The Ultimate Guide to Beach Vacations

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Whether you’re traveling to the beach for the first time or for the 100th time, make sure you check out this ultimate must-read guide. Full of tips and tricks along with item ideas to help every step of the way. You never know when you’ll discover something new!

For most, beach vacations are one of the first vacation types one thinks of when brainstorming. There’s something special for travelers worldwide, offering a combination of relaxation, adventure, and ocean experiences. The attraction of beach vacation destinations comes from their ability to provide tranquility, natural beauty, and a break from the stresses of daily life. From the relaxing sound of waves crashing on the shore to the warmth of the sun on your skin, beach vacations create a sense of calm and serenity that is unmatched by any other type of travel experience.

Next, it’s time to decide where to travel depending on the type of beach you’re looking for. Most of the time when you think of a beach vacation, you think of the ocean and salt water beaches. But don’t forget about lakes or freshwater vacation spots too!

Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Pexels.com

Oceans and salt water beaches are where you can find some great surfing spots, a variety of culture and marine life and nature. In the US, a few popular beach vacation spots are Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, where surfing is ideal; South Beach, Miami, Florida, known for a popular visiting spot for celebrities; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a great spot for families with a wide range of attractions; and Santa Monica Beach, California, known for its iconic pier and neighboring city of Los Angeles. Some of the most popular beach destinations around the world include the Caribbean islands, renowned for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters; the Mediterranean coastlines of Greece, Italy, and Spain, with their ancient ruins and charming seaside villages; tropical paradise like the Maldives, where palm-fringed beaches and luxurious resorts beckon travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence; and coastal towns in Australia, and Portugal, known for their surf culture and stunning coastal landscapes.

My personal list of my top 10 ocean beach essentials:

Kids? Don’t forget a sun shelter and plenty of snacks!

Rather have a printable checklist? Check out my Etsy shop!

Natural or man-made lakes offer great fishing spots, boating and water sports and your typical cozy lake cottage. With hundreds of thousands of lakes to choose from, there’s a location perfect for everyone. Located over the California / Nevada line, one lake that most everyone has heard of is Lake Tahoe, with its breathtaking views and clear blue waters, it nears the top of everyone’s travel list. Other popular lake destinations include Crater Lake, located in Oregon and formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano and known for being the deepest lake in the United States and Lake Superior, located throughout Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, is known for gorgeous landscapes and being the largest freshwater lakes in the world. If you’re looking for lake hiking, Lake Powell boasts beautiful canyon-like walls for excellent site seeing. Located mainly in Utah, this lake is the second largest man made reservoir in the US. Looking for mountains? Try Flathead Lake in Montana, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Any of these lakes not only offer amazing views, but also a wide range of water activities for all ages.

My personal list of my top 10 lakeside beach essentials:

Kids? Don’t forget a sun shelter and plenty of snacks! Binoculars never hurt to keep them occupied with all the wildlife!

Rather have a printable checklist? Check out my Etsy shop!

So, which one will you choose? Maybe you’re looking not only for spectacular views and sightseeing or that perfect lounge spot to soak up the sun’s rays, but super cool water sports as well. That’s the beauty of fresh and saltwater beaches, there’s something for all ages. Let’s dive in deeper with the top ten.

Swimming – can be either ocean or lake activity, depending on your preference. Consider salt and sand versus natural freshwater.
Snorkeling – can be done in both places. Typically one thinks of snorkeling only in the ocean, but don’t forget about those shipwrecks in the Great Lakes!
Surfing – grab some waves in the ocean! Depending on where you go, the waves can be for beginners or experts.
Kayaking – typically a freshwater sport, but can also be done in the ocean. Watch out for those waves, though!
Hiking – you can definitely find a hiking trail almost anywhere you go. I’m partial to the lakes all over the US because of the wide variety of landscapes.
Paddle boarding – most prefer the calm waters of the lakes, but take your pick!
Fishing – excellent and exciting no matter where you choose. Maybe base this one off of your favorite eats and bring in your own dinner.
Rock climbing – look for those destinations with mountainous sides, Flathead Lake would be great.
Boating – bring your own or rent one from a local marina. Don’t forget to check out the local laws on licensure and boater’s safety requirements.
Sailing – either ocean or freshwater. Bring your own or contact a marina. A crash course on sailing would be highly recommended.

Whether you prefer lounging on the beach and soaking up the rays or checking off those water sports on your bucket list, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a beach vacation. Typically you can search each location to see what they offer and what will best fit your needs.

Planning a beach vacation requires consideration of factors such as climate, accommodations, and budget. Consider what weather you would like to vacation in. Warm and tropical, warm but no humidity, ice cold and snow. There are a wide variety and lots to choose from for the climate you prefer. You can even consider ice fishing on the northern lakes that freeze, a totally different fun to be had! When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options available. Oceans boast beachfront resorts, villas and even overwater cozy cottages. Maybe you’re looking for something more quaint or with a homey feeling, sites like Airbnb and Vrbo can help find the perfect hideaway.

Safety considerations should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, including following safety guidelines and practicing caution when swimming or participating in water sports. Always check your local rules and regulations when traveling. Your travel guide can help, when needed. If you’re traveling to a location with state or national parks, there will be a website with outlines to follow. If you’re fishing or boating, a phone call to the local maria never hurts to check out what’s needed for licensure. A state fishing license or boaters safety course is typically required. They can also direct you on daily bag limits for fish.

To make the most of your beach vacation, consider embracing slow travel and taking time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings at your own pace. Disconnecting from technology allows you to fully submerge yourself in the moment and appreciate the beauty of the nature surrounding you. Stay present and appreciate the small joys of beach life, while trying something new to add excitement and adventure to your trip. Finally, be sure to capture the moments and memories of your beach vacation through photography and journaling, allowing you to cherish them for years to come.

Photo by Asad Photo Maldives on Pexels.com

Beach vacations offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and connection to nature for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, there’s a beach destination out there waiting to be explored. So why wait? Start planning your own beach getaway today and experience the rejuvenating power of the waters.