Packing for a week at the beach with a group can fill a car before anyone has sat down. The good news is that at Shore Haven in Gulf Shores and Surf Haven at Garden City Beach, a lot of the bulky stuff is already there. Sandra travels with a big family herself, so both homes are set up the way a family actually needs. Here’s what to bring and what you can leave at home.
Leave it at home
- Bed linens and bath towels. Beds are made and towels are waiting when you arrive.
- Beach chairs and toys. Both beach homes have them. Surf Haven also has umbrellas, boogie boards and a beach cart.
- Kitchen basics. Coffee, spices, pots and pans, and wine glasses are already in the cupboards.
- The travel crib. There’s a Pack ‘n Play at every home, along with children’s plates and cutlery.
- A full week of clothes. Every home has a washer and dryer, so you can pack for half the trip and do a load midweek.
- Basic toiletries. Shampoo, conditioner and soap are provided, so you only need your favorites.
Bring with you
- Sun protection. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and a rash guard for the kids. The Southern sun is strong, even on cloudy days.
- Swimwear, and plenty of it. Wet suits never dry overnight in beach weather.
- Food for the first night. Plan a grocery stop on the way in. There are large supermarkets close to both homes, so you won’t need to haul a week’s worth from home.
- A light layer. Evenings on the deck can be breezy, especially in spring and fall.
- Water shoes. Handy for hot sand, shells and the rocks around piers and passes.
- Fishing gear. Little Lagoon Pass near Shore Haven and the piers near Surf Haven are popular spots. Check the local fishing license rules before you cast.
- Your dog’s things. All three of our homes welcome pets. Bring their bed, bowls and leash, and check the local beach rules for dogs, which vary by town and season.
- Chargers and a power strip. With ten or twelve people, outlets go fast.
Not sure? Just ask
If you’re wondering whether something is provided, from beach towels to a high chair, ask before you pack. Call Sandra on (877) 373-2602 or email support@dreamvacationdays.com. She’d much rather answer a quick question than have you bring something you don’t need.
Ready to start planning? Browse our properties and check availability for your week.
Featured photo: Allison Carter — CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons