All right guys. Maybe it’s snowing where you live, but here in southern California, it’s basically summer already. Which means it’s beach time! I am SO excited to take the kids to the beach this summer because we finally have TWO walking toddlers. It’s going to be rough chasing them around the beach, BUT way easier than having an infant like last year. I think they both will LOVE it. So let’s get started, here are my best tips on how to survive the beach with toddlers.
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1. Sunscreen
Of course, this should be your first step. Don’t forget to screen the kids before you get to the beach because once you get there, they are much less likely to cooperate. If you are staying for more than a few hours, make sure to screen them again. My favorite brand is Baby Bum!
2. Toys
You are definitely going to want to bring TONS of entertainment. I have multiple sets of beach toys that I like to bring. I’ll link my favorites below. I never bring any toys that are expensive to the beach because toys tend to get lost there.
3. Snacks
My kids live off of snacks. I always overpack on the snacks. I bring a mix of cold fresh fruit and prepackaged snacks. It’s always nice to have something fresh after being in the hot sun at the beach, but prepackaged snacks are easy to divvy out between kids.
4. Water
Bring EXTRA water. I bring everyone a hydroflask full of water, and then stash a couple extra water bottles in the car just in case. The hydroflask is the best for the beach because it is completely sealed, and it keeps water cold for 24 hours. Even if your bottle is in the direct sun it will stay cold for hours.
5. Umbrella
An umbrella is an absolute essential when you have little kids, in my opinion. If you plan on staying at the beach for more than an hour, I would definitely invest in one. They help keep your kiddos out of the sun if they start to get burnt and it keeps everyone cool. If you have a larger family, you might want to bring two or just invest in an EZ up.
6. Bring a Swim Vest
When we go to the beach, I usually don’t let my kids leave my side, especially if they are playing in the water. However, I like to bring a swim vest for the kids so if any sort of accidents happen, they are covered. Plus it allows them some freedom to walk around in the water on their own. My favorite one for both the beach and the pool is the speedo safe splasher!
7. Bring Extra Towels
My favorite beach hack is to bring extra towels. I bring a couple to lay on the sand for whoever wants to sit or lay out in the sun, then I bring extras for every person to be able to dry off afterwards. No one wants to dry off with a sandy beach towel!
Here are the swimsuits I am loving right now for toddlers:
Click the link below to watch our most recent beach trip with the kids!
For those of you who made it to the end, thank you so much for reading! Please let me know in the comments below how you survive the beach with toddlers or kids and if this was helpful at all.
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