Florida Beach Vacation, House Rentals, Tips, Pictures

So you've saved all year for your Florida beach vacation and those beach house rentals. The beautiful high rise beach front condos look good, too. You can't wait to throw off your clothes and stick your toes in the sand. But are you prepared? Vacationing in Florida villas and spending time at the beach is wonderful but don't overlook potential problems that can ruin your vacation.

FLORIDA BEACH DANGERS

When we associate "beach" and "danger", many people immediately think "shark". The fact is, sharks are very low on the danger list in Florida. While there are isolated cases of shark attacks in Florida (see links below) but big media coverage, other, more subtle threats represent greater danger and can cause far more damage and grief. 

- From 1882-2004 Map of Florida's Confirmed Unprovoked Shark Attacks

- The Relative Risk of Shark Attacks to Humans

The biggest concern for Florida beach seekers should be protection from the sun.

All of the above can happen while you are innocently lying on any Florida beach so wear sunscreens, hats, foot protection, sunglasses and (Oh, My!) extra clothing. Rent an umbrella or sit in the shade as much as possible. Drink plenty of water. Any time you visit the beach, bag up and bring all these items and a first-aid kit down to the beach with you.  A day at the beach - or an entire family vacation - can be easily ruined for each and all by bad sunburns, headaches, sunlight sensitivities, heat exhaustion or worse.

Children at the beach represent additional dangers.  

Keep at least one good eye on your kids at all times. Undertows and extreme currents can easily sweep a child away from the shoreline in seconds. Flotation devices are an added threat for inexperienced swimmers because they can easily drift away from supervision and safety. Teach your kids to be extremely careful of the flora and fauna at the beach, also.  Many plants and fish are toxic, have hidden, sharp spines, stingers, or big teeth. Even dead they can be significantly hazardous. Keep alert for signs of danger and always shuffle your feet while walking or wading in the water. This will alert creatures that like to sit on the sandy bottom - like sting rays - and they will move away. While at the beach, NEVER swim near inlets; fast moving, swirling currents can sometimes be treacherous enough for boats and most swimmers wouldn't stand a chance.

When storms approach, get to safety.

Florida is the lightning capital of the USA (but not the world) and this is a serious risk for those at the beach. Gusting winds, blowing debris, heavy rains and hail pose additional threats. Summer thunderstorms can move in silently and swiftly, causing havoc for the unprepared, so keep an eye peeled for threatening weather. If you are staying on or near the beach, be sure to observe hurricane watches and warnings - don't try to "ride-out" the storm. Evacuate when authorities post evacuation notices and allow plenty of time for your retreat because traffic will be moving slowly. 

Wildlife in Florida  is exactly that - WILD LIFE.

Even though your Florida beach vacation stay in a condo or house rental may bring you face to face with some "cute" neighborhood critters like Raccoons, Bobcats or "friendly" alligators and such, please remember that these are wild animals. Florida is NOT a petting zoo. Your efforts to make friends with a Raccoon or Bobcat can end up with a serious injury to you. And NEVER, EVER feed alligators or tamper with their babies or nests. Even the birds down here have been known to get cranky with pestering tourists. Keep your distance, observe and enjoy.

Visit Florida for the vacation of a lifetime.  

If your stay will be more than a few days get a beach house, condo, villa or vacation rental. Pamper yourself and the family. Keep in mind that, while you came to Florida to relax and enjoy, a certain awareness and vigilance is necessary for a great time and fond memories!

Florida Beach Vacation Facts and Fancies.

Some facts for your Florida Beach Vacation: this is a large state. Driving from Pensacola to Key West would take the best part of a day as it is approximately 800 miles. Houses and condos in city locations are easily found here for your Florida Beach Vacation. Maps and other useful information can be found at:
MAPS
FLORIDA FACTS

Pictures of some Florida Beaches

Florida Winter Rentals

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