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There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach with your toddler—the joy of watching them play in the sand, splash in the waves, and discover seashells can create some of the fondest family memories. However, a beach outing with a little one can also be challenging and requires careful planning and packing to ensure it’s fun, safe, and stress-free for everyone. From protecting their delicate skin from the sun to keeping them hydrated and entertained, having the right essentials can make all the difference. Read on to discover all of the must-have items you’ll need for a successful beach day with your toddler, so you can focus on enjoying precious moments together instead of what to pack.
1. Sun Protection
- Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming. Here at Happy Moms Club, we love natural items for our kiddos. Our current favorite mineral sunscreen is Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen. It is a thick sunscreen that is waterproof, easy to apply, and has a pleasant citrus smell. We love this at our house! If you find it difficult to apply sunscreen to your toddler, try the Solar Buddies Sponge Applicator for Kids. This makes applying sunscreen to kiddos much easier and fun!
- Sunhat: A wide-brimmed hat can shield your toddler’s face, ears, and neck from the sun. Or opt for a hat that covers your littles neck such as this swim hat from Green Sprouts (our toddler’s current favorite).
- Rash Guard: Long-sleeved swim shirts with UPF protection can provide extra coverage. I know how adorable regular swimsuits are for our kiddos but the best way to protect their skin is to cover it up! Thankfully there are so many cute options for rash guards nowadays.
- Sunglasses: Protect your toddler’s eyes with sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. If you can get them to keep them on, that is – if not, a hat will do!
- Beach Umbrella or Tent: Create a shaded area for rest and play. Beach tents totally change the game. Look for a beach tent that offers UV protection and is easy to set up. We love this beach tent that makes set up a breeze, is very breathable, and packs away quick and easy. Perfect for when your toddler (or you) needs a break from the sun.
2. Hydration and Snacks
You know the saying – “you’re not you when you’re hungry” – well, neither are your kids! So make sure you keep your toddler hydrated and well-fed to increase your chance of having a happy beach day.
- Water: Bring plenty of water (preferable over juice) to keep your toddler hydrated. Consider using an insulated spill-proof sippy cup that will stay cold the entire time you’re at the beach.
- Snacks: Pack a cooler with a variety of easy-to-eat, non-perishable snacks like fruit slices, crackers, and cheese sticks. Our favorite on-the-go lunch for our tot is a PB&J which is easy to prepare and is perfect for a day at the beach.
- Mini Table: To keep the sand off of your snacks and make it easier for your toddler to have lunch on the beach, consider this Mini Beach Folding Table. This is a game changer for beach trips and even includes it’s own carrying case.
3. Beach Toys
- Sand Toys: Buckets, shovels, molds, and sifters can provide hours of fun in the sand. Our toddler is currently obsessed with playing with dump trucks in the sand! This set includes it all and even comes with a mesh carrying bag to make it easy to store and shake out sand.
- Inflatable Toys: Small inflatable balls or floaties can be great for water play, but always supervise your child closely and keep a life jacket on them whenever they are around water.
4. Comfortable Seating and Storage
- Beach Blanket: A large, sand-resistant beach blanket provides a comfortable space for play and relaxation. The key word being SAND-RESISTANT! Everyone will appreciate this when the sand is becoming just a little too much.
- Beach Chairs: Lightweight, foldable beach chairs are great for adults and toddlers alike. Your toddler will love their own mini beach chair to relax on.
- Beach Bag: A spacious, waterproof beach bag can hold all your essentials. Consider one with multiple compartments for easy organization. I seriously love this inexpensive oversized beach tote from Amazon.
5. Safety Essentials
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers can be handy for minor scrapes and stings.
- Identification Bracelet: A bracelet (like these reusable, waterproof ones here) with your contact information is incredibly useful in case your toddler wanders off. We never leave for vacation without these and really, they are great for any crowded area.
6. Clothing and Extras
- Swim Diapers: If your toddler isn’t potty-trained, pack plenty of swim diapers. You could use reusable or disposable, but at the beach, we find disposable works best with all of the sand that’s involved.
- Change of Clothes: Pack a dry set of clothes for the journey home – no one likes to sit in wet clothes!
- Towels: Bring extra towels for drying off and for your toddler to sit on if they don’t have a chair.
- Plastic Bags: Use these for wet clothes, trash, or collecting shells – a few of these really come in handy.
- Portable Fan: A battery-operated fan can help keep your toddler (and you) cool when you’re getting a little bit too overheated.
Tips for a Smooth Beach Day with Your Toddler
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and the midday sun by arriving early (this is helpful if you are competing with an afternoon naptime anyway).
- Stay Close to Facilities: Choose a spot near restrooms and shade if possible – especially if you’re potty training.
- Take Breaks: Plan for breaks in the shade to keep your toddler from getting overheated.
- Watch for Signs of Fatigue: Keep an eye on your toddler for signs of tiredness and plan for naps or quiet time.
A day at the beach with your toddler can be an incredibly fun experience filled with a lot of giggles, exploration, and learning. By packing everything on this list, you can ensure that your beach outing is not only fun but also safe and comfortable for your little one. From sun protection and hydration to toys and safety gear, being well-prepared allows you to relax and enjoy your time together without worrying about if you forgot something. So, gather your gear, head to the shore, and have some fun with your toddler!
If you’re looking for toddler road-trip essentials, click here!
If you’re looking for fun activities to do with your toddler at the beach, click here!
Are there any beach items not listed that you swear by for your toddler? I’d love to hear them!
XOXO,
Katie
