Hi Friend,

I just got back from Gulf Shores, Alabama for a pre-birthday concert trip with my daughter and I am still riding the high of it. White sand, warm water, live music, and a beach sunset that genuinely stopped me in my tracks. If you want to see what we were up to, I posted the whole trip on Instagram @lilfamadventure.

It also reminded me why Gulf Coast beach trips deserve way more attention than they get. So this week we're talking beaches, a frozen treat you can make at home to cool off in the meantime, and something to keep your family busy outdoors all summer long.

Nicky 🌿

🏖️ Go here: Teen and Mom Trip to Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is one of those destinations that works for every age at the table, but it really shines for moms and teen daughters looking for a trip that feels like an actual getaway rather than just a family obligation. This post covers where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of a few days on one of the most beautiful stretches of Gulf Coast beach there is.

And here's something worth knowing right now. Allegiant Air just launched non-stop flights from Oklahoma City to Gulf Shores this summer starting as low as $44 one way, and that's just the beginning. They're also flying non-stop flights to Destin and Fort Walton Beach, Jacksonville, Cocoa Beach, Tampa, and more.

The Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast just got a whole lot more accessible, which means a long weekend beach trip is more doable than most people realize. Panama City Beach is an easy drive from several of these airports, making this the perfect excuse to finally book it.

🍍 Make this: Homemade Disney Dole Whip Pineapple Ice Cream

If you've ever had a Dole Whip at Disney and spent the rest of the trip thinking about it, this recipe is for you. It's three ingredients, takes about five minutes to make, and tastes exactly like the real thing. Perfect for a hot June afternoon when the last thing anyone wants to do is turn on the oven.

💡 Know this: Outdoor Games for Teenagers That Actually Work

Getting teenagers outside and off their phones in the summer is its own Olympic sport. This roundup covers the outdoor games that actually land with the 13 and up crowd, including ones that work at the beach, in the backyard, and at the campground. Bookmark this one for the whole summer.

⭐ One thing I always pack: AquaVault Portable Travel Safe

I mentioned this a few weeks ago and I'm bringing it up again because beach and pool season is fully here and it's that important. This portable safe locks around your lounge chair or beach umbrella and keeps your phone, cash, car keys, and cards secure while you're in the water.

I used mine in Nassau and watched friends have money stolen out of their pool bags while mine stayed completely untouched. Whether you're heading to Panama City Beach, Gulf Shores, or your local pool, this is the one thing worth having in your beach bag this summer.

Happy almost-summer. Go find some sand. 🌊