Really looking forward to enjoying the sand and surf? Play it smart and avoid these 6 Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Beach Vacation.
Not Researching Your Rental Or Hotel Well Enough
Saw that special rate and booked those accommodations before you really checked things out? Arrive at your destination expecting to be beach front, but find yourself across a busy highway. Even more of a bummer, your view is blocked by a huge condo tower.
Take the time to really explore your options and other vacationer ratings before you select where you will stay. Especially, be aware if you are staying off the beach how far you will need to go for beach access.
Also, don’t forget to confirm you reservation a few days before you head out for vacation.
Getting Cooked
Having just returned from a beach trip, the memory of people who let their skin get fried is fresh on my mind. I noticed a pattern in that these folks spent the first day or two with little or no sunscreen on.
They managed to burn their skin to cherry red. Then spent the rest of their time attempting to sooth their great discomfort.
Underestimating The Power Of Water To Ruin Beach Vacation
The ocean is both amazingly beautiful and deceptively powerful. People constantly underestimate the strength of waves and currents. Stay aware of surf conditions and the presence of riptides.
If caught in a riptide, it is essential to know what to do to break free from it. Don’ t panic but instead float or tread water until you can escape by swimming parallel to the shore. Once fully clear, swim diagonally to reach the beach (Wikipedia).
Ignoring Basic First Aid
We are all prone to getting those little nicks and cuts as we navigate through everyday life. That is especially true when we are outside our normal environment. For example, walking barefoot on a beach with seashell pieces.
Make sure that you take good care of any wounds. Keep the areas clean and properly covered. Especially, in a marine environment, the sand and water contain bacteria and other fun goodies that can cause infections/illness.
Failing To Adjust For Crowd Levels
Looking forward to eating at that highly recommended restaurant, only to arrive to a two hour wait? Show up at the entertainment center for a night of go-carting and putt putt golf, only to find long lines at every activity? Nothing can ruin beach vacation plans like failing to account for the impact crowds will have on access to the spots you want to visit.
By planning ahead, you can make some simple adjustments that will still enable you enjoy your outings. One trick I often use when faced with a busy time at the beach is to go eat an early dinner and then come back and take a walk on the beach while everybody else is stuck in restaurant lines.
Or I get up early and be one of the first folks at a site or attraction, while everybody else is sleeping in.
Easing Up On Your Situational Awareness
It is natural and good to want to kick back and relax on your beach vacation. Just be sure that while chilling out, you don’t zone out on some basic security precautions. Keep your valuables secured and out of sight. Don’t wear lots of flashy jewelry or wave around cash that would draw attention to yourself.
Don’t announce in earshot of strangers, where you are staying. Also, go places in groups and stay on the beaten paths where ever possible.
With some simple precautions and advanced planning, your beach vacation will be memorable in all sorts of good ways.
For More Beach Tips:
11 Great Items For Beach Under $20
