27 Best Baby Beach Gear Items For Your Little One in 2024
HEADING TO THE BEACH WITH A BABY?
You’ve come to the right place. We have been visiting the beach with our babies since 2015. The beach is one of our favorite places to visit, so we’ve learned a bunch of tips and tricks for enjoying your time at the beach with a baby and what gear you can’t visit without.
Traveling with a baby is no small undertaking. And venturing out to the beach with a little one is a whole new ball game in itself. Put your worries aside, because we’ve got all your baby beach gear bases covered.
From sun protection to entertainment, all the beach must-haves for babies are at your fingertips!
Baby Beach Gear: Clothing
1. Simple Joys by Carter’s Toddlers and Baby Boys’ Swimsuit Trunk and Rashguard
Simple Joys by Carter’s Toddlers and Baby Boys’ Swimsuit Trunk and Rashguard two-piece rash guards tops and swim trousers are too cute for words. The sets come in multiple fun and colorful designs, like surfing dinosaurs, pirate ships, and talking sharks and alligators! Your baby will roll onto the beach in style.
Colorful and comfortable, the tops (available in long and short-sleeve options) are made from polyester and elastane, which give them an elastic feel. The trousers are also polyester, with a mesh lining.
Made by baby clothing titan, Carter’s, these sets are quality swimwear available at affordable prices. To top it all off, the swim sets run true to size, so you can rest easy when it comes to sizing concerns.
▶️ SHOP Simple Joys Baby Boys’ Swimsuit Trunk and Rashguard
2. Simple Joys by Carter’s Toddlers and Baby Girls’ One Piece Rashguard
Carter’s does it again with this long-sleeved, one-piece swimsuit for girls. Simple Joys by Carter’s Toddlers and Baby Girls’ One Piece Rashguard is also crafted from polyester and elastane, will protect your baby’s skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
It is available in adorable floral and beach-style prints. So stylish, it will be so much fun to dress the tiny girls in your life in these suits. They also run true to size, so just order your baby’s current size, and you should be all set!
Designed with baby functionality in mind, the swimsuit is equipped with a zipper closure to ease in dressing and undressing. And our favorite feature of all, this suit sports a snap closure at the bottom, to aid in quick and easy diaper changes.
▶️ SHOP Simple Joys Baby Girls’ One Piece Rashguard
3. Bumpkins Waterproof Wet Bag
A dependable wet/dry bag is essential when traveling with a baby, especially to the beach! Bumpkins Waterproof Wet Bag is definitely one of our baby beach gear must-haves! We have used these bags during our visit to the beach with our kids when they were babies, and they were amazing.
This wet bag is available in over 20 different adorable and fun designs. At 12×14, the bag offers a decent space to stow away fresh diapers and other baby accessories or on the flip side, wet swimsuits or other soiled clothing.
This bag is washable, so it can be reused on many trips to the beach. And it folds up super small, so you can carry it with you in case it’s needed and never notice it’s there. We also love the add-on snap handle, so you can snap it to the stroller and forget about it!
▶️ SHOP Bumpkins Waterproof Wet Bag
Swim Diapers
4. Babygoal Baby & Toddler Swim Diapers
Swim diapers are one of the most important beach necessities for a baby. Reusable swim diapers are a convenient choice for those who are eco-conscious. But not only for the green-minded, reusable diapers like these are often more cost-effective than disposable swim diapers.
Babygoal Baby & Toddler Swim Diapers are available in small and large sizes. Their adjustable snaps enable the small diaper size to grow with your baby from newborn to 8 months. While the large size can follow them up to 3T.
It’s great to know that a swim diaper that could follow your child solidly into their toddler years is also washable! Not to mention the adorable prints, including sea life, florals, fruit, dinosaurs, and much more. They are sure to have a design just perfect for the little boy or girl in your life.
▶️ SHOP Babygoal Baby & Toddler Swim Diapers
5. Pampers Splashers Swim Diapers
For those more comfortable with the disposable option, Pampers Splashers Swim Diapers can fulfill your needs. Pretty run-of-the-mill when it comes to diapers, the thing to remember about a swim diaper is that it doesn’t retain the fluid like a regular diaper does.
This means Pampers Splashers won’t swell and become uncomfortable while your baby is playing in the water. The diaper is designed to fit snugly around the baby’s legs to contain any messes. And this particular type is equipped with easy-tear side panels for easy removal and disposal.
▶️ SHOP Pampers Splashers Swim Diapers
6. Sunny zzzZZ Baby Hooded Bath Towel
Have you ever seen anything sweeter than a smiling baby disguised as a seal wrapped up in a fun hooded towel? I didn’t think so. Sunny zzzZZ Baby Hooded Bath Towels are a fun and perfect addition to your baby beach essentials.
Sold as a double-pack, it’s tough to beat a 2-for-1 when it comes to brightly colored animal combinations like bee and elephant, giraffe and seal, and owl and rhino. The lightweight yet durable baby towels are cuddly and dry quickly.
This hooded towel is definitely one of our favorite baby beach items. They were perfect to use when we had twin babies at the beach.
▶️ SHOP Sunny zzzZZ Baby Hooded Bath Towel
7. Anti Monkey Butt Baby Powder
Yes, Anti Monkey Butt Baby Powder takes the cake for the silliest name, but it does the trick! This baby powder is truly one of the most important baby beach essentials.
Unlike typical baby powder, this formula is designed specifically to limit friction. A wet swim diaper and suit could easily chafe your little one’s legs, but Anti Monkey Butt Baby Powder will aim to limit the irritation and soothe any that comes to pass.
This product is a real game changer in terms of keeping everyone happy and comfortable during a beach vacation! It’s seriously worth adding to your baby gear for the beach.
It also works great to get sand off bodies after leaving the beach.
▶️ SHOP Anti Monkey Butt Baby Powder
8. FEETCITY Baby Boys Girls Water Sport Shoes
It’s a task to keep shoes on babies in general, but you definitely want to offer their sweet feet some protection while spending time on the beach. FEETCITY Baby Boys Girls Water Sport Shoes are so lightweight and comfortable that your baby will forget they are even on.
With nearly 40 different seriously cute designs to choose from, in both boy and girl styles, this mesh water shoe is one of our favorite baby beach necessities. They are so adorable, they will protect your baby’s feet in comfort, and they dry in a flash!
▶️ SHOP FEETCITY Baby Boys Girls Water Sport Shoes
Baby Sunglasses
9. COASION Bendable Flexible Polarized Baby Sunglasses With Strap
COASION Bendable Flexible Polarized Newborn Baby Sunglasses with Strap are the best beach gear for a 1-year-old. Available in countless frame and UV400 polarized lens color options, these sunglasses don’t only protect your baby’s eyes, they complete a fun beach look.
A special touch for wiggly littles who would typically knock glasses off their face, this item is equipped with a wrap-around strap. Because eye protection at the beach is so important, the strap works to help stabilize the glasses in a comfortable position on the baby’s face and keep them there.
▶️ SHOP COASION Bendable Flexible Polarized Baby Sunglasses with Strap
Baby Beach Gear: Sun Protection
10. Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen
Skin protection is so important for everyone when visiting the beach. When it comes to babies, it’s that much more important to protect their sensitive skin with a safe sunscreen like Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen.
This sunscreen is made from natural ingredients and is very gentle on the skin. Rest assured knowing this brand is safe for your little one.
A baby at the beach will be bound and determined to get in the water. As long as the little one is slathered in this sunscreen, they should be all set. It’s water resistant and will continue protecting your baby’s skin for up to 80 minutes.
As is the case with any sunscreen, remember to reapply throughout the day if you spend an extended time on the beach.
▶️ SHOP Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen
11. FURTALK Baby Sun Hat
Made from mainly cotton, with a touch of spandex, the FURTALK Baby Sun Hat is gentle and light on the head. It’s soft to the touch and breathable for hot days on the beach. It’s definitely a comfortable option to add to your baby gear for the beach.
This hat is so light, in fact, it likely won’t be bothersome to your baby. But just in case they get antsy, the adjustable chin string can help keep the hat in place. The baby won’t be able to easily pull the hat off if the string is somewhat snug around the chin.
Rated with UPF 50+ protection, this is an amazing hat for your baby if you’re looking for extra sun protection. This hat is designed to not only cover the baby’s head, but also has an extended back panel that covers the neck for extra protection.
12. I Play. By Green Sprouts Baby Breathable Swim & Sun Bucket Hat
This I Play. By Green Sprouts Baby Breathable Swim & Sun Bucket Hat is both a fun and smart addition to your infant beach gear. Made from polyester, this hat can be worn all day, in the water and out.
The bucket style is a great hat for sun protection. The long brim around the hat will block the sun from your baby’s face and neck. Complete with a tie-strap that will help keep it secure and not easily knocked off by busy hands.
The quick-dry and breathable material will keep your baby comfortable all day. Available in shades of pink, as well as aqua, navy, and white. This is the cutest bucket hat for little girls you will come across.
▶️ SHOP I Play. By Green Sprouts Baby Breathable Swim & Sun Bucket Hat
13. ISILER Pop-Up Beach Tent
Even during the most perfect beach days, eventually, someone in the family will need to recharge. The ISILER Pop-Up Beach Tent is ideal for a baby to enjoy the shade and relax during a family beach vacation.
This is one of the best baby beach tents when it comes to setup. The self-pitching design does all of the work, so it’s a breeze. You won’t need to worry about aligning poles with this model.
Speaking of the structure, the form stands firm even against the wind. If things get gusty, the tent includes sandbags and stakes for additional grounding.
The waterproof UPF 30 + fabric offers a shady and protected space. The mesh panels allow for a cool environment where the air can circulate through.
One of the roomiest beach tents on the market, it’s a great choice for families. The shaded space easily accommodates a couple of adults or up to 3 children at the same time.
Adding to the growing list of convenience, this tent is easily folded down to 25 inches and less than 3 lbs. In essence, it’s travel-size and ready to follow you on adventures to come.
▶️ SHOP ISILER Pop-Up Beach Tent
Baby Beach Gear: Entertainment
14. FoxPrint Beach Sand Toy Set
Depending on your baby’s age, this Beach Sand Toy Set could be a great first beach toy starter kit.
Not only do these beach toys promote imaginative play for the entire family, but they are also known to promote hand-eye coordination for the little ones in your life. My daughter loved building sand castles and then getting to smash them on the beach.
▶️ SHOP FoxPrint Beach Sand Toy Set
15. POP ‘N GO Premium Outdoor and Indoor Baby Playpen
The POP ‘N GO Premium Outdoor and Indoor Baby Playpen is a dream come true for rambunctious little boys and girls. And for parents, too, having an enclosed area where the baby can roam safely is a welcome sight.
The design of this playpen keeps safety in mind. The rail structure is secured with safety locks to ease any concerns of sturdiness. It’s set up easily and stowed nicely in the included carrying bag.
The mesh perimeter not only offers maximum breathability but also unobstructed views of the entire playpen. That way, your little one can always be in your line of vision.
The playpen is designed with an open-air top but does include a canopy. The canopy won’t only offer shade and sun protection (it’s rated at 30 SPF), but it’s also a great defense against windy and buggy conditions you may want to shield your baby from.
One of the pricier items on our list, don’t let the listing price dissuade you. Add this item to your must-have baby beach gear. You’ll thank us later!
▶️ SHOP POP ‘N GO Premium Outdoor and Indoor Baby Playpen
16. Monobeach Baby Beach Tent Pop-Up Portable Shade Pool
Monobeach Baby Beach Tent Pop-Up Portable Shade Pool is the best baby beach pool around! When vacationing with a baby at the beach, there’s nothing better than a pool and shade combo.
This baby beach tent and pool combo is easily portable in its carrying case at just over one pound. And setup couldn’t be more convenient, as it automatically pops up. At the bottom of the tent, in the center, is a small pool, perfectly suited for a tiny person.
Designed for children 12 months to 3 years, this polyester tent and pool offers 50+ UV protection. So it is a nice place for the little tyke to safely splash and cool off and be protected from the sun.
If your baby had the vocabulary, they would be sure to tell you this portable shade pool is definitely one of the baby beach essentials.
▶️ SHOP Monobeach Baby Beach Tent Pop-Up Portable
Other Baby Beach Essentials
17. GUSGU Portable Stroller Fan
Comfort is often the key to keeping babies happy. When things can get super stuffy on the beach, you need a dependable source of cool air. That said, the GUSGU Portable Stroller Fan definitely falls under the category of best beach gear for a baby.
This is a lightweight, 3-speed USB fan. The 3000RPM turbo motor is designed to produce an impressive cool breeze with minimal sound, so your baby can stay comfortable without the clatter.
The tripod can be attached to a stroller (or a variety of other convenient places) and directed at any desired angle.
This fan is equipped with a type-c charging port. It can typically be run for 8 hours on a full charge. So you won’t have to be concerned about plugging it in all the time.
Our favorite feature about this fan is the super small gaps on the face. It’s specifically designed this way to block small fingers from grasping inside the fan toward the blades. It’s a super safe fan when considering beach gear for a baby.
▶️ SHOP GUSGU Portable Stroller Fan
18. Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support
The Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support is one of the best investments you can make when it comes to newborn beach essentials. We used this carrier with our youngest at the beach as well as during our hikes. It is a really easy carrier to use and fits both my husband and me.
This carrier is equipped with some of the most comfortable features. The breathable mesh fabric keeps the baby and the carrier cool, even though they are bound together.
The padded lumbar support and comfortable shoulder straps offer extra comfort on long walks down the beach. And if the day gets a bit too sunny, you can add a UPF hood to the carrier to make sure the baby doesn’t get sunburned.
Unlike many other baby carriers on the market, this one boasts multiple carrying positions, including front-facing (inward and out), hip carry, and back carry.
Rated for children from 12-45 lbs, recommended positions change as the baby grows and becomes more interested in exploring the world.
Ergobaby makes a durable, quality product, but best of all, they stand by their work. In the case of a product defect, the company will replace the affected part or entire item at no charge. And they even have a buy-back program, where they will purchase the carrier back from you once your child has outgrown it.
▶️ SHOP Ergobaby 360 All-Position Baby Carrier with Lumbar Support
19. The Lounge Wagon
The Lounge Wagon is a wonder to see. This heavy-duty, foldable beach wagon is built from steel and equipped with all-terrain wheels. This wagon is tough and ready to haul or delicately carry whatever you desire. They’ve even been spotted as strollers for the furriest of best friends on dog beaches.
The wagon is massive, with 11 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s an all-in-one spot to haul all of your baby beach accessories. Sand toys, beach kites, a baby beach mat, and so much more, all in one trip.
This wagon is equipped with a super helpful cargo net, which makes loading and unloading a breeze. It also includes a canopy beach umbrella, so you don’t have to pack something else for shade.
This item has convenient storage for days, but it’s the transformation from a wagon into a sturdy 2-person chair that is the most exciting feature. Steel chassis provides the durable structure to provide comfortable seating for two adults, up to 500 lbs. It’s astounding.
This wagon packs a punch, but you will carry that weight. Keep in mind that at 45 lbs, it’s a bit of a beast to haul around. And even in its collapsed form, it’s too big to fit in many small and mid-size car trunks.
20. OCOOPA Diveblues Bohemian Beach Blanket
OCOOPA Diveblues Bohemian Beach Blanket is not only an amazing baby beach blanket for the littles in your life, but it will quickly become a favorite beach item for the whole family.
At 10 x 9, it’s large enough that multiple people in the family will have space to join the baby on this waterproof and sandproof beach blanket.
Though it may be large, this beach blanket is lightweight, so it’s super easy to travel with. It’s comfortably soft to the touch and well-made. Unlike cheap beach towels, this heavy-duty option is durable and will last through countless trips to the water’s edge.
▶️ SHOP OCOOPA Diveblues Bohemian Beach Blanket
21. LEDAOU Beach Bag
As a parent, it often feels like you have to carry your whole life in a bag wherever you go. The LEDAOU Beach Bag is just the lifelong beach tote companion you want on your beach journeys.
This impressive bag features seven different pockets to aid you in organizing your life at the beach. It’s available in 14 different amazing styles, the polyester lining is durable, and it has a convenient zipper closure to keep everything secure.
Our favorite feature? The waterproof wet compartment. It’s a dream come true!
22. Yeti Backpack Cooler
The best combination since peanut butter and jelly, meet the Yeti Backpack Cooler. The most convenient way to transport cool food and drinks, this item can carry roughly 20 cans when factoring ice into the equation.
Expertly designed for durability and insulation, the outside shell’s dense and tough fabric is waterproof and even UV ray resistant. The cooler portion is made from closed-cell rubber foam that performs far better than standard soft coolers in terms of maintaining cold temps.
Traveling with this cooler makes you wonder how you ever lived without it! We have traveled extensively with this cooler over the last couple of years and love it. We have used it to pack bottles, lunches, and everything in between.
The backpack style of this cooler is so convenient to transport that we’ve even adopted backpack beach chairs to simplify beach life too.
23. Innobaby Packin’ Smart Stackable and Portable Storage System
Organization can make or break any travel scenario with kids. But when you get snacks involved, things can go south quickly! That’s when Innobaby Packin’ Smart Stackable and Portable Storage System comes into play.
This is our favorite stackable snack container when traveling with a baby. The secure-click system keeps the snacks stacked nicely together until you are ready to use them. And each container features an inner lid that makes massive spills a thing of the past.
We also love that you can stack as many or as few containers as you need. It makes traveling with snacks for a baby so much easier.
▶️ SHOP Innobaby Packin’ Smart Stackable and Portable Storage System
24. Tommee Tippee Sportee Water Bottles
A functional and durable water bottle is one of the most important beach essentials for a baby and a toddler to consider.
Beach weather typically means warm weather when hydration is of great concern. With one of these Tommee Tippee Sportee Water Bottles, your little one is sure to be sippin’ throughout the day.
These premium bottles are double-wall insulated, so they will keep drinks cool for a long time. They are also spill-proof and bite-resistant. Best of all, they are super easy to clean!
▶️ SHOP Tommee Tippee Sportee Water Bottles
25. Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat
Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat might technically be considered a booster seat, but it will serve as an amazing first beach chair for the baby in your family. Everyone should be able to lounge in comfort when enjoying the beach, so you should snag a beach chair with some shade for yourself as well!
Easily portable and equipped with a comfortable harness to keep babies seated, this chair will be a helpful tool at the beach. It also features a swivel tray that can be used for snacks or a little play area.
The chair’s cover is machine wash safe, and the tray is dishwasher safe, so no beach messes will keep this product down!
▶️ SHOP Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat
26. KidCo Go Pod
Having a place to set the baby where they will be happy and confined to a safe environment can be a challenge at the beach. KidCo Go Pod is a conveniently transportable stationary seat where the baby can wiggle and play safely.
The seat is equipped with toy loops where you can hook all their favorite toys so they stay entertained. Drink and snack holders also help keep them happy. Best of all, this seat will grow with your baby as it’s height adjustable and can be used for a long period of time.
27. Stohlquist Kids Life Jacket
Life Jackets are so important for everyone, but especially for small children. The Stohlquist Kids Life Jacket is made from soft foam, so it won’t be bothersome for your child to wear.
Designed for children 8-30 lbs, this life jacket is equipped to keep babies safe from newborn months and into toddlerhood.
▶️ SHOP Stohlquist Kids Life Jacket
What Are the Essentials For a Baby at the Beach?
- Swimsuit/Lightweight, long-sleeved layer
- Sunhat
- Water Shoes
- Life Jacket
- Diapers (regular and swim)
- Baby Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Bottle/Sippy Cup
- Snacks
- Hooded Towel
- Toys/Entertainment
- Portable Shade
How to Pack For the Beach
There are a few different categories to consider when packing for a beach day. Clothing is important, in terms of swimsuits, hats, water shoes and sunglasses. Remember a life jacket as well.
Sun protection is another area to keep in mind. Sunscreen and some sort of portable shade are essential to any beach trip.
Everyone likes to be comfortable at the beach. That means towels, beach chairs, a fan to keep the baby cool as well as shade, yet again. And of course, you can’t forget the comforting power of a cooler full of drinks and snacks!
Last but not least, entertainment! Whether it’s some sand toys, board books or a playpen, these items will definitely enhance your trip.
FAQ: Baby Beach Gear
What Should a Baby Wear to the Beach?
Because your baby will be in the sun for an extended period of time while visiting the beach, it’s important to dress them accordingly.
Children under six months old especially, should have all limbs clothed in a light, breathable layer. A sunhat and baby sunglasses are also recommended for additional sun protection.
Many clothing brands produce beachwear for babies that is UPF rated. This means the clothing itself will help protect your baby’s sensitive skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
What Does a 4-Month-Old Wear to the Beach?
Visiting the beach with a baby can be a balancing act between keeping them protected from the sun, but at the same time not allowing them to overheat.
A 4-month-old should be fully clothed in a light, breathable, and potentially UPF-rated outfit. They should also wear a sun hat.
Because sunscreen is not recommended for children that young, a 4 month old should be wearing protective clothing and be shielded from the sun as much as possible.
What Age Can I Take My Baby to the Beach?
The appropriate age to take a baby to the beach is a matter of personal choice. It’s based on the parent’s comfort level as well as the purpose or duration of the beach trip.
Six months is a good rule of thumb if you’re planning on taking your baby into the water. As long as you are mindful of your baby’s needs and take the appropriate precautions, you can trust your own sensibilities as to when to introduce your baby to the beach.
What Do I Need For a 6 Month Old Baby at the Beach?
There’s so much to consider when deciding on the best baby beach gear for a 6 month old. The must-haves include: swimsuit (preferably long-sleeved), sunhat, diapers (regular and swim), baby sunscreen, life jacket, sunglasses, bottle or sippy cup, snacks, hooded towel and some sort of portable shade.
What Is a Good Age to Take a Baby to the Beach?
Six months is the age when the use of sunscreen is first introduced, so your baby would be better protected at that age. Six months is also the standard age to consider if you are planning to take your baby into the water.
That said, parents are best suited to decide when a baby first visits the beach.
How Do I Keep My Baby Safe at the Beach?
Because babies have such sensitive skin, sun protection is one of the most important safety concerns to consider when visiting the beach.
As long as you keep up on sunscreen applications, keep a hat on your baby and have them cool down in the shade from time to time, they will be far less likely to get sunburned.
Also, depending on your proximity to the water, it’s always wise to have a toddling baby wear a life jacket while spending time on the beach.
How Long Can a Baby Be at the Beach?
A beach trip with a baby is a delicate balance of protecting them from the sun (often with long-sleeved swimsuits and hats) while also keeping them somewhat cool in what can be blistering heat.
Keeping that in mind, depending on the temperature, the age and mood of the baby, it’s not advised to stay at the beach for more than a handful of hours.
Do Sunglasses Help Babies Avoid UV Rays?
Yes! A good pair of baby sunglasses with UV polarized lenses are an essential item to bring to the beach. Babies have sensitive eyes in addition to sensitive skin, so it’s a good idea to protect them.
Is Beach Water Safe For Babies?
Most pediatricians recommend waiting until a baby is 6 months before taking them into bodies of water. Waiting until the baby can hold their head up properly on their own will make playing in the water a much safer experience.
Conclusion: Baby Beach Gear
Beach baby gear is no joke. We know there are a lot of items to consider when planning for a beach getaway with your little one. We hope these items will help simplify your trip so that you’re better able to enjoy all the fun moments at the beach with your family!
