Indeed, going to the beach is a perfect way to relax. Especially if it’s a beach that’s not too crowded and you can lay out [in the shade for red-headed me!] and listen to the waves come in.
Now that the boys are out of the house, we like going to Gulf Shores (the Redneck Riviera) in early October. The weather is nice but not too hot, the water is warm, the shops and restaurants are all still open. Most importantly, the condo rates go down October 1, and it’s not crowded. It makes for a very relaxing time.