If you’re planning your family’s next Miami beach vacation, chances are you’re thinking of the waves lapping against your toes and little else. Obviously, you’re aiming for smooth sailing when it comes to vacation time, so being prepared is important.
Image via Flickr by Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Your Ideal Getaway
First, you should always consider what kind of vacation you want to have. Miami is home to dozens of beaches, and each has something different to offer and rules unique to its shores. Are you looking for a more serene setting or one with lively crowds? Will you be bringing the dog along? Do you know which beaches are kid friendly?
One thing you should look for in a beach setting is the presence of a lifeguard, especially if you have children. With a lifeguard on duty, a person only has a 1 in 18 million chance of drowning, according to the USLA. Safety should be your top concern while researching potential destinations, followed closely by fun.
The Perfect Stay
You’ll certainly want a comfortable place to rest your head at the end of a long, fun-filled day. After you pick your beach, it’s time to pick a hotel. Gogobot is a great resource for easily browsing hotel deals and ratings. Using Gogobot, you can thoroughly research Miami hotels to find the perfect one for your family. Use the service to read reviews from previous guests and to learn about the area before you book.
You Can Never Be Too Prepared
You may have sunscreen and snacks, but there are countless situations that make SPF and chips seem useless. If you hate getting covered in sand, bring along some baby powder to sprinkle on your skin. The sand will fall right off. Also, pack a small spray bottle of vinegar just in case you get stung by a jellyfish. The vinegar will take the sting out. Sometimes, renting fun water toys like boogie boards or tubes can be pricey, so grab your own from a dollar store. It’s way cheaper and there’s no limit on how long you can use them!
Anticipate Kids’ Needs
Children can go into meltdown mode pretty easily on a beach. They’ll be the first to let you know if their outing is going poorly, and by then it will be too late. Anticipate their needs. No one likes sand in their fruit snacks, so think about bringing some kind of table and lots of chairs to set up for lunchtime. Pack a wide variety of toys, and maybe even a small tent for the kids to crawl in when they want to hide from the sun.
Bargain Hunting
Finally, don’t be afraid to take advantage of a good bargain. Vacations are expensive, so any chance to save money is a must. Keep your eye out before and during your trip for coupon books or special discounts. Also, it never hurts to be chummy with the front desk of your hotel. They might upgrade your room for free or, at the very least, put you in a nicer room with a better view. Planning for your family beach vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these tips, and you’ll be at ease even before you sink your toes into the sand.
Guest post provided to Jen is on a Journey.
