Exclusive Tips for an Expert Family Beach Vacation

expert family beach vacation

We are in the midst of Spring Break and summer is just around the corner, no matter what your current wintry mix forecast is saying.  With any luck, you’ll be on a beach with the whole family sooner rather than later.  Travel with kids can at times be a mixed bag, but certainly not something to shy away from.

Building memories with your kids on vacation is something none of you will forget. The age of your crew will play a big role in the considerations you need to take into account.  Babies require different gear than a tween, but there are some general tips and tricks that can help make a beach getaway more enjoyable for everyone.  Having been witness to more family vacations than we can count, here are our top tips. 

 

  • Your accommodation choice can very well make or break your trip. Look for a resort that is family-friendly and has activities onsite that everyone can enjoy.  A killer pool can be a highlight for everyone, bonus points if the adults can enjoy a beverage at a swim-up bar.
  • Upgrading to a suite with a kitchen is worth every penny. Hungry kids are easily avoided with simple snacks and the convenience of having a light breakfast at whatever ungodly hour the children demand while on vacation (why doesn’t the same apply on school days?!) can help everyone get the day started on the right foot.
  • Plan a very loose schedule. If there are any must do’s, try to book ahead through your resort so they do not get lost in the shuffle and you don’t need to worry about organizing logistics once you arrive.
  • If there is a provisioning service, opt to have your suite stocked with some basics on your arrival. Yet another thing you don’t need to worry about once you’re officially on vacation.
  • Pack baby powder for removing sand instantly and easily before heading into your room after the beach.
  • Check with the Guest Service’s Concierge to get inside info on any hotspots that your family might enjoy. They are a wealth of knowledge.
  • Take advantage of housekeeping services, parents are on vacation too!
  • Bring a favorite card game or other small activity to keep everyone occupied at restaurants.
  • Plan ahead for transportation needs. Scheduling arrival transport and any vehicle rentals ahead of time can keep travel as smooth as possible.  Depending on your destination, renting a golf cart or vehicle may be a good idea, as kids tend to keep their own schedules.
  • Before you leave, do some research with your kids to show them what to expect. Photos of the resort, the types of activities you hope to do, what the weather is likely to be like.
  • When traveling with children under the age of 18, please note the following.  If the child will be traveling with only one parent or guardian, a notarized letter of consent must be provided by the other parent.
  • Stay flexible! Our family vacation motto is always “That’s the plan- until it changes.”

 

By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy your family vacation, while still keeping an open mind for those times when things don’t go quite as planned.  That’s part of the adventure!  Where will your family go next?  Happy vacationing!