A day at the beach offers a myriad of opportunities for endless fun with the family, especially when it comes to beach activities for kids. Whether you’re building sandcastles, playing beach games, or exploring marine life, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our list of 25 activities that will turn your seaside day into an unforgettable adventure. But if you take one idea from this post we want you to just relax, you’re on vacation after all. Kids are pretty darn good at entertaining themselves at the beach!
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We just got back from Hilton Head, SC, but these beach activities for kids are perfect for any sandy spot, be it the Pacific or Atlantic Coast, a lake, or another stretch of coastline. Dive in “literally” for some family fun!
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25 Exciting Beach Activities For Kids
Sports and Games
- Hockey: Bring along a lightweight set for some beachside hockey fun. Gear up here!
- Football: A sandy beach is the perfect spot for a casual game of football.
- Whiffle Ball: The open space and soft sand make it an ideal game for the beach. Batter up!
- Bocce: Set up a bocce court and enjoy a leisurely game by the waves. We have this set. It’s lightweight, safer for kids, and cheap!
- Cornhole: A classic beach game, perfect for family competitions. Browse here.
- Pickleball: (or paddleball) Set up a portable pickleball net and enjoy a beach match. We have this one!
- Wrestling: Soft sand makes for a safe and fun wrestling arena. This is usually fun until someone starts crying!
- Frisbee: An easy and activity for the whole family to enjoy.
Creativity and Building
- Cars and Trucks: Create sandy roads and let the imagination drive.
- Sandcastle Building: Channel creativity into building elaborate sandcastles. Don’t forget your tools!
- Sand Art: Create intricate patterns and designs in the sand.
- Sand Dig: Bury treasures or toys in the sand for a digging adventure. Bring the toy treasure!
- Photography: Create fun family photos with beautiful beach scenes.
- Bubbles: Take some bubbles and bubble wands out and watch the bubbles fly.
Nature and Exploration
- Beachcombing: Explore the shoreline for interesting natural finds.
- Wildlife Watching: Observe birds, crabs, and other coastal wildlife.
- Treasure Hunt: Create a beach-themed treasure hunt for the kids.
- Take a Stroll: walk and explore along the beach
In the Water
- Boogieboarding: (or boadyboarding) Ride the waves with this beginner-friendly water sport. Lots to choose from here!
- Swimming: A classic beach activity. Kids learning to swim or in uneasy waters? Consider lifejackets.
- Running away from waves: Enjoy the thrill of the waves chasing you.
- Wrestling: Have a playful splash fight in the shallows.
- Jumping over waves: Time your jumps to clear incoming waves.
- Fishing: If allowed, try your luck at shore fishing.
- Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP): A more advanced water activity but tons of fun once you get the hang of it. Many options here!
As the day winds down and you pack up your beach gear, we hope you’ll have a wonderful seaside activity filled day. Whether it’s the thrill of boogieboarding, the excitement of finding seashells, or just relaxing, these activities make any beach day memorable.
