We spent 3 days on the beach with extended family recently. It wasn't Landon's first time at the beach, (he was 8 months the first time) but this was the first time he was old enough to participate in the beach happenings. Based on our trip, here are a few tips I'd give on going to the beach with a toddler.
1) Small inflatable baby pool
We filled it with water and it was an easy way to wash things off (Landon hated sand on his hands) and also allows for an easy way for them to splash, play, etc without going too far. You could even fill it with sand, if your little one likes that, and have them play that way.
2) Shade and sunscreen
These are obvious, but just had to remind you. Especially about shade. We have our own umbrella we take with us, which works fine. Plus, Landon always wears large brimmed sun hats when on the beach. We rub him down with sunscreen and he always wears a rash guard shirt too to help protect from the sun.
3) Toys
Sand toys like buckets, shovels, etc. But also things like trucks, balls, blocks, etc. are great too. I remember as a girl, I loved playing with Barbies or Mermaid dolls at the beach.
4) Beach friendly shoes
Landon wore a pair of water shoes that worked perfectly. They kept the sand off his feet (which he hated) and allowed him to walk around the pool area without burning his feet.
5) Snacks and Water/Juice
We would stay on the beach for a couple hours each morning before lunch and nap time, so having snacks and drinks down there with us allowed him to eat and drink when needed, and still enjoy being on the beach.
6) Toddler sized chair
We took a toddler sized camping chair because it was easy to pack. It worked great for times when he wanted to sit and eat his snack.
7) Large towel or blanket
We have a travel blanket that I use for picnics, etc. It's slick and water proof so the water and sand just came right off. I laid it out near his toys and he'd sit and play on it.
8) Patience
Remember that it might look different than your normal (pre toddler) beach trip. Muster up a little extra patience and remember to enjoy the time with your family! Take lots of pictures and relax!
I hope these tips can help you out! Let me know in the coments your own personal tips!
1) Small inflatable baby pool
We filled it with water and it was an easy way to wash things off (Landon hated sand on his hands) and also allows for an easy way for them to splash, play, etc without going too far. You could even fill it with sand, if your little one likes that, and have them play that way.
2) Shade and sunscreen
These are obvious, but just had to remind you. Especially about shade. We have our own umbrella we take with us, which works fine. Plus, Landon always wears large brimmed sun hats when on the beach. We rub him down with sunscreen and he always wears a rash guard shirt too to help protect from the sun.
3) Toys
Sand toys like buckets, shovels, etc. But also things like trucks, balls, blocks, etc. are great too. I remember as a girl, I loved playing with Barbies or Mermaid dolls at the beach.
4) Beach friendly shoes
Landon wore a pair of water shoes that worked perfectly. They kept the sand off his feet (which he hated) and allowed him to walk around the pool area without burning his feet.
5) Snacks and Water/Juice
We would stay on the beach for a couple hours each morning before lunch and nap time, so having snacks and drinks down there with us allowed him to eat and drink when needed, and still enjoy being on the beach.
6) Toddler sized chair
We took a toddler sized camping chair because it was easy to pack. It worked great for times when he wanted to sit and eat his snack.
7) Large towel or blanket
We have a travel blanket that I use for picnics, etc. It's slick and water proof so the water and sand just came right off. I laid it out near his toys and he'd sit and play on it.
8) Patience
Remember that it might look different than your normal (pre toddler) beach trip. Muster up a little extra patience and remember to enjoy the time with your family! Take lots of pictures and relax!
I hope these tips can help you out! Let me know in the coments your own personal tips!
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