Like a lot of parents of small children, we can have love-hate relationship with family trips to the beach. We set out in the morning looking like we’re about to join a fashion shoot only to return home hours later as though we’ve emerged from the ocean in a post-apocalyptic world. We wanted to share some tips on how to enjoy this family day!!
Get an early start!
Your ideal day at the beach should not begin with your partner circling the car park 14 times while the stress levels soar.. Try to arrive no later than 10 a.m. Depending on the popularity of the beach, this gives you the best chance of finding a parking spot and an optimal location for setting up base.
Pack snacks (then pack more)!
Kids appetites seem to grow exponentially when they are at the beach. Foods to bring should be mess free..one bag full of snacks packed - not a good plan, all hands reaching into one giant bag = disgusting. Divide your snacks into individual containers for each person. Some fruit containers, sandwich containers etc.
Learn the art of umbrella installation!
I bet you have all stood and watched your umbrella take flight and nearly take out a small child. Learn how to properly install a beach umbrella (and to get one with better wind resistance). There are countless how-to videos on YouTube but the general consensus is that rocking the umbrella back and forth is key as is tilting it into the wind. A solid anchor system is also critical and some umbrellas include both an anchor and sandbag for added weight.
Let towels be towels!
Unless you’re looking to exfoliate while drying off, keep towels away from the sand. Invest in a proper beach blanket that can be used as a surface for picnics and toy battles scenes, or those much-desired moments of lounging. You can't avoid the sand altogether but at least you will not be shaking wet sand off the towel (and into your partners eyes). Make sure to bring enough towels for everyone in my family—sharing is caring but not when it comes to towels.
Don’t forget these beach must haves!
Baby powder is great for sand removal. Let skin and hair air dry, and then apply baby powder to the sandy areas—the powder will absorb the moisture which allows the sand to brush away.
Mesh bags are great for storing more than just beach toys and serve as another line of defence against sand getting into the car.
A mini first aid kit & make sure to add an antihistamine for those unexpected stings!!
Have fun!!!