What’s In My Beach Bag

Cover-Up || Swimsuit Top and Bottom|| Sandals || Similar Tote Bag || Sunglasses || Earrings

In my nearly 29 years as a Floridian, I’d like to think that I’ve mastered the beach day experience. Growing up, no weekend was complete without a little something on the water. The beach is my happy place and was one of the biggest things I missed while living in Manhattan. Sure seeing the skyline on the East River is great, but it just can’t beat a sunset on the Gulf of Mexico. Since this summer my travel priority has been to visit new Florida beaches, I thought I would share my must haves to get the most out of your day. These pictures from the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club help prove my point!

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The Perfect Tote Bag

No matter what you decide to bring, I recommend a large oversized tote bag to carry. My current favorite has been this simple straw bag I picked up a few years ago for my trip to Bermuda. Sadly, it’s long since been sold out, but this bag from Tuckernuck would be a great alternative. For something really cost effective, you’ll never go wrong with an LL Bean Tote Bag.

A Super Soft Beach Towel

And don’t leave home without it! Your beach towel will wear so many hats on your day out to the sand and surf: blanket, hair wrap, coverup, and the list goes on! Weezie makes the closest thing you’ll find to the perfect beach towel. It’s soft and plush, but somehow isn’t a magnet for all the sand you could pick up along the way.

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Sunscreen… Of Course!

Especially in the Florida sun, sunscreen is worth it’s wait in gold and then some. I hate to admit that when I was younger, I wasn’t as keen on skin health as I should have been. “Oh, I never burn and want to be as tan as can be!” If I could do it all over again, I would have made sunscreen my number one priority. Currently, my favorite brand is the entire Coola collection. They are 70%+ organic and smells simply amazing!

A Killer Cover-Up

Back in the day, I would just opt for workout gear as my swimsuit coverup. Now, I look for pieces that are a little more refined and classic. I discovered SZ Blocks through Tuckernuck and it has become one my new go-to for days at the beach or even running errands. All of the pieces are so cute, but their story is even better. By working with several organizations in Jaipur, India, they are able to act sustainably and support women in the process.

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Comfy and Versatile Sandals

It seems every year I treat myself to a new pair of sandals. Since they are my number one shoe, I wear them almost every day and they certainly take a beating. I’ve recently retired my beloved Jack Rogers after years of service and am currently in the market for something new. When finding a beach sandal, I recommend something that can be dressed up or down, just in case you opt for dinner afterwards.

Some Oversized Sunglasses

Just like skin care, your eye health isn’t something to be taken lightly. That’s why, when I go to the beach, I say the bigger the better! These Karen Walker specs have been my most used pair of sunglasses for years. They give off an updated Jackie O vibe. I love them so much, I have them in both tortoise and black.

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A Giant Bottle for Water

Since you’re going to the water, it’s so easy to forget to bring your own. It’s no secret that spending a day in the sun and salt can be incredibly dehydrating. Don’t make the novice mistake and pack a giant cup or bottle for some refreshing water. Both David and I have our own Yeti tumblers (mine in sea green) and rarely leave home without them. Besides nothing tastes better on a hot day than ice cold H20.

An Oversized Straw Hat

One last line of defense from the sun? How about an oversized straw hat! It’s amazing how much they help, even with the sunscreen and sunglasses. I’ve had my Brixton hat for several years and it’s traveled the world with me: Italy, Sweden, Bermuda, France. More recently, it’s traveled all over Florida with me and is such a lifesaver!

The old adage “less is more” doesn’t apply when going to the beach. You want to think more like a Boy Scout and always be prepared. The next time you want to take a spontaneous trip to the coast. Take a pause, pack these essentials, and you’ll have an amazing time!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

My Summer Bucket List

Dress || Wedges || Clutch || Earrings || Bracelet

Still loving on all of these pictures from our stay at the Gasparilla Inn. I was so rosy from the first beach day of the summer. Summertime will always and forever be my favorite season. The weather is warm and I have all the free time in the world, one of the perks of being a teacher. Typically, I stay busy by planning lots of fun trips with David, friends, and family. For obvious reasons, it’s going to be a slower and quieter season. Still, I’ve come up with a little bucket list to give me something to look forward to. I hope it inspires you for your own summer.

Try 5 New Restaurants in St. Pete

As restaurants begin to open up again in Florida, I’ve suddenly become aware of new spots that I’ve never noticed before. I have my absolute favorites in town and tend to rotate through them. Now is the time to step out of my rut and visit new places. I particularly want to support black-owned restaurants in the area. My tastebuds are about to have such a treat!

Day and Weekend Trips with my Girlfriends

I’m so lucky that my dearest friends all live close by, in different corners of Florida. No less than three trips around the Sunshine State are currently being discussed included a beach weekend in Sarasota, a trip to Apalachicola, and a day trip to Lakeland. While I really wish I could be traveling abroad, I’ve loved the excuse to explore my home state.

Give Tennis a Whirl

This actually has been on my to-do list for a while, but now I officially have the gear! I have my racket, a handful of tennis shorts, and a partner who is as novice as I am. We’ll see how the first few tries go, but I suspect lessons will need to be in my future too!

Have a Long Weekend with David

Our summer began with a lovely weekend together and I hope end on the same kind of note. Because of travel ordinances, our exact definition is up in the air. We plan on staying relatively close by, at least to the region. Realistically, it will most likely be a trip to Charleston, a place we’ve never been. That being said I won’t say no to Harbour Island in the Bahamas or a return trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

As you can see, nothing on this list is particularly wild. I’m just here trying to make the best of the current travel situation. With the start of the new school year just over a month a way, I have my work cut out for me. What’s on your 2020 summer bucket list?

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Travel Guide: Boca Grande

Dress (also) || Sandals ($100 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Clutch || Earrings || Bracelet

As much as I love traveling the world, there is something so satisfying about discovering something new in your own back yard. Most recently, that means a quick drive down south for a weekend stay at the Gasparilla Inn. The stay at the hotel, which I originally shared here, is a treat in itself, but the small town where it’s located deserves some bragging rights of its own. Calling all Floridians, this place is dying to be explored.

Where to Stay

• Gasparilla Inn: While there are a few other options in Boca Grande, your absolute best option would have to be this historic hotel. It’s a little step back in time when beach resorts were first coming on the scene and Florida was known for its world class hospitality. The hotel has all of the amenities you could ask for, including a private beach club. Have a huge group wanting to vacation? Then you’ll love the hotel’s villas and cottages to fit your family. Several restaurants and shops on the property make it seem like its own little village.

Where to Eat

• The Inn Bakery: Each of our mornings in Boca Grande started at this local hot spot. A part of the Boca Grande Inn, it’s also a favorite amongst the locals. Grab a coffee and pastry to-go and wander around the village or towards the water.
• Pink Elephant: Lovingly called “The Pink” by those in the know, this restaurant is Boca Grande’s answer to fine dining. We ate here on our first night and everything was simply delicious. We washed down dinner with one of the best slice of Key Lime pie I’ve ever had.
• Temptation: The “Temp” is a Boca Grande institution and a must. Located right along the Main Street, it’s an extremely intimate space with fantastic seafood. Be sure to make a reservation and know it’s closed on Sunday.
• Loose Caboose: If you want something more casual, or even kid friendly, this is a fun spot for a laidback lunch. Housed in the town’s historic former train station, I lunched on their Boca Grande grouper wrap and some homemade strawberry ice cream.

What to Do

• Explore the Island: There’s a reason the best mode of transportation in town is a golf cart. Gasparilla Island is about 12 miles long with beautiful sweeping beach throughout. At the very end, you can explore the State Park and Boca Grande lighthouse. It feels a little bit more rugged than the rest of the polished island, but is definitely worth a visit.
• Soak up the Sun: My favorite thing about this weekend was spending my afternoons at the Gasparilla Inn’s Beach Club. Exclusive only to hotel guests and club members, it’s your own slice of the Gulf of Mexico. Grab a lounge chair, a delicious frozen cocktail, and relax for a few hours. If you need a bite to eat, the Beach Club also has a perfectly casual restaurant.
• Go Tarpon Fishing: On our most recent trip, this was not on the itinerary. We were more focused on the Beach Club than anything else. This area is considered one of the best in the world for tarpon fishing. In fact, many restaurants and stores around the town will be decorated with this sport fish in some way or another. If you seek adventure, this would be a great option for you.

How to Get There

• By Car: For Floridians on the Gulf Coast, this destination couldn’t be easier for you to get to. Whether you’re northbound or southbound, Exit 191 on US-75 is the marker for you! From there, head west towards the Gulf of Mexico. Once you’re off the interstate, you’ll reach Gasparilla Island in about 20 minutes, you’ll just need to pay the $6 bridge toll first.
• By Plane: Since many of Gasparilla Inn guests, and my readers, are from the Northeast, I thought it would be good to share airport information too. The closest major airport is Tampa (TPA), but that’s still over an hour away. Even closer is Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) and Fort Myers (RSW). Shop around to find the best flight and airport for you.

Anyone up for a road trip? No matter what corner of Florida you call home, this idyllic town is the perfect place to spend the weekend. It will leave you daydreaming about future retirement homes, or maybe that’s just me?

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.