Summer is coming at us full speed and the first big summer holiday is just around the corner. For those planning a Memorial Day weekend trip to the beach, check out our beach tips to make your stay even more pleasant.
The Leave Only Footprints program requires removing all of your beach gear, toys, chairs, umbrellas and tents each night. With this in mind, consider bringing a wagon with large wheels to carry your gear. It will make the trek to the beach and back a little easier. Look for collapsible versions for ease of transportation.
Don’t forget your shade. The sun can be intense on our sugar-white beaches. A beach umbrella is always a good choice and much easier to handle for transporting and setup than a tent. Speaking of shade, sunglasses are a must! Throw in a hat, a good sunscreen and a long-sleeve shirt for protection from the sun and the sun’s reflection from the water and sand.
Of course, you’ll need a place to sit. Beach chairs, a large beach towel, or a sheet or blanket can keep you and the kids out of the sand. When choosing beach chairs, go for lightweight since you’ll be carrying them with you at the end of the day. Some chairs have backpack straps and pockets to make them handy for beach days.
If you plan to spend more than a couple of hours in the sand and sun, bring a cooler with drinks and snacks. As with the wagons mentioned above, find one with large wheels that will roll in the soft sand.
At the end of the day, pack up your gear and your trash. If you have plastic, disposable drink containers, pitch them in the recycle cans on the way out. Look back over your shoulder. Did you Leave Only Footprints in your wake? Of course you did!