Sharing everything you need to know for spending time in the sun with baby and kids at the beach just in time for spring break. This comprehensive guide includes all the things you need for the sun, the water, safety, and more!

I’m returning for another year of beach baby guides - cuz when it comes to going to the beach with baby its a whole ‘nother ball game. Once again I’ve asked my mom friends to weigh in on what works, what doesn't and their favorite beach baby essentials.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. I do earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Here’s how I’ve organized this beach baby essentials list to make it easy for you: 

1. I’ve divided this list into three categories: For the Sun + Sand, For the Water and To Carry It all PLUS high and low priced options for some of the supplies. Don’t miss the checklist at the end!

2. For items like sunscreen and the pop-up shelter, I’ve detailed why I chose that item and where it applies I’ve added in AAP/Pediatrician recommendations.

3. Shop everything at the bottom of the post by category.

Shop All Things Sand + Sun Here:

• Sun Hat - I love this one because it covers both the head and neck. Plus its adjustable and made of material that provides UPF 50+ protection.

• Water Bottle and Mister - I was looking for a water bottle and mister separately when Tommy’s hair dresser had one of these. They are amazing and under $5. My pediatrician recommended keeping Fitz’s (at 4 months) head wet to keep him cool and this worked so well.

• Sunscreen - Blue Lizard stick was recommended by my Pediatrician and the SunBum by a fellow mama. Both are approved by the AAP.

• Stay Cool Fan: High and Low Priced Options. I have the more expensive one because it also doubles as a stroller fan which is wonderful.

• Pop-Up Tent for Shade and Sun protection (plus privacy for nursing in case you need it!): We tested several shelters and this one did not make me cuss when I went to fold it. The highest rated one did. Whichever you get, watch the YouTube video BEFORE you try to fold it yourself (it can bend and become mishapen) and practice before you go to the beach.

• Sunglasses with UVB/UVA protection. I learned that its best to invest in sunglasses that block 99% of UV rays. You might see this listed as UV 400 like on these glasses I recommend (and own). They fit both Tommy and Fitz.

• Slip-On Shoes (also waterproof and dry quickly): High and Low Priced Options.. We have the Crocs for Tommy and anticipate handing them down to Fitz so I sprung for the real deal.

Here’s what you need to know about sunscreen and baby from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

• For babies less than 6 months: A small amount of sunscreen on exposed areas is fine but ideally keep them covered and out of the sun.

• For babies older than 6 months: Apply sunscreen regularly and choose products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid sunscreen with oxybenzone.

• USING ANY SUNSCREEN IS BETTER THAN USING NONE AT ALL.

Shop All Things For the Water Here:

Shop Swimsuits Here:

• Diapering:

  • Side Note: I did not understand how swim diapers worked so I’m going to share what I’ve learned here in case you are in the same boat (er, pool). In summary, if your child does not yet have formed stool, be very careful when putting them in the pool. The swim diaper essentially allows unformed solids to flow out and this will ruin your pool day (and everyone else’s!)

  • Based on this, I recommend:

    • Under 6 months: Reusable Swim diaper and watch for signs baby needs to poo

    • Greater than 6 months/Solid Stools: Disposable Swim Diaper

The material that makes diapers so absorbent also turns them into a waterlogged anchor around your child's waist once they are submerged in water. Swim diapers are designed to withstand water and contain solids. They aren't meant to absorb. Yep, that means pee will pass through to the water. - BABYLIST

• Quick Dry Towels: High and Low Options. We went with the $6 ones and LOVE them. They dry quickly are a great size and super cute. I did purchase the other towels. They’re a strange material but have 1800+ 5 star ratings and Young House Love recommends them. So I’m totally sold. They were just out of budget for this trip.

• Baby Pool: This not only solves the pee and poo issues for young kiddos, but it also serves as an easy packable solution for keeping babies cool in the hot sun and away from waves on the beach. This one is under $5.

• Swimsuits: Make sure they are full-coverage and have built-in sun protection.

• Water Safety: Both options come in multiple color-ways and are Coast Guard approved. Make sure you check hte weight recommendations. One is for < 30lbs and the other is for > 30lbs.

• Baby Float: We love this float for Tommy when he was a baby. Great for the pool and ocean and provides shade from the sun. Baby can lay down and sit up so it has longevity too.

Last but not least, here are a few ideas for how to carry it all:

• Dry Bags to keep your valuables dry

• Beach Bag: Obsessed with the neoprene beach bags that are out this year (High and Low). Also love a classic canvas tote (High and Low).

• Beach Toys that come in a bag (under $10)

• A wagon that doesn’t get stuck in the sand

So what do you think of this list? Did I miss anything? Let me know you beach must have’s below.

xx

Caro