Building Sandcastles and Memories: Tips for a Perfect Beach Day with Your Kids
There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach with your kids. The salty air, the splash of waves, and the giggles as they chase seagulls or build sandcastles, it’s pure childhood magic. But let’s be real: getting through a beach day with little ones in tow requires a bit of planning, a lot of snacks, and a few sanity-saving hacks.
Here are our top tips for creating a smooth, sun-safe, and joy-filled beach day with your kids, because the best memories are made in swimmers, covered in sand.
1. Choose the Right Time of Day
Early mornings or late afternoons are your best friend. Not only is the sun less intense (yay, UV safety!), but the beach is often quieter too. You’ll beat the heat, avoid the midday crowds, and still have plenty of time for splashing and sandcastle masterpieces.
2. Pack Smart, Pack Light(ish)
Easier said than done, we know—but streamlining your beach bag is a game-changer. Here’s a quick checklist:
• Sun-safe swimwear: Long-sleeve rashies, swim hats, and swimwear with UPF protection.
• Sunscreen: Apply before you leave the house, then top up every two hours.
• Snacks & water: Lots of both. Think fruit, crackers, and easy-to-grab finger food.
• Ziplock wet bags: Perfect for wet swimmers after the beach (yes, we’ve got you covered here 😉).
• Beach toys: Buckets, spades, and a few silicone moulds go a long way.
• Shade: A beach umbrella or pop-up tent (we have a cool cabana and it’s been a god send!) gives everyone a break from the sun.
3. Dress Kids for Sun and Sand
We’re big believers in keeping things simple, safe, and stylish. A good quality rashie and swim shorts or a one-piece means less sunscreen stress and more playtime. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics and bright colours so your kids are easy to spot from the shoreline.
(And if you’re still hunting for the perfect sun-safe swimwear, you might want to check out our latest styles 👀)
4. Embrace the Mess
Yes, there will be sand in places you didn’t know sand could go. Yes, your toddler will probably dump a bucket of seawater on themselves and you. It’s all part of the experience. Bring a small dustpan brush or talc-free baby powder to help remove sand from feet before hopping into the car, trust us, it works!
5. Create Moments (Not Just Instagram Ones)
Sure, you’ll want a cute snap of your kids in their swimmers covered in sunscreen streaks. But some of the best beach memories are made when you put your phone down and join in, dig moats, jump waves, collect shells, and let yourself be fully present.
6. Wind Down with a Ritual
A post-beach ice cream. A warm shower at home. Snuggling on the couch watching Bluey. Having a familiar end-of-day ritual helps kids (and grown-ups!) transition from the excitement of the beach to the calm of home.
And Most of All… Soak It In
These beach days—chaotic, sandy, sun-kissed and sweet - won’t last forever. One day, the sandcastle phase will be over, and you’ll miss the way they proudly shouted, “Mum, look what I made!” So dig, splash, and laugh right alongside them.
Here’s to building more than just sandcastles - here’s to creating core memories.