Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Beach Recipe for Family Fun

Two scoops of sand, one cup of shells, three cups of ocean water, one Frisbee, one kite, a handful of sand toys, rays of sunshine, sounds of waves crashing into the surf, sunscreen, children and family members. This is the perfect recipe for a tropical family day at the beach.

Regardless of your beach preference this summer, spending quality time together with sand between the toes and even sand in places you didn’t know sand could get into result in family memories that last a lifetime. Growing up, I often spent my summers on the South Jersey Shore. I can vividly recall the ocean waves, the scent of the beach, the feel of the sand, the taste of beach treats, and overall family togetherness at the beach.

A beach day or a beach vacation is a relaxing one and ensures the video games are stowed away. Teaching your children how to boogie board, kite surf, snorkel or just building a sand castle are photographic memories that they will grow up with and pass to their children.

In Florida, we are surrounded by water as a peninsula and we cherish our fabulous year-round beach destinations. In Southwest Florida, we often frequent Ft. Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, Lovers Key and a private island accessible via only boat just off of North Captiva Island. We even have one favorite tropical family destination we call “pirate island” where we hunt for buried treasure.

As you plan your summer activities, be sure to pack up the car (don’t forget the sunscreen) and head for the shore! Pack a picnic lunch, lots of water and just be open to the ocean. Act like a kid again and don’t be afraid when your child wants to bury you under the sand. After all, is this not what summer beach fun is about?

Photos Courtesy of Tropical Latitudes Travel

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Nice article -- makes me want to head to the beach. In fact, this weekend we will probably go to one of the many beaches here in San Diego!

Like you, my childhood memories of beach time is of the south Jersey shore. Wildwood, Avalon, Wildwood Crest, the old fashioned and loooong boardwalk full of games, rides, restaurants and shops, miles of wide sandy beaches--good times!

Anonymous said...

thanks for the tip of pirate island. now that sounds like fun.
R

josephine said...

What a beautiful and interesting article Jen, my compliments. You managed to get me away and imagine myself relaxing under the sun for a few minutes! It sure makes me look forward for the summer.

Love from Malta (Europe)