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| Here are a few things you need to think about before you travel to Seaside Oregon. Don't forget about preparing essentials for your pet as well. |
About those lovable pets:
Make sure that your dog is wearing a current license and has all its required, up-to-date vaccinations. Keep your dog on a leash until you get to the designated off-leash area. Always clean up after your pet ! Only take a well-trained dog that socializes well with people and other dogs.
Downtown keep your dog on a leash and at a safe distance from others. Bring your own food and portable water bowls. Keep your dog happy by providing special treats and chew toys. For a list of pet freindly hotels check our lodging guide. There you will find pet friendly lodging.
For your family:
If you live near a beach, it's a great way to enjoy time with your kids and enjoy each other. If you don't live near the water, but are planning a vacation to the beach, here's a list of items that are a good idea to have.
Sunscreen
This is probably the most important item in your beach bag. Make sure that you have sufficient sunscreen protection for yourself and your children. The sun's ultraviolet rays are at their strongest during the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so limit your time in the sun during those hours. Choose a sunscreen lotion that is at the very least 15 SPF, more appropriate for children is an SPF of 30 or more. Be sure to adequately apply the sunscreen to all exposed skin, including ears, nose, and neck. Speak to your doctor about sunscreen for babies under 6 months of age.
Don't forget to protect your lips
Bring along sun protective lip balm with an SPF of 15 or more. An Aloe based after sun lotion is a great way to soothe your skin after a day in the sun, apply after your day at the beach.
Protective Barriers
Sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays, sun hats with brims, and beach umbrellas are all wonderful items to have along for added protection. Babies under 6 months old should wear protective clothing, a brimmed sun hat, and if possible, baby sunglasses that protect from harmful UV rays. Babies should not spend a lot of time in the sun, but when they do, keep them protected. A first aid kit with band aids, an antibiotic cream, and other essentials is an excellent idea as well.
Chairs & Blankets
There are chairs made specifically for the beach, they sit low to the ground and fold up neatly, often they include a handy shoulder strap. Don't count on the beach having chairs for its guests. A blanket is another nice thing to bring along. Not only is it comfortable to sit on, but it's a welcome comfort from the hot sand on bare feet.
Sand & Water Toys
Kids love digging and building in the sand, it's a must for a beach visit. There is a huge variety of toys at local shops within walking distance to the beach made specifically for water play. Nerf balls and lightweight canvas Frisbee discs are great because they float and often come in neon colors so they can be seen easily. Don't forget the standard shovels and pails, sand diggers, and sand sifters -- great for building sand castles, sifting for shells and rocks, and pouring water into makeshift motes. Bring along a plastic jar to collect shells. And let's not forget the old beach standby, the beach ball. Squirting water toys are also a blast and can keep the kids busy for hours. There are hundreds of different kinds of beach and water toys that your family will enjoy available at local shops.
Floatation Devices
Most public beaches do not allow items such as floating rafts, noodles, or "arm floaties" as they are not Coast Guard approved swim or safety wear. Check with your beach lifeguards or town officials to see what they will or will not allow. Coast Guard approved life jackets are welcome and recommended for young swimmers, even those who have recently learned to swim, for safety purposes.
Extra Towels
Bring towels along for each member of your family, this goes without saying. Bringing along an extra towel or two cannot hurt, especially if little Bobby decides to take his into the water with him.
Water & Snacks
Being in the sun can quickly dehydrate you. Bring along bottled water, enough for everyone in your family. Coolers are allowed so that you can keep drinks nice and cold.
Extra Clothing
Bringing along an extra T-shirt or pair of shorts is not a bad idea either. If your beach trip will continue on into the evening, bring a windbreaker or sweat jacket for everyone, just in case the temperature dips down. Be sure that everyone has adequate footwear, beach shoes are a great idea as well.
Preserving Memories
Don't forget your camera. You can purchase disposable cameras to capture all of those sunny moments. Inexpensive disposable cameras are even available at most local gift shops.
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