A looong time ago, one year go today to be exact, I wrote a post entitled “10 ways to have a great beach vacation: Part 1.” And guess what? I never wrote Part 2! Until today! Nothing like a year-long, two-part series, right?
A recent trip to the beach reminded me of a few things, however, so here’s the rest of my tips-
6.) Bring PLENTY of bottled water, or bottles of water, or any kind of drinks with a lid.
Nothing spoils a beach trip quicker than taking a swig from your Dr. Pepper can only to find one of your precious children has inadvertently kicked sand in it!
7.) Apply sunscreen BEFORE leaving to head to the beach.
If a sandy drink will ruin your beach trip, nothing will start it off worse for the kiddos than getting there and telling them to hold still while you sunscreen them! They just want to play! And if you have four like me, it takes a while to wrangle all of them and get it on. (Why do they hate it so much?) Plus, sunscreen is more effective if you apply it 20 minutes before swimming. If only I could remember this every time!
8.) Don’t forget sand toys!
My kids love digging in the sand just as much, if not more, than getting in the water. Essentials for our family are buckets, shovels, and for Landon, his toy cars. They can play in the sand for hours!
9.) An umbrella is a necessity!
For years I put off buying an umbrella, even though my kids are super-fair-skinned. Then I was in academy one day, and found one for $14! It is truly one of the best things I’ve bought. I make the kids take “shade breaks” when we’re out there in the middle of the day.
This may seem obvious, but being on the beach is not the time to catch up on Facebook or blogs! Get out there and enjoy your kids. My 2 year old reminded me of this when she told me to, “Put down your book and chase me, mama!”
About Kelli Hays
love the pictures!