Looking for something to do this weekend? There’s no better and affordable way for a great time than a perfectly planned beach day. Check out this guide for some helpful tips on how to make the most out of your special, sunny adventure with your loved ones.
Check the Weather (and the Creatures)
The first and most important thing to do before you head out on your sandy adventure is to check the weather! The last thing you want is to get caught in a storm while you have all of your gear laid out, or maybe it’s too cold to have an enjoyable time. Either way, whether the drive is near or far, you should be prepared to reschedule your beach day if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Another important thing to check on is whether or not there are animals or other creatures around this time of year that might impact your good time. Make sure it’s not jellyfish season in your area before you take your trip, or you might be in for a day of discomfort.
Bring Your Gear
The gear you bring might single-handedly determine the kinds of fun you have! Sunscreen is an important and oft-forgotten essential for Florida beachgoers, so keep that in the front of your tote bag. Higher SPF sunscreen will protect you better from the sun’s rays, but don’t forget to be vigilant about reapplying, even if your sunscreen is high SPF; higher SPFs sometimes create a false sense of security, but you need to reapply them, too!
Do you like lounging in a fold-out chair, or on a beach towel? However you prefer, you’ll want to make sure you bring whatever you find the most comfortable. Remember to bring a portable umbrella as well if you want to get some shade in.
Some smaller essentials to think of are sunglasses to protect your eyes, extra water to keep those hydration levels up and that thirst quenched, and a portable charger for your phone, as the heat will rapidly drain your phone battery if you’re using it enough.
Pack Some Lunch, Or Grab A Bite
If you’re planning on staying planted in your spot on the beach, you’ll probably be bringing a little picnic for you and your friends. Bring something substantial to keep yourself satisfied, like a sandwich or salad, but make sure to keep them in a cooler so they’re not victims to the heat. Snacks are a great idea, too, like granola bars or nuts. The heat will knock the energy out of you, so make sure you’re eating enough.
If you don’t want to pack your own lunch, you can think about checking out local eateries. Thankfully, Ponce Inlet can provide! Check out Racing’s North Turn if you like NASCAR and classic American fare, or maybe Hidden Treasures Restaurant, which has live music, excellent grub, and is one of the local businesses that supports the lighthouse! Whatever kind of food you prefer on your beach day, Ponce Inlet has you covered.
Claim Your Space, but Be Courteous
Especially during busy seasons or on the weekends, you might struggle to find an ample amount of space for you and your buddies. After all, the beach is a public good, and anyone can claim their access to it! Go earlier in the day, ahead of the rush, and quickly put down your setup – towels, chairs, umbrellas, coolers, anything to clearly demarcate your space for the day on the beach.
While bringing your own stereo or otherwise blasting your own music is often one of the highlights of being at the beach with friends, other beach goers will not appreciate it if they can hear your music at anything more than a dull decibel. Play your tunes softly, just encompassing the area around you, or bring headphones.
Additionally, be courteous when smoking on the beach if it is smoke-friendly. Just because it doesn’t bother you or your friends doesn’t mean it won’t bother the family sitting 15 feet down from you whose faces the smoke is blowing into. While the beach is a public good, everyone should treat it and everyone around them with respect.
Relax and Enjoy!
Most important to your beach trip is to have fun and relax! Enjoy the good vibes, waves, and sunshine with your closest friends. Not many adventures outside the home anymore come at no cost, but beach days are some of the most affordable and unforgettable fun you can find.
If you’re still hungry for more after your beach day, visit the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for an epic journey through history. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop, either. Take advantage of the opportunity and come on down to Ponce Inlet with your loved ones!
