Beach Party for Teenagers

Planning a Beach Party for Teenagers

For those who live near the ocean, a beach party is sure to be a hit. What teen doesn't love the sun and sand? In fact, a beach party can be one of the most economical parties you can organize! While planning and hosting a beach party is fun and, of course, work, there are some very important issues you should consider, such as safety, activities, and food.

Important Issues

Unfortunately, many teens associate alcohol, and sometimes drugs, with a party…any party. This may be especially true for a beach party, however. The outdoors creates a feeling of freedom, and this feeling may lend itself to illegal activities and other safety issues. While you can't be with your teenager twenty-four hours a day, if your teen wants to have a beach party for teenagers, you'll need to check out the following:

• Permission-Although you may know of an obscure beach that is mostly deserted, this usually just isn't the case. Public beaches typically have strict rules regarding those who use the area and its facilities. Before you and your teen plan a big celebration, find out if you need to request a permit to host a large gathering at the beach. If you don't pursue a permit, you could find yourself faced with a big fine, so plan ahead. You should also get a copy of any other regulations.
• Litterbugs-Although there may be garbage cans available, plan on bringing your own garbage bags. A large gathering means lots of trash. You should leave the beach as clean or cleaner than when you first arrived.
• Lifeguards-While this would be considered an added expense, hiring a lifeguard or two is a smart decision. You can't possibly watch everyone all the time, and accidents do happen. Unfortunately, teens don't always think sensibly, and a few seconds of poor judgment can lead to tragedy. A lifeguard can keep his or her eyes on the water, while you play hostess to the party.
• Chaperones-Along those same lines, try to line up a few parents to help you with the chaperoning. Although the teens may groan at the idea of adults at their party, chaperones can help you keep the kids rounded up in the area where they should stay, reducing and maybe even eliminating secret drinking and other unwanted activities.

Activities

What activities can you plan for a beach party for teenagers? The following is a list of popular activities, but if you've got more ideas to share, please do so in the comments section of this article.

• Bonfire-A bonfire makes the menu a cinch. Roast hotdogs and marshmallows, and you've got a great meal that is lots of fun. Be sure you check with authorities, however, before you plan this activity. Some beaches will not allow the public to build fires.
• Volleyball-Set up a net, and let the games begin!
• Dance and/or karaoke-This is always a hit. Bring a karaoke machine, and hold a karaoke contest. Play music in between acts, and let the kids dance the night away.
• Talent contest-Kids can try their hand at all sorts of talents, such as sand castle building, longest jump in the sand, singing, tumbling, etc.
• Survivor contest-Taken from the hit TV show, you can put together teams and create obstacles and challenges for team members to try. Hand out prizes to the winning team.
• Kite flying contest-Kids can not only see who can get their kite the highest, but they can also have kite battles as they try to knock each others' kites out of the sky.

Food

Food can be as simple as hotdogs and chips, or you could bring a portable grill and cook hamburgers, chicken, etc. Another easy food solution is to order plenty of pizzas. Bring coolers full of soft drinks. Add chips, brownies, cookies, etc. Another fun activity is to let the kids create their own drinks. Bring a variety of fruit juices, and let them mix their own concoctions. Look for fun cups, decorations, favors, and accessories at Oriental Trading.

Remember, the key to a successful party is to have fun but be safe!