Beach vacations are a great way to escape the monotony of everyday life, while still allowing you to travel within your budget. The main draw of the beach is the sand and surf coming together, along with plenty of other attractions designed around the beach in order to cater to tourists.
What should you really be looking for on the coast? It depends what you want to do, and if you have children with you. For those who just want to lay out on the beach all day and retreat to the hotel at night, there are plenty of options, from secluded nearly-exclusive spots, to the biggest tourist destinations.
If you are looking to do something other than sit in the sand for several hours a day for your whole vacation, think about looking at a place with these kinds of amenities:
Amusement Parks
Going to an ocean-side amusement park is a fun way to spend a day on vacation, whether you have children with you or not. Most places have all the carnival rides you might remember from the county fair, as well as some newer ones you may have never tried before. Carnival food, carnival rides, and carnival games are all something you usually do not get to experience in everyday life, give it a shot on your next vacation.
All-in-one Arcades
Arcades in busier tourist areas usually include some combination of coin-operated machines, go kart racing, laser tag, and mini golf. While any kids with you would be sure to have a blast, adults will find themselves having fun as well. Sure, the tickets you win probably will not get you the prizes on the top shelf, but it’s all about having a good time, and testing your skills against those traveling with you.
Dining
Anywhere you go along the coast, you are going to run into plenty of seafood restaurants. If that’s not your thing, you will usually be in luck, because where there are hotels and attractions, all kinds of different dining options spring up as well. Most places on the east coast near the beach offer plenty of places serving ethnic food, Bar-B-Que, steakhouses, and even great in-restaurant dining. It all just depends on what you are in the mood for, and how much you are willing to spend.
Shopping Options
You will be able to find shops exclusively selling souvenirs in just about any ocean-side locale, but it is always nice to have more in the way of traditional shopping options. Some places will have an outlet mall nearby which can get you deep discounts on plenty of brand name items. Antique shops are usually around these places as well, which can net you some hidden treasures or at least something unique and decorative for your home.
No matter where you go, you are always going to be close to the water. There is something calming about the ocean that can help you unwind on your vacation, which helps you and your family get a lot of enjoyment out of the experience. Places on the coast, such as Princess Royale, offer a great place to stay during your trip, and excellent views of the water. Staying in a hotel right on the beach makes it very easy to get down to the water at pretty much anytime you want, from sunrise, to sunset.
