Going to the Beach With the Babes

We just got home from a week at the beach.  It was definitely not what our beach vacations used to be, but we had so much fun.  Instead of long lazy afternoons full of fruity blended drinks and naps on the beach, we built sand castles, swam in the pool until our fingers and toes were prunes, and reapplied sunscreen religiously.  And my beach bag was filled with floaties and sandy beach toys instead of magazines and novels.  Here’s a peek at what else filled my beach bag:

1.  Start with a big durable beach bag.  This one from Lands’ End will fit everything you need, and will last forever.

2.  Sunscreen.  Lots and lots of sunscreen.  We like California Baby.

3.  A big hat and sunglasses for you.  A sunburned mama won’t be any fun!

4.  A rashguard top that has SPF keeps shoulders from getting burned, and is easier than reapplying sunscreen every hour.  This one from Roxy has SPF 50.

5.  A lifejacket, swim vest, or arm floaties.  Just remember that even with a flotation device, kids can never be left alone around water.

6.  Plenty of soft beach towels.  Don’t bother with a towel made specifically for kids that they will outgrow in a year or two.  Instead, invest in quality towels that will last.  We have been using these towels for 5 years and they still look brand new.

7.  Sand toys.  Good old fashioned buckets and shovels are always a hit, but you can also use upcycled plastic containers or other kids toys you have around the house.

8.  A sun hat and sunglasses for your little ones.  Their eyes need protection from the sun as well.

9.  (not pictured) A lot of water and snacks.  It is so easy to get dehydrated while you are out in the sun!

10.  (not pictured) A great thing to have if you are going to the beach with a baby is a sun tent.  It helps keep baby’s delicate skin safe from the sun, and they can even nap right out on the beach.

 

What will be in your beach bag this summer?

 

ps – if anyone knows how to clean a very sandy camera, please let me know!  :)