Whether it's a romantic rendezvous for two or a family trip with kids and the dog, preparation is key to a less stressful, fun day at the beach. It's a good idea to make a packing list and check off items that you plan to take on your outing. A few extra beach towels are a good addition, especially on the ride home. Also, check laws regarding alcohol consumption, carrying glass containers, building campfires and allowing dogs on the beach beforehand. Also, review parking regulations for the area. Reduce anxiety from the beginning by planning your driving route ahead. Visit an online mapping site or plot directions on your vehicle's navigation system or cell phone GPS.

Following are some essentials for a pleasant beach excursion:

• Change (especially quarters) for parking meters
• Extra beach towels
• Large sheet or blanket
• Corkscrew and bottle opener
• Cooler with ice
• Food, snacks and drinks
• Plastic plates and utensils and paper towels or napkins
• Garbage bags (for trash and to hold wet bathing suits)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats or sun visors
• Canopy or umbrella
• First Aid kit
• Change of clothes for all family members
• Beach toys, games, flotation vests for the kids
• Doggie clean-up bags if going to a dog-friendly beach

Stay Healthy in the Sun
Stay hydrated, especially on a hot day at the beach. It's helpful to stock your cooler with plenty of ice and water. Remember that alcohol and caffeinated drinks actually dehydrate, so it's wise to bring and drink water along with other beverages. Remember that it's best to use a sunscreen with a high SPF number--SPF 30 or higher. Even if you carry sports sunscreens, reapply after swimming or a few hours in the sun.

Water Safety is for Children and Adults
If your kids aren't strong swimmers, provide them with flotation devices. It's always a good idea to swim with a buddy. If you are at an ocean beach, prepare your family to look out for and avoid jellyfish. Also, make sure your family members know about powerful rip currents and undertow and teach them how to swim away at a diagonal, if caught in one. Ask a lifeguard about water conditions first, before your children swim. Be vigilant and watch your children in the water. Don't rely on lifeguards to protect them. Take a whistle with you to get your kids' attention beyond the sound of surf, waves and crowds of beachgoers.