Family Beach Essentials Including Toddler Must-Haves
We just got back from our annual Ocean Isle Beach trip and I can confidently say it was the most fun we’ve had on vacation with kids so far! Yes, it was exhausting, but it was so worth it. I know everyone says that, but I’m being completely honest when I say seeing their smiles and hearing their giggles, watching how much fun they were having and all they learned while we were there was a very fulfilling parenting moment. We made a ton of memories and I can’t wait for next year baby #2 joins us!
When we were packing for this trip our top priority was bringing the least amount of stuff we could. I’m notorious for over-packing, including when I pack for Olivia, and I’m determined to break that cycle haha. All-in-all I think we did a great job! I wanted to share with you the essential items we took for our family trip and must-haves for toddlers at the beach. I hope this curated guide will help your trip be more efficient and fun! I give more details on my top products below each one.
I can’t say enough good things about this XL straw tote bag. It has a solid bottom, stands up on it’s own, holds it’s shape perfectly and fits a ton of stuff for the beach!
I wrote a big post about the best mineral sunscreens and for the second year in a row Pipette is our all-time favorite! It looks like it’s currently sold out at Target and Pipette.com, but I found it available at Vitacost. While it’s marketed toward little ones, I use this sunscreen, too! It goes on smoothly, no white cast and feels lightweight.
We love our Shibumi! Ocean Isle Beach doesn’t allow tents and finally allowed shades like the Shibumi last year. It’s easy to set up, lightweight and provides a great reprieve from the sun. The only issue we run into is on those random days where there isn’t a breeze it can’t function properly. But thankfully those times are few and far between; usually the wind will pick up with the shift in the tide.
I didn’t realize how entertaining a snack container could be until we found this one. The GoBe Kids Snack Spinner is a toy and a snack dispenser all in one! Kiddos just push the center button to have the container rotate snacks through the opening. It also helps prevent spills!
Having a collapsible toddler pool at the beach is a huge perk! You can create a safer, secure space for the kiddos to play in the water. Just unfold, fill with ocean water, maybe some sand and shells and you’re done! It’s also nice being able to slide it into the shade. Plus, you can set up your chair right next to it and relax a bit. It just makes the experience a little easier and less stressful when you know they’re somewhat contained, which is why I consider it a beach essential for toddlers.
