Beach Safety…Important Tips to Remember!

If you’ve ever been sunburned to a crisp, stung by a jellyfish, caught in a rip tide, overheated in the hot sun, or sought shelter during a lightning storm…then you know there is a lot that can ruin a vacation at the beach.

You’re probably thinking right about now, “boy this beach stuff sounds like fun!” Well, it can be just by following a few simple steps:

• *The best way to be safe at the beach is to learn to swim. You’re never too young (my kids learned as little tykes) or too old (check with your doctor first). Contact the YMCA, Red Cross or your local community pool for swim classes.
• *Try to swim near a lifeguard station, and in areas designated for swimming. Observe beach condition warnings and flags. Call 911 if you have an emergency and no lifeguard is on duty.
• *Swim with a buddy or group. And don’t dive in shallow or unfamiliar water.
• *Never leave a child alone near the water! Don’t rely on water wings or inflatable toys to protect the kids. If you or your child need a life jacket it should be U.S. Coast Guard approved.
• *Save the cocktails for after swimming. Too much alcohol can Continue reading »

Beach Camping, Enjoy the Great Outdoors!

Beach camping is an awesome way to soak up the natural beauty of Florida. Just imagine…waking up with sand in your toes, gulls laughing and the sound of waves on the beach nearby. If you’re a beach lover, it can’t get any better!

Our National Park Service and State Parks have joined in on the movement to encourage children to play outdoors and participate in outdoor recreation. And our Fantastic Florida State Parks have some of the best Florida campgrounds!

Richard Louv the award winning author of The Last Child In The Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder, has led the movement to teach parents, schools and leaders in our communities the benefits of outdoor recreation. You can read more about him and the Children & Nature Network at Childrenandnature.org.

Our parks offer primitive camping, tent camping with full facilities, RV camping and some even have cabins. Many of the state parks have centers highlighting wildlife in the area. And some even have museums about fishing and sunken treasure!

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Best Family Beaches for Fun & Sun!

Clearwater Beach:
When kids want a break from the soft powdery sand and surf at Clearwater Beach they can enjoy an awesome playground right on the beach (home to the worlds largest sandbox)! The family will enjoy the musicians, street performers and crafters selling their wares nightly at Pier 60’s Sunset Celebration.

Take the family on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, or a dolphin watching trip on the Little Toot(my nephew’s favorite). These boat trips are offered at the Clearwater Municipal Marina right across the street from the beach. The marina is also home to the Seascreamer..the world’s largest speedboat.

Caladesi Island & Honeymoon Island State Park:
in Dunedin, Florida is a must see when you’re in the area. Take the ferry to Caladesi Island (#1 on America’s Best Beaches for 2008 & #2 for 2007) from Honeymoon Island State Park (another beauty) and enjoy shelling, nature trails, canoeing and kayaking. Even though it’s completely natural there is a concession stand, bathhouse and picnic pavilions. If you bring your own boat Continue reading »