Beach Tips
While I may not be a lifetime Floridian, I do have a knack for organization and am wired for efficiency. Below are my top ten tips! When you finish this list, head on over and see my list for great "go-to" beach gear!
Tip #1
Make a Good List
I think I may see a few "eye rolls" on this one - but I'm a list maker by nature, and always think it's a great idea! How many times have you run out the door only to get to your destination, and say, "oh! I forgot that thing!" Since my kids were young, I've kept a variety of lists on my computer - ready to print out in a moment's notice. After moving to Florida, of course I created one specifically for beach trips. And, since I go frequently, I laminated it to have handy, and even though I keep a packed beach bag at the ready, I still glance at my list to make sure I've got everything!
Tip #2
Take Trash Bags
Those store plastic bags are great to keep tucked in your car for trash or other needs, but make sure you put one or two inside your beach bag. This is not only handy to put your own trash in, but also when you see other trash lying on the beach. It is rather disappointing that not all visitors to beaches pick up after themselves. Especially be wary of glass shards from bottles (please don't carry glass bottles to the beach!).
Tip #3
Freeze Water Bottles
Frozen water bottles are great to use in your cooler to keep other items cold. No need for a bag of ice - or store-bought ice packs. If you are running low on your drinking water, just pull one out and let it melt! Stay hydrated!
Tip #4
SOMETHING HERE
Don't like trying to put on sunscreen after you've gotten all your beach gear set up and are now all sandy? Why not put your sunscreen on after getting out of your car - before walking to the beach?
Tip #5
Use Old Sheets
I have TWO great uses for old sheets!
1. It makes a great beach blanket! It doesn't take up much room in your beach bag, and if you like to spread out on the beach, it's great for putting all your towels, shoes and toys on. Shaking the sand off the sheet when you leave is also easy!
2. I keep one spread out in the back of my Jeep and put all the beach items on top. When I get home, no need to vacuum that, as I just pull the sheet out and shake! (This is actually a great tip for when you buy plants, or do anything that may get dirt in. It's much easier cleaning a sheet than the car!)
Tip #6
Prepare for Sand Removal
Not all paths to the beach have outdoor shower/foot washing stations. I've got two ideas to help deal with the "sand" issue.
1. Fill a bucket with water as you are leaving. When you get to your car, just dip your feet in (the best you can) and wipe dry.
2. Use sand brushes. This is our favorite option, and much easier than the first two methods. We keep our brushes in the back of the car, so they're ready to use anytime. I've included these in my list of favorite beach gear, so check out the sand brushes.
Tip #7
Don't Wear Jewelry
There are two great reasons not to wear any jewelry - especially valuable.
Did you know that sharks are attracted to shiny objects? Think about that next time you're in gulf or ocean water and are swimming around with that pretty necklace or bracelet. Don't think that there are any sharks nearby? Why risk it - remember you're swimming where they live!
The second big reason is that you would be surprised at the number of people who lose valuable jewelry at the beach. If you are at the beach later in the day here in Florida, it is not uncommon to see at least one person out combing the beach with their metal detector. After striking up conversations with a couple of them, they will tell you that they find a lot of expensive jewelry. And, it's not uncommon to see social media posts where someone has lost a sentimental ring hoping to get it back.
My pro-tip: leave all that jewelry at home!
Tip #8
SOMETHING HERE
Of course snap a few photos of the beautiful beach, but for goodness sake - you're at the beach!
Tip #9
Rinse Chairs & Clean Equipment
Good, quality beach gear is like an investment, so you want to be sure to take care of it. Always take time to rinse the saltwater and sand off your chairs, umbrellas, or anything else. And, you're going to want to make sure they're good and dry before storing away- so after hosing them down, leave them outside in the breeze and sunshine to dry. If that's not an option, use an old towel and wipe down as best you can.
Tip #10
Washing Bathing Suits
These days a good, quality swimsuit can be on the expensive side, so... you want to take great care of it. You don't want chlorine or salt water ruining the fabric or vibrancy, so you need to wash it right away. My suggestion: wash your swimsuits while you shower! This may sound crazy, but I have found this to be such an efficient use of time and keeps my swimsuits ready for the beach or pool. I just picked up a $ store plastic tub, and jug of delicate laundry detergent. After my outing, I just jump in the shower and quickly wash my suit and then finish my shower as usual. Then I hang it on a drying rack. Done!