Lots of underwear, especially bras. Sandals or teva-types that you don't care if they get muddy (just in case it rains). TWO swuimsuits. One is always drying while you wear the other one. Assuming, you spend much time in the water, and you only bring one, you'll often be putting on a damp suit.

I have to go buy a suit, sadly, and that's going to be difficult. Probably have to head into Laguna Beach or another beach city to find bathing suits during winter. I don't even own 1 bathing suit lol

ZipLok bags ( Hi Jane )

I'm bringing a journal to sit on the beach and write about my experiences.

Bring:
Go to walmart and get a 3-pack of the old-man style undershirts. (we call them wife-beaters). Then cut them off about mid-waist. You'll wear these a bunch - over swim suit with shorts, under big loose tank, etc.

Sunscreen in small containers to toss in purse or backpack. Even if you 'lather up' pre-sun, these come in very handy. Especially when driving around in golf cart when you don't think you'll need it - back of neck and tops of legs & feet can get scorched!

Lip balm with SPF

Immodium AD - essential. We've eaten from every street vendor there and never had a problem but the change in cuisine can be bad for some people. I keep one in my pocket at all times. Was a life saver one night at BC's (was night of arrival, hadn't even eaten there yet - must have been Houston Airport). 'nuff said

Don't bring:

bras / underwear. Go commando - you're on vacation and is definitely breezier and more comfortable. Besides, how often do 'the girls' get a chance to breathe and be free - they're on vacation too, you know.

Any shoes with heels, are not 'sand-proof' or irreplaceable. Heels get mired in the sand, they'll be covered in sand, you'll prolly kick them off and get back to room and look down and say 'oh my, where are my shoes'? (happened. hehe)

I live in my flip flops 24/7 anyway, so no problem there. =] Im pretty casual & laid back anyway, so this will be easy for me.


*note to self*
DO NOT EAT AT HOUSTON AIRPORT lol

If the mosquitoes are still bad, bring a little thing of anti-itch spray like benadryl or calamine. I slathered myself in bug spray but still had plenty of bites.

Also, I asked this question a few months ago and this advice was invaluable--take out some of your clothes and pack more money.

If you're snorkeling, bring 2 waterproof cameras. Much cheaper in the US and one was not enough!