Taking your baby to the beach especially for the first time can be so exciting. Do not be fooled into thinking that you will get a relaxing day to sit back and put your feet up.
However, you will get to watch your baby experience all the wonders of the beach for the first time. But for the day to go well, there are a few beach essentials that you are going to need.
We have put together a list of our favorite essentials for your baby’s day at the beach. So why not gather all your beach gear and pack up the car its time to hit the beach!
In this article
So, What Are We Going To Need For The Beach…
This is not going to be a light trip, you are going to be packing a lot of extras for your baby. Your baby’s skin is super sensitive and you are going to have to take extra precautions in order to take care of it in the sun.
Your beach essentials are going to have to include some way of providing shade for your baby while they are on the beach.
It is also advised that you keep your baby covered as much as possible in the sun. This offers better protection for your baby and you won’t have to deal with a squirmy baby while trying to apply sunscreen.
Our Baby Beach Essentials
1. Beach Shelter
Your baby has very sensitive skin and will not be able to be out in the sun all day long no matter what sun protection you put on them.
They will need some sort of shelter and protection from the sun’s rays that will also provide them with a safe place to take a nap.
- Pop Up Design & Portability: Pops up and folds down in seconds, no assembly required. Ultra-lightweight construction allows for easy transportation with included carrying bag.
- Spacious Space & 360-degree Ventilation: The tent is 86 L x 57 W x 47 H providing a spacious interior shelter that comfortably fits 3-4 people ( 3 adults, or 2 adults with 2 kids).
- Anti UV - The special silver coated fabric around the full coverage to ensure the best Anti-UV Effect. The UV rating of 50+ (UPF 50+)
- No Assembly Required - Our beach tent adopted automatic pop up design. It pops up within 3 seconds. it’s also easy to fold back up.
- Wind-resistant & Ventilated - There are 2 bags on both sides of beach tent. Heavy duty frame together with 8 strong metal ground stakes, our beach shade will be steady enough even in a windy day. The mesh window will allow you to enjoy the sea breeze.
2. Good Sunscreen
A must have for your baby while at the beach is a sunscreen with high SPF, especially one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- FIRST TO PASS - Whole Foods Premium Care requirements & Top-Rated by EWG in 2010 with a #1 Rating
- FREE from BIOLOGICALLY HARMFUL CHEMICALS - Paraben & PABA Free, Vegan, Safe for Babies & Toddlers
- HIGHEST WATER RESISTANCE - Per the FDA with Broad Spectrum Coverage UVA & UVB Coverage for Babies
- REEF FRIENDLY - Highly Biodegradable, Non Toxic & Non Aerosol Formula Earth Safe EWG Top Rated (#1)
- APPLIES & ABSORBS EASILY - No Oily Feeling or Smell, Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty & Gluten F
- Contains 2 6-oz tubes
- REEF SAFE: Made without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Formulated without: PABA, phthalates, parabens, fragrances or nano particles
- Formulated with: Octisalate, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide
- Formulated with NeoNourish Seed Oil Blend: Our own blend of tomato, sunflower, cranberry, black cumin and raspberry seed oils
3. Hats and SPF Swimsuits
A sun hat may not be your baby’s favorite thing to wear but it will protect their face and head with shade while they are still able to enjoy the summer sun.
A sunsuit whether it be a two-piece or a one-piece will also provide great protection for their skin while in the sun.
- ◆FEATURE : Baby bucket hat available in multiple colors and patterns.Made with UPF 50+ sun protection polyester fabric and wide brim for the best sun protection coverage for babies.
- ◆ This baby sun hat Adjustable head strap allows your baby to customize the head fit accordingly. It also features an adjustable chin strap cord to help keep the baby sun hat in place when it is windy. choking,For maximum comfort & protection
- Baby Sun Hat for Kids : FURTALK baby sun hat is made of natural mix fabrics, 95% pure cotton and 5% premium spandex, so our baby sun hat is breathable and soft for your baby to wear.
- Infant Hats grows with your baby; the baby hat has two sizes to fits most Kids; Size 0-2T is designed for baby 0-2 years old with the circumference of 18.9 inch (48cm), but also fits baby 3 years old; Size 2-4T is designed for baby 2-4 years old with the circumference of 20.5 inch (52cm), but also fits kids 5-6 years old.
- ADORABLE DESIGN - Features the sweetest details for stylish sun safety. Two-piece design offers full coverage and comfort along with greater flexibility while your little girl grows.
- BUILT-IN SUN PROTECTION - Keep your little girls delicate skin safe in the sun! RuffleButts features built-in UPF 50+ so theres more playing and less worrying about harsh UV rays.
- COMFORTABLE MATERIAL: This baby rash guard is made of high quality, soft fabric
- UPF 50+ SUN PROTECTION: This baby swimwear UPF 50+ sun protection blocks 97.5% of harmful UV radiation .
- BODY AND BOTTOM COVERAGE: Torso and bottom coverage. Ensure your little one learns to love the water without a sunburn. The baby sun swimsuit makes a great shield against the sun’s r
4. Swim Diapers
My advice would be to never go to the pool or beach without swim diapers! Remember that swim diapers do not work in the same way as regular diapers, so if your baby pees it is going to leak out but they will also hold in poo.
They are available as a disposable diaper and also a reusable one.
- Swim Diapers Size - This swim diaper size small fits baby 0-8 months, weight 10-19 lbs; Reusable swim diapers baby size large fits baby 9 months - 3 years old, weight 20-40 lbs.
- Material - 100% Polyester, reusable pool diapers are 3 pack.
- Snap Closure - Washable swim diapers adjust snap around the waist and legs with different sizes, grows with your baby.Cloth swim diaper interior Polyester elastics at the waist and leg openings offer comfort against babys skin, stretchy fit and easy on and off.
- Leak Free & Breathable TPU - The swimming diapers outer layer is made of polyester with leak free and breathable TPU, designed for holding solids.The reusable swim diapers mesh inner layer is soft and easy to wash.
- Size Medium (26lb-40lb.), 11-Count
- COMFORT STRETCH: Stretchy sides for a comfortable fit.
- NO SWELLING: Unique absorbent material that wont swell in water like diapers.
- EASY OFF: Even when wet, tear-away sides make changes a breeze.
5. Towel
Obviously I know but you would be surprised how many parents have forgotten a towel. Really important to dry off after a swim and keep warm from the cool water or breeze.
- PREMIUM QUALITY & SUPER SOFT – Made of premium quality 100% Turkish cotton ONLY!
- LIGHTWEIGHT, ABSORBENT & QUICK DRY – This hooded towel is lightweight & absorbent soaking water up like a sponge.
- COVER UP, BATHROBE & TOWEL IN ONE – Versatility is key, this zip up hooded towel is perfect for swimming lessons, beach, travels, pool or bath. Slip in, zip up & go!
- Super soft and absorbent towel made of 100% terry cotton,dry you baby fast and keeps your baby warm
- Large size W 21.5 * L 45inch（two sides total length)
- Suitable for baby from 0-4 ye
6. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a must-have for any beach trip. They will protect your baby’s eyes not only from the sun but also from the glare off the water.
There is a pretty good chance that your baby is not going to be very happy about wearing sunglasses so it is a good idea to look for ones that come with a strap to hold them on their head.
- SAFE | Packaged, designed and tested in Miami, FL | BPA free protective polycarbonate frame and lenses.
- FUN TO WEAR | Soft, comfortable, removable and adjustable strap.
- PROMOTES EYE HEALTH | Our sunglasses were designed by Eye Doctors to ensure they will protect eye health. We use 100% UV protection, anti-scratch lens coating, reducing risk of long term eye damage and disease.
- Classic vintage style sunglasses for infant and baby 6 to 18 months old
- Total ultraviolet ray protection; shatter proof polarized 40 millimeter lenses
- Very flexible plastic 110 millimeter length frame and temples in matted finish for no finger prints
- Includes 2 cloth pouches and 2 elastic adjustable straps~
7. Baby Water Shoes
Sand gets hot and their feet are super sensitive. Water shoes are a great option, offering protection from the hot sand and protect the tops of their feet from the sun. They are lightweight enough that they can be used in the water and dry quickly.
- Comfortable and flexible just like socks. Fabric upper with overlays makes shape of water shoes comfortable fit which makes the baby walk more freely.
- Lightweight and non slip rubber outsole, wear-resistant provides protection of every step.
- Anti-collision thickened design of the toe protects babys feet, reducing hurt caused by collision.
- Ergonomic design, the design of the bend at 1/3 of the shoes reduces the pressure of walking on the feet.
- Comfortable & Fit: With a strong wicking performance of the stretchy ultra-thin material that make users feel comfortable fit like socks.
- Convenience: Smooth neck design prevents scratching when wearing. It is easy to wear and take off.
- High Quality Material: Stretch fabric upper,flexible and breathable; Top quality rubber sole,lightweight and slip resistant.
- Rubber Outsole & Foot Safety: Wearable and top-quality rubber sole, which protects your feet from being hurt by sharp objects.
- Unisex shoes for baby: Perfect for walking, running, beach sport, swimming and other indoor and outdoor sports activiti
8. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier that is lightweight and quick-drying is the perfect addition to your beach essentials. These are great for taking your baby into the water while still keeping them close.
There are no worries about having to hold on to them and provides reassurance to them too.
- Excellent warm weather baby ring sling. Perfect for everyday use, in the shower, and at the pool, beach, or water park.
- Dry quickly. 100% polyester jersey mesh lends breathability, keeps it light in the water.
- Vlokup Baby carriers place baby in the optimal position - high on the mommys chest and close enough to kiss. This is extremely important in any water environment or daily use
- ★ Easy to Use: The ring sling can be quick and easy to get on and off, create a deep seat that allows for a more comfortable fit for baby. Lightly padded shoulder distributes weight across back and shoulder.
- ★ Necessity: 1. Let the baby feel his mothers heartbeat, body temperature and mothers smell to improve sleep quality. 2.Baby wrap carrier can free parents to do something else. 3. A good helper for breastfeeding, convenient and secretive, suitable for many occasions.
- ★ Dry quickly. 100% polyester jersey mesh lends breathability. The fabric feels like a silky swimsuit which keeps it light in the water & allows it to dry very quickly.
9. Beach Toys
Even with so much to do at the beach babies can easily become bored. Most of the time they are too small to truly enjoy the fun of wave jumping.
So, be sure to bring plenty to keep them entertained – beach toys are a great option. toys that can be used to build sandcastles, dig holes, or even collect seashells. Giving them plenty of options will ensure that the experience is fun for everyone.
- Fun and colorful 18 piece beach sand toy set for a creative day at the beach, made of BPA free material.
- Set includes: bucket, 2 shovels, 3 rakes, 2 sand sifters, watering can.
- Many sand mold; sea horse, turtle, Octopus, sea shell, Duck, starfish, boat, castle.
- Fun and colorful 22 pieces kids beach toys. Every sand mold toy is made of high-quality non-toxic and BPA free material and the smooth edge design can reduce the risk of scratches.
- This kids sand toys for beach have multi-colored shapes and molds, includes sand truck, castle bucket, watering can, sand molds, sandcastle shovel building kits.
10. Sand Proof Beach Blanket
These are the best thing ever and perfect for keeping sand off your baby and all your belongings. Most are quite large and offer plenty of space for your little one to crawl around but not getting covered in sand.
- SAND FREE AND WATERPROOF: Sand & dust, disappear from your clothes/body and eyes with our beach mat .
- SUPER CONVENIENT WITH CARRY BAG & ANCHORS: Our beach blanket is extremely durable, lightweight & folds into a small pocket, its easy to sweep sand off, wash and quick dry.
- MULTI-USES: It can be used as blanket / mat or sun / rain shelter for beaches, picnics, parks, family trips, open-air festivals, camping, hiking, fishing, other occasions and outdoor sports.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: If you are not satisfied with the quality of our beach blanket mat, (PLS CONTACT ABETER)
- Sand-Proof, Water-Resistant And Quick-Drying. This beautifully color-block beach blanket is made of 100% Rip-stop Nylon which is strong, durable, lightweight and breathable.
- Oversized And Compact -9x7 (270cmX210cm) / 7x6.6(210cmX200cm) picnic blanket, can accommodate up to 4-7 adults.
- Double Wind-Resistant Design. The beach blanket with 4 corner pockets and 6 ground stakes provides dual wind-resistant protection to keep the blanket on the ground even in high winds.
11. Cool Bag
An insulated cooler bag is a beach essential, especially when you have a baby with you. It can be used to keep food and milk cool and prevent spoiling.
- Premium Lining & Zipper: The lining of lunch bag is made of PEVA foil that wont melt easily when the bag hold something hot.
- Long-Term Insulation: The lunch bag is made of insulated material which can keep foods and drinks cool or warm for more than 5 hours.
- Wide-Open-Design: Top of the lunch bag can be opened up to 11.8”x9.1” by strong zipper, which means you can put your lunch container into the bag and taken out of the bag horizontally.
- Large Capacity: 11.8”L*9.1”W*9.1”H. The maximum capacity is 15L, spacy enough to store 24 tins of coke (330ml), or your lunch such as sandwich, salad, snacks, drinks and fruits and so on.~
- Large Capacity: 10.8L*8.3W*11.2H inches. You could keep food hot on up deck, and keep drinks cool on down deck.
- Wide-Open-Design: Equipped with the premium thermal leak-proof lining that is BPA and PVC free. Dual compartment insulated lunch bag keeps your food fresh cool or warm.
- Durable & Heavy Duty: Made of high-quality 600D polyester fabric and reinforced zippers.
- Long-Term Insulation: Two main compartments to keep your warm and cold items separated, and a water bottle holder.
12. Portable Booster Chair
If your baby is eating solid food, this chair can provide them with a break from the hot sun when set up in the shade for a snack.
- INDOOR/OUTDOOR USE – The Summer Pop ‘n Sit SE Booster Baby Chair can be used both indoors and outside! For 6 months – 4 years (up to 37 pounds).
- ALL-IN-ONE SOLUTION – Whether you need booster seats at a restaurant, a chair at the park or even a floor seat for activity time at home, this portable booster seat can do it all!
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
- PORTABLE/TRAVEL-FRIENDLY OmniBoost will conveniently, comfortably and safely provide the perfect space for baby to sit, eat, and play. Lightweight FRUSTRATION-FREE folding frame pops open and compactly folds down for travel.
- COMFORT FIT SAFETY HARNESS | Keep your child fully secured with hiccapop’s gentle restraint system, ergonomically designed to keep even the most wiggly toddler in place and cozy.
13. Floaties
A floatation device will make your time at the beach a little more enjoyable. If your baby is not walking then it would be best to look for a floatation device that has leg holes for them to sit in. If they are running around, look for arm floaties.
- ★Recommended for ages 3-7 months old,weight 11-24 lbs (size S); ages 5-18 months old, weight 13-38 lbs (size L), ages 1.5-6 years old, weight 28-48 lbs (size XL),.
- ★Our baby swimming float provide an ideal swimming posture for babies, let the baby easily learn to kick and swim in a horizontal position.
- Safe & Durable Material: By using the newest material with adjustable straps and buckle , double stitching , double stitching at the edge , no crack , durable X 3 , make kids enjoy a safe water world.
- More Suitable for 30-50 Pounds Toddlers; According to the average shoulder width of children aged 1 - 4 in the US.
- En Standard ( EN 13138-1: Buoyant Aids for Swimming Instruction) Verified : Flotation device keeps your kids safe in water , its best choice for swimming in pool.
- Dark Lightning 100% Satisfaction: 30 days unconditional return/refund, 24 hours service.
14. Beach Tote and Separate Wet Bag.
These are great as they are big enough to carry everything in from towels to toys, snacks, and spare clothes. Now having a separate tote bag that you can be designate as the ‘wet bag’, where all the wet towels, swimsuits, or shoes can be popped in.
- DURABLE, WASHABLE, WATERPROOF CANVAS-LIKE FABRIC with RIPSTOP construction, protects your items from getting wet or damaged. BONUS WATER/DUST/SAND PROOF PVC CASE, safely keeps your smartphone, tablet, credit cards, cash, jewelry, other valuables.
- LARGE & ROOMY w/ BIG INNER THERMAL POCKET, WATERPROOF INTERIOR LINING - sized at L22xH15xW6, BUILT-IN KEY HOLDER & BOTTLE OPENER for your complete convenience
- FOUR OUTSIDE POCKETS, STURDY & COMFY RIBBON HANDLES with padded grip.
- LARGE BEACH BAG - space for towels, water bottles, glasses, toys, and sunblock.
- 8 BIG POCKETS - keeps your items separated, including an inside zippered pocket for your keys, phone and other valuables.
- WATERPROOF - dries quickly and sand falls through the mesh so no messy clean up when you get home!
- DURABLE HIGH QUALITY MESH – withstands wear and tear from sand, sea, children etc.
15. Cornstarch or Talc-free Baby Powder
You may be thinking that this is a strange item to have on a beach essentials list, but trust me it is a lifesaver. We all know how difficult sand is to get off your skin and it is often very painful.
Well by placing cornstarch or talc-free baby powder on your skin it dries out the sand and can then be easily wiped away.
- 9-ounces of baby powder provides a gentle way to soothe your babys skin.
- Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and specially designed for babys delicate skin, this baby powder is clinically proven mild and 100% gentle
- BABY DUSTING POWDER: Pamper your babys skin from head to toe with this calming baby powder that will help keep skin soft, dry and comfortable.
- BABY SKIN CARE: This natural baby care provides gentle comfort and calming relief for diaper rashes and helps absorb dampness after bath time.
- 100% NATURAL: Burts Bees dusting powder is talc-free with naturally absorbent Cornstarch. ~
How Can I Feed My Baby On The Beach?
If you are breastfeeding then it is easy to do on the beach. All you need is to find somewhere sheltered such as your beach shelter.
If you are formula feeding there is a little bit more to think about. The easiest option is to take the ready-made formula milk. These can be offered to your baby straight from the carton.
If your baby does prefer their milk warm you could always make a feed as and when you need it. Take some freshly boiled water in a vacuum flask, this will keep warm for about 4 hours.
You can then easily make a feed by adding the water and formula powder to a sterilized bottle.
- Emerging evidence from a recent clinical study showed MFGM in formula supports cognitive development similar to breast milk
- #1 trusted brand for brain-building & immune support
- Get brain building nutrition inspired by breast milk from the formula brand thats #1 recommended by Pediatricians
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If your baby is eating solids then the greatest challenge of eating at the beach is keeping the sand off everything. But if you have packed your sand proof blanket and booster chair then there should be no problem at all.
Remember that it is difficult to heat food on the beach so you are going to be looking to pack foods that are more lunch box friendly and can be eaten cold.
Take along a selection of finger foods for your baby. Depending on their age and tastes, here are some good options:
- banana
- unsalted breadsticks
- cooked carrot sticks
- pieces of nectarine or peach
- chunks of cheese
- cooked pasta spirals
- rice cakes
- raisins
Can You Take A Newborn To The Beach?
Taking your baby to the beach is a great opportunity for them to experience the outdoor environment.
But do take note that children under 6 months old should be kept in the shade and protected from direct sunlight. It only requires around 10-15 minutes in direct sunlight for those with fair skin to burn.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that babies under 6 months of age must be sheltered from exposure to the sun to prevent sunburns.
Infants can not regulate their body temperature as adults can and if left in a hot environment they will quickly feel the effects of heat stress.
You can still take your newborn to the beach but it is going to require a little more planning and preparation. Here are a few things to consider when taking your newborn to the beach:
- Choose a safe and clean spot on the beach. It shouldn’t be too close to the water’s edge as you will have to move your camp as the tide comes in.
- Ensure that you have blankets and towels that your newborn can lie on.
- If you take a beach shelter, line it with towels and ensure that it does not get too hot inside.
If you follow our beach essentials list then you should have everything that you will need to have a relaxing and fun day at the beach no matter what age your little one is.
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FAQs
How do I keep sand off my baby at the beach?
The common kitchen staple cornstarch is a fantastic way to remove sand from your baby’s skin.
All you need to do is sprinkle it onto exposed arms and legs and watch as it dries the sand up, making it easy to simply wipe off. Talc-free baby powder works well too.
Can I take my baby to the water at the beach?
It is fine to take your baby into a river, lake, or ocean from around 2 months old, but you will need to ensure that they do not get too cold.
Choose a spot where the water is warm and clear. Be aware of currents that may prevent you from holding your baby properly, and don’t let them drink the water.
The Final Thought
The beach is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beautiful environment that we live in with your baby.
But to ensure that you have a fun-filled and relaxing day, it is best that you plan ahead and check that you have everything that you will need for your beach day!
