Ready for baby’s first beach trip? It’s exciting to think about the world of wonder your bundle of joy will discover in the surf and sand. But as experienced parents know, there’s a lot to consider to ensure baby’s beach day is all about fun in the sun – not stress on the seashore.

We asked Shibumi Shade’s Head of Ecommerce Ashley Canning (mom of two) for tips on baby beach gear that makes life easier for parents and babies.

“Preparation is vital to an amazing beach trip with baby,” she said. “Consider everything you’ll need to care for your baby on the beach, like feeding, changing, and sun protection. Then pack accordingly to keep your baby safe and happy.”

To that end, here are 20 baby beach essentials plus a shareable mom-approved packing list for a day at the beach with your baby.

20 baby beach essentials

1. Swim Diapers
   Swim diapers are a must if your baby is going in the water, and both disposable and reusable versions are available. Tip: they only hold solids, not liquids, so keep regular diapers on-hand for the car.
2. Sun Hat
   A wide-brimmed sun hat is perfect for protecting your baby from the sun’s hot UV rays. Choose a hat with a chin strap so it stays on throughout the day.
   
3. Rash Guard
   A rash guard that covers your baby’s arms and legs provides excellent protection and minimizes the amount of sunscreen you’ll need to apply.
   
4. Sunscreen & Makeup Brush
   You know your baby needs sunscreen (SPF 50+) after six months (pediatricians don’t recommend using it any earlier), but did you know a makeup brush makes application a breeze? Many moms swear by this baby beach hack.
5. Baby Powder
   Brushing off sand can scratch delicate skin. Keep your baby comfortable and clean with baby powder, which helps sand slide right off. 
   
6. Blow-up Pool
   Bring a blow-up pool and fill it with ocean water to let your baby splash in the sea worry-free (with your supervision, of course).
7. Portable Potty
   If your baby is old enough to be potty trained, a portable potty is a handy way to avoid abandoning your beach camp in search of a public restroom.
8. Small Snack Packages
   Buy small snack packages or place baby snacks in small sandwich bags for quick and easy treats. Larger bags of snacks will inevitably end up in the sand.
9. Sand Toys
   Stick with the basics for babies: shovels, buckets, and sand sifters. You can also consider a water table playset as a fun baby pool alternative.
10. Cover Up
    Pack a terry cloth towel cover up, perfect for changing out of a wet bathing suit when you’re ready to head home.
11. Wind Blocker
    A wind blocker is ideal for keeping sand from kicking up and landing on your baby during windy days.
12. Shibumi Shade
    Shibumi provides the ample shade your baby needs throughout the day and when naptime hits. Easy to pack and set up, Shibumi is also perfect for parents who need a refreshing respite from the beach sun.
13. Baby Beach Chair
    Consider a beach chair with a built-in tray for snack time and play.
14. Dry Bag
    Bring a dry bag that doubles as a diaper bag to keep your baby gear safe and dry at the beach.
15. Big Beach Blanket
    An oversized beach blanket is a great way to keep your baby off the hot sand (and prevent them from eating it). You can also try this hack: place a fitted sheet upside down with bags or coolers in each corner, then pull up the sides for a sand-free play area.
16. Baby Beach Shoes
    If your baby is walking, beach shoes can save their sensitive feet from getting burned by hot beach sand.
17. Spray Bottle
    Use a spray bottle to mist your baby and keep them cool at the beach. Clean water from home is also ideal for rinsing off sand, sea water, and any “treasures” your baby happens to find on the beach.
18. Soft Sunglasses
    Sunglasses protect baby’s eyes from UV rays. Opt for soft, flexible sunglasses for comfort, and consider models with straps so they stay on during baby’s beach adventure.
19. Life Jacket & Floaties
    If you’re going to venture into the water with your baby, a life jacket and floaties help keep your bundle of joy safe in the surf.
20. Beach Wagon or stroller
    

    A big-wheeled beach wagon or stroller makes it easier to transport all the baby beach gear you need through deep sand. 

    Of course, don’t forget bottles, a cooler, towels, and a separate bag for wet swimsuits. Add these essentials to your packing list to ensure beach day is a blast for baby and parents.

Baby Beach FAQs

When can babies go to the beach?

Though some sources recommend waiting until your baby is 2-3 months old, there are no set guidelines for what age is appropriate to take a baby to the beach. Ultimately, it’s up to parents to decide when their infants are ready. The most important thing is to plan and pack to protect your baby from the sun, wind, and water.

How long can babies stay at the beach?

There’s no set time limit as long as your baby stays cool and hydrated. You might want to consider taking your baby to the beach during cooler times of the day, such as the morning before it heats up or late afternoon/early evening once it starts cooling down.

How to protect babies from the sun at the beach?

Constant shade is the best way to protect babies from the sun at the beach, as the FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics do not recommend sunscreen for babies under 6 months old (FDA). Make sure you always have ample shade, cover baby up with hats and rash guards, bring sunglasses, and keep baby well-hydrated. Avoid direct sunlight – especially between 10am and 2pm, when UV rays are strongest – and use a spray bottle mister or baby pool to help baby stay cool.