Sandcastles and Sun: How to Plan the Ultimate Beach Vacation the Whole Family Will Love

beach vacation

Going to the beach is a dream vacation for a lot of families. If you don’t live near the coast – or even if you do – planning the ultimate beach vacation can be a big deal.

There seems to be a lot to plan for and a lot to think about, but by following a few simple steps you can create and experience the whole family will love.

Here’s what you need to know!

Book in Advance

If you’re going to have a great experience at the beach, you want to make sure you plan ahead. Many hotels and resorts will fill in advance, and you want to make sure your name is on the list.

Whether you’re looking at a Ballina holiday accommodation or a vacation closer to home, it pays to book early.

Another advantage of booking early is that you can take advantage of special deals. If you notice a lower price after you’ve booked, contact the hotel or resort and get the price matched!

Think About the Range of Ages You Have

No one will have fun on a beach vacation if grandma gets heat exhaustion or your toddler is screaming because he missed his nap. Plan your activities and outings carefully based on who’s coming with you.

If you have a family vacation coming up, how old are your children? How long will they be able to be out in the sun? Do they need naps?

Everything from crankiness to hunger to mobility limitations can impact your trip. To keep everyone happy, be sure to take these things into account from the beginning!

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Bring the Right Supplies for Your Beach Vacation

There’s nothing worse than getting your towel spread on the sand only to realize no one has sunscreen. Packing up and going back to the hotel to get some is one choice, getting burned is the other.

Neither is fun.

Instead, make sure that you think ahead and even create a checklist for what you want to bring with you to the actual beach. Towels, swimsuits, sandcastle sets? Sunscreen, snacks, water?

When you are thinking about the supplies before the trip, you’ll be more clearheaded. Everyone forgets things if they don’t have a list before they’re rushing everyone out of the hotel. Create your checklist in advance.

Everyone will be much happier and healthier!

Save Money By Choosing the Right Beach & Time

If you’re worried about crowds and high costs, you’re not alone. Beaches with a national reputation definitely charge more for everything, from accommodations to snacks. And they’re crowded!

Instead, look for a lesser-well-known destination – even one that neighbors the big-name beach. It will be just as beautiful, but cheaper and less crowded!

You can also save cash by choosing to travel out-of-season. While there aren’t many beaches that are inviting in the winter, by traveling in the “shoulder seasons” you can save money and avoid having so many people.

You may also find that the weather is more mild, which is nice for everyone!

Want more tips on the ultimate beach vacation? We have ideas on everything from the perfect swimsuit to how to keep yourself happy and beautiful. Check out more of the blog today!

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