Beach Vacation!

With summer quickly approaching, and some areas still experiencing winter like weather we all have one thing on our minds: Beach!! This Wanderlust Wednesday we have a treat for you: some of the top beaches in the US (and some of our favorites) along with what to pack for your ultimate beach vacation!

Best Beaches  

1. Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach, Fl

It's no secret- Florida has some of  THE best beaches. By going to school in Florida and having one of our members from a beach town in Central Fl, we have had the chance to experience some of the best. Clearwater Beach is located on the Gulf of Mexico right outside of Tampa. This pristine beach is known to be extremely family friendly and offers a more tranquil vibe for those looking to relax. 

 

2. Outer Banks, NC 

Photo Credit: Hilton Inn Outer Banks

Simply amazing is how some people describe the Outer Banks. Turns out if you are further north on the East Coast you don't have to trek down to South Florida-you have paradise in the Outer Banks. The outer banks is made up of several islands like Hatteras Island and Bodie Island. If you want a peaceful and serene vacation or maybe even a "Baecation" the Outer Banks needs to be on your list. There are ample Beach Rentals and Hotel Accommodations, making it easy to plan an extra long stay.

 

3. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Photo Credit: vitz.com

Planning a trip to Oahu, Hawaii any time soon? Of course you are! Then you want to add visiting Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve to your itinerary! Fun for all ages, vacationers get to interact with various forms of marine life through snorkeling as well as take in the gorgeous views and warmth from the sun.

 

4. Destin, Fl

 Located in the Florida Panhandle along the Gulf of Mexico, Destin or "Emerald Coast" has so many factors that make is such a great beach location: 1) super soft white sand 2) Emerald hued water 3) plentiful resorts! Let's not forget the excellent shopping at the Silver Sands Premium Outlet Mall!

 

 5. Miami Beach, Fl 

 

We told you Florida has some of the best beaches! Our list wouldn't be the best if we didn't include Miami Beach, Fl. Known as paradise for Spring Breakers and Party Goers, if done right you can experience a less upbeat version of South Beach. While you're here, try parasailing and jet skiing-and don't forget to bring money to rent an umbrella. Miami heat can be brutal during peak seasons.

 

So now that you have an idea of what beaches you can check out this summer, what will you pack?

JSD's Beach Essentials
 

 Well, there you have it! Some of the best beaches along with our Beach Essentials. What are some of you beach essentials?

 

 

-JSD

-With Labor Day Weekend coming up, a lot of travelers will be heading out to the beach. Want to know what our picks are for great beaches? Read on our Diva Beach Guide for some great ideas!

1. South Beach, Fl

Located in Miami Beach Fl, it is no surprise that millions of people flock here any chance they get! There is a lot to do in South Beach--try any watersport to stay cool and grab some cool garments from local boutiques.

2. Pensacola Beach, Fl

Located in North Fl along the Gulf Coast, Pensacola Beach is ideal if you are looking for white pristine sand, summer concerts, and great food!

3. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Located along the Atlantic Coast in South Carolina, Myrtle Beach is becoming a top destinations for a lot of beach goers. Want to see other sites in Mytrle Beach? Try their amusement and water parks, or go shopping at Broadway on the Beach!

4. Galveston, TX

Located in the southern tip of Texas along the Gulf Coast, Galveston just may be Texas' best kept secret! With over 30 miles of beach to enjoy, head down to Texas to see it in a way you've never seen before!

5. New Smyrna Beach, FL

Located right outside of Daytona Beach Fl, New Smyrna Beach is definitely one of Florida's best kept secrets! Its a great location if you don't want all the hustle and bustle of busy Daytona Beach--you'll be able to catch some waves! After you're done with the waves, catch a bite to eat at Chase's on the Beach.

6. Virginia Beach, VA

Located along the Atlantic Coast, Virginia Beach has been a top destination among many beach goers for years. Why? There are miles of beaches which include the Chesapeake Bay Area, Resort Beaches, and Sandbridge. So if you are looking for a mini getaway have your way in VA!

7. Key West, Fl

Located at the southern most tip of Florida (past South Beach), Key West is great if you want to get away from the crowded beaches of South Florida, and just enjoy the picturesque views of beaches in Key West!

So now that you have our DIVA BEACH GUIDE, which one would you visit? While this list doesn't include beaches from places like Hawaii or the Hamptons, these are still some great beaches. We wanted to list beaches that are close to home. None of the above are in your vicinity? Tell us about some beaches in your area!

♥Happy Traveling! ♥

South Beach- Take On Miami

What is the most sought after location in the southern states? South Beach Miami, Fl! Whether you're just looking for some fun in the sun, a local festival, or nightlife that will blow you away-South Beach has it all!


What to Do:
-Depending on when you're heading to the Sunshine State, there are plenty of happenings going on in and around South Beach. Here's what the Divas and I checked out while there:





*Rent scooters! This is the best and easiest way to site see around the area, without having to put off too much energy. Just about any car rental site along Collins Avenue in South Beach allow you to rent these out. Cute, affordable, and Fun!

*Check out the beaches! This is a must-see. Besides South Beach, there are also beaches along hotels located in North Miami Beach, which is about a 10 min bus/car drive away from South Beach. You can always find a good crowd of people at the beach. Just mingle and have fun!



*Experience the Nightlife. South Beach has a lot to offer when it comes to nightlife- Mansion, Bed, Dream, Cameo and the list goes on! Check out Mansion if you want the more grown and upscale vibe! Also, if you're into bars, there are plenty of bars up and down Ocean Dr, Collins Ave, Lincoln Ave and Washington Ave. These are South Beach busiest streets, especially at night!



-Where to Stay:

If you want to be close to South Beach and all it has to offer, but without the high hotel cost, opt for more budget friendly areas: Biscayne Bay, Downtown Miami, North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles. The Divas and I stayed at hotel in North Miami Beach which was not far from South Beach and within our budget range. Remember: BUDGET!

-What else to see?

The best thing about Miami is there are always events going on. Check out:

-Miami Film Festival (usually year round)

-Shop! (Check out chic-boutiques on Collins and Washington Ave, and Bal Harbour Shops located in North Miami Beach)

-Miami City Ballet (If you're into the Arts!)

-Dine!( Enjoy tasty treats after a night out at an outdoor cafe)

DO's and DONT's

-Some quick do's and dont's to make your travels better:

DO: Use public transportation as a means to get around. Its cheap and easy!

DONT: Fall for tricks by locals trying to scam you out of your money! BE SMART when it comes to your money

DO: Make sure you're 21 and up when you go! It's hard to get into the best clubs if you're underage

DO: Ask the hotel reps about any extra fees that can occur while you're there. Some will charge extra for parking, resort fees, extra occupants, etc.

DONT: Forget to look cute when all else fails!