A family beach vacation is a wonderful way to create lifelong memories together. However, organizing a trip that everyone will enjoy can feel overwhelming.
But if you prepare in advance, your family beach vacation can be smooth, fun, and memorable. Read on to discover our guide on how to plan a family vacation.
Choose the Right Destination
The first step in planning a family beach vacation is picking the right destination. Find a spot that has activities for both children and adults. You will also want to make sure there are family-friendly accommodations available. Cape May or Wildwood are popular options. They have beautiful beaches, great accommodations, and activities for the whole family.
Pick Family-Friendly Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay is essential. Look for resorts or hotels that cater to families. Oftentimes, they provide amenities that help make your stay more convenient. Look for features like spacious suites, in-room kitchens, laundry facilities, and kids’ activities. This can take some of the stress out of traveling with little ones.
Design the Itinerary
While it’s tempting to pack your agenda full of fun, don’t forget that beach vacations are about relaxation, too. Build an itinerary that balances exciting activities with plenty of downtime. Plan beach adventures like sandcastle building, swimming, or collecting seashells in the morning. Spend afternoons exploring local museums or aquariums.
It also helps to research nearby activity options ahead of time. In locations like Cape May or Wildwood Crest, there are so many fun things to do, so it helps to have a plan! Popular beach activities include dolphin-watching tours, visiting historic sites, or biking around town. A visit to the Boardwalk in Wildwood is also a must-do.
Have a few planned activities while also leaving room for spontaneity. This ensures that everyone in the family can do something they enjoy.
Plan Your Meals
One of the more stressful aspects of family vacations can be deciding where to eat. To avoid meal-time meltdowns, consider staying at a hotel with family-friendly dining options nearby. A hotel with quick food options on-site can also be a big help when hunger strikes. For example, Mahalo Diamond Beach has a grab-and-go pantry for quick snacks and breakfast on the go. This can be a huge time-saver in the mornings, leaving more time for beach fun.
If your accommodations have a kitchenette or full kitchen, you can also plan to prepare a few meals in the room. This not only helps save money but can also give you flexibility if the kiddos are tired after a long day at the beach. Stock up on easy snacks like fruit, sandwiches, or yogurt to keep the family fueled throughout the day.
If you prefer dining out, make reservations in advance. This can be especially important for dinner to avoid long waits during peak tourist season.
Pack Smart for the Beach
Packing for family beach vacations requires a bit of planning ahead. Besides items like swimsuits and sunscreen, consider extras to make your trip easier. Bring beach toys and a portable beach tent or umbrella for shade. Reusable water bottles are great to have on hand to stay hydrated.
A stay at Mahalo Resorts includes the use of beach chairs and towels. This can help save precious packing space!
Don’t forget to pack some rainy-day activities, like board games, coloring books, or cards. Even on beach vacations, you’ll want a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
Budgeting for A Family Beach Vacation
Family beach vacations can add up quickly. But, with careful budgeting, you can still have an amazing time without overspending.
Booking accommodations in advance can save you money. Some resorts also offer perks like free kids’ activities or local shuttle service.
You can also look for free or low-cost activities like beach walks or local festivals. You can even visit the Cape May Zoo or enjoy movies on the beach during the summer–all for free. There are plenty of ways to make lasting memories without breaking the bank.
Plan Your Perfect Family Vacation at Mahalo Resorts
With the right destination, accommodations, and activities, you can create an unforgettable experience. Ready to plan your next adventure?
Mahalo Diamond Beach and Mahalo Cape May await with family-friendly amenities and beachfront fun. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your family will be comfortable, entertained, and well-cared for at some of the best Diamond Beach and Cape May beach hotels.
Start planning your dream family vacation today!
