One of the classic summer vacations is a family trip to the beach or shore.

The calming roll of the waves, chilling on the beach, playing in the rejuvenating water, and hanging out as a family sunning and funning.

Here are some ideas to ensure a fun and low-stress beach vacation for everyone.

1. Location, location, location
Whenever possible, we stay within walking distance of the beach. A short walk to and from the beach is good for everyone! If you forget something, need to use the bathroom, run out of snacks, have nap time for the kids, it’s super easy to walk back to where you’re staying for whatever you need.

2. Do What the Locals Do
Our favorite thing to do on any vacation is explore everything locally, from eating to shopping.

Check out the grocery stores and markets to stock the beach house. Find the local restaurants for lunches and dinners out to try out the regional cuisines.

Discover cool beach shops for fun souvenirs. And don’t forget ice cream from the ice creamery.

Be sure to pick up the local guidebook to scope out all the options.

3. Find the Putt-Putt Miniature Golf
Spending a day or afternoon doing an activity off the beach is a great way to keep everyone engaged. Whether it’s the local putt-putt miniature golf, bike rental, boat rental, or visiting the local lighthouse, plan a fun outing for one of your afternoons.

4. Beach Games & Activities
In addition to playing in the water and riding the waves, we make sure to have beach games and activities to keep the kids entertained.

Check out the KeeKee Kid’s Corner for KeeKee’s favorites.

5. Theme Nights
For the nights you’re not out to dinner or on the beach, it’s fun to have theme nights in.

We often wind up with many Game Nights. Play board games or charades with the kids before bedtime, then bring out the adult games.

Movie Nights are always entertaining whether you rent online summer classics or bring some of your favorites. So, pop the popcorn, open the candy, and push play.

Plan a Classic BBQ Grill Out Night complete with s’mores making. We also love to do a local fresh seafood night; often, it’s an easy and delicious shrimp boil.

6. Beach Safely
We often overdo it in our excitement to finally enjoy the beach and the sun, especially when visiting a destination beach. The sun can burn you much faster in tropical environments. Pay attention to the UV amounts (most weather apps can inform you). Use sunscreen, sunblock, hats, sun shirts, and UV-protecting umbrellas. There’s nothing worse than overdoing it in the sun and being uncomfortable for the rest of the trip.

Be sure to follow lifeguards’ instructions and pay attention to things like big waves and strong currents. There will likely be signage at the entrance to the beach area to inform you of the day’s conditions. And watch the weather for any storm warnings.

Most importantly, relax and enjoy. We find that having a plan going into the beach week makes it fun for everyone and ensures reading and relaxation time for the adults.

Beach Adventure Awaits!