For many, a beach vacation on an exotic island is all about the reclining. Splayed out in a hammock, gently swaying, soaking up the sun and sipping cocktails from a coconut..phew, writing that almost felt like a holiday in itself!
Back in room…
But if you tend to feel restless when you ‘should’ be relaxing, then beach holidays can be a bit of a nightmare, for both you and your companions. Perhaps you struggle to sit still and sunbathe for more than five minutes? Maybe the thought of sprawling on the sand fills you with dread, not delight? If this sounds all too familiar, here are 6 tips for those who get restless on an island beach holiday.
CHOOSE SOMEWHERE WITH WATERSPORTS
Restlessness can be defined as “having or showing a persistent desire for change or action’’ – but where exactly do you find action on the beach? Well, off the beach, of course, and in the water.
To strike a compromise with your holiday companions between relaxation and more dynamic recreation, choosing an island that caters to both is a smart move. It’s important to pick the right island destination in the first place – a beach that provides extra activities, particularly in the water, can extend the beach-day experience for all concerned.
From scuba diving in Australia to surfing in Portugal, we’ve written a whole guide on the most adventurous activities you can do on a beach holiday over here; do check it out!
AGREE ON SET TIMES FOR BEACH
While not all beach holidays are about sun parasols and midday snoozes, if you’re travelling with someone who loves to do nothing but relax by the lapping shore all day, then it’s best to compromise and agree on how long you’re going to stay on the beach each day. Perhaps consider going early morning or late in the day to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Not only will you avoid the hottest part of the day, which can be unbearable to sit still in, but you’ll also have ample time for other non-beach related activities.
For the restless souls, sometimes it’s the hope of something more exciting that kills you. Agreeing on how long the lowkey part will last ensures you won’t be there, twiddling your thumbs, sitting there bored and wondering how long you’re meant to stay on the beach for. It’s a hard life, hey?
MAKE COMFORT A PRIORITY
For those who understand sunbathing as a concept but don’t enjoy it as an activity, the first thing to tackle is their comfort levels on the sand.
Indeed, not being comfortable is one of the chief reasons that restless beach folk get so fidgety. Accordingly, it’s imperative that you make your trip to the beach as comfortable as possible – potentially convincing your restless companion of reclining’s many virtues in the process.
Start with the most important item for a comfortable time on the beach; the thing you’re going to be lying on. Renting a sun lounger certainly brings sufficient reclining potential, but the rental charges can get extortionate. Lying there worrying about how much it’s costing you…well, that doesn’t sound very relaxing.
Consider, instead, bringing a portable sun lounger with you, preferably something that reclines and you can snooze in. Next, invest in a plush, soft beach towel – old, scratchy beach towels do no favours to sensitive, sunkissed skin and won’t convince a restless beachgoer to stay still.
Shade is, of course, essential for comfort on the beach. It’s near impossible to read a book in the blazing sunshine, even if you do have sunglasses on. Moreover, securing a shady spot can be a big ask on a busy beach – as such, it’s important to bring your own shade with you. Think a parasol or one of those wide-brimmed umbrella hats! Yes, they look ridiculous, but you’ll be the envy of the entire beach when you’re reading your book through wide, unfazed eyes.
Moontide Swimwear, New Zealand’s leading swimwear maker since they started creating their iconic designs in 1980, make a point that, for most, “a swimsuit is probably the least amount of clothing they will be seen wearing in public”. As such, and for the sake of comfort, it’s important to get a flattering and well-fitted swimsuit – an ill-fitting item make you feel conscious which isn’t exactly the more relaxing of feelings. Moreover, it can ride up in places where there should be no riding.
They also suggest bringing a stylish beach cover-up with you – think tunics, caftans and sarongs, all of which are particularly useful for the restless beachgoer who likes to wander. Unwanted sand in crevices is one of the most uncomfortable occurrences on the beach – bring a beach towel dedicated to brushing sand away for a more pleasant time.
You could also consider a popup tent – you know, the ones that babies and toddlers have on the beach – which brings us to our next point…
A BAG FULL OF GOODIES
Much like you see mothers bringing everything but the kitchen sink to the beach with their babies, so should the partners of the restless beach type. Proper preparation can mean the difference between five or minutes five hours on the beach, so it’s worth making the effort when packing to ensure everything’s in hand when you settle on the sand.
You’ll need to take the right lotions and potions – insect repellent and sunscreen, particularly – to ensure maximum comfort.
Snacks are essential, too; the most enjoyable snacks on the beach are those that cool you off and hydrate you – think fruit, fruit and more fruit. A bag of crisps will also keep hunger at bay whilst a bottle of water is another must-pack. Nope, you can’t drink that stuff in the sea…
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE NEED FOR ENTERTAINMENT
Am I bringing anything? No need; I’ll be fine just watching the rhythmic rise and fall of the waves. Totally therapeutic, don’t you think?
People who get restless often aren’t being stimulated enough; as such, they get bored. When packing, consider bringing some headphones or a speaker so you can listen to some relaxing – or invigorating – music on the beach (while being considerate of neighbouring sunbathers, of course). A deck of waterproof cards, a game of bat and ball or a bucket and spade won’t go amiss either, even for the adults!
EXPLORE THE ISLAND BY SCOOTER
Water sports are always a big draw on beach holidays, but that’s not to say there isn’t plenty to do on land for the restless beachgoer. You may want to explore the local flora and fauna on a scooter to pass the time, available to rent on many beach islands worldwide.
You’ll be able to take in all the gorgeous scenery, set your own pace, take some really incredible photos, and feel as though you’re off on an adventure. Just make sure you pack well, including plenty of water to stay hydrated, sunscreen, a hat, proper footwear, a map or guidebook, and snacks. And most importantly, wear a helmet!
Hey, if you’re feeling really restless on the beach, why not read some more IDEAL articles to keep you entertained. Here are 4 of the best weekend city breaks with a beach in the South of France.