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What Should I Consider When Choosing a Beach Resort?

L. Burgoon
L. Burgoon

Planning the perfect beach vacation starts with choosing the best resort. There are numerous types of resort accommodations to choose from, including beach hotels, small seaside bungalows within a resort, and everything in between. The key to choosing the best beach resort is to weigh needs against what is available. It helps to identify which factors are most important, which may include location, convenience, and amenities, and give those the most weight when making the final decision.

The most important factor for some will be location. Shore vacation resorts exist in all types of climates, and narrowing down preferred locations should be the first step. If a tropical resort is preferred, begin the search accordingly. Others may prefer rockier, chillier coastal getaways. Remember to consider the seasonal weather in location searches; some resorts will be undesirable during hurricane season or extreme weather months.

Location is the most important factor in choosing a beach resort.
Location is the most important factor in choosing a beach resort.

Proximity to transportation options also is vital when weighing the right location. It helps to consider whether the beach resort is near major transit options such as an airport or train station. Find out whether taxis or shuttles are available to get to and from the airport. Other resorts might be within driving distance, so consider self-transportation or look into whether there is a nearby rental car agency.

For people traveling with children, it's important to know if a beach resort is kid-friendly.
For people traveling with children, it's important to know if a beach resort is kid-friendly.

Think about the desired amenities at the ideal beach resort too. These may include private versus public beaches, a pool, a clubhouse, bars, childcare, and a fitness room. Consider whether there are on-site activities, such as horseback riding, parasailing, or snorkeling. Also decide whether it is important if the resort has organized social events. Some resorts offer themed family nights, games, movie screenings, and other activities.

Some people may prefer a warm, tropical beach to a colder northern climate.
Some people may prefer a warm, tropical beach to a colder northern climate.

Vacationers should also learn what is included in the beach resort package before choosing a final destination. Some vacation resorts include meals as part of the package but others don't. Additional services range from free towels to credits at an affiliated spa or golf course.

Also think about the desired type of beach resort room. Some vacationers may prefer a large hotel where it is easy to mingle with other guests. Others may seek a more private vacation experience and look for individual chalets along the beach. Different room configurations add beach views, balconies, and sitting areas into the mix, so consider whether these features are important to you.

Some beach resorts may offer water activities such as snorkeling.
Some beach resorts may offer water activities such as snorkeling.

Finally, consider the policies of different resorts. Some require prepayment that may be nonrefundable. Others have total refund protection or only charge a percentage of the total fee if a vacationer must cancel the trip. Learning about the policies of each resort can protect travelers and help avoid unnecessary charges should the vacation be called off.

Discussion Comments

Grivusangel

Well, my most important consideration is what I can afford. I've found that looking for the smaller, family-owned places is usually the most budget friendly way to go to the beach.

There are always plenty of real estate companies that are willing to rent a condo at a plush resort -- for a plush price. These are usually beach front and very nice, but they're way, way out of my price range.

I like the low-rise condos or smaller hotels that may not be right on the beach. These places are usually clean and well kept, but are much cheaper than their high rise companions.

If I have access to the beach and great seafood, I have enough amenities.

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    • Location is the most important factor in choosing a beach resort.
      By: Dirima
      Location is the most important factor in choosing a beach resort.
    • For people traveling with children, it's important to know if a beach resort is kid-friendly.
      By: Karen Roach
      For people traveling with children, it's important to know if a beach resort is kid-friendly.
    • Some people may prefer a warm, tropical beach to a colder northern climate.
      By: PHB.cz
      Some people may prefer a warm, tropical beach to a colder northern climate.
    • Some beach resorts may offer water activities such as snorkeling.
      By: fox17
      Some beach resorts may offer water activities such as snorkeling.
    • Beach resorts may sell souvenirs on site.
      By: Samuele Gallini
      Beach resorts may sell souvenirs on site.
    • An inviting pool is a desirabe ammenity at a beach resort.
      By: pr2is
      An inviting pool is a desirabe ammenity at a beach resort.
    • Some resorts may have beach chairs already in place so guests don't have to bring their own.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Some resorts may have beach chairs already in place so guests don't have to bring their own.
    • A beach resort should be easily accessible from the major roads or other transportation routes.
      By: Iakov Kalinin
      A beach resort should be easily accessible from the major roads or other transportation routes.
    • An upscale beach resort may offer a beautiful golf course for use by resort guests.
      By: Warren Goldswain
      An upscale beach resort may offer a beautiful golf course for use by resort guests.
    • Some resorts are more suited for college students and spring breakers.
      By: karelnoppe
      Some resorts are more suited for college students and spring breakers.