After the Beach Party: Memorial Day Recovery Tips

Memorial Day in Honolulu means packed beaches, all-day barbecues at Ala Moana Beach Park, and hours of swimming at popular spots like Waikiki and Kailua. While these gatherings are a beloved island tradition, the combination of sun exposure, water activities, and standing on sand for hours can take a toll on your body. Here's how to recover after your Memorial Day beach celebrations.

Rehydrate Strategically

A day at Honolulu's beaches often means hours in the hot sun, possibly with alcoholic beverages. Drink plenty of water with electrolytes to replenish what you've lost through sweat. Coconut water, abundant in Hawaii, makes an excellent natural option for rehydration after beach activities.

Address Sand-Related Strain

Walking on sand works different muscle groups than walking on solid ground. If you spent hours traversing Ala Moana Beach Park or setting up your family's spot at Kuhio Beach, you might notice soreness in your calves, ankles and feet. A warm foot soak with Epsom salt can help relieve this tension.

Treat Sunburn Appropriately

Despite our best intentions, Memorial Day sunburns happen. Apply aloe vera gel (readily available from local plants or stores) to soothe affected skin. Stay hydrated to help your skin heal, and take cool showers to reduce inflammation.

Relieve Water Activity Strain

If you spent hours swimming, paddleboarding, or playing in the waves at Waikiki, your shoulders and back might be feeling the effects. Gentle stretching focused on your upper body can help relieve tension. Pay particular attention to your neck and shoulders, which often bear the brunt of swimming strain.

Rest Your Eyes

Bright sun reflecting off both ocean and white sand can cause eye fatigue. Give your eyes recovery time by wearing sunglasses and limiting screen time the day after your beach gathering.

Consider Alignment Issues

Activities specific to beach gatherings—carrying heavy coolers across sand, setting up tents, or even falling asleep on uneven beach mats—can affect spinal alignment. If you're experiencing unusual back or neck pain after your Memorial Day celebration, a chiropractic adjustment might help address these issues before they become more significant problems.

Military Family Considerations

For military families stationed in Honolulu who participated in the traditional Memorial Day observances at Punchbowl or other military ceremonies before heading to the beach, the day may have been particularly long and physically demanding. Take extra time to rest and recover, especially if you transitioned from formal ceremonies to beach activities.

Recovery doesn't have to be complicated. With these simple techniques, you can help your body bounce back quickly from your Memorial Day beach gathering and be ready for the summer activities ahead. If discomfort persists more than a few days after your beach celebration, consider consulting with a healthcare professional who can address your specific needs.