Beach season is in full swing! If you’re like me, you live at the beach on the weekends (just one of the major perks of living in south Florida). Even if you aren’t close to the beach, you’ll probably vacation at one sooner or later. I know it’s easy to pack up a bunch of junk food and chalk it up to being on “vacation” or “weekend eating”, but do you really want to spoil all that hard work you’ve done getting ready for bathing suit season?
Here’s what to pack for a healthy day on the sand:
- Start with an appropriate sized cooler for the number of people you’re with. I recommend buying one with wheels and a handle (it’s so much easier to maneuver on the sand). You’ll also need to throw in a few ice packs to keep things as cold as possible in the hot summer sun.
- Pack plenty of water. Make sure you have a few bottles for each person. Try freezing them the night before so they’ll stay nice and cold all day.
- Raw vegetables are great for the beach. Cut and wash them ahead of time. Try cucumber slices, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips or baby carrots.
- For a refreshing treat, freeze fresh fruit overnight before you pack it in the cooler. I like to bring grapes, sliced melon or berries.
- Skip the chips and cookies and opt for healthier choices to munch on like whole wheat pretzel sticks, granola bars, baked chips or low fat popcorn. I love to make my own trail mix with whole grain cereal, dried fruit and nuts.
- If you pack sandwiches ahead of time the bread tends to get soggy, so I suggest bringing whole wheat wraps or pitas instead. Pack lean deli meat (turkey, ham or roast beef), reduced fat cheese & trimmings in separate containers for quick assembly.
- Last but not least, don’t forget to stay active! Walk the beach, swim, play volleyball, snorkel or throw the football around.
Have some healthy beach ideas of your own? We’d love to hear them!
- Lauren
Labels: fruits and vegetables, healthy eating, Lauren
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Can I take these tips to Hawaii & just never come back!!! :-)