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Must-Haves for a Successful Trip to the Beach

Published on March 6, 2024 by Pineapple Willy’s

As you gear up for your vacation to Panama City Beach, it’s crucial to ensure your trip is not only enjoyable but also safe. Whether you’re simply looking to unwind by the waves, or planning for a day full of fun in the sun, a successful beach day requires planning and preparation. In this guide, we’re diving into the essential must-haves that will elevate your experience on the beach from ordinary to extraordinary. From the all-important sunscreen to the perfect games for the beach, we’ve got your checklist covered. So, pack your bags, slip into your favorite flip-flops, and let’s explore the must-haves for a trip to Panama City Beach that’s not just memorable but absolutely sensational!

Sunscreen

The Florida sun can be relentless, so pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Between the white sands and the reflection of the water, many people end up looking like a lobster on day one of their vacation, unable to enjoy the remainder of their time at the beach. It’s always best to be prepared for the worst, so be sure to pack some burn cream with aloe and lidocaine, just in case!

Water and Hydration

Staying hydrated is key, especially under the hot sun. Be sure to bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. With the heat of the Florida sun, it doesn’t take long for those drinks to get warm without an insulated cup. Stop by our gift shop and grab a souvenir insulated cup, available in both plastic and stainless steel! Want to get one before your trip? Head over to our online shop and order one today!

Beach Umbrella and Shade

Without an umbrella, tent or some other sort of shade, escaping the sun and the heat on the beach can be impossible. Create your own shady retreat with a beach umbrella or pop-up tent to escape the sun when needed. Please be aware of Panama City Beach’s “Leave to Trace” ordinance. Whatever you take with you to the beach, be sure to take back with you when you leave. Anything left unattended overnight may be removed. Some easy to setup and remove options for the beach are the Sun Ninja pop-up tent, the Neso Tent, or the Shibumi Shade.

Comfortable Seating

Sure, the sand in Panama City Beach is soft and sugary, but sometimes you just want to escape being covered in sand, especially after taking a dip in the beautiful Emerald Coast waters. Consider bringing foldable chairs or a beach blanket for a comfortable spot to relax.

Snacks and Cooler

Just bringing an insulated cup won’t get you through a full day on the beach. Snacks, fruits, and extra drinks to refill your cup up with are essential. Consider bringing a cooler to keep everything cold in the entire day on the beach. A couple of options would be this backpack cooler made by RTIC, or this rolling cooler with massive rubber tires, perfect for rolling it through the sand.

Beach Toys and Games

Although the day seems complete with the beautiful Gulf water to play in, sometimes the water is too dangerous to swim in, or maybe you and the kids just want to take a break from the water. Be sure to bring a football, frisbee, kite, or if you’re really competitive, Spikeball or KanJam.

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