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The beach can provide all kinds of activities from intense sports like volleyball and surfing, to the calm sound of crashing waves and a comfortable chair. Nothing ruins a day on the beach faster than being unprepared. Here's how to get the most out of your day on the beach.

Find the right beach. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway, you may not want to be on a beach in the middle of spring break central. Look for locations that offer exactly what you're looking for.

Make sure the weather is right. The worst thing that can happen on your day at the beach is a tropical storm rolling through your sunny day. Check the weather before you leave your home or hotel before you leave so you don't meet any surprises once you have reached the sand. Check the temperature, wind and tides.

Follow your natural tendencies. Are you a day person or a night person? Do you like shade or sun? Are you low energy or high energy? Find the beach that offers the most for your needs. If the thought of wind surfing makes you queasy, don't bother. If you know you don't wake up until noon, don't plan a morning trip.

Check for rental sites for your beach and make sure they deliver. Everybody needs a place to sit down and get out of the sun, and you can minimize headache by having less to drag from your car. Beaches often offer rental chairs and umbrellas for a fee, and will often set them up for you upon arrival. The same goes for equipment, food and drinks. Keep it simple and you'll have a great time.