The beach is by far our favorite family outing. Fort de Soto used to be an old naval forte but is now one of the top beaches in our area. Just getting to the beach seems to take an act of congress. All five kids have specific items that must be brought along. ie boogie boards, football, pails and shovels, a good book, fruit, ect. Maurice is always concerned about getting everything packed into one bag (not wanting to have to make too many trips to the car), while I sanction how many towels are to be taken (already thinking about what has to be washed on our return). Once the beach comes into view all worries are set aside for the few hours of water fun we are blessed with.