My family is the most important thing in my life. I cherish extended visits from them. My brother’s and my family began to meet up at the North Carolina beaches for a week several years ago. We rent condos and enjoy the company. It has been so much fun! I’m the one who loves to cook (and eat), so that is what I tend to focus my efforts on. I have learned over the years that planning ahead is essential so I can spend time with my kids, not just eating – which is something I love!

Here are some our site tips that we have found to make the trip easier and more organized. There are all the usual things that you need to take to the beaches, such as water, wine and soda. Also, you will have toiletries, paper towels, foil and napkins. Make a list and decide what you would like to buy at home.

Let us now focus on the food.

First, I compile a list that will be liked by the group on the nights we’ll be cooking and not dining at a restaurant. The sun takes so much of your energy, don’t forget about the desserts! Breakfasts, lunches or dinners. Let’s start at breakfast.

I like to bring along some muffin and breakfast cake recipes. Consider also cereals, juices, and bagels. It all depends what each person prefers. Do not forget the coffee!

Lunches can include sub sandwiches, tacos or pasta salad. For little ones, peanut butter and jelly and grilled cheese sandwiches are also available. We can make tacos and pasta salad ahead of time, although most lunch ingredients can only be purchased at the beach. You can freeze the beef.

Next, let’s talk about dinners. Now let’s get to the dinners. We usually eat out at least half of the time. This means that 3-4 nights we will be dining in restaurants. The rest will be spent at home cooking.