If there’s one thing that most kids look forward to during the summer, it’s going to the beach, dipping their toes in the sand and splashing around in the ocean. But for parents, a trip to the beach can be a bit overwhelming as they try to figure out what toys and gear to bring along.
While they may be more worried about whether a hard or soft side cooler is the best choice for keeping their drinks cold or which sunscreen to pack, kids are solely focused on the toys they can bring to make their beach day even more fun. Given their short attention spans and endless energy, you need to find the right balance between toys that will keep them entertained and those that are safe to use in the water.
What Beach Toys Should You Bring?
Depending on your child’s age and interests, there are various categories of beach toys that can keep them entertained for hours on end. Some may be more suitable for more leisurely activities while others pack a high-energy punch that any water-loving kid will adore.
Sports Toys
You can hardly ever go wrong with a set of beach sports toys for your little ones. There’s more than one way to play with a beach ball, and you can even get creative by creating your own games and challenges. While traditional soccer models are more than enough to get the game started, you could go for a skimball for a more water-based variant. The latter is specifically designed for use on the beach, as its aerodynamic properties make it glide effortlessly across the water’s surface.
Additionally, footy beach toys feature real laces across their exterior, giving kids a realistic feel as they tackle, kick and pass. With raised graphics and vibrant colours, they’re also easy to spot in case they go rogue during playtime or the tide carries them away. Plus, many of them have an air-filled bladder to ensure plenty of bounce and a satisfying pop when making contact.
Let’s not forget the ever-popular frisbee either, since this beach toy delivers endless fun and exercises your child’s throwing arm as they try to keep up with it. Its aerodynamic design makes it easy to throw and catch, while its compact size means you can easily pack it in your beach bag for a day out. You don’t have to be a pro to have fun with one of these, and they also come in squishy and water-friendly models that are perfect for the beach.
Next up on the list of beach sports toys is a set of tennis rackets and balls. Great for honing hand-eye coordination, they bring a more competitive edge to your beach day. With sturdy neoprene grips, you won’t have to worry about losing your grip on those sweaty summer days. And if traditional tennis isn’t their cup of tea, there are also beach-specific versions that come with a larger sweet spot and waterproof materials for optimal gameplay.
Swim Vests and Armbands
For the little ones who are still getting the hang of wave dynamics, swim vests and armbands are a must-have for a safe day at the beach. Swim vests provide extra buoyancy and support while teaching children how to swim or letting them float in the shallow water. Look for ones with adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit, as well as bright colours or reflective strips for added visibility in the water.
Armbands, on the other hand, offer a more hands-on approach to swimming. You can easily inflate them to fit your child’s arm size and remove air as they build their confidence in the water. Some even come with fun designs or characters to make learning how to swim more enjoyable for kids.
Goggles
If you have more adventurous kids who love to explore the underwater world, having a solid pair of goggles is a must. Not only do they protect their eyes from the saltwater and sand, but they also allow them to see the fascinating marine life that lurks beneath the surface. Look for ones with adjustable straps and anti-fog lenses for a comfortable and clear viewing experience.
Even if your child is not a big fan of swimming, goggles can also come in handy for building sandcastles or playing games on the beach. They provide added protection from flying sand and shield their eyes from harmful UV rays on sunny days.
Surfer Rafts
Since surfing is an Aussie favourite, it’s no surprise that surf rafts have become a popular beach accessory. These inflatable rafts come in various shapes and sizes, from classic bodyboards to more intricate designs with handles for extra grip and control.
Even if your little one doesn’t know how to surf yet, they can still lay on the raft and enjoy catching some waves while staying close to the shore. Surf rafts are also great for practising balance and coordination in the water, making them a fun and beneficial toy for kids of all ages.
