It seems you made do with what you had, but at least you had fun. Summer in the Philippines is pretty much just everyone going to the beaches, and they easily get full as well. On regular days, most go to the malls for the aircondition. I think minigolf and board games is really fun, and is a good bonding experience.
Would be great to have a nice tropical beach to sit on for a bit - it has been a while.
Most of the shopping centers here aren't airconditioned much, because it is such a short summer. Heating is more important. However, who knows with global climate change for the future.