Uncommonly Coastal

Galveston TX Is FULL of Hidden Gems: Here Are 50 of The Best!

At first glance, Galveston may not dazzle you with its tired exterior. The beaches might not boast the powdery sands of the Caribbean, and, yes, as Charles Barkley recently stated, the water might not win any awards for its clarity. But don’t let those initial impressions fool you. There’s so much more to Galveston, TX than meets the eye. It’s a place where hidden gems are all around, just waiting to be uncovered by those willing to scratch beneath the surface.

Coastal Couture: I Want – and Need – Tara Grinna for Sure

ARE YOU THERE YET?

I have reached the stage in life where I needed to upgrade my wardrobe from cut-offs to couture.  You could say that I am a consummate shopper.  It’s a gift and a curse, but I do know my stuff. I’m that friend that you call on when you need to know where to get what you want.  You want high-end style and quality at a reasonable price.  And you do not want to see 3 other women wearing the same swimsuit either. Relax. I’ve got you. For coastal couture, there’s only one name you need to know: Tara Grinna.

The Shark Whisperer: Daring to Live His Dream

“Follow your passion and you’ll never work a day in your life.” The Shark Whisperer took these words to heart.

When you meet someone who is truly living their dream, you’ll know it immediately. They’re full of joy and boundless energy. Their enthusiasm is contagious. And – they are committed to providing top-notch service. 

One such devoted person is Reese “Chip” Michalove, aka “The Shark Whisperer.” He owns and operates Outcast Fishing in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Seasoned Captain Chip has piloted these premier fishing charters for nearly 20 years.

Spring Fashion Vibes: Casual and Classic On the Coast

I don’t know about you, but I am definitely ready to pack away my warm and cozy layers from winter. The temperatures are beginning to rise, and flowers are starting to bloom. This tells me that it’s time to revamp my wardrobe and embrace the new spring fashion vibes for this year. 

Turning A Dream into Reality: My Fearless Monumental Move!

Still unpacking, I have just returned from a relaxing week with family at the beach. This wasn’t my usual hot and sunny weather, so I didn’t return with a tan this trip. However, I returned with something far more lasting. I’m turning my dream into reality!
NO TURNING BACK

I have made the monumental life-changing decision to MOVE to the beach. The undeniable allure of the beach has been nearly all I talk and daydream about for years…I just couldn’t imagine such a drastic move…

Savoring Love by the Sea: Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner

As you know, a Valentine’s Day dinner can be the perfect way to express your feelings. Why not celebrate the occasion of love with an intimate romantic meal for two? Entice your taste buds by setting the mood for an unforgettable evening.

Every year, I start the search for ideas about Valentine’s Day and eagerly look for new ways to include creativity and meaning. Ultimately, there is a special joy in discovering innovative ways to turn this day into a fun celebration. Following, here are FIVE WAYS ways that you can take your celebration to the next level and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Thankfully, we’ve also included some wonderful recipes at the end too. 🙂 

A Move to Myrtle Beach

A move to Myrtle Beach involves more than just the journey and home selection, but it also means you are starting out with zero “favorite spots.”  Finding the best food in the area takes time, but it can certainly be a fun project!  Also, there will be some “trial and error” shopping outings before you zero in on “your” kind of places.

A Walk on the Beach

Aren’t beach vacations great? I love discovering a new little ‘mom and pop\” seafood spot. I crave a deep tan because, let’s face it, people look better with some color. And spending the afternoon on my beach towel with a great read is extremely enjoyable. But one part of my getaway tops the list every single time:  A walk on the beach.

 

Honestly, the stroll has healing powers for me. After weeks and weeks of jam-packed schedules and an endless to-do list, I plan this activity first.  Is it the exertion of energy that recharges my physical being?  What about the numerous health benefits of the sun and surf?  And the endurance and stamina being built while doing something that doesn’t feel like exercise?  Maybe all these advantages combined?

Call of the Ocean – Vacation Time

Sometimes I just NEED the beach.

Seeing the coast relaxes my mind and heals my soul. There’s just something about it – something calming about the ocean.

In our area, most people we know go to the same beach – Destin, Orange, Rosemary – somewhere around the corridor of 30A. Many of our friends are drawn back to the same place year after year – and it becomes a tradition and a way to connect with extended family and friends.

I grew up going to those same beaches, in the summers and around Easter. We enjoyed it and made cherished memories with our family. As a college student, we visited Florida beaches and had a great time with friends.