If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, head down to the beautiful beaches in Florida! These scenic travel spots offer all kinds of sights and entertainment.
The best way to get the most out of your visit is by planning out your itinerary before you arrive. Follow this guide to prepare for a Florida beach day and pack everything you’ll need for an exciting family vacation.
What To Pack for a Florida Beach Trip
After booking your accommodations, fill your luggage with beach essentials that will keep your family comfortable and protected from the sun. With these items in your bag, you won’t have to worry about making any stops on your way to the sandy beaches!
Sunscreen and UV Protection
Florida’s tropical sun can feel uncomfortable after hours of running across the sand and splashing in the ocean. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, though dermatologists often recommend SPF 50 for long beach days. Apply sunscreen generously 15 to 20 minutes before going to the beach, and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming.
Children’s skin is much more vulnerable to UV rays than adults’ skin. If you have little ones with you, set reminders on your phone so you know when to reapply sunscreen on their skin. When you don’t miss sunscreen reapplication, your children won’t suffer from terrible sunburns.
Protective Clothing and Accessories
A wide-brimmed hat protects the face, neck, and shoulders from awful burns. For the best protection, look for a hat with a brim that’s at least four inches wide.
As you pack your clothes, don’t forget sunglasses! A good pair with UV protection shields your eyes from the intense Florida sunshine. Plus, they help cut down the glare bouncing off the water and sand, so you can watch the ocean waves crash on the shore without squinting.
Seating and Shade Options
Beach chairs with sturdy frames and comfortable fabric make long days by the water much more enjoyable. Most beach chairs will sit low to the ground for stability in sand, and some models feature cup holders and storage pockets for added convenience.
For larger families or if you need extra room for shade, pop-up tents or beach umbrellas work well and shelter your family during unexpected rain showers. Secure any shade structures properly with sand anchors or stakes to prevent them from flying away or collapsing during windy conditions.
Towels and Blankets
Bring plush Florida beach towels to dry off with and lie on in the sand. While you could bring bathroom towels to the beach, towels made from quick-drying materials that resist sand and salt water are much more convenient.
Large beach blankets create comfortable spaces for picnics, games, or soaking up the sunshine. To keep everyone dry, towels with waterproof backing also prevent moisture from seeping through damp sand underneath.
Food and Drinks
To stay rejuvenated under the blistering sun, pack plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your beach day. Dehydration happens quickly in Florida’s intense heat, so bringing a reusable water bottle and a cooler will keep your family safe for hours at the beach.
When you’re feeling hungry, reach for nonperishable snacks that won’t spoil in warm temperatures. Trail mix, crackers, fresh fruit, and granola bars are great options.
Family-Friendly Beach Activities
Florida beaches are perfect for creating lifelong memories with your family, no matter their age or interests. A little planning ahead can keep everyone engaged and enjoying every moment by the water. Bring the family together, spark laughter, and help kids build confidence as they play in the sand and waves.
Building Sand Creations
Building sandcastles sparks creativity and brings families together, so bring basic tools like buckets, shovels, and molds to create beautiful structures from your children’s imagination. Teach them to make drip castles by letting wet sand flow through their fingers. Try carving sculptures by tightly packing sand and carefully shaping it into a masterpiece. These activities develop fine motor skills in fun and interactive ways!
Water Games and Swimming
Swimming in the ocean is a refreshing way to beat the Florida heat and get some exercise, but keep an eye on the kids and stay aware of the water conditions. Always check with lifeguards about potential hazards like rip currents or jellyfish before heading in.
For more water fun, try games like beach ball toss, frisbee, or even floating activities. These playful options are perfect for different swimming abilities and allow everyone to stay close to shore. These activities make it easy to keep your family safe while enjoying the Florida beaches.
Beach Exploration and Nature Watching
The beach is full of memorable experiences and souvenirs that your family can take home. Turn shell collecting into a fun treasure hunt that lets kids explore the beach while learning about marine life. Pack small bags or containers for their discoveries, but be sure to leave living creatures in their natural habitat to protect the ecosystem.
For a quieter activity, try bird watching! Florida beaches are home to a variety of bird species year-round. If you have binoculars, bring them along! Consider using a bird identification app to name the different birds you spot.
General Tips for Florida Beaches
If you still don’t feel prepared for a Florida beach day with your luggage packed, don’t worry! There’s more to uncover to make your trip stress-free, safe, and full of fun memories.
Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Beach Day
Florida’s weather changes quickly, especially in the summer when afternoon thunderstorms pop up. Check the weather forecast and stay ready to find shelter if storms approach.
Arriving early gives your family the perfect parking spot and a cozy section on the sand. Take time to research your beach beforehand to know what to expect. Some locations offer conveniences like restrooms and snack stands, while others provide a quiet escape.
Respect Wildlife
Florida’s beaches are home to incredible wildlife, so take care to observe animals from a distance and never feed them to keep both you and the creatures safe. If you’re visiting during sea turtle nesting season, May through October, follow posted rules about lighting and beach activity to help protect these endangered species.
Stay Safe
Checking the tide schedule can also help plan your day. Low tide is perfect for exploring tide pools and having extra space on the sand, while high tide is ideal for swimming and water activities. Be prepared with beach safety basics like whistles, a first aid kit, and a review of water safety rules with your group.
With these travel tips in mind, you can create memorable experiences that your family will hold onto for years to come.