A Cozy Lifestyle with Clearissa Coward
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Planning a summer beach vacation for a retired couple can be a relaxing and memorable experience with the right balance of comfort, ease, and enjoyment. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you plan the perfect getaway. How To Plan A Summer Beach Vacation for a Retired Couple coming right up.
Step 1: Choose the Right Destination
Look for places that are:
- Relaxed and scenic, not overly crowded
- Have accessible amenities (e.g., beachfront hotels with elevators, medical services nearby)
- Warm but not too hot — consider spots with a coastal breeze
- A variety of great restaurants at all price levels
Ideas:
- U.S.: Hilton Head, SC • Myrtle Beach, SC • Sanibel Island, FL • Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
- International: Algarve, Portugal • Amalfi Coast, Italy • Queensland, Australia
Step 2: Find Comfortable Accommodations
Consider:
- Beachfront hotels or condos with balconies
- Adult-only or quiet resorts
- Places with a kitchenette (for light meals)
- Ground-floor rooms or elevators for convenience
- Many resorts now provide in-unit washers and dryers which is a great convenience. No more dirty clothes when you arrive home.
Bonus: Look for senior discounts or packages that include meals and excursions.
Step 3: Plan the Travel Details
- Avoid layovers if flying — direct flights are ideal
- Consider train or car travel for more scenic and relaxed transit
- Arrange transportation from the airport (shuttle, car service)
Step 4: Create a Gentle Itinerary
Aim for a balanced schedule of activities and downtime:
- Morning: Beach walks, local cafes, or markets
- Midday: Rest indoors during the heat
- Evening: Sunset dinners, light entertainment (live music, boardwalk strolls)
Step 5: Plan for Relaxing Activities
Great options for retirees:
- Shelling, birdwatching, and boat tours
- Reading under an umbrella
- Light yoga or tai chi on the beach
- Local art galleries or craft shops
- If you’re like me, thrift stores are a must, and my husband loves a day of deep-sea fishing, which is a Netflix and chill day for me, or sometimes a spa day
Step 6: Pack Smart
Essentials include:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Medications and copies of prescriptions
- Beach gear (sandals, tote, swimwear, cover-ups)
- Travel insurance documentation
Bonus Tips
- Bring a small cooler for beachside picnics
- Plan a special dinner or spa day as a treat (mentioned above)
- Use a shared photo album or travel journal to capture memories (I love a travel journal)
- Be sure to pack a water and sand-proof phone cover
Planning a summer beach vacation as a retired couple is all about embracing ease, comfort, and joy. Whether you are revisiting a favorite coastal town or exploring a new shoreline, the key is to keep things simple, scenic, and stress-free. With a bit of planning, your next getaway can be filled with sunshine, connection, and those quiet, meaningful moments that make life so sweet.
So go ahead—pack that beach bag, grab your sun hat, and let the waves carry you into your next great adventure. I hope this article, How To Plan A Summer Beach Vacation for a Retired Couple, is helpful for your next getaway for two.
Hugs & Blessings,
