Pool and Sun with Baby

Pool and Sun with Baby
📍 Gasparilla Inn, Florida

The following content may contain affiliate links. 
When you click and shop the links, I may receive a small commission.

Tee || Pareo || Bikini Top || Bikini Bottom || Flip Flops || Tote Bag || Sunhat

There’s something about being in the water with your baby that makes time slow down in the best way. No schedules, no to-do lists—just sunshine, salty air, and a splashy little sidekick discovering the world one wave (or pool noodle) at a time. This trip was full of firsts for Brennan: her first time dipping her toes into the Gulf, first time “swimming” in the pool with Dad, and first time keeping her sunhat for longer than five minutes (a small miracle). It felt like everything was new and full of wonder—for her, but honestly, for us too.

We spent most of our days toggling between the beach and the pool, letting the rhythm of her naps set the pace—which, in hindsight, might be the secret to a great vacation. At the beach, Brennan was completely mesmerized by the waves. She’d sit on our towels kicking her feet in the sand, squealing every time the water got close. Meanwhile, David and I took turns soaking up the sun, always within arm’s reach of a beach toy or snack. The simplicity of it all—no big plans—was what made it so special. Just being together in the sunshine felt like more than enough.

The pool was a whole new adventure—cool water, bright floats, and the best views of palm trees overhead. David held her while I had a few moments of relaxation and then we’d all float together, Brennan giggling as she splashed. We brought along a few baby swim essentials—a sunhat she actually tolerated, a long-sleeve rash guard, and a shaded float that the Gasparilla Inn generously provided us. Pool time became our daily ritual, the perfect mix of low-effort and high-reward. Brennan loved it, and we loved watching her confidence grow with each little kick.

Of course, traveling with a baby always comes with a few curveballs. There were poolside diaper changes, moments of overtired fussiness, and at least one sunscreen-related meltdown (hers, not mine…though it was close). But there was so much joy in these days. Watching Brennan discover sand for the first time, hearing her laugh echo across the water, and catching little glances between David and me that said, “Can you believe she’s ours?” These are the memories I know we’ll hold onto. Sun-drenched, a little chaotic, and completely golden.

Love from Boca Grande,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.