Bay&Birch Kids

Beach

I grew up loving the beach – probably too much judging by the state of my aging skin! My kids love it too so here are some of the best items that have created our best memories.

1. Tommy Bahama Beach Chair – These chairs have changed the game. They have a portable back pack option, they fold flat for the car and they have several recline settings. My kids have covered them in sand, water & bodily fluids and they are easy to clean. The umbrella is a perfect addition for some shade on sunny days. Available at Costco & Amazon.
   
2. Water Shooters – The water shooters have created some intense rivalry this summer. My two year old can work them and they are strong enough without taking out eyes. Their range is surprisingly long. They are easy to pack and you don’t need to worry about them malfunctioning or leaking all over beach bags. Available on Amazon.
   
3. Collapsible Buckets – Save space in your beach bag & your suitcase if you are headed to a destination. They stand up well & my 3 year old says frogs like them the best. Available on Amazon.
   
4. Bubbles THAT DON’T SPILL – I cannot emphasize this enough – this bucket contraption doesn’t leak or spill. We’ve shed many tears over the bubbles spilling. These do not spill (even when dumped upside down) and can be refilled with dollar store bubble soap. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Walmart & Amazon.
   
5. Keen Water Shoes – These have changed the game for us – the Unisex-Child Seacamp II CNX Closed Toed Sandals. My son can climb, run, bike and explore everywhere in these. Compared to other water shoes on the market, they feel safer when transitioning between activities and on slippery surfaces. Available through Keen, MEC and Amazon.
   
6. Hooded towels – I am envious of my son’s 0% body fat – however, this means he cannot last long in the water. I’m less envious of his 98th percentile head size but that’s what makes these towels key. The V-cut gives more space for their head. There are also optional ties at the side which are ideal for windy days or walking to and from the lake. Available through H&M.
7. Swim parka – Along the same lines, this coat has been a game changer. It fits big now, but he will grow into it. It was perfect for post swims & cliff jumping. This past camping trip my son wore it for our campfire and was by far the coziest! Available through Amazon.
   
8. Net – A net like this is perfect for catching and releasing small fish, frogs, etc. The search keeps my kids busy long enough for me to set up our gear! Available through Amazon.
9. Boogie board – So fun for wave jumping or pulling friends through the water. Also doubles as a seat when building sand castles. It’s easy to pack for road trips and is versatile. Available through Walmart & Amazon.
10. Wagon – Above all, you need a wagon to carry your gear. We’ve been happy with our Elemara Foldable Stroller Wagon – it provides shade, a weather cover and a table for snacks. However, I do notice in soft sand, it tends to get stuck. If you are going to continually be in rugged conditions, you may want to consider another alternative. See my wagon guide for something that fits your family! Available through Amazon.