The 10 Commandments Of Beach Bumming

Ah. Can you feel it already? The invigorating smell of sea water, the sticky-fresh breeze, the sun beating down on your skin, the muted sounds, the gentle ebb of life. Very few people can resist the lure of the Beach.

It's fun to go on a vacation without any agenda, without any plans. For a few days of bliss, you get to live the life of a beach bum. But you have to remember, being a beach bum is an art form. The beach will be your home, and you have got to live it in the best way possible. If you're clueless on how to live the Beach Bum Life, then I suggest you start learning these commandments, because with them, you can't go wrong.

1. Thou shall pick the perfect beach.

It's not that hard really. Baja California in Mexico is one of the most diverse, and beautiful places to beach bum in. The beaches are made of fine white sand, the seafood is divine and there are a multitude of bars and nightclubs to party the night away. It doesn't hurt that it is located near the border, making it extremely accessible for those living in the California and San Diego area. If you're up for more upper-class beaches, then troop over to Hawaii, Ibiza or even in the French Riviera. The point is to pick a beach you can own.

2. Thou shall not peel or burn.

Nothing ruins a perfect day in the sun than badly-peeling, sun-burnt skin. Refrain from looking like a bad paint job, and get thee some sunscreen ASAP! Nothing wrong with slathering on the lotion, you'll thank us years later, when you're not dying from skin cancer.

3. Thou shall pack light.

Really. You're at the beach. All you need are bikinis or board shorts. Whatever else do you need? Okay, maybe you can pack for the nightly party at the bar. But you don't need tons of clothes for that. Pack light. With the heat of the sun, that's all you'll want to wear anyway.

4. Thou shall eat right.

And by right, we mean a lot. Of seafoods. Take advantage of your proximity to the beach. Get in touch with the marina flavor. Try out all kinds of fish, lobster, shrimps, clams, oysters. There are so many tastes and textures and flavors to enjoy from the seas. It doesn't have to be a gourmet dinner. A simple meal of fish cooked over an open fire will provide you with gastronomic delight you never imagined.

5. Thou shall learn to surf.

Oh come on. Don't tell me you can't resist riding the waves. Not even once? When you're atop that surfboard, it will be an exhilarating experience. Plus, all that paddling will help you lose those pounds you gained enjoying the island's fresh cuisine. Try surfing, lots of beaches have shops that offer lessons for beginners. Just don't come after us when you experience wiping out for the first time.

6. Thou shall build a bonfire on the beach.

At least for one night at the beach, build a bonfire, and spend a laid-back night underneath the stars. Gather up your friends, or cozy up to your sweetie. Toast some marshmallows, or toss back a couple of beers. It's a guaranteed activity you'll never forget.

7. Thou shall party all night.

Find the hottest spot on the area and dance the night away! It's a blast meeting new friends, and just letting it all out. Just be careful and you'll have the time of your lives.

8. Thou shall mingle with the locals.

Get some culture in your system. It's fun learning about the local's traditions, their habits and their culture in general. You'll get pointers on living in the area, and you may even get the inside info on the good buys on the island, and save a fortune by avoiding tourist prices.

9. Thou shall take lots and lots and lots of pictures.

You know what they say, “If we don't see pictures, it didn't happen.”

10. Thou shall have the absolute best fun possible.

If we need to explain this, then you're too uptight to be a beach bum.