It’s the perfect vacation you’ve dreamed of all winter: the glistening sparkle of ocean waves, the comforting warmth of revitalizing sunshine, the all-natural exfoliant of sand between your toes, and the cleansing smell of salty seas filling your lungs. But before you pack your suitcase, here are a few ways that you can ensure your vacation is both relaxing and SAFE!

Indulge in the Sun, With Protection!

While most of us can’t wait for those golden rays to unlock our inner tanned god/goddess, forgetting sunscreen can be a classic mistake that quickly turns your dream vacation into a painful nightmare. Before grabbing your leftover bottle of sunscreen from last year check that the SPF is above 30 and that it is waterproof/water-resistant for your beach day! Spray mist bottles of sunscreen can help to ensure even coverage, especially with kids, and  make sure to apply sunscreen thoroughly and reapply throughout the day.  

While vitamin D is important, too much sunshine can result in not only sunburn but a greater risk of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation Prevention Guidelines suggest that “for extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher” and to “[apply] sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.”

Combat Dehydration

Keep Cool

Remember the Wild Life is Wild

Though Topsail is a vacation spot to many, it is also the home to a variety of animals. Loggerhead Turtles, Brown Pelicans and a variety of Songbirds are just a few of the animals that take up residence here. Great care should be taken to leave nesting sites of birds and turtles alone! Though there are not large quantities of jellyfish present at Topsail beaches, jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war have been spotted occasionally in the past. These creatures must be left alone. Both jellyfish and man-of-wars can sting, even when washed up on the shore. Though the stings are rarely life-threatening, medical care should be sought if stung by one of these creatures. While the ocean can give us a glimpse into the beautiful magical world of the animal kingdom, take care to make sure respectful distance is given to all wild life!

Watch Where You Are Walking

Remember that exfoliating sandy pedicure we mentioned before? Topsail has amazingly clean beaches, but there are a few things you should always be cautious of, no matter what beach you visit. While you’re picking out the perfect spot to lay out your towel and umbrella, take some time to glance around. Shells and washed up debris can sometimes cause tiny nicks and cuts if you aren’t cautious about your surroundings. So It is generally a good idea to wear flip flops when walking for extended periods for that reason. Remember to not bring glass to the beach areas so as not to risk it breaking and being a hazard to yourself and others (or wildlife!!).