What to Pack for a Beach Day with Kids (Without Overpacking)

Posted by Julia Wheeler on

What to Pack for a Beach Day with Kids | Seaesta Surf

Heading to the beach with kids? Here's your go-to packing list, from sun protection to snacks—plus the best boardshorts and rashguards for kids.

Keep It Chill, But Be Prepared

Let’s be real—taking kids to the beach isn’t exactly effortless. But with the right gear packed (and maybe a frosty iced coffee), you can set yourself up for a smooth day of sun, surf, and sandcastle building.

Whether you’re heading to your local spot for a few hours or making a full day of it, here’s what to pack to keep everyone happy, dry, and sun-safe.


🩳 1. The Best Boys Boardshorts

Skip the cheap trunks. Go for boardshorts.
Our boys boardshorts are made with an organic cotton (52%) / recycled polyester (48%) blend that’s quick-drying, and built to move—so your kid can go from digging holes to riding waves without complaining about wet, heavy shorts.

  • Liner-free for comfort (no sand gets stuck in there, no chafing!)

  • Slim-fit (not baggy, wont fall off)

  • Artist-designed prints they’ll actually want to wear

📦 Pro tip: Pack a dry backup pair for the ride home.


🌊 2. Rashguard = Non-Negotiable

Sunburns are the worst and re-applying sunscreen on kids can be hard when they're moving constantly. A lightweight, long-sleeve rashguard helps protect your kid’s skin from UV rays and from the rash that happens when surfboards or boogie boards meet sensitive skin.

Ours are SPF 50+, ultra-breathable, and made to match the boardshorts (because that’s cute).


☀️ 3. The Essentials

Don’t leave home without:


🧺 4. A Tote That Fits It All

Our Seaesta Surf tote bag is made for hauling towels, snacks, sunscreen, and a little chaos.

It’s sturdy, quick-dry, and oversized enough to double as a weekender or snack carrier for road trips.

If it doesn’t fit in the tote, it probably doesn’t need to come!


🏖️ 5. Optional Post-Beach Packing List

  • Extra towel for the car (keeps it sand-free)

  • Wet bag or mesh bag for wet gear (leave this in the car)

  • Change of clothes or a fresh pair of boardshorts

TL;DR Beach Day Packing List

✅ Boardshorts / Swimsuit
✅ Rashguard
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Water + snacks
✅ Hat + sunglasses
✅ Towels
✅ Beach toys (minimal!)
✅ Seaesta Surf tote
✅ Good vibes only


Ready to Pack?

We make kid-approved beach gear that’s meant to last—and look good while doing it.

Shop Boys Boardshorts
Browse Rashguards
Grab a Tote

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