[kashi]

how far is the beach? are you planning to stay at a hotel or something? are you driving or flying?

---bring your food. pack a cooler full of beverages, sandwich fixings, easy-to-eat foods that you don't have to mess with much.

---if you are staying at a hotel, check priceline.com to see if your city of choice is there, and reserve online. I have saved tons of money on hotel rooms with priceline. same with airfare, if you need it.

---stay at a campground if you have access to a camper, or if you have tents and supplies. it can be very inexpensive and a lot of fun.

---bring things to play with. frisbees, boomerangs, kites, beach balls, a bucket to bury each other or make castles, etc. things like that are still fun, even when you're not a little kid anymore. don't forget the sunscreen!

---search for seashells and have a competition for the most beautiful shell.

---buy five disposable cameras and have a competition for the most beautiful beach shot. when you get home, you can develop the film, and go through the photos together and remember your fun times.

---if you are staying for longer than a day or two, look into free activities in the city nearby. there might be a free aquarium, or museum, or art display, or something like that that would be fun and interesting.

I am envious...I wish I could just hop in the car and go to the beach right about now. have a great time!