Our Tips for Taking Your Baby to the Beach
Ah, remember those easy summer days, soaking up the sun and splashing in the waves? Now, with a little one in tow, beach trips take a bit more planning, but trust me, you and your baby can still have a magical, relaxing day by the shore! With the right prep, it’s possible to create beautiful, fun beach memories while keeping everything safe and low-stress. Let me share some of our best tips for making your beach day a hit with your baby.
Consider Your Baby’s Age
Before we even start packing, think about your baby’s age. If your little one is a newborn, hold off on the beach trips for a couple of months. Their skin is just so sensitive, and they can overheat quickly. Babies under two months should probably stay home until they’re ready to handle the heat and sun.
And when it comes to the ocean, babies under one year should avoid swimming. I know, I know, those chubby little legs might be begging for the water! But their tiny bodies just can’t regulate temperature like ours, and even warm water can feel chilly to them. If you do want to introduce your baby to the water, dip those toes in slowly and make sure the water feels comfortable.
The Best Time to Go
Timing is everything. The sun is most intense between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so try to plan your trip for the early morning or late afternoon. It’ll be cooler, the UV rays won’t be as harsh, and your baby will have a much better time without overheating.
If your baby is younger than six months, avoid sunscreen and rely on hats, shade, and protective clothing. For older babies, choose a baby-safe sunscreen (I’ll touch on that more later). Remember, we’re going for short and sweet trips at first, just to help your little one ease into this exciting new environment.
Pack Smart
I always make a list to avoid that last-minute panic of “Did I forget something?” especially for beach days! Here’s what I recommend bringing along:
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for your baby
- Snacks, drinks, and baby food
- Beach toys (a simple bucket and shovel are perfect)
- Nappies, swim diapers, and extra clothes
- Towels, blankets, and a pop-up tent for shade
- Baby-friendly sunscreen (SPF 30-50) if they’re older than six months
- A first-aid kit, including baby powder to easily remove sand
Being organized will make your beach trip so much smoother!
Choosing Baby-Safe Sunscreen
For babies older than six months, sunscreen is a must. You’ll want a broad-spectrum SPF between 30 and 50, and look for ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These sit on the skin instead of being absorbed, which is much gentler for baby’s sensitive skin. And don’t forget to test the sunscreen on a small patch of skin before using it all over!
Keeping Your Baby Cool
Beach days can get hot, and keeping your baby cool should be a priority. We love bringing along a spray bottle of water to mist them throughout the day. And if they’re not big water drinkers yet, try offering breastmilk, formula, or juice to keep them hydrated.
A shady spot is non-negotiable. Whether it’s an umbrella, pop-up tent, or a makeshift cabana with towels, keep your little one protected from the sun. And if they start looking flushed, it’s time to take a break.
Sand-Free Play Area
Sand can be fun, but not all babies enjoy feeling it stick to their skin. One trick we love is bringing a fitted sheet to create a little sand-free zone. Place heavy objects like coolers or bags in each corner to raise the sides, and voilà, your baby has a comfy, clean place to play.
Investing in Shade
We can’t emphasize this enough: good shade is your best friend at the beach. A sturdy umbrella, a beach tent, or even a floating toy with a built-in canopy will keep your baby protected while you all enjoy the day. It’s one of those small investments that makes a world of difference.
Baby Swimwear
When it comes to swimwear, think protection and comfort. Swim diapers are essential for avoiding accidents in the water, and some swimsuits come with built-in nappies for extra peace of mind. Look for UV-protective swimwear, and don’t forget a sun hat!
Engaging Beach Toys
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple bucket and shovel. Babies love to explore the sand, dig around, and try out new textures. Keep it simple and pack a few lightweight, age-appropriate toys. Bonus: a mesh bag to carry them in makes cleaning up the sand a breeze!
Hydration is Key
Beach days mean staying on top of hydration. For babies between six and eleven months, offering sips of water throughout the day is crucial. If you’re breastfeeding, make sure to increase those feeds, too. And don’t forget an insulated water bottle to keep drinks cool!
Stick to Your Routine
It’s tempting to let beach excitement throw off your usual routine, but keeping nap and feeding times consistent will make your day so much smoother. Set up a shady spot for naps, pack your baby’s favorite blanket, and they’ll be out like a light after some sun and fun.
Conclusion: Taking Your Baby to the Beach
Taking your baby to the beach can be a beautiful experience. With the right preparation and a few helpful tips, your day at the beach can be relaxing, fun, and filled with memories. At Poppyseed Play, we believe in making every family moment special, and that includes sun-kissed beach days! So pack wisely, stay mindful of your baby’s comfort, and enjoy those precious moments together.
