Summer is just around the corner and we all know what that means: beach days every weekend! After the snowy winter and the overwhelming cabin fever that seems to come with it, the beach sounds like a paradise. However, there are quite a few things that can make a day-trip the beach feel like a mistake. Growing up in California, I've always been familiar with the beach life and over the years I've found a way to make every beach day the best beach day. Here are some tips that I've found to create a foolproof getaway!
1. Find the right beach for you.
This sounds like a chore, but if you take a quick search on Google the night before, it will save you time and effort of driving from beach to beach until you find the right one. Make sure to check on the ambiance, rules, and type of beach. For example, search for dog-friendly beaches if the day wouldn't be the same without your furry friend. Also, no one wants to show up for a beach party just to find a handful of people reading in the sand (or vice versa).
2. Slather on that sunscreen. (But make sure it's natural!)
Natural sunscreen is the better choice because it's less likely to make you breakout or have greasy skin, but it also is better for our environment. Normal sunscreens wash off and have been damaging the Coral Reef, plus they're not too great for you either. You can find natural sunscreens at health food stores and online. Below are two of the best natural sunscreens for your beach needs at a reasonable price!
3. Pack a picnic for the squad.
No vacay is truly perfect unless there's some mouth-watering food waiting for you in a cooler, right? Well, it turns out that kickin' it at the beach can make you work up an appetite. Grab some potato salad, fresh fruit, and cheese trays for a tasty treat and put 'em in your Coleman with some ice and refreshments. A favorite of mine is Copa deli meat and some foccacia finger sandwiches. (Don't forget the waters!)
4. Get the beach look.
Nobody likes having to worry about ruining their blowout or their mascara, so go the chill route with some beachy waves and minimal makeup (or if you're a dude, chilling with the hair gel). Dust your lashes with waterproof mascara and slather on some SPF lip balm (Sun Bum is a great choice). Beach waves are easy to get, just spritz some salt spray (mix hot water, sea salt and coconut oil and pour into a spray bottle) on damp hair and scrunch!
5. No shirt, no shoes, no problem.
Okay, so maybe this phrase is flawed since sand is hot and you can't get into the cabana without a shirt sometimes, but the sentiment remains. Less clothing is better on hot beach days so grab your fave swimsuit and choice of coverup and slip on the flip-flops. Wedges will cause unpleasant injuries and street clothes will lead to your personal sweaty hell.
6. Find a spot to claim as your own early in the day.
We've all made the mistake of showing up to the beach late morning and not finding a single spot to sit. To remedy this, grab the tapestry off the wall or swing by Target to grab a beach blanket and stake your claim! If it's windy, coolers and rocks make perfect tie downs for the blanket and you'll have a spot to come back to after you splash around.
7. Don't worry, be happy.
Whether your beach style be party scene or quiet relaxation, don't let the stresses of your daily life get in your way! Forget about work or finals and just be in the moment. And always remember, life is better at the beach!
