of any other fabulous summer tools you’ve got up your short sleeves!

Tags: beach safety, beach water quality, better world club, environmental auto club, green auto club, Green LA, green summer, nature rocks, swaptree, yard sale finder