A.M.
Hi there! I was born and raised here and the one thing I have learned is DO NOT swim with a tropical system active and within 200 miles of the shore you want to go to. This makes rip tides even more dangerous and brings jellyfish closer to shore. Jelly fish HURT. If you get stung see one of the life guards and they should have a spray bottle of amonia handy. If they dont, I'm not kidding here, urine will stop the sting.
I always bring the kids and myself some very loose fitting cloths for the trip home. After a long day in the sand you will want to shower and redress so there isnt any sand stuck anywhere makeing the trip home abrasive!
I have found the gulf coast better for finding shells and harder on bare feet and the east coast nicer to your feet but a much smaller amout of shells for collection.
Good luck and have fun.
A.