Article: Beach Days: 7 Fun Things to Do on a Coastal Adventure with Kids
Beach Days: 7 Fun Things to Do on a Coastal Adventure with Kids
Summer is here! It's time to make the most of the upcoming holidays and warm weathered weekends with some family activities that will get you and your little ones outdoors.
There’s something about the wide-open coastline that brings out the explorer in everyone, especially kids. Whether you're planning a full beach day or a spontaneous seaside stop, coastal adventures offer endless opportunities for play and discovery. And if you're looking for some beach ideas, we have plenty!
We’ve learned that the best beach days aren’t just about swimming—they’re about discovering all the ways kids can engage with nature. Here are our favourite things to do on a beach trip with kids (plus a simple packing list), based on real adventures with our family.
Our Simple Coastal Adventure Packing List
Whether we’re out for a few hours or a full day, here’s what we keep in our beach bag:
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if you’ll be in the ocean)
- Refillable water bottles
- Towels or a large blanket
- Sun Hats and sunglasses
- Snacks (fruit, granola bars, something salty)
- Swimwear that works in and out of water (Grass & Air is our go-to for all-day play)
- A dry bag for phones, keys, and backup clothes (though we rarely need the backups!)
1. Go Tide-Pooling
Have you ever been Tide-Pooling? Tide pools are like nature’s treasure hunts and if you're near the coast, it's not an activity to miss out on! Especially if you're a fan of scavenger hunts or seeing wildlife, this will be so much fun. We always check local tide charts before we go—low tide is the magic window for spotting crabs, tiny fish, sea anemones, and starfish nestled in rocky coves.
Tip: Water shoes and a comfy pair of swim shorts or a one-piece make climbing around the pools easier and mess-free. Our kids usually wear their Grass & Air swimwear and colour-changing sandals so they can jump between water play and dry land without changing.
2. Build (and Destroy) Sand Castles
This classic never gets old and you can get as creative as you like! Bring a few simple tools (or just hands and imagination) and let your kids go wild. Bonus fun: once the tide starts rising, watch the waves slowly take over their creations, perfect at the end of the day.
Pro Parent Move: Dress them in quick-drying swimwear. Sand sticks to dry cotton, but not to sleek, water-ready fabrics. We love that our kids can rinse off easily and stay comfy all day.
3. Hike the Sand Dunes
Nothing feels more nostalgic than a sand dune. If your beach has dunes nearby, they’re perfect for climbing, rolling, and running down at full speed. It's great for a game of hide and seek or even a sunny walk along the coast. It’s one of those “wear them out naturally” activities—and it's totally free.
What to Bring: Sunglasses, plenty of water, and breathable clothing. We often keep our kids in swimwear for this, since they’re going to get sandy anyway, and it’s easier to shake off than heavier fabrics.
4. Explore Driftwood Forts or Nature Sculptures
Some beaches (especially along rocky coasts) are filled with driftwood, shells, and seaweed—perfect for building mini forts or art projects right on the shore. It’s a great creative break between more active play. Your child can also bring home some souvenirs from your fabulous beach trip to show all of their friends!
5. Splash in the Shallows
You can't visit the beach without taking a dip in the sea! But not every beach trip is about swimming. Sometimes it’s about wading, chasing small waves, and just getting your toes wet. Having kids dressed in swimwear from the start makes these spontaneous splashes totally stress-free.
We’ve found that our rash vests and shorts are just as great for these low-key beach days as they are for pool days—they're soft, stay put, and look great even when covered in sand and sunscreen.
6. Watch for Wildlife
If your little ones love wildlife, this is the perfect opportunity to show them something different. Bring a pair of kid-friendly binoculars and keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, or even dolphins if you’re lucky. You could even tick them off as part of a little hunt. It’s a quiet, mindful activity that adds a sense of wonder to your outing.
7. Grab a Treat & Walk the Boardwalk
No beach day is complete without a frozen treat or a chippy by the sea. We often end our adventures strolling the local boardwalk or town strip in nothing but suncream and big smiles.
Final Thoughts: Let the Coast Set the Pace
Some beach days are loud and playful. Others are slow and quiet. The beauty of a coastal adventure is how easily it shifts to match your family’s mood. We’ve learned to pack smart, stay open, and dress the kids in gear that’s as adaptable as they are.
Because when you’re ready for anything—like splash zones, sand dunes, and surprise ice cream stops—you end up doing more than just going to the beach. You create memories that stretch beyond the shoreline.
