Generally, there’s no better family fun than a moment with your kids at the beach. But is taking a newborn to the beach a good idea?
If yes, what should you bring for the little guy?
Well, we at Beachrising do not offer medical advice. As a result, the decision to take a newborn to the beach solely depends on you.
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Our advice is that you first talk to your pediatrician, and if they give the nod, you can take your bundle of joy to the beach.
But in as far as the post is concerned, we’ll offer you tips that will protect your newborn on the beach.
In a hurry? Check out our hot top list for the best baby beach gear.
9 Best Gear For Taking A Newborn To The Beach
- RUVALINO Multifunction Diaper Bag – Best Diaper Bag
- Boppy Bare Naked Nursing Pillow – Best Nursing Pillow
- Boba Wrap Baby Carrier – Best Baby Carrier
- SUNBA Youth Baby Tent – Best Baby Tent
- Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Beach Umbrella – Best Beach Umbrella For Newborn
- Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper – Best Swim Diapers For Newborns
- JJ Cole Original Bundling Bunting Bag – Best Swaddle Blanket For Newborns
- Badger SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen Cream – Best Baby Sunscreen
- iPlay Flap Sun Protection Hat – Best Sunhat for Newborns
13 Smart Tips For Taking A Newborn To The Beach
1. Start With A Diaper Bag
A diaper bag is a handy choice when traveling with a baby, and it doesn’t just apply to beach trips.
You can carry diapers, baby wipes, baby powder, baby cream, and other baby essentials in a diaper bag.
Some diaper bags even have diaper changing mats to allow you to change the newborn’s diapers outdoors. That is the case with the RUVALINO Multifunction Diaper Bag.
This diaper bag comes in a standard backpack size and design but is readily convertible into a handbag.
Its interior features multiple pockets for beach necessities for baby and insulated pouches for the baby’s milk.
Even better, the diaper bag attaches easily to a stroller and comes with a convenient diaper changing pad.
2. Go Off-Hours and Off-Season
It is best to take your newborn to the beach when the sun is least severe.
Time-wise that should be before 11 am or after 3 pm. At such times, the risk of suffering sunburns is lower.
It usually is hotter between 11 am and 3 pm. So, that’s a time for your baby to stay away from the sun.
Season-wise, consider planning your beach trip at the start of summer or towards its end to allow your baby to enjoy mild temperatures.
3. Be Prepared To Breastfeed
A newborn breastfeeds exclusively. So, you should be ready to give the little one its due.
For starters, ensure you sit comfortably on the beach. So, you’ll need a comfortable beach chair, preferably with a canopy.
You should also bring a nursing pillow to support your baby as you breastfeed.
I recommend the Boppy Bare Naked Nursing Pillow for its comfort and versatility.
This soft-touch nursing pillow allows you to breastfeed while in an ergonomic position. That, in the long run, relieves you from back pain.
It is a breastfeeding pillow and a comfortable place for older babies to sit or lay.
4. Wear Your Newborn To The Beach
You don’t expect to bring a stroller to the beach when you have a newborn. Not only is a stroller bulky, but it may also expose the infant to the cold breeze.
That’s why baby carriers are a good idea for newborns at the beach.
A baby carrier lets you carry the newborn close to the body to encourage parent-to-child bonding.
Moreover, a suitable baby carrier allows you to breastfeed the little one more comfortably.
That brings us to the Boba Wrap Baby Carrier.
The baby carrier comes with an ergonomic seat that evenly distributes the little one’s weight.
It is easier to tie around your body and allows you to breastfeed conveniently.
Moreover, Boba Wrap Baby Carrier lets you carry your baby close to your chest. At the end, that provides you with a perfect chance to bond with your bundle of joy.
5. Bring A Baby Tent
If you plan to hang around the entire day or a couple more on the beach, a baby tent is a must-pack.
For starters, this baby gear provides some shade over your newborn’s head. Most of them are UV-protected, which means the little one shall receive protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
A good baby tent also keeps away mosquitoes, bugs, and other irritant pests.
What’s more, the tent can serve as a diaper changing spot and a napping zone for the little one. Interestingly, that’s the case with the SUNBA Youth Baby Tent.
This baby tent is not just a sunshade for the little one but also a travel crib featuring a small travel bed and mosquito net.
The versatile baby tent promises both UV-protection and wind-resistance.
Relevant Post: Best Shade Tent For A Baby
6. Get An SPF-Rated Umbrella
You need a sizeable beach umbrella that will shelter you and the baby. So, it has to be UV-protected, and you can check for that by looking for the sun protection factor (SPF).
A good beach umbrella also protects the little one from rain and, to some extent, strong winds.
That’s the case with the Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Beach Umbrella.
This SPF-rated beach umbrella comes in a canopy style, which means it somehow offers you the convenience of a beach canopy.
So, you can count on it for sun protection, rain protection, and wind-resistance.
Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Beach Umbrella has an 8-foot span, a size that’s perfect for families.
Relevant Post: Best Kids Beach Umbrella
7. Pack Light When Taking a Newborn To The Beach
When taking a newborn to the beach, a lot of baby stuff can inconvenience you. So, try as much as possible only to bring what is necessary.
For example, you don’t have to bring a stroller as it’s bulky. Instead, you should pack a baby carrier to enable you to carry the little one comfortably.
You also don’t need to bring a cooler box and a beach lounger. What you should get is a backpack beach chair with an inbuilt cooler. It’ll serve the purpose of a cooler box and lounger.
8. Include Some Swim Diapers
Provided that the waters are clean, warm, and peaceful, you can put your newborn in for a short swim. However, you should ensure that you get the best swim diapers.
Preferably, the diapers should be reusable.
With the right swim diaper, you can start offering swimming lessons to your newborn.
One of the best swim diapers in the market is the Nageuret Reusable Swim Diaper.
This diaper is adjustable and reusable. Additionally, it’s available in size N-5 to suit different newborns.
9. Bring A Warm Swaddle Blanket
A warm swaddle is a must-pack for two reasons. One, it protects the newborn from the sun’s unforgiving rays.
Two, it protects the little one from the cold air that is prevalent on the beach.
The swaddle blanket should not just be warm but also lightweight, soft, and breathable.
That’s what the JJ Cole Original Bundling Bunting Bag promises.
This swaddle bag comes in a carrier design to easily cover your baby. It’s thick in construction to provide your baby with maximum warmth.
It also has a plush interior to feel softer for the little and a smoother exterior to feel comfortable on your skin.
The best part is that it’s easy to attach to a stroller or baby carrier.
10. Keep Your Newborn Hydrated Always
Since the baby is breastfeeding, you have to rehydrate more often for it to have some milk.
So, you should bring enough water and refreshments when taking an infant to the beach.
Generally, the more you hydrate, the more milk you’ll have for the baby. Therefore, get a cooler bag to pack enough refreshments.
11. Pack Some Baby-Safe Sunscreen
The baby’s skin is susceptible and can quickly burn following sun exposure. So, a small amount of baby sunscreen may go a long way in offering protection.
However, you should pass by your baby’s pediatrician to confirm that it’s okay to use sunscreen on the little one.
One of the safest baby sunscreens that you can ask your pediatrician about is the Badger SPF 30 Baby Sunscreen Cream.
The sunscreen is made from natural organic ingredients and promises to absorb both UVB and UVA rays.
12. Get A Baby Sunhat
Don’t forget to shop for a sunhat for your baby. It goes a long way in covering your newborn’s face to protect it from direct sunlight.
A good baby sunhat also protects the head, chin, and neck. So, ensure it is SPF-protected.
That’s what you get from the iPlay Flap Sun Protection Hat. The machine-washable sunhat offers excellent ultraviolet protection.
The exciting bit is that it’s quick-drying, comfortable, and adjustable to fit most newborns.
13. Know When It’s Time To Leave
A smart mum knows the red flags when she sees them. Once you notice something unusual or uncomfortable for the baby, you should leave the beach.
Go back to the hotel or home right away for your baby to feel safe and comfortable.
Here are the commonest red flags you should know about when taking a newborn to the beach:
- The baby is getting fussy due to a change in temperature
- The wind is getting stronger
- When strangers start approaching the baby, wanting to touch or carry it
- When there’s an unusual disturbing noise on the beach
- There are signs that it could rain anytime
- If the water gets dirty all of a sudden
- If there’s too much commotion on the beach
Relevant Post: Best Beach Stuff For Babies
Extra Tips For Taking A Newborn To The Beach
Just because you are going to the beach doesn’t mean that you should skip some things that the baby is used to. So, pack the newborn’s day-to-day essentials.
That includes the following beach essentials for babies:
- A beach towel
- Enough clothes
- Infant beach chair
- Baby toys
- Diapers and baby wipes
- Baby powder
- Hands sanitizer
- Baby monitor
Remember to also pack a suitcase for yourself. It should include enough clothes, toiletries, beach shoes, sunhat, and sunscreen.
Furthermore, do not forget to bring enough snacks and drinks for all.
FAQs About Taking A Newborn To The Beach
1. Can Newborns Go To The Beach?
Yes, newborns can go to the beach if you observe all the necessary guidelines advised by your doctor.
A newborn’s skin is very delicate, and so if you have to take it to the beach, the little one needs to be kept away from the sun.
You also need to keep your newborn away from strong winds, cold waters, and sand.
2. When Can I Take My Baby To The Beach?
Visit the beach with your baby when the sun’s rays are least intense. That should be before 11 in the morning and after 3 in the afternoon.
However, it’s not a good idea to expose the baby to the sun. So, a baby tent is a must-bring.
Also, observe the necessary care to protect the little one from the cold, sunburns, and the sand.
3. At What Age Can I Take My Baby To The Beach?
Ideally, you can take your baby to the beach, starting from two months. It’s, however, more comfortable when they are six months and beyond.
A baby under six months is more sensitive to the sun’s rays. So, it is better that you keep it inside a baby tent when on the beach.
In case you have to take a newborn, first talk to the family pediatrician to get an expert opinion. The medic will advise you accordingly.
4. Can I Take My Baby In The Water At The Beach?
Generally, it is okay to take your baby into the waters when they reach two months. However, special care should be taken to ensure the little one doesn’t catch any cold.
If you must, pick warm and unpolluted waters. Also, watch out for the dreadful current.
Moreover, do not allow your baby to drink ocean water.
Concluding Thoughts On Taking A Newborn To The Beach
You can use the above tips when taking a newborn to the beach.
We should insist, however, that you should first talk to your baby’s pediatrician. The expert will inform you if it’s okay to go with the little one to the beach or not.