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We are finally headed on a vacation this summer, after about 18 months of no traveling! We cannot wait. And we're headed back to our favorite family destination, Captiva Island, Florida.
Fortunately, since we've been there many times, I know precisely what we need for a great time. A full list of everything I pack for our family of four would be exhausting to write and read (and rather boring), so I'm sharing my must-have items that make the trip perfect!
Needlepoint - I like to bring a needlepoint project because these are easy to pack and relaxing to work on while sitting on the lanai at sunset. This year, I'm bringing a belt project. More on needlepoint here.
Baseball hat - I've got several, but my favorite is the mesh back from Patagonia. I've had mine for five years, and it still looks good!
Extra towels - Usually, our rentals include beach towels, but we always bring extra because the humidity means that nothing dries overnight! We're giving the microfiber ones a try this year, since they pack down so small.
Clothes - a few favorite items for beach dining out:
Lily Pulitzer Essie Tank - I don't wear a lot of items from Lily Pulitzer, but this tank is perfect for an island resort!
Salt Water Sandals - These are so cute for the kids! And I've put them straight in the washing machine with no damage.
Sundresses - I have always been able to find a few from JCrew or Old Navy.
I crocheted a rattan clutch years ago and added a little needlepoint round to the front. This is a cute one too!
Bags - I love my Scout bag, but these giant totes are great for carrying a family's worth of items to and from the beach each day. They also fold down and fit inside a suitcase for travel.
Sunscreen - Check out this post for our recommendations. We can't always find our preferred brands at the local shops, so we bring it with us.
Neoprene Coozies - These are easy to pack and great for cans on the beach - sparkling water, spiked seltzers or beer!
Beach reads - Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes and The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren are both perfect. I've already read them, so I'm looking for my next good beach novel! Maybe A Gentleman in Moscow or something by Abby Jiminez.
Sunglasses - Go cheap; the sand always scratches mine! Goodr sunglasses offer protection and are not expensive.
Birkenstock EVA sandals - I have a blue pair in the Gizeh style, and they have held up incredibly well. I think I'm going into year four with them. You might consider sizing down a bit, as they seem to run slightly bigger than the traditional Birkenstocks. I've also purchased cute knockoffs and Native shoes for the kids.
What are your must-have beach items? Share with us on Instagram!
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