beach

  • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Splash Culture: Global water beliefs and symbols for our kids

    Water is life. It nourishes us, sustains ecosystems, and connects people across every corner of the globe. But water isn’t just practical—it’s deeply cultural, symbolic, and spiritual. From myths and legends to religious rituals and conservation movements, water has shaped human history and imagination.

    In this post, Emily Liebel, a Utah mom of three and the creator behind @inclusivelibrary, explores global water beliefs and symbols for kids. From the mythology of Poseidon to the sacred Ganges River to Native American sweat lodges and modern-day water protectors. You’ll learn how water shows up in stories, religions, and conservation efforts across cultures, and how to introduce these ideas to your kids in age-appropriate, meaningful ways.

    This post is for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to deepen children’s respect for water—not only as a source of fun and play but also as something sacred and fragile. By connecting our kids to these global traditions, we can raise a generation that values both joy and stewardship when it comes to one of the world’s most important resources.

    Water around the world

    Water has universal applicability and respect. It is necessary for life but it has common importance in cultures, as well. All over the world, we find beliefs, history, symbols, and stories involving water. Water is also a joyful resource for many people. Sports, play, exploration, spirituality- you’ll find it all in the water. Once we realize all the ways water can connect us around the globe, we can teach our kids to respect and enjoy it fully. As we spend our summer months swimming, boating, and finding fun in water, we can also teach our kids to become a part of water conservation efforts based on connection and understanding.

    Symbolism of water

    Across every culture and time period, water has carried meanings that go far beyond its role in survival. It is both literal (something we drink, swim in, and rely on) and deeply symbolic, shaping the way people understand life, healing, and transformation.

    When we teach kids about the symbolism of water, we give them a richer appreciation of what they splash in every summer afternoon or drink from their water bottle after soccer practice.

    Water as life

    The most universal symbol of water is life itself. Every living thing, from plants to people, depends on water to survive. Ancient civilizations built their homes along rivers like the Nile and the Tigris because water meant fertile land, food, and community. Even today, entire cities are built around lakes, rivers, and coasts. Sharing these connections with children helps them understand that when they drink a glass of water, they’re tapping into something that ties all of humanity together.

    Water as serenity and peace

    Anyone who has ever sat by a still pond or listened to a babbling creek knows how calming water can be. The sound of flowing water has been proven to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, which is why fountains, streams, and even white noise machines are used for relaxation. When kids notice ripples spreading across a lake or their own reflection shimmering in the water, they’re experiencing firsthand how water symbolizes serenity and peace. It’s nature’s invitation to slow down.

    For more on this concept, check out our post on the Benefits of Blue Hours/Spaces.

    Water as Purity and Renewal

    Around the world, water has long been associated with cleansing and renewal. In spiritual rituals, it washes away sins, marks new beginnings, and purifies the body and soul. In daily life, water helps us clean our homes, our food, and ourselves. For kids, this idea of purification can be as simple as the feeling of a refreshing shower after a muddy soccer game—or as meaningful as seeing how cultures use water in sacred ceremonies.

    Water as Refreshment and Rejuvenation

    Think about how thirsty kids act after running around outside on a hot day—the desperate cry for water, followed by big gulps and sighs of relief. That physical experience of refreshment mirrors water’s symbolic role in rejuvenation. Water doesn’t just quench our thirst; it revives our bodies and clears our minds. In literature and storytelling, streams and springs often symbolize renewal, giving characters the strength to keep going. Sharing this perspective helps kids notice how water gives them energy, both physically and emotionally.

    Kid connection:

    Next time you’re by a lake, pool, or even at the sink washing hands with your child, ask: “What do you think water makes people feel?” Encourage them to think about how water can represent calm, joy, or even a fresh start. Kids often make the most profound connections when they link their everyday experiences to these bigger ideas.

    Religious beliefs and water

    Water isn’t just a resource—it’s sacred in nearly every religion around the world. Across cultures and faiths, water symbolizes purity, renewal, and life itself. It’s used in rituals, ceremonies, and traditions that help people connect to something bigger than themselves. Sharing these practices with kids not only teaches them about different cultures, but also encourages them to respect water as more than just something to swim or play in.

    Baptism and ritual cleansing

    In Christianity, baptism is one of the most powerful symbols of renewal, forgiveness, and belonging. Whether sprinkled or fully immersed, baptism uses water to represent washing away sin and entering new life. But Christianity isn’t the only faith that uses water this way. Judaism incorporates ritual baths called mikvahs, used for spiritual cleansing and renewal. In Islam, believers perform Wudu (washing the face, hands, and feet) before prayer, symbolizing purification of both body and spirit.

    Service and gratitude

    In the New Testament, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as an act of humility and service. This symbolic use of water reminds believers of gratitude, compassion, and caring for others. In Islam, ritual washing before prayer carries a similar message of respect and preparation before standing in the presence of God.

    Water in Buddhism

    For Buddhists, water represents clarity, calm, and compassion. Devotees often offer bowls of water at household shrines or temples to symbolize generosity and a pure heart. During certain rituals, statues of the Buddha are ceremonially washed, representing renewal, compassion, and the cleansing of negativity.

    Hinduism and the sacred Ganges

    The Ganges River is more than just water to Hindus; it is a goddess named Ganga. Pilgrims bathe in her waters to wash away sins, families scatter ashes into her current to bless loved ones in the afterlife, and millions travel to her banks each year in one of the largest religious pilgrimages on earth. The Ganges is both sacred and practical, embodying the spiritual and everyday importance of rivers.

    Native American sweat lodges

    Among many Native American tribes, water is central to the sacred sweat lodge ceremony. Water poured onto heated stones creates steam that cleanses the body and spirit. The lodge itself represents the womb of Mother Earth, and the steam is thought to heal, purify, and restore balance.

    Kid Connection

    You don’t have to practice these rituals yourself to help kids understand their importance. Instead, you can:

    • Share stories: Tell kids how water is viewed in different cultures and religions around the world.
    • Practice reverence: When visiting a river, lake, or even a fountain, encourage kids to pause for a moment of quiet reflection.
    • Make parallels: Ask kids, “How do you feel after washing your hands or swimming? Can you see why people use water as a way to feel clean, calm, or new?”
    • Connect play with respect: Remind kids that water can be fun and sacred at the same time. We can splash in the pool, then talk about how others see rivers as holy.

    By weaving these lessons into everyday experiences, children begin to see water as not only a source of play and refreshment, but also as something powerful, symbolic, and deeply respected across cultures.

    Mythologies and water

    Beyond religion, myths and legends about water are woven into cultures all over the world. Water is often personified or deified, seen as a force of power, mystery, and life. These stories reveal both the awe and the caution people have always felt toward rivers, seas, and lakes.

    Greek Mythology: Gods and Boundaries

    • Poseidon: The Greek god of the sea, Poseidon, was both protector and destroyer. Sailors prayed to him for safe voyages, but storms were often seen as his anger. His dual role highlighted the unpredictability of the ocean—something people still feel when they face rough waters.
    • The River Styx: This mythological river separated the world of the living from the underworld. Crossing the Styx represented transformation and transition, reminding us of water’s symbolic role as a boundary between life stages.

    Celtic and Scottish Legends

    • Loch Ness Monster: In Scotland, Loch Ness is said to be home to “Nessie,” a mysterious creature lurking in the deep waters. While its existence has never been proven, the legend has endured for generations, showing how water inspires wonder, curiosity, and imagination.

    African and Afro-Caribbean Traditions

    • Oshun and Yemaya: In Yoruba and Afro-Caribbean traditions, Oshun (freshwater goddess) and Yemaya (mother of the seas) are powerful sisters tied to love, fertility, and protection. They embody water’s nurturing and life-giving qualities.
    • Mami Wata: Revered across parts of Africa and the African diaspora, Mami Wata is a water spirit often portrayed as a mermaid. She represents healing, fertility, and prosperity, but also danger and mystery—reminding us that water is both generous and powerful.

    Ancient Egypt: The Nile as Lifeline

    For the ancient Egyptians, the Nile River was not just a geographical feature, but also a symbol of destiny. Its seasonal floods delivered fertile soil for crops, allowing civilization to thrive. The Nile was considered divine, tied directly to their gods, and seen as both a gift and a force to be respected.

    Kid Connection:

    Water myths are a wonderful way to spark kids’ imagination and deepen their respect for natural places. Here are a few ways to bring them to life:

    • Tell stories at the water’s edge: When splashing at the beach, tell kids about Poseidon’s trident stirring the waves. On a lake, share the legend of Loch Ness.
    • Play pretend: Encourage kids to act out being sea gods, river spirits, or explorers searching for water monsters.
    • Connect stories to real places: Show kids pictures of the Nile, the Ganges, or Loch Ness and explain how these places inspired myths.
    • Compare and contrast: Ask your kids how Oshun and Poseidon are similar or different. What do these stories teach about how people feel about water?
    • Create your own family water myth: On your next hike by a stream, invent a magical creature that lives there and let your kids decide its powers.

    By connecting mythologies to play, kids begin to understand that humans have always used stories to explain the mystery of water, and they can do the same.

    Conservation efforts and water rights

    There are also many groups fighting to protect water as a real, living resource. Water is both a necessity and a sacred tool. So many of us want to protect and conserve water.

    Whanganui Water Tribes: In New Zealand, the Whanganui River is considered an ancestor by the Māori people. In 2017, the river was legally granted the same rights as a person. This means harming the river is treated the same as harming a community member. This groundbreaking recognition shows how traditional beliefs can influence modern conservation.

    Water Protectors and sacred paths: In the United States, Indigenous communities have led movements to protect water from pollution and misuse. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and their allies lead protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline. They popularized the phrase “Mni Wiconi—Water is Life.” We Are the Water Protectors is a picture book written to carry these ideas forward to children.

    Organizations: Around the world, countless organizations fight for clean and safe water. Groups like Water.org, The Water Project, and charity: water work to bring clean water access to communities that don’t have it. Others, like local watershed alliances, focus on protecting rivers and lakes at home. Teaching children about these efforts shows them that water care is not just spiritual or symbolic—it’s something we can act on together.

    Kid connection:

    Let’s get our kids involved, too. Reading picture books, donating as a family to clean water charities, or even helping pick up trash at a local creek can connect their play to a bigger purpose. When they see water as both fun and fragile, they grow up with respect for it—and that’s where conservation begins.

    Final thoughts

    Water is more than something we drink or play in. It’s a universal symbol that connects people across cultures, religions, and stories. From baptismal rituals to the myths of Poseidon, from the sacred Ganges to the legal recognition of New Zealand’s Whanganui River, water carries meaning that reminds us of its power, mystery, and necessity. Teaching kids about these global perspectives helps them see water not just as fun, but as sacred and essential to all life.

    As parents, caregivers, and educators, we have the chance to make water education hands-on and meaningful. Whether it’s telling myths by the lake, reading picture books like We Are the Water Protectors, or simply practicing conservation at home, we can give our children both joy and reverence for water. When kids grow up understanding that water is fragile, valuable, and shared by everyone, they’re more likely to become stewards of this vital resource, and that’s a lesson that lasts far beyond summer splashes.

    What will you teach your kids about water?

    About the author

    Emily and her family have moved across the US multiple times, and the best things about each state have been the outdoor adventures and the public libraries! Now living in Utah, Emily has continued her love for both. She explores both mountain and city outdoor spaces weekly with her three kids and friends and attends library story times, as well as leads a local story time. Emily has a passion for children’s literature. She uses books to educate, promote inclusion, understanding, and justice, and inspire adventure and creativity. Emily loves how reading and being outdoors overlap in so many exciting ways!

    Follow Emily online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @inclusivelibrary

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Exploring Belize with Kids: International Travel Guide

    If you’re an outdoorsy, nature-loving family looking for the ultimate destination that combines family-friendly adventure with a healthy dose of relaxation, then add Belize to your bucket list. From ancient Mayan ruins to lush rainforests and tropical beaches, Belize has it all! As a mom of three (who knows a thing or two about traveling with kids), I know you want a vacation that will keep the whole family entertained, provide unique experiences, connect you with nature, and still provide plenty of time for relaxing. My family recently spent a week exploring Belize, and I can’t wait to share every detail with you! In this post, we’ll dive into why Belize is the perfect destination for families, especially if this is your first international trip with little ones. From snorkeling in the world’s second-largest barrier reef to zip-lining through the jungle, I’ll share tips on what to pack, where to stay, and how to keep kids of all ages entertained. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some honest advice on handling the inevitable moments of chaos. Are you ready to explore Belize?!

    *This post is sponsored by Coco Beach Resort. Accommodations and some activities were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed, and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

    exploring belize with kid - everything you need to know - ambergris caye

    Exploring Belize with kids

    Exploring Belize with kids is a blast! The country offers a variety of outdoor activities, diverse nature, a rich culture, and a welcoming personality. When you arrive in Belize with your family, one of the first things you’ll notice is the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Belizeans are incredibly kind and accommodating, and they love kids! Don’t be surprised if strangers wave to your little ones or go out of their way to make them smile. Safety is also a top priority in Belize, which means you can focus on having fun and making memories without worrying about the little things.

    In Belize, it’s easy to find outdoor activities and unique experiences that interest the whole family. From snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to exploring the jungle where you might spot howler monkeys swinging through the trees or going back in history to ancient Mayan ruins like Xunantunich or Caracol, Belize it all.

    The diversity of experiences ensures that there’s something for everyone in your family, whether your kids are into history, wildlife, food, music, or outdoor adventure. And because Belize is a relatively small, compact country, where nearly everyone speaks English, you don’t have to spend hours traveling from one place to another, making it perfect for families with little ones who might not have the patience for long road trips. With so much to see and do, you’ll quickly discover why Belize is one of the best destinations for families looking for both adventure and relaxation.Tips and advice for exploring belize with kids - where to stay and what to do

    International travel considerations

    To travel internationally from the US to Belize with kids, you’ll need to ensure you have the proper documentation. Here’s what you need to do and what documentation to prepare:

    Passports: Each traveler, including children, must have a valid passport. Ensure that the passport is not expired and has at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your return trip. If you’re applying for passports for your kids, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. We submitted our kids’ passport applications about four months prior to travel and they were issued in about a month (giving us plenty of time to spare.

    Consent forms: If you are traveling solo with your children or if someone other than the legal guardian is accompanying them, you must have a notarized consent form from the non-traveling parent(s). This form should grant permission for the child to travel internationally and may be required by border officials or airline personnel. This is required even if the parents are divorced or you’re meeting the other parent there.

    Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks. This is especially important when traveling with kids.

    Customs forms: You might need to fill out customs and immigration forms upon entering Belize. These will be given to you on the plane or when you arrive in the country. Make sure you have these completed as required. 

    Copies of essential documents: Bring additional identification for children, such as a copy of birth certificates or school IDs, especially if there’s any question about guardianship or identity. This can be useful in various situations, including at border control or when proving a child’s age for certain activities. We also had copies of our passports (and took photos of them on our phone), so we didn’t need to carry passports with us while we traveled within the country.

    sailboat at sunset on blue waters of the Caribbean Sea in Ambergris Caye Belize

    About Belize

    Belize is a democratic, English-speaking nation in Central America. Belize is located just south of the Yucatán Peninsula, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Formerly called British Honduras, Belize achieved independence in 1981, but it has retained its historical link with the United Kingdom through membership in the Commonwealth. 

    Belize has a rich and fascinating history. The Maya civilization spread across the territory of present-day Belize around 1500 BC, and flourished until about 900 AD, leaving behind more than a dozen ancient ruins such as La Milpa, Xunantunich, Altun Ha, and Caracol. Today, Mayans, Creole (African and British ancestry), Meztisos (mixed Mayan and Spanish heritage), and Garinagu (descendants of the Carib Indians and Africans) are the most common ethnic groups in Belize. 

    As for industry, the service and tourism sector of the economy accounts for the largest share of Belize’s GNP, taking over from farming. Fishing, boating, swimming, and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef are popular on the coast and islands, and ecotourism is a leading industry in the interior, which has grown exponentially over the past few decades. 

    Run Wild My Child explore Belize with kids

    Areas of Belize

    Northern Cayes

    Belize’s primary tourist areas are the northern Cayes (islands) and atolls. There are hundreds of islands between the mainland and the Belize Barrier Reef. The reef, easily visible from many of the cayes, offers some of the world’s best snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The most developed cayes (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker), have numerous hotels and small resorts, while some of the less developed cayes maintain the feel of fairy-tale desert isles.

    Cayo District/Western Belize

    The Cayo District in Western Belize is a mountainous district near the Guatemalan border and Belize’s second most popular tourist destination, where you can stay in one of many jungle lodges. The limestone mountains of this region are dotted with numerous caves, sinkholes, jagged peaks, underground rivers, and waterfalls. There are clear-flowing rivers for swimming and canoeing and miles of unexplored jungle forests full of exotic wildlife and birds. This is also where you’ll find Belize’s largest and most impressive Mayan ruins, Caracol, one of the largest known Classic Maya cities ever uncovered. Closer to the main town of San Ignacio, you’ll find Xunantunich, Pilar, and the smaller Cahal Pech.

    girl walking down boat dock in Ambergris Caye Belize

    Southern Belize

    Southern Belize encompasses two districts, Stann Creek and Toledo. The former includes the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the coastal towns of Dangriga, Hopkins Village, and Placencia. Dangriga is the country’s center of Garífuna culture, and Placencia has the country’s best beaches. Farther south, the jungles of the Toledo District are home to numerous Kekchi and Mopan Mayan villages. The Toledo District is emerging as an ecotourism destination, with the country’s richest, wettest, and most undisturbed rainforests.

    Northern Belize

    In northern Belize, you’ll find Orange Walk Town and Corozal Town; both have a strong Spanish feel and influence. The Maya lived here, as evidenced by the ruins of Altun Ha, Lamanai, Cerros, and Santa Rita. The land was once submerged and is still primarily swamp and mangrove. Sugar cane, bananas, citrus fruits, and pineapples are grown where the land is cleared. Northern Belize has some of the country’s best nature lodges and prime destinations for bird watchers, including the Shipstern Nature Reserve and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

    iguana in belizeunderwater nurse shark at Shark Ray Alley in Belize

    Nature in Belize

    Belize is a land of mountains, swamps, caves, plains, jungles, and tropical islands. Belize has an incredibly wide variety of natural outdoor spaces and nature-based adventures for everyone. Whether you’re looking for palm tree-lined beaches, cascading waterfalls, tropical rainforests, or limestone caves, Belize is a one-of-a-kind paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

    The abundant wildlife of Belize includes such animals as tapir, deer, jaguar, puma, crocodile, howler monkeys, and manatee, as well as many species of turtles, tortoises, birds, reptiles, insects, and fish. The herbivorous Baird’s tapir can weigh as much as 600 pounds and has a protected status as the national animal of Belize.

    Belize is also home to the world’s second-largest barrier coral reef system (and this hemisphere’s longest). Many cayes are surrounded by the reef, which is easily accessible to snorkel or scuba dive. The reef lies one-half mile east of the Ambergris Caye shoreline and runs the entire 25-mile length of the island. This has made San Pedro Town the dive and water sports capital of Belize and Central America. The Great Blue Hole, Turneffe Islands, Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Mexico Rocks, Lighthouse Reef, and many other diving areas are all only a short boat ride away from the island.

    Exploring Altun Ha ancient mayan ruins in Belize with kids

    Why Belize?

    There are so many reasons why we chose Belize for our first international trip with kids. Here are a few of the top reasons for traveling to Belize with kids:

    Proximity to the US – Belize is surprisingly easy to get to with kids, thanks in part to its proximity to the United States. Our direct flight from Houston to Belize City was under 2 hours! This meant we didn’t have to deal with any long flights, overnight travel, or jetlag! 

    No language barrier—With English being the official language of Belize, communication is simple, making it easy to navigate and interact. Spanish and Creole are both spoken in Belize, so we did have a chance to hear other languages, but we didn’t have to worry about miscommunication, translation issues, or teaching the kids non-English phrases. 

    Affordability – With an advantageous exchange rate and lots of affordable accommodations and food, traveling to Belize does not have to break the bank. Most places in Belize also accept US dollars, and converting to Belizean dollars was easy enough for the kids to understand ($1 Belize = $2 US). 

    Culture and history – Belize has a rich and absolutely fascinating history. Our tour guides were so knowledgeable about the history of the country, the industries, and the people. We learned a ton, in a way that felt authentic (and not like learning for the kids). Plus, there are multiple ancient Mayan ruin sites to visit, without tons of tourists.

    boy in hammock at Coco Beach Resort - Ambergris Caye Belize

    Access to nature – This may be my top reason to visit Belize…nature is all around you! Belize offers a wide variety of ecosystems, from remote tropical islands to rainforest jungles. The wildlife is abundant, the scenery is gorgeous, and the weather is lovely. 

    Range of activities – Our family loved (and appreciated) the wide variety of outdoor activities and adventures offered in Belize. My kids have a wide range of interests and vary in age, but it was easy to find things to do that the whole family loved. From world-class snorkeling and diving for the teens to cave tubing and jungle safaris for younger kids, there’s something for everyone in Belize.

    Safety – Belize is safe for families. While traveling anywhere internationally with kids, there will be safety concerns, care to exercise, and places to avoid. However, tourism is important industry, and tourists are well-cared for and appreciated. 

    Food – The food in Belize is amazing! It’s a mix of Caribbean, Mexican, and Central American influences, heavy on seafood and fruit, making it both unique, healthy and comforting for families traveling with kids. 

    Traveling from the US to Belize is easier than you might expect - photo of kids standing in front of Southwest Airlines plane from Houston to Belize City

    Getting to Belize

    Traveling to Belize with kids was surprisingly simple and easy, thanks in part to its proximity to the United States. Just a few hours’ flight from many major US cities (our flight from Houston was under 2 hours), Belize City serves as a convenient gateway to an international adventure without jetlag or overnight travel.

    Many airlines offer direct flights to Belize City, so you can skip the stress of layovers and get to your destination quickly. This shorter flight time is a game-changer for parents who know all too well how antsy kids can get on long-haul flights. Plus, with the small size of the country, you can land in Belize City and be exploring the jungle or relaxing on a beach within hours. 

    We flew Southwest and used miles (and a companion pass) to cover most of our travel, making it very affordable. Prices vary widely by the season that you’re traveling and the days of the week. From St. Louis, we had a 1.5-hour flight to Houston and then another 1.5-hour flight to Belize City. The short flights made it super easy on the kids and we arrived in Belize City just after lunchtime. 

    Navigating customs in Belize was straightforward and easy, even traveling with kids. The lines move quickly, and the customs officers are friendly and used to families. Belize is an English-speaking country, so there’s no language barrier to worry about, which is a huge relief when you’re trying to manage kids, luggage, and travel documents.

    Belize City is a modest-sized port city located on the mainland, at the mouth of the Belize River. It is Belize’s transportation hub, with the only international airport, an active municipal airport, a cruise ship dock, and all the major bus-line and water-taxi terminals. From Belize City, you can get anywhere in the country in a variety of ways.

    looking out over the Caribbean sea from a puddle jumper prop plane from Belize City to Ambergris Caye - travel with kids to Belize - Maya Air

    Getting to Ambergris Caye

    We stayed on Ambergris Caye (an island off the coast of Belize), so we opted for a commuter flight to the island from Belize City. Two airlines (Maya and Tropic) fly back and forth to and from the islands multiple times a day from the international airport. Both airlines are reputable and similar in pricing. Flights can be purchased directly online and were about $130/person each way. The flight takes about 15 minutes. 

    We gave ourselves a little over two hours from the time we landed in Belize City for our flight to San Pedro and did not have any issues or feel rushed. Getting through customs was a relatively easy process (just make sure you have all necessary documentation and the paperwork filled out ahead of time). We flew Maya Air, and the experience was amazing! The planes are small, which the kids really got a kick out of. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to ride in the jump seat up front with the pilot!

    Alternatively, you could take a water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris or any of the other islands. Belize City Airport is about 25 minutes away from the ferry terminal in a taxi, which is easy to get outside the airport. Water taxi rides are about 90 minutes to San Pedro and are significantly less expensive than flying (about $30/person each way). 

    Kids at Coco Beach Resort Ambergris Caye Belize

    Where to stay

    Deciding where to stay (which part of the country) in Belize is the first step in planning your trip. Because we wanted easy access to water for snorkeling, boating, swimming, and fishing, we knew we wanted to stay on one of the islands so we’d have easy access to the ocean and barrier reef. With so many islands, there are a lot of options to choose from. We opted to stay on Ambergris Caye, the largest and most developed island, which gave us tons of things to do and places to explore. 

    While we usually opt for a vacation rental home when traveling with kids, for this trip, we knew we wanted to stay at a hotel/resort, which would give us access to concierge services and family-friendly amenities (such as golf cart rental, pool, restaurant, bar, etc.). However, we were not interested in an all-inclusive (I’m not even sure there are any all-inclusive resorts in Belize) because we love to explore and get off-site to try new things. At Coco Beach Resort, we found everything we wanted. 

    Coco Beach Resort pool and water slide - Belize

    Coco Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye

    Coco Beach is a 4-star luxury resort located 3 miles north of San Pedro Town. We stayed in a two-bedroom ocean-view suite equipped with a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a dining room, a living room, and a wrap-around balcony. This gave our family of five plenty of space to spread out! I can’t tell you how nice it was for the kids to have their own bedroom (with a door we could shut when the little one went to bed early) and to have a fully-equipped kitchen (for cooking and having snacks on-hand). 

    Situated right on the beach, the resort has a dock (for boat access and water shuttles), a swimming area, and is within kayaking range of the coral reef. Because the barrier reef breaks the waves offshore, the beaches are a bit different in Belize (see note below on this). The waters off the coast are shallow and calm (no big waves here), which allows seagrass to take root. It’s probably not the white sandy beach you expect, but if you like to fish, it’s the perfect place for shallow wading and catching bonefish, barracuda, and snook (which my husband and son did daily!). 

    Coco Beach has two pools for swimming: a deep “adventure pool” with a water slide out of a rock structure and a shallower pool with zero entry (great for toddlers) with a volleyball net. There’s also a hot tub and a heated swim-up pool bar for adults. Tables and chairs are located all around both pools, with a full-service wait staff, serving a comprehensive menu from the on-site restaurant for poolside drinks and dining. 

    Coco Beach Resort - Ambergris Caye Belize - family friendly hotel rooms, condos, and suiteschildren swimming at pool at Coco Beach Resort Belize 

    Coco Beach Resort services and amenities

    I honestly can’t say enough good things about Coco Beach Resort. We felt completely taken care of (and totally spoiled) while we were there. It’s definitely one of the nicest resorts on the island and probably the nicest place we’ve ever taken the kids! There were lots of other families there, along with a good mix of older and younger couples.

    Here are a few special touches and services that really made Coco Beach Resort stand out for us, as a family of five:

    • Airport shuttle service – From the minute we arrived in San Pedro town, we were taken care of. A representative from the resort met us when we deplaned, helped us with our luggage, and loaded us on a very nice (air-conditioned) shuttle van. There is a $30 surcharge for shuttle service to/from the airport, but it was definitely worth it. Our driver provided us with bottles of cold water and gave us great information about the island and San Pedro town as we made our way to the resort. The ride is only 3 miles but takes 20-30 minutes. 
    • Full kitchen – Having a full kitchen in our suite was a game-changer for us. I don’t know about you, but we spend a lot of time outside, my kids are hungry! All the time. Having our own kitchen meant we were able to stock the fridge with all kinds of snacks and beverages, make our own meals (particularly breakfast, which saved us money), and bring home delicious leftovers from our meals out. 
    • Gear & golf cart rentals – Coco Beach has daily (FREE) kayak, SUP board, golf cart, and bicycle rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you know you want to have access to a golf cart for your entire trip, you can pay to reserve one for the day/week at a very reasonable rate. (We found the hotel rate to be a bit cheaper than it was in town and about ten times cheaper than what we’re used to paying in Florida.) 
    • Concierge services – I was so impressed by how helpful and responsive the concierge services were. They can help you book tours and excursions with the most reputable providers on the island. They’ll make all the arrangements and provide you with details on what to pack, what to expect, and helpful tips. They’re located in the main lobby but also available via WhatsApp, which is as easy as texting questions, concerns, or requests. 

    Poolside food and drinks at Coco Beach Resort Belize - shrimp ceviche and beer

    • Towel service –  Bringing beach towels for an entire family takes up a ton of space in your suitcase. And no one wants to repeatedly use a wet dirty towel for a week. Beach towels are provided by the resort (one per person) and can be swapped out for a fresh, clean, dry new towel at the main desk any time! This may sound like a small thing to offer, but we used it more than I ever expected.
    • Variety of room options – 
    • Spa services – While (unfortunately) we didn’t have the chance to use their services, there is a full-service spa on-site at the resort. They offer a complete menu of services and use all locally sourced organic products. You can even choose to have your manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage done in your room or on your balcony! This would be such a fun option for a mother-daughter bonding activity if you have teen/tween girls. 
    • Other on-site activities – There’s more to do on-site than just the pool. There’s a life-size outdoor chess board and tabletop tennis. There are outdoor barbecues and buffets set up around the pool. Water aerobics and yoga. I was really surprised by how much there was to do there, without the “big resort” feel. 
    • Resort restaurant – While there are plenty of amazing dining options on the island, it was really nice to have a restaurant on-site for times when we didn’t feel like cooking or going off-site to eat. The food was really good, and the menu had lots of options that the kids and the adults liked. You can eat poolside, at the Copacabana restaurant, or have food delivered to your room. They even cooked the fish we caught from our fishing trip for dinner for us one night! 
    • Safety – When traveling with kids, safety is always a concern. We felt incredibly safe at the resort (and everywhere we went on the island). There was always staff around, gated security off the main road, and the resort was well-lit at night. 

    Coco Beach pool at nightrental bicycles lined up at Coco Beach Resort in Belize

    Exclusive discount – Coco Beach Resort

    If you’re interested in staying at Coco Beach Resort, they’re offering our readers (that’s YOU) an exclusive 40% discount from now through August 2024! Click this link and use the code RUNWILDMYCHILD.

    This is your chance to create lasting family memories without breaking the bank. With this fantastic deal, you can take advantage of everything Coco Beach Resort has to offer, from its family-friendly amenities to its convenient location. Imagine spending your days snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or simply relaxing at the pool with a drink in hand while your kids play.

    kid going down the water slide at Coco Beach Resort - Ambergris Caye Belizekids in the back of a golf cart exploring ambergris caye and san pedro town

    Getting around on Ambergris Caye and San Pedro Town

    Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, and San Pedro is the only town on the island. San Pedro is a bustling small town filled with restaurants, shops, homes, and businesses. Getting around on Ambergris Caye is part of the adventure, especially when you realize that golf carts are the primary mode of transportation. They’re such a fun and easy way to explore the island, and kids absolutely love golf cart rides.

    Renting a golf cart is easy, with many rental agencies in San Pedro town offering hourly or daily rates. Our resort offered complimentary golf carts on a first-come first-served basis, or you could rent one by the day/week to make sure you had one (that’s what we did). You drive on the right side of the road (just like the US). Just watch out for potholes, speed bumps, and the occasional crocodile crossing! (Yes, you read that right.)

    exploring ambergris island in belize with kid - child with net on beach with seagrass

    child snorkeling underwater coral reef belize

    What to do on Ambergris Caye: family-friendly activities

    Snorkeling – Hol Can Marine Reserve

    If your family enjoys snorkeling, this is the place to go! Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the most popular things to do in Ambergris Caye, and for a good reason…it’s amazing!

    Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located just a few miles off the southeast coast of Ambergris Caye in a protected 3-mile area. It’s a quick boat ride, and most tours combine a visit with Shark Ray Alley (see below). Outside of Hawaii and Australia, this is one of the best places to snorkel in the world. The water is shallow and crystal clear along the barrier reef and you’re guaranteed to see a wide variety of sea life.

    You have to go with a guide service – we used Amigos del Mar, and our guides were fantastic! They were so friendly, knowledgeable, accommodating, hilarious, and great with kids. We combined our snorkeling trip with a day on the water, exploring Caye Caulker and the surrounding area. They picked us up from our resort’s dock in the morning, outfitted us with the right gear, and made sure we had everything we needed for a full day of adventure. As the mom who’s always packing the stuff and planning the adventures, it was so nice to be taken care of and have guides that were great with the kids and made sure everyone had fun. Amigos del Mar also offers a variety of other snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving excursions. I highly recommend them if you’re snorkeling with kids.

    At Hol Chan, we checked in at the preserve, got wristbands, and learned the rules for snorkeling. We got fitted up with our gear and jumped in the most gorgeous water. As we snorkeled, we saw turtles, eels, sharks, rays, barracuda, lobster, and so many colorful fish. It felt like swimming through an aquarium! This was the first time snorkeling for my kids and they did great! My littlest guy (age 5) stayed with our guide, using a lifejacket for support. The guide was wonderful with him, showing him exactly what to do and pointing out all the fish. The big kids were blown away by how amazing the snorkeling experience was! We’re still talking about it daily, months later! 

    swimming underwater at Shark Ray Alley Belize

    Swim with sharks – Shark Ray Alley

    Our next stop was Shark Ray Alley. As you might expect, this is the place to swim with sharks and stingrays. Our boat pulled up, and we had the option to jump in the water or stay on the boat to watch from a safe distance. We all chose to jump into the shark-infested waters, and it was incredible!

    Underwater, we got up close and personal with some giant nurse sharks. They brushed up against us and came inches from our faces. It was a relatively quick stop, but absolutely amazing! I could have stayed here all day! My oldest son has always been interested in sharks and stingrays, so this place was a dream come true. Definitely a bucket list experience. 

    kids swimming in front of Sip N Dip restaurant and bar in Caye Caulker Belizecolorful shops on street in Caye Caulker Belize

    Island hopping – explore Caye Caulker

    The island of Caye Caulker is an ideal spot to explore with kids for a day trip or a few hours of fun. Known for its relaxed “go slow” attitude, Caye Caulker is easy to navigate on foot or by bike, laid-back, and fun! We only had a few hours to explore the island, but absolutely loved every minute of it.

    One of the highlights of Caye Caulker is “The Split,” a narrow channel that divides the island into two sections. This split was made when a powerful hurricane ripped through the area, dividing the island in two. Now, it’s a popular spot that’s great for families to swim, snorkel, or just relax by the water. The shallow, clear blue waters are perfect for kids. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump off the raised platform into the water (we all loved this!) or rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the area.

    There are a few lively beach bars right here and we had lunch at a place called the Sip ‘N Dip, which was right on the water with swings and hammocks, so the kids could splash around and play while we waited for our food. The laid-back vibe, with reggae music playing in the background, the ocean access and the gentle breeze from the Caribbean, made this one of our favorite meals! After lunch, we explored the island’s quaint streets, with charming little shops selling handmade jewelry, local art, ice cream, and souvenirs.

    Right off the coast of Caye Caulker, you can feed the tarpon! There’s nothing quite like waving a sardine over the side of the boat while giant tarpon swim below, ready to leap into the air and grab the sardine from your extended arm! It’s such a rush! You can also head over to Stingray Beach, where you can spot seahorses in a protected area, and pet stingrays! These gentle giants love rubbing up against your legs and feet as you stand in the water with them! It was an incredible experience! 

    food tour belize with kids - san pedro ambergris cayered beans and rice - food tour belize

    Food tour

    One of my favorite ways to get to know any new destination we travel to is by doing a food tour! We absolutely loved our experience with Belize Food Tours. It’s a great option for families of all ages, as it gives you something to do for a while that everyone can do, and it feeds you!

    My two littlest kids (ages 5 and 9) joined me for the “Belizean Bites” lunch tour in San Pedro town. We had a small group (about 12 people with a few other families) and got to venture a bit off the beaten path to some absolutely amazing “mom-and-pop” kitchens in the area. During the tour, we made six stops (the whole thing took about 2.5 hours) and got to sample a wide variety of local favorites! 

    We got to choose our “bites” and beverages at each location, which the kids appreciated. All the food was local and delicious! From traditional rice and beans with chicken (my 9-year-old said this was the best meal of her life!) to seafood soup, from rum-cream to chocolate! This was such a fun and unique way to get to know/explore the local area, learn about the country’s history and culture, and, of course, discover some amazing food and restaurants! My kids tried (and loved) foods they never would have ordered off the menu, which was a nice surprise. We loved a few of them so much we went back for dinner with the whole family! 

    kids outside chocolate boutique in San Pedro belize child holding cocoa pod during chocolate class belize child pressing chocolate during class belize

    Chocolate class 

    If you’ve ever wanted to learn how chocolate is made, definitely take the Chocolate Class at Belize Chocolate Company in San Pedro. Chocolate Class is held on weekdays at 10:30 am. Groups are kept small so that you can really get the full experience, ask a million questions (it’s super interesting) and taste chocolate at each stage of the process. The class is held outside on the back patio, overlooking the beach, with a lovely breeze!

    The class goes through the entire chocolate making process, starting with the cacao, which is picked when ripe and fermented – it was slimy and tasted like a tropical fruit!  Next, the beans are separated and roasted. The shell rubs off (and can be blown away), leaving you the “nibs,” which are ground down with a stone. They one they were using ancient Mayan (THOUSANDS of years old) and made from an unknown volcanic material. At this point, the taste is very intense and bitter. The Mayans combined this with water and spices to make a drink, which we also got to try. And then we added some sugar to make a delicious ground chocolate paste. 

    I love that the kids had a chance to be involved in the process and got to take their turn at grinding down the beans. Tasting the product along the way made us so appreciative of all the work that goes into this process. At the end of the class, we got to taste the final product – dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate! All were delicious! 

    kids at Secret Beach sign Ambergris Caye Belize secret beach water park - inflatable ninja obstacle course for kids

    Secret Beach

    Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye is anything but a secret! This fun hot spot is tucked away on the west side of Ambergris Caye, offering stunning views, clear blue waters, tons of beachside food and drink options, a floating obstacle course, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families.

    Getting to Secret Beach is an adventure in itself, as it involves a golf cart ride through the island’s sandy roads and tropical landscapes. From San Pedro town, it’s about a 45-minute ride, but the journey is part of the fun, especially when you’re exploring with kids who will enjoy the bumpy ride and the scenic surroundings.

    The shallow, calm waters are ideal for swimming and wading, making it a safe spot for younger children to splash around. It’s location on the West side of the island means that there are no waves and it’s protected from the strong winds that came in from the sea. There is no reef on this side but there are crystal clear waters with stunning craggy limestone shores and sandy bottoms. The water is still and relatively shallow. You have to walk a good way out to get above your waist in some areas.

    Grab a table in the water or a beach chair on the sand and soak up the sun while sipping on a refreshing coconut drink. Let the kids live out their American Ninja Warrior dreams at the Secret Beach Waterpark—a floating monstrosity that my kids loved. The place can get really crowded, but there’s room to explore and spread out if you look around.

    kid holding a fish - fishing ambergris caye belize father and son holding barracuda - fishing belize

    Fishing

    If your kids have any interest in fishing (like mine!), Belize is paradise! Fishing with kids in Ambergris Caye is an unforgettable experience. The island is renowned for its world-class fishing, with a variety of options suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re into fly-fishing, reef fishing, or deep-sea fishing, there’s something here for everyone.

    I recommend chartering a fishing guide to get you started. Most guide services offer full-day or half-day options. Guides are incredibly knowledgably about where to go, helpful with hooks and handling fish, and great with kids, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience. If you don’t have much fishing experience, guides will help teach your kids the basics of fishing, like casting and reeling, and share their knowledge about the local marine life, keeping everyone entertained during the trip.

    The most common fish to catch are snapper, grouper, and barracuda. If you’re into fly fishing, you can also fish for tarpon, bonefish, and the elusive permit! My husband and son spent two days on the water with a guide from Tres Pescados Fly Shop and caught enough fish for our family to eat for dinner! The restaurant at our resort prepared the fish for us, and it was amazing!

    kids at the San Pedro sign in Belize San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize

    Exploring San Pedro

    San Pedro town with kids is a delightful experience, as it’s a lively, yet manageable place to explore. The town is filled with colorful buildings, friendly locals, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Take your time to explore Front Street and Pescador Drive, where you can find everything from artisanal crafts to delicious ice cream. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Belizean Arts Gallery for some local artwork or to stroll along the beach to find a spot for lunch. kids standing in front of cave in Belize

    What to do on the mainland of Belize – family-friendly activities

    One of the best things about staying on Ambergris Caye is that you’re not limited to staying on the island and you don’t have to spend a lot of time traveling between ecosystems! The mainland (and all the adventures to be had there) is only a short flight or boat ride away from Ambergris Caye. Many mainland excursions can be done in a day (and you can pack multiple stops into one trip over), making it easy to explore the whole country, from the beach! We booked our mainland excursion through our resort with Tuff-E-Nuff Tours. Our guide was fantastic – he was incredibly knowledgeable, great with the kids, a wonderful storyteller, took great care of us, and made the whole experience amazing.

    Family standing in front of Altun Ha ancient mayan ruins in Belizeexploring the ancient Mayan ruins Altun Ha with kids

    Mayan ruins

    If you’re in Belize, exploring the ancient Mayan ruins is a “must do” activity. Exploring any one of these incredible sites is like stepping into a real-life history lesson, filled with mystery, culture, and adventure.

    Belize is home to some of Central America’s most significant Mayan archaeological sites, offering families a glimpse into the ancient civilization that once thrived here. The Mayans were renowned for their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture, and their legacy is preserved in the towering temples and intricate stone carvings found throughout the country. A visit to any of these ruins can spark curiosity and inspire young minds to learn about the rich history of the Mayan people, making it an educational and engaging experience for kids.

    Which ancient Mayan ruin should you visit?

    Among the most accessible and family-friendly ruins in Belize is Xunantunich, located near the town of San Ignacio. To reach the site, you take a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River, which is always a hit with kids. Xunantunich is known for its impressive El Castillo temple, standing over 130 feet tall and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and Guatemala’s border. Climbing to the top is a rewarding experience, and there’s plenty of open space for kids to explore safely. My husband and I visited this ruin back in 2009 when we were there for our honeymoon. It’s incredible. 

    Another excellent site for families is Altun Ha, situated closer to Belize City (this is the ruin pictured on the Belikin beer bottle). Altun Ha is smaller in scale but has beautifully restored structures and is easy to navigate with younger children. The site’s central location makes it an ideal day trip for families staying in Belize City or on the nearby islands, and a trip here can be combined with other fun mainland activities (that’s what we did!). 

    For any history buffs who want a more immersive experience, consider visiting Caracol, the largest Mayan site in Belize, located deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. Caracol’s vast expanse and towering structures, like the Caana pyramid, offer a sense of the Mayan civilization’s grandeur and influence. The journey to Caracol is a bit longer, but the scenery along the way is stunning, and the site itself is worth the trip.

    tapir and bird eating in Belize Zookids looking at tapir at Belize Zoo

    Belize Zoo

    The Belize Zoo, located about 29 miles west of Belize City, is a must-visit destination for families with little kids. Established in 1983, the zoo began as a rescue center for wild animals that had been used in a documentary film about tropical forests. What started as a small collection of animals soon transformed into a full-fledged zoo dedicated to conservation and education.

    The Belize Zoo prides itself on providing a naturalistic environment for native wildlife, and it has become a sanctuary for over 175 animals representing more than 45 species, all native to Belize. Its unique setting in a tropical savannah makes it an immersive experience, allowing visitors to see jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, and a variety of birds in their natural habitats.

    My kids loved the tapirs, howler monkeys, otters, birds, and jaguars. It’s crazy to me how different the wildlife is here, which was such a short plane ride away! Our guide so great at calling to the animals and getting them to interact with us, which was such a fun surprise. There are a ton of great educational signs (and funny poetry), as well as a great café where we had lunch.

    family ready to go cave tubing in Belizekids cave tubing in Belize

    Cave tubing

    One of the most unique and incredible experiences you can do in Belize is cave tubing! Did you know that Belize is known for its extensive network of limestone caves, many of which were sacred sites for the ancient Maya? The ancient Maya believed the limestone caves of Belize were entrances to Xibalba, their ancient underworld, and were used as ceremonial sites. 

    Cave tubing in Belize combines adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of mysticism. It’s a family-friendly activity that involves floating through underground caves on large inflatable tubes, allowing you to explore the stunning cave systems carved out by ancient rivers. Our cave tubing experience started with a short hike through the jungle, which added an extra layer of excitement for kids. Our guide pointed out various plants and animals on the hike, including giant anthills and allspice trees.

    Once we reached the river and the entrance to the cave, we loaded up in our tubes (all tied together) and floated into the mouth of the cave. We were surrounded by limestone rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The gentle flow of the river makes it safe for kids, and the guides provide helmets with headlamps, so everyone can see the captivating scenery within the caves. There were a few places where we all turned out our lights and the darkness was crazy cool!

    Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and shoes for hiking and crossing rivers. Bring a waterproof bag for phones or anything else you don’t want to get wet. There is a minimum height requirement for the cave tubing (40 inches), but my kindergartner (5 years old) was tall enough.

    cave tubing family belize

    7-day family-friendly Belize itinerary (from Ambergris Caye)

    Day 1

    • Arrive in Belize City
    • Travel (via Maya Air) to San Pedro
    • Shuttle from airport to Coco Beach Resort
    • Unpack, swim in the pool, grab a drink and snack at the bar, explore the resort property 
    • Hop on a golf cart
    • Dinner at The Truck Stop

    Day 2

    • Full-day Caye Caulker tour with snorkeling through Amigos del Mar (can be booked  through the resort)
      • Boat pick-up from your dock
      • Pit stop at Amigos del Mar shop to sign waivers and get equipment
      • Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve
      • Swim with the sharks at Shark Ray Alley
      • Look for manatees
      • Explore Caye Caulker (grab lunch at the Sip ‘N Dip)
      • Feed the tarpon
      • Pet the stingrays/see the seahorses
      • Boat ride back to resort
    • Relax poolside and have dinner at Coco Beach Resort

    Day 3

    • Golf cart ride into San Pedro
    • Belize Food Tour in San Pedro town for lunch (can be booked  through the resort)
    • Explore/shop in San Pedro
    • Check out the Iguana Eco-Sanctuary
    • Back to Coco Beach for pool time, hammock time, spa services
    • Evening fishing from the beach/dock
    • Dinner at Aji’s Tapas Bar (the kids will love the bathroom!)

    Day 4 

    • Mainland excursion with Tuff-E-Nuff Tours (can be booked  through the resort)
      • Boat pickup from your resort dock
      • Short walk to the airport in San Pedro
      • Flight to Belize City and meet your tour guide
      • Head to Altun Ha ancient Mayan ruins
      • Belize Zoo (have lunch here)
      • Cave Tubing 
      • Flight back to San Pedro and return to resort
    • Dinner at Tipsy Lobster (ask to see the crocodiles!)

    Day 5

    • Fishing with a guide (full-day or half-day)
      • We recommend guides from Tres Pescados or El Pescador 
      • Boat pick up from resort dock
      • Spend a few hours on the water catching fish
      • Return to the dock and clean the fish with your guide
    • Fresh-caught dinner at the resort 
      • The resort restaurant will cook your catch for you! Eat at the restaurant or have dinner delivered to your room and relax.

    Day 6 

    • Breakfast at Etels’s Dine by the Sea
    • Chocolate class at Belize Chocolate Company
    • Golf cart ride to Secret Beach
      • Spend a few hours swimming and playing at Secret Beach (about a 25-minute golf cart ride from the resort)
      • Let the kids try the inflatable ninja course at the Secret Beach Waterpark
    • Dinner at Blue Water Grill in San Pedro

    Day 7 

    • Breakfast burritos from Sol Cafe (across the street from resort)
    • Pack up while the kids swim at the resort pool
    • Shuttle to airport in San Pedro
    • Flight to Belize City (Maya Air)
    • Flight home (look through your photos and marvel at what an adventure you just had!)

    Mother daughter snorkeling underwater Belize

    Belize FAQs & things to note

    What is the best time of year to visit Belize with kids?

    Is there ever a bad time for adventure?! No! Anytime is a great time to visit Belize, and it depends on what you want to do and where you stay.

    The dry season runs from late November to mid-April. This period is characterized by warm, pleasant weather, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins. During this time, you can expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, perfect for beach outings, jungle adventures, and other family-friendly activities. We’ve been both in December (over Christmas break) and March (over Spring break). However, summer is also a great time to visit. Since this is considered off-peak travel season, you won’t have to deal with the crowds and can take advantage of lower prices. 

    kids standing in front of colorful painted toucan and butterfly mural in San Pedro Belize

    Is Belize safe for families?

    Belize is generally very safe for families, with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that attracts tourists from around the world. The country’s tourism industry is well-established, and many popular destinations are specifically designed to cater to families, offering safe activities and amenities for children. We felt very safe everywhere we traveled in Belize.

    However, like any travel destination, you’ll want to take common-sense precautions to ensure your family’s safety. Stick to well-known areas and reputable tour operators, especially when exploring remote locations like the jungle or ancient Mayan ruins. In larger cities like Belize City, be mindful of your surroundings and follow local advice on safe areas to visit. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and the various Mayan ruin sites are generally considered safe and welcoming for families.

    Can you drink the water in Belize?

    It’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Belize, especially for visitors who aren’t accustomed to it. To avoid any risk of illness or upset stomach, it’s best to stick to bottled water or filtered water. Most hotels, resorts, and restaurants in Belize provide bottled or filtered water for guests, so you won’t have trouble finding safe drinking water. When you’re out exploring or participating in activities, bring bottled water to stay hydrated. 

    kids walking in the water next to the beach on ambergris caye

    Are there good beaches in Belize?

    One thing to note about Belize is its lack of pristine, sandy white beaches. Beaches in Belize are different, but don’t let this turn you off. Because Belize is protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, there’s less wave action, resulting in calm, shallow waters. While this is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, the reef’s presence also means that the beaches can have seagrass and other marine vegetation, which may not be as visually appealing to some visitors (although, it makes for great fishing!). On Ambergris Caye, there are designated swimming locations with more of a beach feel, or you can swim off-shore a bit from some of the boat docks. 

    exclusive discount for Coco Beach Resort - Best Family Resort in Belize - Ambergris Caye

    Plan your trip to Belize with kids – exclusive offer

    If you’re dreaming of a family vacation that combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, then it’s time to book a trip to Belize and experience the magic of Coco Beach Resort. Coco Beach is a paradise for families, offering luxurious accommodations, all the amenities you could want, and endless activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re exploring the nearby Belize Barrier Reef, taking a leisurely ride on a golf cart to Secret Beach, or just lounging by one of the resort’s two massive swimming pools with water slides, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

    And now, we’re thrilled to offer our readers an exclusive 40% discount on trips booked through the end of August! Just use the code RUNWILDMYCHILD when you book through this link.

    But hurry, this special offer won’t last long! Don’t miss out on the ultimate Belizean family getaway—book your stay at Coco Beach Resort now and take advantage of this incredible discount! Your dream vacation awaits, and you won’t want to miss it.

    I heart Belize neon sign - Blue Fin Grill Ambergris Caye

    Is exploring Belize with kids on your bucket list? 
    What are you waiting for?! 

    About the author

    Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child, a resource website, online community, and podcast, all about connecting families through outdoor activities and adventures. Run Wild My Child offers busy parents helpful content about outdoor activities, nature crafts, kid-friendly travel, gear recommendations, parenting advice, and more. Sara’s a mom of 3, a wife, and a former corporate securities lawyer turned writer. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She’s passionate about reading, photography, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    UK Travel: Best Beaches for Kids in Southern England

    The changeable British weather and dramatically rugged UK coastline may not instantly invoke visions of family-friendly beach days. However, Southern England is a treasure trove of beautiful beaches that offer the perfect escape for families seeking sun, sea, surf, and sand. Whether you’re a local looking for a day of relaxation or a visitor eager to explore the stunning shores of the region, you’re in for a treat! Today, travel blogger and UK mom of two, Aimee Keeble will be our guide and show us around the best beaches for kids in Southern England. This post will point you in the right direction for some epic beach adventures! Each recommendation is a tried and tested favourite along the south coast from Dorset to Kent (we will need another list to cover Devon and Cornwall!). 

    Best beaches for kids in Southern England - Family playing on UK Bournemouth beach

    Top tips for a great British beach experience

    From building sandcastles and splashing in the gentle waves to exploring rock pools teeming with fascinating marine life, the beaches of Southern UK are not only safe and welcoming for children but also provide parents with a well-deserved break. To make your trip even more enjoyable, here are some practical tips for visiting these delightful destinations. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, our guide will ensure you make the most of your time on these magnificent shores. 

    Check the weather and prepare accordingly

    British weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to check the weather forecast before heading to the beach.  Prepare for four seasons in a day. Pack accordingly with sunscreen and hats for sunny days, and raincoats and extra layers for cooler, wetter days. Be sure to pack waterproofs and wellies alongside the sun cream and swimmers.

    If you’re planning to spend a few hours at the beach, take a windbreak, parasol, and picnic blankets for comfort. It’s rare to find beaches with loungers (beach chairs) or parasols.

    Food and water

    On the way to the beach, pick up a local bite to eat, especially fish and chips or a sweet treat of ice cream or donuts. Bring a cooler with sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water. Having a beach picnic is not only convenient but also a fun family activity. Don’t forget to check if the beach has designated picnic areas or restrictions on bringing food. And when eating at the beach, be sure to keep a watch for diving seagulls who will steal your snacks!

    Swim safely

    Always supervise children when they’re in the water. Familiarize yourself with the beach’s specific safety guidelines, including any flags or signs indicating water conditions and potential hazards. Life jackets are always recommended when kids are swimming in the water. See our full post on beach safety tips for parents. 

    Sun and sand

    Protect your family from the sun’s rays by applying sunscreen regularly, and wearing hats, sunglasses, and rashguards. Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day to avoid sunburn. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain to reach the beach can be uneven and rocky. 

    Child on beach at Mudeford Sandbank, UK - Best beaches for kids in Southern England

    Best beaches for kids in Southern England

    1. Mudeford Sandbank, Dorset

    Best for: White powder-soft sand and picturesque beach huts. Perfect for family strolls and building sandcastles 

    Our favourite beach for kids in Southern England has to be Mudeford Sandbank. Here you will find lengthy stretches of powder-soft white sand, lined with quaint blue and white beach huts.

    There are two ways to reach the sandbank, either by parking at Hengistbury Head Car Park and walking 1 mile through the beautiful nature reserve, or by parking at Mudeford Quay and hopping on the short ferry. There are toilets and cafe’s available at regular intervals. Nearby Mudeford Quay is a small working dock that hosts extensive crab colonies and is a popular crabbing spot for kids. Great to visit all year round, but Spring and Autumn are best for avoiding the crowds.

    A short drive away, you will also find the sweeping golden sands of Bournemouth Beach, which hosts plenty of beachfront parking and endless sandcastle-building opportunities.

    Birling Gap beach - best family-friendly beaches in Southern UK

    2. Birling Gap, East Sussex

    Best for: Stacking giant pebbles and skimming stones

    With iconic white cliffs as far as the eye can see, Birling Gap Beach is a lesser-known gem of England’s south coast. Large grey pebbles and chunks of limestone provide endless building, stacking, and skimming opportunities to keep the children entertained for hours.

    The beach is managed by the National Trust, which provides the car park, toilets, and café facilities at the top of the cliff. This location is not easily accessible, with a steep metal staircase down the cliffside and uneven terrain along the beach. Stay safe here by keeping 5m from the cliff edge and monitoring the tides.

    Fossil hunting on Charmouth Beach UK - best beaches for kids and families in Southern UK

    3. Charmouth Beach, Dorset

    Best for: Fossil hunting

    Explore the pre-historic rocky bay of Charmouth Beach in Dorset, and you may discover some Jurassic treasures of your own! The East beach here is a great place to start your search, and there are regular guided fossil hunting walks you can join.

    Our little dinosaur fans become enthralled by the search for fossils, splitting large rocks open to expose ammonites inside. Here you will also find a discovery centre, car park, toilets and cafes.

    A short drive away along the Jurassic coast, you will also find Lyme Regis Beach, which is another treasure trove of fossils. The best time of year for fossil hunting is Winter, but you can find items year round.

    Children playing on the beach as West Wittering

    4. West Wittering Beach, West Sussex

    Best for: Paddling and tidepooling

    As the tide recedes, shallow lagoons and sandbanks emerge along the lengthy West Wittering Beach. These knee-high pools are perfect for young children to safely play in the sea without the large waves, which are usually common along the south coast.

    The sand here is perfect for sandcastle building. there’s ample parking, toilets, small shops and cafes. It can get very busy during the summer months, so it is best to visit outside of high summer.

    Child playing on sand dunes at Camber Sands beach, UK - best Southern England Beaches for Kids

    5. Camber Sands, East Sussex

    Best for: Endless sand dunes 

    Located near the border with Kent, Camber Sands is a popular beach along the south coast of England, as it is one of the few sandy stretches in the area. Five miles of sandy shores lined with undulating sand dunes make it a perfect spot for children to run wild.

    The shoreline is very flat, which makes this beach great for a paddle too. There are two car parks available and plenty of toilet and cafe options to choose from. This beach gets particularly windy and can be busy in the summer months. 

    Family on Bournemouth Beach, UK - Best beaches for kids in Southern England

    Other beaches to consider:

    Narrowing our list down to our favourite five beaches for kids in Southern England was difficult, so here are a few of our notable runner-up beaches:

    • Chesil Beach, Dorset – A pebble beach 18 miles long near Weymouth
    • Brighton and Worthing Beaches, East Sussex – A taste of the British seaside experience with penny arcades, swooping seagulls and fish and chips. 
    • Durdle Door, Dorset – A beach of tiny tactile stones and views of the iconic Durdle Door archway.
    • Margate, Kent – Another seaside experience with one of Britain’s oldest amusement parks.  

    Explore more family-friendly places with us…

    What’s your favourite Southern England beach?

    About the author

    Aimee is a humanitarian worker and photographer based in the UK. As a mum to two young boys, she spends much of her time outdoors in nature and enjoys traveling with her family. Aimee loves to support other families to explore with young children by sharing tips and inspiration.

    You can find more from Aimee online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @how_i_wander_uk
    Website: How I Wander

  • BEACH, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, WATER

    Beach Safety Tips for Parents

    Ah, the beach! A perfect spot for fun and relaxation. But going to the beach as a parent is a completely different experience than it was in those pre-child days. The days of bringing just a towel, sunscreen, and a book are over. While going to the beach with kids is definitely more work, it can also make for some of the best memories. As parents, we need to ensure our little beach bums stay safe and sound. No worries! Today, California mom Wendy Cox is here with some awesome beach safety tips that will make your family vacation a blast and worry-free. Follow these beach safety tips for parents and enjoy your seaside day.

    Research your beach

    Before your beach day, start by doing a little detective work to find the perfect spot for your family adventure. Consider beaches that offer a kid-friendly environment with amenities that cater to families.  Check if the beach has lifeguards on duty. Having trained professionals watching over the water can provide peace of mind. Seek out beaches that offer convenient amenities for families with children: restrooms, showers, changing facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, parks, etc. 

    Also, consider the beach’s popularity and its typical crowd size.  Is the beach usually crowded or more secluded? Will there be other kids there for your kids to play with? Or would you rather have more space to spread out? 

    Look for amenities that enhance your family’s comfort and convenience, such as rental chairs or beach umbrellas. Is there easy access to parking? How far is the parking lot from the beach? Are there nearby shops or restaurants for grabbing snacks, ice cream, or refreshing drinks?

    Don’t forget to check out reviews and recommendations from other families who have visited the beach. Online travel forums, family-oriented websites, or social media groups can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences. Pay attention to positive feedback about cleanliness, safety, and the overall family-friendliness of the beach.

    beach safety tips for parents

    Arrive at the beach early

    I’ve spent 13 summers at the beaches of Southern California, and to say beaches can get crowded is an understatement. It seems like the whole world is at the beach in the summer. Where we go, the parking situation is crazy, so I always attempt to get to the beach by 9 in the morning from June through August. It’s much easier to find a close parking spot during those morning hours. Because my husband is usually at work, I take all four of my kids by myself. That close parking spot makes all the difference when you have an arm (or wagon) full of towels, chairs, snacks, boogie boards, skim boards, sunscreen, umbrellas, sand toys, and the list could go on. 

    Another reason I like to get to the beach early is so that you can stake a claim on your space. There are fewer people at the beach in the morning, so you will have enough room to lay out all of your towels and toys and not feel like you’re crowding someone else. I like to be fairly close to the shore so I can still see my kids in the water without leaving my chair. I call that thinking smarter, not harder.

    Water, water, water!

    Chances are, if you’re spending a day at the beach, it’s a warm, sunny day. And spending all day building sandcastles can be thirsty and hungry work. It might mean a few extra pounds to carry or pull in the wagon, but you’ll want to bring lots of water! Your kids are going to get thirsty, and you’ll get thirsty. Pack a cooler filled with refreshing water and yummy, healthy snacks like juicy fruits (extra hydration) and energy bars. Remind the kiddos to take sips, even if they don’t feel parched.

    I also bring extra water in case we need to rinse anything off without it getting salty. I’ve been guilty of not bringing enough water, and we’ve had to cut some beach days short because we ran out of water. The fussiness that ensued was more than I could bear, so we left. Don’t let that happen to you!

    Take a photo and make a plan if you get separated

    You surely have thousands of pictures of your kids on your phone, but when you get to the beach, snap a quick photo of your kids in their swimsuits so you know what they’re wearing. This is a safety precaution that will be extremely helpful if you have a child that wanders off or gets lost. You will have something to easily refer back to the photo, just in case.

    It’s also a good idea to talk to your kids about how they can find you. Maybe you have a rainbow-colored umbrella, or a blue shade tent, or a yellow beach chair. Talk about these items so your kids know what to look for if they go refill a bucket with ocean water and need to make their way back.

    And speaking of having a photo on your phone, I also recommend bringing a bag or sleeve to carry your phone in. Even a simple plastic sandwich bag works great to keep the sand out of your phone when it’s in a bag or the cup holder of your beach chair.

    best tried and tested tips for parents when taking the kids to the beach

    Stay near a lifeguard

    I recently spoke with two local lifeguards and asked them for their best beach safety tips. Both lifeguards said that parents should stay near a lifeguard tower. This is especially true if you aren’t familiar with the beach or if your kids aren’t used to the ocean. It will be easier to get a spot near the lifeguard tower if you arrive at the beach early.

    Lifeguards are highly trained professionals who are experienced in identifying and responding to water-related emergencies. They are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle various situations swiftly and effectively. By setting up near a lifeguard tower, parents can rest assured that help will be readily available in case of an emergency.

    Lifeguards have a panoramic view of the beach and water from their elevated tower positions. They maintain constant surveillance over the area, actively scanning the water for any signs of distress or potential hazards. It’s easy for parents to get caught up in the excitement of beach activities and momentarily lose sight of their children. Lifeguards act as an additional set of vigilant eyes, keeping a watchful eye on all beachgoers, including children. They can help locate lost or wandering children and reunite them with their families quickly.

    Lifeguards are not only there for emergencies but also to provide important water safety education. Lifeguards are ready and willing to help you. When you get to the beach, feel free to walk up to a lifeguard and ask a few questions. You might want to ask them their best beach safety tips, or anything that might be helpful for that specific beach on that day. Tides, currents, wave height, and break are all important facts that the lifeguard will know. Sometimes they will also have a whiteboard listing the water temperature, tide times, and the sunrise/sunset. 

    Ultimately, setting up near a lifeguard tower provides parents with peace of mind. Knowing that trained professionals are nearby, ready to respond in case of an emergency, alleviates anxiety and allows parents to relax and enjoy their time at the beach with their children. It adds an extra layer of safety and reassurance, making the beach experience more enjoyable for everyone.

    Water safety for non-swimmers

    If you are at the beach with little kids who can’t yet swim or aren’t strong swimmers, ensuring their safety becomes a top priority. Always keep a close eye on children who can’t swim or are weak swimmers. Stay close to them at all times, especially when they are in or near the water. This way, you can quickly provide assistance if needed. Opt for beaches with shallow water and gentle waves, as these areas are more suitable.

    And have your child wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when near or in the water. Ensure the device is appropriate for your child’s size and weight. Remember, inflatable toys or water wings are not substitutes for a life jacket and should not be relied upon for safety.

    why you should set up near a lifeguard at the beach with kids

    Watch the waves

    The entirety of my childhood existed within an hour of the Pacific Ocean. One of the phrases I heard so many times was, “Never turn your back on the ocean.” My mom told me this to emphasize the importance of watching and paying attention to the waves. By encouraging children to watch the waves, parents instill a sense of respect for the ocean’s power and unpredictable nature. Understanding the force of waves fosters a healthy appreciation for the water and reinforces the importance of caution and responsible behavior while enjoying beach activities.

    As an adult, the waves might not seem scary. But, to a child who is just a few feet off the ground, the waves can seem dangerous (and very large). Waves are a dynamic force of nature that can be powerful and unpredictable. By reminding children to watch the waves, parents help them develop a sense of wave awareness and understand their behavior. This awareness allows children to anticipate and react to waves appropriately, reducing the risk of being caught off guard or knocked over. By teaching your child to always pay attention to the waves, they will begin to feel more comfortable. 

    Waves have a pattern. Their rhythmic crashing can be soothing, but they are also very powerful and unpredictable. Waves can sometimes catch beachgoers, especially children, by surprise. Encouraging children to keep an eye on the waves helps them stay mindful of their surroundings and potential wave activity. This awareness enables them to adjust their position on the beach accordingly, moving to safer areas or stepping back when necessary.

    With younger children, start in the water with them. Jump over the waves together. Being in the water with them will show them how fun it can be and will help them feel how the water can push and pull them. Having your hand to hold will be a reassurance, and if they get knocked down, you’ll be right there to pick them up. 

    If you have a daring child that likes to push their limits, I recommend giving them a guideline of how far to go. You might want to start with staying at or below the knees. As their abilities increase, you can let them go in up to their waist and then beyond.

    beach safety tips for parents - how to keep your kids safe at the beach

    Pay attention to the flags

    You might notice some flags on the beach – these are very important signals and should be paid attention to closely to ensure safety and understand the current conditions. These flags serve as visual indicators that communicate important information to beachgoers. Flags provide a standardized system for conveying information about the conditions and potential hazards/risks at the beach. They serve as a clear and easily recognizable visual language that beach visitors can understand and follow.

    Now, let’s explore some commonly used beach flags and their meanings (please note that flag systems may vary between beaches and countries):

    Green flag:

    • A green flag typically signifies calm conditions, indicating that it’s safe to swim and enjoy the water.
    • It suggests that there are no significant hazards, such as strong currents or rough surf, present at that time.

    Yellow flag:

    • A yellow flag indicates moderate surf conditions and potential hazards.
    • It advises caution to swimmers, as there may be mild to moderate currents or waves that require increased awareness and swimming ability.

    Red flag:

    • A red flag represents hazardous conditions, such as strong currents, large waves, or rough surf.
    • It serves as a warning that swimming in the water is not recommended. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should avoid entering the water altogether.

    Purple Flag:

    • A purple flag is used to warn beachgoers of the presence of potentially dangerous marine life.
    • It suggests that there may be jellyfish, sharks, or other marine creatures in the area, requiring increased vigilance and caution.

    Checkered flag:

    • A checkered flag usually indicates that the area is designated for water sports, such as surfing or kayaking, and is not intended for swimming.
    • It signals that there may be specific activities (surfing only) or hazards in that particular section of the beach. When your kids are comfortable enough in the water to boogie board, skim board, swim, or surf, they will need to pay attention to the checkered flag. They will definitely not want to get in the way of the surfers! The checkered flags will show you how to stay safe by keeping you in the right area. 

    Familiarize yourself with the specific flag system used at the beach you’re visiting and pay attention to any accompanying signage or instructions provided by lifeguards. By being attentive to the flags at the beach, you can stay informed about the current conditions and potential hazards, allowing you to make informed decisions about entering the water and ensuring the safety of yourself and your family.

    beach safety and what the flags meancheckered flag at the beach means surfing - beach safety tips for parents

    Learn the stingray shuffle

    Part of what I love about the ocean is that it’s full of life. There are sand crabs to dig for, fish swimming around, floating kelp forests, and seaweed washing onto the shore. I’ve even seen pods of dolphins jumping out of the water at some of our San Diego beaches and seals and sea lions sunbathing on the sand. Most of the time, the sea life is harmless, but one you’ll want to beware of is the stingray. 

    Stingrays are commonly found in coastal areas with sandy bottoms. They typically bury themselves in the sand, making them difficult to spot. Accidentally stepping on a stingray can result in a painful sting from their barbed tail. Stingrays are usually docile creatures and sting as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened. 

    I’ve spent a lot of time in the ocean and have never encountered a stingray, but I do know people who have been stung. The treatment is to submerge the sting in hot water, which lifeguards can provide. The “stingray shuffle” is a technique used to prevent accidental encounters with stingrays, particularly in shallow coastal waters. It involves shuffling your feet along the sandy bottom instead of taking regular steps. The vibrations and movement created by the shuffle alert the stingrays to your presence, allowing them to swim away before contact is made.

    That’s all there is to the stingray shuffle! This one beach safety tip can save you a lot of unnecessary pain. 

    Raise your hand

    When you’re out in the ocean past where the waves are breaking, maybe waiting for the perfect wave to catch with your boogie board, know that you’re still visible to the lifeguards. If you notice yourself starting to get pulled by a rip current, or you just feel like you aren’t able to get back to shore, simply raise your hand. Raising your hand is a universal distress signal that alerts people on the beach, including lifeguards and other beachgoers, that you are in trouble and need assistance. By raising your hand, you attract attention and increase the likelihood of someone noticing your predicament.

    Get your hand as high above your head as you can get it, and wave until you see the lifeguard coming to help. Staying calm is key. By raising your hand, you conserve energy and avoid unnecessary swimming against the current, which can lead to fatigue and potentially worsen the situation. Instead, focus on staying afloat and signaling for help.

    Here is a video about how to avoid a rip current and how to successfully exit a rip current.

    beach safety tips for parents - keep kids safe at the beach

    Respect the ocean, but have fun!

    The ocean is my happy place. Swimming in the ocean makes me feel so incredibly free. While there are precautions that must be taken, spending time at the beach is extremely enjoyable. If you’re at the beach with other adults, I encourage you to ask them to take over, keeping an eye on the kids for a while, and alternate so you can take some time to get in the water yourself. Get your hair wet! Submerge yourself in the ocean, and just enjoy it! Feel the water ebb and flow. Bring a boogie board (more on boogie boarding with kids here) and catch a few waves. Riding on the power of the ocean is an unforgettable experience.

    When your children see you enjoying the ocean, it will make them more likely to do the same. Teach them to respect the ocean and its powerful waves and tides by respecting it and enjoying it yourself. 

    I wish I had the right words to describe how much I love the ocean. I can’t even pin down the exact reason why I feel so strongly about it. Maybe it’s the consistency of the tides, the strength of the waves, or the vastness of the waters. I’m not really sure, but I do know how I feel when I walk out of the ocean after a swim. I would describe it as walking on the clouds. I believe that the ocean is not to be feared but respected. 

    As you follow these beach safety tips, you will find what a beautiful experience going to the beach can be. I hope you make some wonderful memories with your children at the beach this summer and throughout your lives. 

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out-of-doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as the garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARK, PRINTABLES, SPRING, SUMMER, URBAN NATURE, WINTER

    Free Outdoor Scavenger Hunts for Kids

    As a mom to young children, I have always looked for quick and simple activities that keep my kids engaged, occupied, and moving. Scavenger hunts are an excellent activity for kids of all ages, are low-cost or even free, and include items you can already find in your home or backyard! Today, Lissy Perna, founder of Get Outside Cape Cod and mom of two, is sharing all kinds of fun ideas for free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids. Use our free downloadable printable scavenger hunts for your hunts, or feel free to use the suggestions or ideas to create your unique scavenger hunt!

    free outdoor scavenger hunt for kids

    Free outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

    We’ve put all the outdoor scavenger hunt ideas into one fun FREE printable bundle for you! Click the button below to download the entire bundle of 20+ free outdoor scavenger hunts! The free printable bundle includes the following scavenger hunts for kids:

    1. Alaphabet Scavenger Hunt
    2. Color Wheel Scavenger Hunt
    3. Beach Scavenger Hunt
    4. Hiking/Forest Scavenger Hunt
    5. Holiday Walk Scavenger Hunt
    6. Halloween Scavenger Hunt
    7. 4th of July Scavenger Hunt
    8. Sensory Scavenger Hunt
    9. Texture Scavenger Hunt
    10. Park/Playground Scavenger Hunt
    11. Spring Scavenger Hunt
    12. Summer Scavenger Hunt
    13. Fall Scavenger Hunt
    14. Winter Scavenger Hunt
    15. Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
    16. Creature/Critter Scavenger Hunt
    17. City Scavenger Hunt
    18. Farm Scavenger Hunt
    19. Creek Scavenger Hunt
    20. Camping Scavenger Hunt
    21. Road Trip Scavenger Hunt
    22. Indoor Scavenger Hunt (for days when you cant’ get outside)
    23. Zoo Scavenger Hunt

    [maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://mailchi.mp/d4b23c6dd031/4o2ulnyifs” text=”FREE SCAVENGER HUNT BUNDLE” ]

    Great activity for all ages

    Scavenger hunts are great for kids of any age. The great thing about scavenger hunts is that there are so many ways to make them adaptable, not only for kids of all ages, but for whatever location and adventure you want to have. Use the printables like traditional scavenger hunts for the little ones. Younger kids love the thrill of finding something on the list of items and checking it off. If you have older kids and want to take it up a notch, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt and let them take a picture of each item they find. Older kids can also help out the little ones and show their reading skills and leadership. Scavenger hunts don’t have to take up much time and can help kids get comfortable in new locations. 

    Alphabet scavenger hunt for kids

    “Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” – Fred Rogers

    With school-aged children, use their knowledge of the alphabet as a starting point for a scavenger hunt. This simple scavenger hunt idea allows the children to find objects that coordinate with each letter of the alphabet and can adapt to any location or environment you are exploring. This activity can be done outside on nature trails, running errands, or in the grocery store with your young kids. Our free printable list of scavenger hunts includes an alphabet page for kids to cross off each letter as they find something outside that starts with that letter. 

    Color wheel scavenger hunt for kids

    “Colors are the smiles of nature” – Leigh Hunt

    Nature is a rainbow of elements, colorful, vibrant, and ready to be explored. Use our color scavenger hunt for kids to inspire your children to get outside and identify all of the colors mother nature produces. This will help younger children identify colors and name them. You may even be surprised by what colors you can find that are purely natural!

    Beach scavenger hunt for kids

    “When two roads diverge, take the one that leads to the beach!” – Hannah McKinnon

    Do you have the privilege of living near a beach? Or plan to visit one on vacation? If so, keep our beach scavenger hunt for kids in mind. Your child can add shells, rocks, tiny sea creatures, driftwood, or even an unfortunate litter to their search. Collect smaller items with a paper bag or bucket if you’d like, but remember to leave any living creatures at the beach!

    Forest/hiking scavenger hunt for kids

    “Into the forest, I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” – John Muir.

    I love this quote because it shows the healing power of the woods, where children can play freely and reap the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. So why not facilitate a scavenger hunt in a beautiful forest? Hit the trails and keep your kids entertained while hiking with our forest/hiking scavenger hunt.

    Many items can be found on a scavenger hunt in the forest. Mushrooms, insects, flowers, a variety of trees, colorful leaves, pine cones, bird nests, stones, and animal tracks are just some of the treasures you may find. 

    20+ free outdoor scavenger hunt printable for kids

    Holiday scavenger hunt for kids 

    “May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve” – Unknown

    Not all scavenger hunts with your kids need to be physically collecting items. The holidays, specifically winter holidays, can be a great time to participate in a holiday-themed scavenger hunt in your town or neighborhood. Take a drive or walk around and see what sights you can find. Christmas trees, wreaths, blow-up lawn decorations, rainbow light displays, the grinch, and a snowman wearing a top hat are just some items you can seek out. 

    We’ve also included free scavenger hunts for Halloween and the 4th of July! 

    free holiday walk scavenger hunt for kids halloween scavenger hunt 4th of july scavenger hunt

    Five senses scavenger hunt for kids

    “My five senses are a doorway to the present” – Unknown

    While most of these scavenger hunts utilize your child’s eyesight solely to find treasures, you can also do a scavenger hunt based on your other senses. Go on a nature walk and listen for a bird chirping, feel something wet, smell something pretty, taste a wild blueberry. This sensory scavenger hunt will help kids feel completely immersed in nature and aware of all the wonderful things around them.

    Texture scavenger hunt for kids

    “Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” -Diane Ackerman

    A texture-based scavenger hunt is an engaging, outside-the-box option for your child to explore the outdoors. Find something soft (moss, a bird feather, a cattail). Look for something rough (bark, pavement under your feet, a rock). Find something smooth (birch bark, a rounded stone, an acorn). Can you find something prickly (holly leaves, pinecones, butterflies feet)? Or silky (water, mica, beetle wings)?

    Playground or park scavenger hunt for kids

    “It is a happy talent to know how to play” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

    A playground at your local park is a great place for outdoor fun and to initiate a scavenger hunt. Include the other young kids at the park for even more fun! Our playground scavenger hunt will have your kids looking for swings, a slide, a water fountain, a trash can, a sign, a tree, etc. 

    free park scavenger hunt for kids - free scavenger hunt bundle

    Seasonal scavenger hunt for kids 

    “There is a beauty to be found in the changing of the earth’s seasons, and an inner grace in honoring the cycles of life.” -Jack Kornfield

    Each season comes with beautiful changes, many visible to the keen eye of your children. Changing leaf colors, snow or ice, new sprouting flowers, or leaf buds are signs of change. You may even weave your scavenger hunt activities into your homeschool curriculum if you homeschool your children. Our free printable scavenger hunt bundle includes a separate scavenger hunt for each of the four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. There are specific items to find in each season, relating to the change of the seasons and weather. 

    free beach scavenger hunt for kids

    Backyard scavenger hunt for kids

    “Play is the highest form of research.” – Albert Einstein

    No need to travel to initiate a scavenger hunt! If you have an outdoor space where you live, head outside! Or go for a walk around your local neighborhood. Look for garden tools, toys, and even small animals or insects that live near your house. This is a great way to explore your own backyard with your kids! 

    These scavenger hunts are perfect activities to use at a birthday party, a local park, and with kids of all ages. You can set a time limit or adjust each hunt depending on your child’s skill level. I hope you enjoy these printable scavenger hunt lists and exploring with your family!

    Neighborhood scavenger hunt for kids

    “We become neighbors when we are willing to cross the road for one another” – Henri J. M. Nouwen

    Get outside and explore your neighborhood with your kids! This fun scavenger hunt gives you many different things to look for: fire hydrants, mailboxes, stop signs, pets, flowers, and even wild animals can be found in your neighborhood. A fun walk through your neighborhood is a great option for an easy dose of fresh air and one of our favorite outdoor activities for families. 

    free neighborhood scavenger hunt for kids

    Creature/critter scavenger hunt for kids

    May we raise children who love the unloved things–the dandelion, the worms, and spiderlings. – Nicolette Sowder

    What is more fun than finding small animals and insects? Birds, bugs, chipmunks, deer, or foxes could be found! This scavenger hunt is perfect for kids who love all creatures of the world and teaches us how to care for the critters that live in our environment. 

    free outdoor scavenger hunt for kids

    City scavenger hunt for kids

    “To live in a city is to live the life it was built for, adapt to its schedule and rhythms, and move within the transit layout made for you during the morning and evening rush, winding through the crowds of fellow commuters. To live in a city is to consume its offerings.

    Do you live in a bustling city? Will you be visiting one soon? Scavenger hunts can be so fun in an urban environment and are a great option for keeping kids entertained when traveling through the city. Keep an eye out for buses and taxis, pigeons and dog walkers, and don’t forget to seek out the elements of nature that are always present, like trees and flowers!

    free scavenger hunts for kids - bundle of 20+ printable scavenger hunts

    Indoor scavenger hunt

    Yes, I know we’ve mentioned multiple times that these scavenger hunts are designed to help kids, and families get OUTSIDE. But, as parents, we know that’s not always a possibility. When you need a fun indoor activity on a rainy day, we’ve got you covered. We included a free printable indoor scavenger hunt in our bundle with items kids can easily find around any house. 

    20+ free printable outdoor scavenger hunts for kids

    We hope this free PFD printable scavenger hunt bundle for kids will help get you outside with your kids and keep them entertained and on the lookout for nature all around them! Scavenger hunts are a fun outdoor activity for the whole family. Spending time together outside and in nature is always worth it! Download your free copy of our printable scavenger hunts today and let us know which one is your kids’ favorite! Happy hunting! 

    Which scavenger hunt will you choose first?

    Lissy Perna

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, FISH, WATER

    Plan a Family Vacation in Gulf County, Florida

    It’s getting more and more challenging to find places to explore that aren’t overrun with crowds. Places where you can get away from the hustle and easily spend most of the day outside. We love discovering those incredible destinations that still offer solitude and wide open spaces for our kids to run wild (and sharing them with you, of course!). Today we are spotlighting Creative Team member Jen Barnes’ family vacation to Gulf County, Florida. The activities and the pace of life in Gulf County, Florida, are perfect for families who want a beautiful location, less crowds, wonderful weather, and plenty to keep busy or just relax. If you’re looking for a great off-season, hidden gem travel spot, take a family vacation to Gulf County, Florida! Let’s show you around! 

    *This post was sponsored by Visit Gulf County. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

    kids on paddle boards with blue sky and whispy clouds text that reads "family vacation in gulf county florida"

    Where is Gulf County, Florida?

    Gulf County, Florida, is located in the panhandle of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico coastline. Situated just east of major tourist hotspots like Panama City Beach and Destin, Gulf County is a pristine slice of heaven. The nearest major airports to Gulf County are in Panama City Beach and Tallahassee. Both are about a two-hour drive from Gulf County. Destin is about 2.5 hours away by car.

    Yes, Gulf County is a bit remote. And that’s the point! This area is surrounded by natural lands that are not developed. You won’t find spring break crowds here! You also won’t find malls, amusement parks, putt putt courses, or high-rise hotels. This section of the Gulf Coast is not overdeveloped, leaving plenty of natural beauty and space to explore. There are just enough restaurants and shops to give you options, but still remains quiet.

    How’s the weather in Gulf County?

    Gulf County’s weather is another reason to visit. Temperatures remain mild throughout the year, although they do experience seasons. It’s hot in the summer (as expected), but there’s usually a nice breeze on the coast, and scattered rain tends to cool the area off. In November, you can expect temperatures in the 60-degree range. When we visited in April, we had daytime temps in the low 80 degrees with bright sunshine.

    Arched sign reading Port St. Joe over a street intersection in Gulf County Floridateens walking in Gulf County Florida

    Gulf County, Florida area and features

    Over 244 miles of shoreline wind through Gulf County, ranging from clear waters and white sand beaches to tranquil inland passages. The largest city (and county seat) is Port St. Joe. Other areas are Cape San Blas, St. Joe Beach, and Indian Pass. Cape San Blas is a narrow stretch of land that extends out from Port St. Joe and curves around St. Joseph Bay. One of the least populated and richest ecosystems along the Florida Coastline is T.H. Sone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, which offers 1,900 acres of tranquil beaches and hiking along two nature trails.

    Where to stay in Gulf County, Florida

    Your best options for accommodations in Gulf County are the many vacation home rentals you can find out on Cape San Blas. When traveling with kids (of any age), we love staying in a home equipped with a full kitchen, laundry, and space to spread out. 

    We had an incredible stay in a gated neighborhood through Natural Retreats. The house was well-equipped in a beachfront neighborhood within walking distance of a gorgeous white sand beach. We loved having our own space to spread out, play games at night as a family, and prepare snacks and meals to take along for our days of adventure.

    Natural Retreats also offers a rental delivery service for items such as beach chairs, umbrellas, wagons, skimboards, etc. What a joy to have these items available to rent, so you don’t have to lug them around and take up valuable packing space! Whether you are staying on the beach or near the beach, you will want some gear.

    There are also a few hotels in Gulf County, Florida, available in the town of Port St. Joe and are an affordable option. There are also a host of well-rated campgrounds throughout the county. Many of the campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, as well. When you are visiting nature’s playground, why not stay in nature?!

    Home decor sign that reads Tides that Bind with two seashells in front of it

    Teal Blue colored beach houseup close of a teal colored beach umbrella that reads Natural Retreats Cape San Blas

    What to do on your family vacation in Gulf County, Florida

    Gulf County beaches

    The sugary white sand beaches of Gulf County are impeccable. You have quite a few spots to choose from along Cape San Blas to park your car or ride a bike from your rental home. We chose to drive so we could have all of our gear with us. We spent several hours at a time relaxing, playing beach games, and swimming in the ocean. Choose from dozens of beach access points. The 43 miles of shoreline really allows families to spread out.

    Do not miss T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park! With boat ramps, spots for snorkeling, bathroom facilities, and picnic areas, you can spend an entire day enjoying the beach! These are truly the best family beaches on the Gulf coast if you want to have quiet family days together. We had the best afternoon playing games as a family.

    White sand beach on the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida's Gulf Countywhite sand beach with a teen girl with feet in the water of the gulf of mexicofamily playing spikeball on a whilte sand beach on Cape San BlasFamily playing spikeball on a white sand beach while on vacation in Gulf County Floridaboardwalk leading to a beach on cape san blas

    Gulf Coast fishing

    Gulf County, Florida is an angler’s paradise. Not only can you indulge in gulf coast deep sea fishing, but you can also find incredible in-shore fishing areas in St. Joseph Bay. Florida saltwater fishing is everywhere in this area, and if you just want to try beach fishing from your family spot, that’s great too. We noticed lots of solo fly fishing when the tides were low at sunset. It was a beautiful sight. 

    Our family enjoyed a full morning out in St. Joseph Bay doing some in-shore fishing with Captain Pete of Bounty Bay PSJ Charters. Pete provided everything we needed, including fishing rods, reels, and bait. He asked us what kind of experience we wanted and took such great care of us. Because we were only in town for part of a week, we decided we just wanted to have fun and do catch and release. However, if you want to catch to eat, he will make sure he gets you to those spots where you can catch enough for dinner! My daughter had never fished before, so Pete took his time showing her the ropes, and soon enough, she was catching fish like crazy. It was a perfect family morning.

    teens fishing off the side of a fishing charter boat in gulf county floridateen boy fishing off of a fishing charter boat in St. Joe's Baytwo teen boys fishing off of a fishing charter boatTeen girl with two fish hooked on a rod off the side of a fishing boat charterTeen boy with a small fish on a hook in the Florida Gulf

    Paddling in Gulf County

    If you see a theme here, you’re not wrong. Everything about Gulf County is about getting out on the water. And how could you not? All of the magical moments happen on the water. The colors, salt, and sun just draw you out. We had the most fun with Happy Ours Kayak and Bike Outpost. We spent several hours out on the water with kayaks and SUPs, paddling around St. Joseph Bay, marveling at the manta rays and turtles, and just enjoying each other. The shallow see-through water was bliss, perfect for kids so they can splash around safely while paddling. 

    You can also rent bikes to ride along the Loggerhead Trail all the way up and down Cape San Blas. My kids were getting a bit angry, so we skipped the bikes, but wished we had gotten up earlier to enjoy them. Such is life with teenagers! Happy Ours will provide all the gear you need, and you can even have bikes delivered to where you are staying!

    kayaks and SUP's on the edge of St. Joseph's BayTeens boys on an SUP and a teen girl sitting on an SUP in Gulf County FloridaTeen girl on an SUP in Gulf County Floridateen boy on an SUP in St. Joseph's Baylandscape of St. Joseph's Bay you can see through the water

    Where to eat in Gulf County, Florida

    Gulf County has a little bit of everything in terms of restaurants, so we tried it all! Favorite dinner spots included Indian Pass Raw Bar for a fun and fabulous raw bar experience. The food was outstanding, but don’t miss out on the outdoor lawn games and live music scene. We also loved Longbill’s after a full day at the state park. They offer delicious fried pickles and a good mix of seafood and American dishes. For an evening in the town of Port St. Joe, make your way to Quatro Locos Mexican restaurant for outdoor dining. Afterward enjoy a walk to the Port St. Joe lighthouse and an unforgettable sunset.

    We did lunch on the fly because we were so busy enjoying our time outdoors. In Port St. Joe, check out Joe Mama’s Wood Fire Pizza for a hearty salad or pizza. Out on Cape San Blas make a quick stop in Scallop Cove Store for a bite from the grill and stock up on other snacks and souvenirs. We enjoyed our burgers and hot dogs at a picnic area at Cape Palms Park, right near the beach access. 

    For a big breakfast before setting off for a morning of fishing, we filled up at the Sand Dollar Cafe for a traditional breakfast served in a cafeteria-style buffet. We enjoyed our breakfast outside while we planned our day. Another fun option that is CASH ONLY is Weber’s Donuts on Cape San Blas. Be warned — they will run out of donuts, so plan to arrive early.

    Snacks and treats are always a must while on vacation. If you are in town, keep your eyes peeled for Shoobie’s Ice Cream Truck or Sugar Shack. If you are out on Cape San Blas, you can always stop into The Cape Trading Post.

    Teens sitting in large wooden chairs with sodas waitingdad and teen son playing lawn games while on vacation at a restaurantteens snacking on ice cream and playing a board gameordering menu for Indian Pass Raw Barteen boy with a table full of seafood inside Indian Pass Raw Bar restaurantfamily eating outdoors with food and menus on the table, a sunset in the background

    Why a family vacation in Gulf County, Florida is awesome

    Ordinary magic happens in places like Gulf County. Your family will enjoy outdoor time together disconnecting and reconnecting in one of the U.S.A.’s most scenic coastal areas. Spend time together away from the grind of home life (and away from the hustle and bustle of touristy areas), while you feel right at home on vacation. Everything is so relaxed while on a family vacation in Gulf County, Florida. At the same time, you will be able to try new things together and get out on the water for some fun.

    For us, this was such a vital time away to be together and recharge amidst a very busy season of regular life. Our trip to Gulf County was amazing and we highly recommend this area to any family looking for natural beauty and lots of space to let their child run wild. 

    For more info on all the amazing activities and accommodations in Gulf County, check out their website: http://www.visitgulf.com

    Additional travel resources

    For more inspiration on family travel, check out these posts and start planning your next getaway:

    Would you take a family vacation to Gulf County, Florida?

    About the author

    Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20 years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!

    You can find Jen online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @gofamilyadventure
    Website: Go Family Adventure
    RWMC Posts: Jen Barnes

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, WATER

    South Seas Island Resort

    Traveling and vacationing with kids is a great way to build core memories while experiencing new things together, but planning trips can also be stressful. Researching where to go, where to stay, and the best things to do can be really overwhelming. Busy moms just don’t have tons of time to spend reading reviews, searching blogs, and hunting down the best deals.  But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Run Wild My Child works to curate a list of some of the best places to visit with kids, from camping and glamping to resorts of all kinds. Run Wild Recommends is excited to share our newest recommendation: South Seas Island Resort in Captiva, Florida.

    *Sponsored content. The author received a hosted stay in exchange for the content shared below. The views and opinions expressed belong to the author.

    south seas island resort pinterest

    A special trip for a special occasion 

    When our children were young, my husband and I decided that we would take them on a special trip for their 10th birthday. A child’s 10th birthday is a very special occasion, and we wanted a special way to mark the milestone. We thought that a trip would be a great way to commemorate the move from young childhood and celebrate who they are.

    For their 10th birthday, we let our kids decide where they’d like to go for their special trip. The only parameter is that it has to be in the contiguous United States. My son decided that he wanted to play in the ocean, so I started researching places to stay with clear water and somewhere on the Gulf Coast.

    Searching for the perfect destination led me to Sanibel and Captiva Island in Florida. My son had never been to Florida, so this seemed like the perfect time to take him there. We opted to drive and took some mini detours, including a quick pit stop to check out Morrison Springs in NW Florida. I’ll never forget the joy on my son’s face as we got to take in a new experience together. 

    morrison springs florida run wild my child

    Driving to Captiva Island with kids

    The drive to Florida from Arkansas was long but beautiful. We are experienced road trippers, so long drives don’t both us. If you want a few suggestions on how we road trip, check out this post on road trip safety tips for traveling with kids and this post on screen-free road trip ideas for kids.

    When we crossed the causeway to get to Sanibel, we were both so excited we could hardly wait. The beautiful turquoise water was calling our name. We arrived in Sanibel and continued north toward Captiva Island. The drive takes you through the incredible J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge. If you have the time, it’s absolutely worth a side trip and it is well known for incredible birding.

    Arriving at South Seas Island Resort

    South Seas Island Resort is located at the northern tip of Captiva Island, with 330 acres of sub tropical paradise. The resort was originally was a key lime farm, and in 1946 was opened as a fishing resort. Currently, it is a luxury resort that compliments the natural landscape of the island that is available to resort guests only. My son was most excited about the 2.5 miles of private beach to explore, play, and hopefully find some amazing shells. 

    Outdoor lunch at South Seas

    After checking into our room, we headed for the beach to check out the Attitudes and Latitudes food shack and beach bar.  It’s a charming outdoor dining option with colorful seating and beautiful ocean views. My son enjoyed his own fancy drink (a non-alcoholic daiquiri), and I had a margarita. The food shack has kid friendly options like chicken quesadillas and they have vegetarian and gluten free options too. I enjoyed a vegetarian street taco made with corn tortillas. It was delicious! My son and I could hardly believe how beautiful and relaxing it was to enjoy our lunch with an ocean breeze while staring out at the ocean. 

    attitudes and latitudes south seas island resort beach dining

    Tennis at South Seas Island Resort

    There is plenty to do at South Seas, including tennis! Blackwood Tennis Academy is onsite at the resort. The tennis center has eleven courts, and there are professional instructors available for private or group lessons. My son and I had court time reserved for us, and they also have racquets and balls available for rent. After we received our racquets, new can of balls, and water, I let my son decide where we should play.

    It was still hot in the afternoon, but we had a great time rallying back and forth. I won one game, and he won one game. However, when we took to a game he plays at practice at home called “drop shot city,” he easily took it to me.

    We had such a great time playing on the well maintained courts, which we had to ourselves! There are also pickleball courts and equipment available to resort guests. 

    blackwood tennis academy at south seas island resort

    Dining options at South Seas Island Resort

    The resort has several dining options, from beachfront-casual to marina-view formal. For our dinner the first night, we went to The Point, which overlooks the resort pool complex and, behind that, the Pine Island Sound. The menu at The Point is broad and features kid-friendly items like the “cheeseburger in paradise” or options from the kid’s menu. The gluten-free quinoa power bowl was delicious, and I highly recommend it!

    We had such a peaceful dinner with hardly anyone else at the restaurant. At the end of our meal, we were treated to watching dolphins play as the sun started to dip lower.

    Two other restaurants on site are: Crooked Snook Tiki Bar and Scoops and Slices. Scoops is a very cute 1950’s style pizza diner and ice cream parlor. Be prepared because when you walk inside, there is a wall of bulk candy that will have your kiddos begging for a special treat. 

    power bowl at the point south seas island resort

    A sunset we’ll never forget

    After dinner, we changed back into our still wet swimsuits and headed for the beach again. The sun was just above the horizon, and there was live music in the food shack area. My son and I built a sand castle and played in the waves as the last of the light faded away. As the sun slipped under the horizon, the musician brought a group down to the beach to blow a conch shell, saying goodnight to the sun and goodbye to another day in paradise. It was the most perfect end to a fun-filled day.

    We stayed until the stars came out and we started to get cold from our wet swimsuits. Back in the room, we took turns enjoying the massive, walk-in tile and glass shower. We ended our evening by sharing some candy that was in our welcome basket and watching dock diving dogs on tv. What a great day!

    sunset sandcastles at south seas island resort

    Shelling in Sanibel

    One of the things we loved about South Seas Island Resort was walking the beach to look for shells. Sanibel is known for its amazing shelling, and the beaches by the resort did not disappoint. After grabbing breakfast for my son and an almond milk latte for me at the Ship Store, we took it to the beach so we could get a jump start looking for the best shells. It was so early that we were the only ones there. It was an excellent morning for shelling, and we found so many incredible shells! My son just combed the beach, and I used my goggles to dive down into the clear water and find what I could. We make a pretty great shelling team!

    Sanibel and Captiva are known for having incredible shells; in fact, there are over 250 different kinds of shells to find on the islands!  Please search and collect responsibly, and be sure that the shell you picked up isn’t inhabited before taking it with you. 

    south seas shelling

    Onsite rentals at the resort

    South Seas Island Resort is a Run Wild Recommends resort for many reasons, and one of them is all of the onsite activities and amenities that are outside and family-friendly. I already mentioned the rental for tennis, so now let’s talk about water adventures! Sunny Island Adventures is a vendor at the resort that offers everything from jet ski, paddleboard, boat, and kayak rentals, to parasailing and more. They also have golf carts and bike rentals, for adventuring on land. 

    A closer look at mangroves

    We rented kayaks for a unique outdoor adventure into the mangroves on our second day. We each got our own kayak, and we paddled over to the bayou in search of seeing manatees! It was magical to paddle along the red mangroves. My son spotted lots of ospreys, and we saw a cownose stingray gliding along beneath us. While we didn’t see any manatees, it was so much fun to experience the bayou side of the island by kayak. Remember to take along a water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! 

    sunny island adventures kayaking south seas island resort

    The resort pools and waterslides

    After another lunch at The Point, we decided it was time to check out the swimming pools for a little more water fun. South Seas Island Resort has a resort pool complex with an adult-only pool and a family-friendly large pool. My son’s favorite part was the third pool which had waterslides.

    There are two waterslides, one short and fast, and one that has more twists and turns. Somehow we lucked out with no one else there, and we went down both those slides at least twenty times. They were so much fun!

    south seas island resort waterslides

    Our final night

    For dinner on our final night, we had a reservation at the Harbourside Grill. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience at South Seas Island Resort, and it has both indoor and outdoor seating. My son wanted to eat outside, so we sat on the patio, where we had great views of the marina and all of the boats.

    Harbourside Grill has plenty of seafood options, as well as many gluten-free choices. We shared a shrimp appetizer, and for dinner, my son went with a cheeseburger again. I enjoyed the salmon with vegetables. The meal was the perfect way to end our experience at South Seas, and after a great conversation about what my son hopes for his eleventh year, we toasted to the year ahead.  

    Run Wild recommends South Seas

    There are so many reasons why South Seas Island Resort is a Run Wild Recommends resort. Here are a few of our favorite things:

    • The Sanibel Island Sea School – This incredible sea school for kids has a location right on the resort! The summer camps are available for children aged 6 to 13. Your children can learn all about beachcombing, the diverse marine ecosystem, and the natural environment around the island while you enjoy relaxing at the resort! 
    • Scout About – South Seas has its own discovery app, called Scout About. There are 20 discovery points throughout the 330 acres to digitally collect. Get them all, and you can claim your prize at the pool complex. 
    • Water sports rentals – Sunny Island Adventures is on-site for all of your aquatic adventure needs. 
    • Colgate offshore sailing school – This sailing school offers a range of courses including a three-hour sailing school for families. 
    • Golf course and tennis courts
    • Multiple outdoor dining options
    • Bike, boat, and golf cart rentals
    • Multiple accommodation options from guest rooms with multiple beds to houses for rent
    • Captiva Cruises – This cruise company offers wildlife watching excursions and eco-cruises. We went on a wildlife tour and saw manatees, dolphins, and so much more!

    An experience we’ll never forget

    Our experience at South Seas Island Resort was magical. From the peaceful room with a beautiful balcony overlooking the harbor to the kayak adventures on clear water. The shelling, the sunsets, the incredible dining. And of course, the waterslides, snacks, and ice cream! Thank you to South Seas Island Resort for a tenth birthday trip that we’ll never forget. 

    Follow me on Instagram for even more shenanigans at coleyraeh, or check out my personal website HERE. To see a video of our trip, check out this Reel on Instagram. 

    More recommended destinations

    For more Run Wild Recommends travel recommendations, take a look at our Travel Recommendations page, or click on any of the linked posts below for full write-ups. 

    The BEST way to stay in the know is to sign up for our weekly newsletter and get our FREE guide with our favorite travel resources. 

    About the author

    Nichole is mama to two incredible adventurers, an older boy and a younger girl, and they are on their fifth year of homeschooling. She has been married to her best friend for nearly thirteen years and they share a mutual love for the outdoors. An Iowan native now living in the south, she is happy to claim Arkansas as home. She is a wanderlust (and coffee) fueled, fearless, road-tripper who has been known to take off for epic adventures at a moment’s notice. Hiking and camping (of the backpacking variety) and crystal digging are a few of their favorite family activities. You can usually find her in the woods somewhere (probably up a creek and jumping off waterfalls), or on an epic road-tripping adventure with the kids. Nichole is also the Editor in Chief of the Run Wild My Child Get Out Guides – travel guides aimed at helping families find the best local outdoor adventures and outings in their area and while traveling. 

    You can find more from Nichole online in the following locations:
    Website: http://www.luckeywanderers.com
    Instagram: @coleyraeh
    RWMC posts: Nichole

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, SUMMER

    Best Kid-friendly Beaches in Southern California

    If you’re planning a trip to Southern California with your family, hitting a beach should be on your to-do list! Southern California has some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the country. With so many beach options available, it can be hard finding the best beaches for kids and families. Today, Megan Haveelar, photographer and mom of four, is here sharing her family’s five favorite kid-friendly beaches in Southern California. Each of these beaches has its own unique qualities and should be a bit less crowded than many other beaches, making them great for kids of all ages. 

    5 best kid-friendly beaches in southern california

    Summertime in Southern California

    Yay, it’s summertime! And summer means fun in the sun and making memories with our loved ones! I’m sure many of you have some exciting summer travel plans. One popular destination happens to be Southern California. There are a variety of famous attractions that draw many people each year; from Hollywood to Disneyland, Sea World to Universal. There’s the the infamous Santa Monica Pier, Catalina Island, and the historic Pacific Coast Highway. The list could go on!

    Nevertheless, the place that families want to visit most while they are here is our stunning beaches! Warm, soft sand, cool water, salty air, and beautiful views! There’s really not much better than a gorgeous sunny day at a southern California beach!

    Best Southern California beaches for families

    Today, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite kid-friendly family beaches in Southern California. Each of these beaches are a little less touristy, so you don’t have to battle the crowds, and have their own personality. These are beaches our family visits regularly and they each have a uniqueness to them that makes them fun in different ways.

    If you’re looking for a beach to surf or boogie board, I got one for you! If you’re looking for a beach with beautiful crystal blue water and stunning views, I got one of those! Looking for a beach that offers more than just laying in the sand, I know of a beach with a beautiful hike up and down the seaside cliffs. As well as a beach named Pirates Cove and one named Treasure Island! I mean what kids wouldn’t want to visit a beach with a name like that! Whatever beach you choose, I highly recommend staying and watching the sunset at any of these locations, you will be so thankful you did!  

    Crystal Cove State Park

    Crystal Cove is located in Orange County between Newport and Laguna Beach. It’s one of the largest remaining areas of open space and natural coastline in Orange County. It’s a huge stretch of beach running 3.2 miles long and also 2,400 acres of wilderness. Because the beach is inside a state park, the hours are sunrise to sunset and there are also fees for parking.

    Crystal Cove State Park is definitely a must-see for any beach-loving family! From the seaside cliffs to the tide pools down below, this beach offers lots of space and fun for kids and families. The walk down to the beach can be long for little ones, but if you can make the hike, it’s so worth it. Crystal Cove also offers hiking and camping!

    Visit their website to find out more http://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/

    best california beaches for kids - crystal cove state park best family beaches in california - crystal cove state park best beaches for kids - crystal cove state park california

    Corona Del Mar/Pirates Cove

    The two beaches of Corona del Mar and Pirate’s Cove are definitely ones we visit a lot! They are connected by a rock jetty at the entrance to Newport Harbor in Newport Beach. While right next to each other, they have different features and personalities, so I’ll discuss them individually. 

    Corona Del Mar beach

    Corona Del Mar is also a state park beach. It’s about half a mile long, at the base of a seaside cliff with cool rock formations at the bottom. The parking lot is located at the bottom, and there is a parking fee. However, as you’ll see there is a stunning neighborhood up top with street parking that’s free. You can easily walk down the path to the beach. We love using our boogie boards here and checking out the sea life on the rocks. If you enjoy some beach volleyball there are plenty of courts to get your serve on! 

    best so cal beaches for kids - corona del marbest family beaches california - corona del mar

    Pirates Cove

    Pirates Cove is a very unique spot! Located just to the right of Corona Del Mar, it’s an amazing beach for kids and families. You can either park in the lot or park above in the neighborhood. You cannot see this beach from the parking lot, you must climb over what looks like a hill of large boulders! Once you climb up and are at the top you will see a staircase that leads you down to a very secluded beach that looks across the channel of Newport Harbor.

    At Pirates Cove beach, you’ll find little caves to sit in and get out of the sun, as well as a giant boulder out in the water you can swim to and jump off. There is a lifeguard here during the summer months and they rope off the swim area so no one gets too far out into the channel. This is a fun place for kids to explore and swim! The water is very calm and shallow so it’s great for little ones! You can also watch the sailboats and yachts go in and out of the harbor. 

    best beaches for kids - pirates cove beach best california beaches for families - pirates cove beach hidden california beaches - best beaches for kids - pirates cove beachless crowded non-touristy southern california beaches - pirates cove

    Treasure Island

    Treasure Island is a very beautiful, super unique spot that does require a bit of walking, but again, it’s so worth it! The beach is located at the bottom of the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach. It’s known for its crystal blue waters!  There is a small parking lot located on the southwest side of the resort, or you can also park on the street for free. There’s a beautiful path with lots of flowers and greenery on top, just behind the resort, and there are different staircases and ramps that lead to different parts of the beach.

    Our favorite part of this beach requires us to walk north all the way until we get to the little peninsula at the base of Goff Island. This is a great spot to snorkel and the sand here is so soft. The beach part is kind of rocky and gets deep quickly, so make sure your kids are good swimmers. My kids are between the ages of 7-11 and do just fine. Here you seriously feel like you are on a tropical island out in the pacific!

    most beautiful california beaches - treasure island family friendly so cal beaches - treasure island best snorkeling beaches for kids in southern california - treasure island

    Torrey Pines

    Torrey Pines is located in San Diego. There are so many great beaches located in San Diego, but this is one that my family and I really enjoy visiting. It’s located just north of La Jolla and downtown San Diego. Torrey Pines is a State Reserve as they are protecting the Torrey pine trees that are specific to this one area of southern California. There is parking close to the beach or you can drive up to the top of the cliff where the Torrey Pines Lodge is located which is now a visitor center and ranger station. There are some cool things to learn at the visitor center about the Lodge and the history of the area.

    My family I like to park at the bottom in the beach parking and walk up the drive to the top, and from there we hike down to the beach. It’s a good way to get some steps in! I’ve done it with the small children and they do well, you might just need to take lots of breaks. The rocks hiking down can be slippery so be sure to hold onto those small hands. Also, if you go in the evening and catch the sunset on your way down…it’s breathtaking! We’ve also seen seals come right up to the beach here! 

    best beaches for kids in california - torrey pinestorrey pines beach - best kid-friendly beaches in san diegofamily friendly beaches san diego - torrey pines

    Newport Beach

    The beach around Newport Pier is a great spot for surfing, boogie boarding, swimming, fishing, dolphin watching, and sand castle building! We enjoy Newport because the beaches are situated in neighborhoods so they don’t feel touristy, more like you’re around a bunch of locals. Parking is free on the side streets, but there is meter parking on the main street.

    Newport Beach is a great spot for families, as you could spend all day and never get bored! There is no shade here, so I definitely recommend bringing an umbrella or shade tent. The tide here is great for kids and adults learning to surf, but if you really want to see some professional surfers just head down to the Wedge, located at pier W, just down the way from Balboa Pier. I also highly encourage walking down the pier to see if you can spot some seals or dolphins. 

    There is a boardwalk perfect for jogging, bike riding, skating, or walking. You can rent bikes and scooters at places around the pier. There are also a couple of playgrounds located right on the sand between Newport and Balboa Pier. 

    best beaches for kids - newport beachbest california beaches for kids - newport beachbest family beaches in california best beaches with lots of nearby activities for kids - newport beach california best kid-friendly beaches - newport beach

    Best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California

    Okay, so there you have my top five recommendations for some of the best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California! However, if none of these are in the area close to where you are staying in California, don’t worry, there are many more! Just visit the website below to find state beaches close to you and get some helpful information about beaches nearby and what each one offers. We enjoy state beaches over city beaches because they are usually cleaner and we like to support our state and the efforts they put into keeping our oceans and beaches protected and preserved!   https://www.parks.ca.gov/

    Best kid-friendly beaches in Southern California

    Which Southern California beach is your kids’ favorite?

    About the author

    Megan is a wife and a homeschooling mom of four. She is originally from Colorado, but has spent much of her life overseas. First in Eastern Europe, specifically, Hungary, where her first two kids were born. Secondly, in Ethiopia, where she and her husband adopted their second two kids. She and her family are now stateside, currently living in Southern California. She loves traveling with her kids, either on planes, road trips, or just in their local area! Most of her family’s outdoor adventuring includes water of some kind like beaches, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or pools. They especially love paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and even just going to the local park to play soccer or basketball. Megan also has a passion for photography and loves to bring along her camera to document all their adventures!

    Find more from Megan in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghavelaarphoto
    RWMC posts: Megan Havelaar

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    When planning a beach vacation, Michigan may not be the first place that comes to mind to visit. However, don’t rule out a family-friendly vacation to explore the Lake Michigan shore. A true hidden gem of the Midwest, southwest Michigan offers sugar-sand beaches, charming beach towns, and plenty of outdoor adventure for the whole family. Today, Sara Lesire, mom of two and founder of Midwest Nomad Family shares why they love Southwest Michigan so much and all the amazing outdoor adventures to be found there. Read on to plan the perfect getaway for the whole family using this family travel guide to Southwest Michigan. 

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    Best times to visit southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan is beautiful any time of year. Spring brings blooming flowers and the famous tulip festival in Holland, Michigan. Fall means stunning drives and hikes among the colorful fall foliage. Winter is even a time of unexpected beauty when brave explorers can witness the lighthouses encased in ice. However, summer is the most popular time of year. While it never becomes unbearably hot, the summer temperatures are warm enough to take the chill off the cool Lake Michigan water. 

    Due to the proximity of southwest Michigan to Chicago, expect summer weekends, holidays, and big events to be busy with city travelers. If you can book a stay for during the week or the off-season, you will have more availability and lower lodging rates. Even if you do stay during a crowded summer weekend, there is still plenty of sand and shore for everyone. 

    Southwest Michigan BeachFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan BeachSouthwest Michigan BeachFamily-friendly places to stay in southwest Michigan

    Each of the major towns in southwest Michigan has its own vibe.

    • St. Joseph is one of the most kid-friendly with the beach, kid museums, a carousel, splash pad, and lots of restaurants all within easy walking distance.
    • South Haven is another great town to stay in, with a fun playground and splash pad, soft sand beaches, canal walk, and an interesting maritime museum.
    • The small town of Saugatuck is an artists haven and boasts one of the best beaches in the country.
    • Holland, Michigan allows you a glimpse of a European vacation without the travel. This charming town showcases its Dutch heritage in its architecture and attractions. 

    Each of these beach towns in southwest Michigan offers a variety of lodging options. For those who wish for a more rustic stay, there are many campgrounds available. Warren Dunes and Van Buren State Park offer tent and RV camping sites right along the Lake Michigan shore. There are also several KOA and private campground options. 

    There are numerous cabins, inns, and private rental homes available. Many of the private rentals do have minimum stay length requirements. Hotels line the interstate just east of the downtown areas. While traffic is never really much of an issue, keep an eye on the location of your lodging and check how far of a drive it is from the beach and other activities you have planned. 

    South Haven MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    The best beaches in southwest Michigan for families

    While the water of Lake Michigan is much colder than the gulf, you don’t have to worry about sharks or jellyfish! Lake Michigan water is also very clear and has that turquoise hint that appears tropical. You can find dozens of sandy shore options to relax, swim, or play, but these are our favorite options. 

    1. Silver Beach County Park

    Silver Beach is located right near the heart of downtown St. Joseph. This beautiful stretch of sand is very popular and boasts a playground, shower house, and views of the St. Joseph pier lighthouse. The beach is also a short walk from dining at Silver Beach Pizza or the attractions at Silver Beach Center. 

    2. South Beach

    This stunning beach is steps away from downtown South Haven and a popular place for swimming. The beach also has a playground, concessions, showers, and memorials explaining the local history. If you want a close-up look at the red South Haven lighthouse, this beach offers access along the pier. Each evening you can witness a gathering to watch the sun go down from this stretch of shore. 

    3. Pilgrim Haven

    While this isn’t the best beach for building sandcastles, this spot is the perfect place for rock hunters. The rocky beach offers endless opportunities to find some unique stone souvenirs. Up to 25 pounds of rocks per person per year can be legally collected in Michigan from state-owned and public trust lands such as Pilgrim Haven. So those little rock collectors can gather to their heart’s content!

    4. Pier Cove 

    Another great beach stop for rock collectors, this beach rests along the site of an old ghost town. What was once a bustling port town is now a quiet and hidden beach. While there are only about 10 parking spaces and no amenities, this beach offers a quiet option with a mix of sand, rocks, and a shallow creek. Keep an eye out for the unusual lightning stones that are often found here. 

    5. Oval Beach

    Oval Beach in Saugatuck is a gem that has been named one of the top 25 beaches in the world. This long stretch of sugar sand offers plenty of space and amenities for families to explore. If you want a unique way to reach the beach, try taking the hand-cranked chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River from downtown Saugatuck. It is thought to be the only such ferry still left in existence. 

    6. Holland State Park

    The Holland lighthouse, known as “Big Red,” towers over this beautiful beach. Part of a state park, visitors can enjoy many activity options at this popular beach. 

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganTravel guide to southwest MichiganPilgrim Haven Michigan

    Family travel guide – what do in southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan offers so many great options for the whole family to enjoy. While the beaches are the big draw to this region, there are numerous other activities to discover.

    1. Hiking in Southwest Michigan

    Southwest Michigan has several state and county parks that offer miles of trails. Warren Dunes State Park is one of the most beautiful places to hike with eight different trails that ramble through the woods and over the sand dunes. Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers 13 miles of trails to choose from and plus the perfect beach for cooling off after your trek. If you wish for a hike that is more woods than sand, check out Warren Woods State Park.  For a stroller-friendly option, check out the 0.75-mile paved nature trail at Grand Mere State Park. Just remember that any trails through sand will be much more difficult than hiking on solid ground!

    There are also several great county parks and nature preserves to explore. The Fernwood Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve offers several kid-friendly trails, an adventure garden, and even a miniature garden railway exhibit.  Sarrett Nature Center has a cool elevated boardwalk to make you feel as though you are walking in the treetops. The DeGraff Nature Center in Holland offers short trails, many of them stroller friendly. Gallien River County Park is another great family option with extensive boardwalks and canopy trails over a wetland marsh.  

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSarrett Nature CenterWarren Dunes State Park MichiganWarren Dunes State Park Michigan

    2. Pedal or walk a bike trail

    Kal-Haven State Park is a 33-mile bicycle trail that runs between South Haven and Kalamazoo. The converted rail-trail winds through gorgeous scenery along streams, through wooded areas, and past farmlands.  Starting at the South Haven end allows the option to pass through a covered bridge about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. A shorter biking option is the paved Van Buren Trail leading from South Haven to Van Buren State Park. 

    Kal Haven Trail Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    3. Visit a playground or splash pad

    The Kid’s Corner playground in South Haven is one of our kids’ favorites. Not only is the wooden castle playground amazing, but the park also offers free parking with direct beach access! If you wish for a more natural play option, check out the brand new Sally Smoly Nature Playscape in Holland. This state-of-the-art nature playscape features climbing walls, logs, boulders, slides, nets, and sandboxes.

    If you want some water fun without the sand, check out the brand new splash pad in downtown South Haven. This fun play area opened in 2020 with a giant ship to climb and spray water. Meanwhile, the Whirlpool Compass fountain in St. Joseph is the largest splash pad in all of Michigan. Watch out for those automatic spray cannons!

    Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganWhirlpool Compass Fountain St. Joseph Michigan

    4. Southwest Michigan museums

    There are several great museum options for kids to learn about history, STEM, or culture in southwest Michigan. The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven is a great option with a mix of interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits. Visitors can learn about maritime history, boat-building, and explore various vessels.  They even offer the option of taking a ride on several types of boats. The museum is currently closed for construction and expansion but is set to reopen in early summer of 2022.

    For those rainy days when you need an indoor option, there are four different children’s museums in the area to explore. St. Joseph contains two different locations of its Curious Kids Museum. One is downtown while the other is located at Silver Beach Center, next to a replica historic carousel and other attractions. Fennville and South Haven each have sister locations of the Forever Curious Kids Museums. All of these museums offer great exhibits focused on pretend play and STEM activities. 

    South Haven Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganFamily Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSilver Beach Center St. Joseph

    5. Southwest Michigan’s unique outdoor attractions

    Holland contains two must-see Dutch-themed attractions. Windmill Island Gardens is a beautiful oasis featuring gardens, canals, a children’s play area, and a hand-painted Dutch carousel. One of the most unique features at Windmill Island is the original working Dutch windmill brought over from the Netherlands in 1964 which is available for tours. After exploring the gardens, head over to Neils’ Dutch Village for even more kid-centered rides and attractions including a play area and petting zoo. Both of these attractions are especially beautiful in May when the tulips are in peak bloom. 

    The Outdoor Discovery Center near Holland is on our list to explore on our next trip to southwest Michigan. This site contains a visitor center, trails, a nature playscape, wildlife exhibits, and a birds of prey center. There are so many great options at this center to learn all about nature.

    A hidden gem attraction, Eden Springs Park in St. Joseph is the location of a former resort and amusement park. The structures and grounds are slowly being restored by volunteers to their former glory. Visitors can roam the grounds and also take a fun miniature train ride. 

    Holland Michigan Windmill GardensEden Springs Park Michigan Family Travel Guide to Southwest Michigan

    6. View a lighthouse

    Did you know the state of Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state? In southwest Michigan, you can beautiful lighthouses in St. Joseph,  South Haven, and Holland State Park. The St. Joseph lighthouse is even open to climb inside! Saugatuck also features a charming lighthouse although it is a replica to represent several light stations that once served the area. 

    If you wish to walk along the pier for a closer look at the lighthouses, please do so carefully. Keep a close eye on children and do not attempt when the water is rough. 

    Silver Beach Family Travel Guide to Southwest MichiganSouth Haven lighthouse

    7. Pick some fruit

    Michigan is known for having the perfect climate for growing many types of fruit. Cherries, blackberries, blueberries, and apples especially flourish at orchards all over the state. Head over to one of several southwest Michigan orchards such as Crane’s in Fennville, or DeGrandChamp’s and Overhiser Orchards in South Haven. Many of the orchards offer gift shops and kid activities. 

    Travel guide to southwest michigan

    8. Watch a sunset

    No Michigan vacation is complete without at least one evening of watching the sun drop below the horizon. Some of our favorite spots to watch the sunset are at Silver Beach in St. Joseph, South Beach in South Haven, or Holland State Park. With a west-facing shoreline, however, there really are no bad sunset viewing spots!

    Silver Beach Michigan sunsetSouth Haven Sunset

    Southwest Michigan family-friendly travel

    We hope this little family travel guide to Southwest Michigan has inspired you to check out all the amazing outdoor adventures to be had right here in the Midwest! There are so many great options for places to stay, things to do, and ways to explore this gorgeous stretch of freshwater shoreline. If you’re craving a summer beach getaway, but don’t want to deal with the heat and humidity of the South, put Michigan on your list of places to check out! We promise you’ll be impressed! 

    Have you ever explored Southwest Michigan?

    About the author

    Sara has been married to her high school sweetheart for 17 years and together they have two children. Sara spent many childhood hours outside on her grandparents’ farm and strives for her kids to have similar carefree kid adventures. Based in the St. Louis area, she loves to share on her blog and social media all the scenic and fun places to explore around the St. Louis area and beyond. Hiking is the most popular activity for her whole family followed by hitting up the best local playgrounds. Photography is also a passion of Sara’s and she continues to be amazed at the natural beauty and wonder of God’s creation. When she is not hitting the trail, Sara works as a civil engineer.

    You can find more from Sara online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @midwestnomadfamily
    Facebook: Midwest Nomad Family
    RWMC posts: Sara Lesire

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPRING, SUMMER, WATER

    How to Get Started Skimboarding With Kids

    Skimboarding is a fun, active, and affordable way to keep your kids entertained on the beach. Skimboarding is gaining in popularity, and for a good reason. It’s a safe way to introduce your kids to the ocean, challenge their abilities, boost their confidence, and let them have fun! Today, Wendy Cox, photographer and California mom of four, is here sharing everything you need to know to get started skimboarding with kids. She’ll walk you through the benefits of skimboarding for kids, how to skimboard, tips for choosing the right skimboard for kids, and so much more! This post will make you want to get to the beach as soon as possible! 

    beginner's guide to skimboarding with kids

    Skimboarding with kids

    Going to the beach as a parent is a far cry from the days when all you needed was a towel and a good book. Now, a trip to the beach means you’re schlepping shovels, buckets, towels, sunscreen, chairs, snacks, water bottles, an umbrella, and so much more through the hot sand. And then, when you get to the beach, your kids are either nervous of the water and afraid of the loud waves crashing on the shore or so interested they can’t stay out of them! And in the latter case, maybe it’s you that’s nervous about sending them out into the deep blue.

    Either way, if you want to find a happy medium where your kids can play in the water but not be way out in the depths of the ocean, the solution you’re looking for is a skimboard. Skimboarding is a great way for kids to stay close to the shore in shallow water but still have fun.

    What is skimboarding?

    Skimboarding is a water sport, similar to surfing, where you can skid or slide across the surface of the water close to the shore on a small flat board. Skimboards are much smaller and thinner than surfboards, and they do not have any fins. Skimboarding happens in shallow water on the water’s edge, so there’s no need to go out into the water and wait for a wave, as you would when surfing. 

    girl holding skimboard - skimboarding with kids

    5 reasons to let your kids try skimboarding

    1. Size of the skimboard is manageable

    A skimboard is small and easy to carry. Have you ever tried carrying a surfboard from the car to the waves? It is not easy! Surfboards are large and heavy (and expensive). When carrying, I have to constantly readjust the surfboard and try to find a way to make it comfortable. However, skimboards are much more manageable for parents (and kids) to bring to the beach. Plus, storage is less of an issue with a smaller board, and they’re more affordable. 

    2. Skimboarding gets kids familiar with the ocean

    Skimboarding is a good introduction to the ocean for any kids (or parents) who might be apprehensive about surfing or swimming in the waves. For anyone not comfortable with waves and surf, skimboarding is the perfect introduction to help your child (and the parent) get more comfortable with the water and confident in their skills.

    Skimboarding allows you to stay right at the shoreline. You can get a feel for the ocean without getting all the way in. Skimboarding is a great way to allow your kids to get a feel for the waves and how they break while still being able to touch the ground and stay close to the shore. They will feel the pull of the ocean and understand better how strong the water can be, while remaining safe.  Skimboarding is a great introduction to spending time in the ocean.

    3. Cold weather approved

    Skimboarding doesn’t require you to submerge yourself in the water like surfing or swimming. You can skimboard on a cold day and not get completely soaked or frozen. Once you have the hang of it, you can skimboard without even getting very wet. My kids have even gone skimboarding while wearing a sweatshirt! I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that, but it can be done. Our beaches on the West Coast can get chilly in the fall and winter, but often we can still skimboard in the off-season. 

    skim boarding in a sweatshirt - how to skimboard with kids

    4. Skimboarding is great for most ages

    Skimboarding is great for kids age 6 years old and up. The basic techniques are relatively easy to master and you don’t have to be a proficient swimmer to be able to skimboard. When skimboarding, you don’t go very deep into the water, so it’s an activity that kids can enjoy before they’re advanced swimmers. We always recommend a life jacket or other floatation device and vigilant parental supervision for any child playing near water that can’t swim. 

    The light weight and smaller size of a skimboard also make it easy for kids as young as 6 to use. Skimboards are much smaller than surfboards, so they can easily be used by kids 6 and older. If you have a child that’s younger than six that really wants to skimboard, it’s doable! Smaller boards are easiest for little ones to toss when getting started. You know your child best, so if they are younger but have good balance, athleticism, and agility, then let them give it a go.

    5. Skimboarding is inexpensive

    You can purchase a beginner skimboard for less than $25. While a professional skimboard can get extremely pricey, you don’t need the best skimboard on the market when you’re just getting started. Skimboards for a beginner are relatively inexpensive and will last for years when well taken care of. See our tips below for choosing the right skimboard for your child and what you should know before buying a skimboard. 

    tips for learning to skimboardholding skim board

    Buying a skimboard

    Now that we’ve covered the basics of skimboarding and all the benefits, hopefully, you’re convinced to give skimboarding with your kids a try! If you’re ready to purchase a skimboard, there are a few things you should know and take into consideration. First, you’ll want to consider the size, weight, type, and shape of the board, as well as the size, age and skill level of the person who will be using it.

    Skimboards come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll want to match the skimboard sizes to the rider’s height and weight, and ability. Here’s a good skimboard size chart with some great info on how to get the proper skimboard fit. When just getting started, let a professional at the surf shop can help you choose the right board, to ensure the child’s success, and maximize the purchase. Many shops offer this service free of charge.

    In addition to size, you’ll want to consider the material of the skimboard. High-quality boards will last much longer and be less dangerous to use. Cheaper wooden skimboards can splinter, break, and can be dangerous to use. The main types of skimboards are wood boards coated in epoxy, foam boards, carbon fiber boards, and fiberglass boards. These are a bit more expensive than plain wood boards, but they are much safer and last for many years.  If a new board is out of your price range, try searching online resale groups for used boards.

    Our family has two skimboards. They both have a foam surface on the top in order to get better grip and to avoid having to use wax. These beginner skimboards have worked well for us for many years. As my kids get older, we’re just now considering getting larger boards. 

    how to choose the right skimboard for kids

    Teaching kids how to skimboard

    The most typical way to skimboard is to glide over a thin layer of water with the board parallel to the waves. This is the best way for kids to learn how to skimboard. Skimboarding can be easy to learn and pick-up on your own, but if you’re really into it, many surf shops offer group and private lessons, as well as skim camps. 

    To skimboard by gliding, here are the steps you’ll need to take:

    1. Stand in shallow water where there are at least a few inches of water between the surface and the ground.
    2. Hold the skimboard in both hands, with your dominant hand on the base (bottom) of the board and your other hand on the top of the board.
    3. With the board parallel to the surface of the water, take a few steps and swing the board, then release it in front of you. The board should skim over the surface of the water. (It’s sort of like skipping a giant rock on the water with two hands.)
      • You’ll want to throw the board hard enough that it’s moving and doesn’t lose momentum when you step on, but not so hard that you can’t quickly jump on after a few steps. This part takes a lot of practice to perfect. 
    4. Take a few running steps behind the board and step onto the board with your non-dominate foot in front and your dominant foot in the back. You’ll want to step into the skimboard gently and not jump on top of the board (which will sink the board and kill the momentum). It’s similar to sliding on hardwood floors in your socks. 
    5. Now skim across the surface of the water! Repeat, repeat, repeat! 

    young child skimboarding - kids skimboarding basics

    Skimboarding into the surf

    The more advanced way to skimboard is to skim yourself into deeper water and directly into the oncoming waves. This type of skimboard wave riding is great fun for older kids. You use the same technique as mentioned above but point the nose of the skimboard into the ocean. My 12-year-old prefers to skimboard this way. He loves to try new tricks, like getting air as the white water comes in. We’ve seen advanced and pro skimboarders do all kinds of spins, flips, and tricks this way. It’s something to work up to for sure!

    skimboarding towards wave - skimboarding for older kids skim boarding at the beach

    Skimboarding spills and falls

    When your kids are just starting out with skimboarding, it’s important to let them know that they will inevitably fall down. Spills and falls happen. A lot. Many times when trying to step onto the skimboard, it pulls your feet right out from underneath you, and you end up flat on your back in the water. Expect some falls and prepare your kids for not only the crash (in the sand), but the fact that water and sand may get in their mouth, eyes, and nose. It can be scary for kids the first few times it happens. 

    The plus side to falling off a skimboard is that, unlike skateboarding, the fall won’t be on a hard concrete surface. Wet sand is considerably softer than concrete, but can still hurt. Falling down is an important part of life in general though, so celebrate the fact that they keep trying even when it gets hard.

    kid falling off skimboard

     

    Choosing the best beaches for skimboarding

    Some beaches are better for skimboarding with kids than others. Try to avoid beaches with rocky shores. Falling on a rock is not pleasant! Beaches with a lot of seaweed on the shore are also not ideal for skimboarding because the seaweed can inhibit the board from skimming smoothly over the water. You’ll also want a beach that isn’t super crowded so you have space to run and skim without running into others.

    The best type of beach will have a long, soft sandy stretch of shoreline. Also, beginner skimboarders will have the best success at low tide.

    Here in Southern California, we have some really great soft sandy beaches, but we also have rocky ones. We have to be choosy when we know we’ll be skimboarding. 

    girl skim boarding

    Benefits of skimboarding for kids

    Skimboarding has so many health benefits for kids (and even for you)! Some of these benefits of skimboarding include:

    • increased balance
    • stronger legs and core
    • greater coordination
    • improved awareness of ocean/wave patterns
    • exposure to Vitamin D
    • strengthening of smaller muscles in the feet by running on the uneven surface of the sand

    running with skimboard

    Enjoying the beach while kids skimboard

    I am currently reading a book by Wallace J. Nichols titled Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do. How about that for a claim and title?! 

    Do you remember how Jo took Beth to the seashore in Little Women when she was sick? In Jane Austen’s Emma, Emma’s sister Isabella wanted to take her children to the seashore for their health after a recommendation from her doctor. I think Mr. Nichols and all of those doctors were on to something!

    I don’t know about you, but being near the ocean just makes me feel better and helps me to think more clearly. The ocean is both soothing and healing. It helps relax and inspires creativity. Just being near the water is good for your mood, spirit, and health. 

    And while I sometimes wish I could take my kids to the beach just to sit and enjoy the beauty of it in peaceful silence, that’s unrealistic for parents of small kids. However, we’ve found that everyone is a thousand times happier when they have something active to do at the beach and we still get the benefits of being there, despite the chaos and all the activity! Going to the beach is always worth it for us. 

    happy child skimboarding at the beach child skim boarding

    Multi-purpose skimboard

    My kids really enjoy skimboarding when we’re at the beach. It keeps them active and entertained for hours! It’s something that all of my kids can do, and it fits so easily in the beach wagon. However, we’ve also found many uses for our skimboards other than skimboarding! When no one is using the board to skim around, it can also be stuck in the sand as a makeshift backstop for a game of wiffle ball. The board is the perfect surface to put your beach treasures on, like all of these sand dollars my kids found in Morro Bay. We’ve used our skimboards as a tabletop for picnic lunches on the beach. 

    skimboard as backstop on the beach holding skim board with sand dollars

    Additional beach planning resources

    The beach has so much to offer families! It’s a fun destination with the potential to make some unforgettable memories. Before your beach day, check out a few of our favorite posts about all things beach:

    I hope you’re able to add skimboarding to your kids’ repertoire of things to do at the beach.

    kid skim boarding at dusk

    Have your kids ever tried skimboarding?

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma living in central San Diego, CA, raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out of doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as a garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • BEACH, CAMP, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    A Mother’s Guide to Backpacking with Kids

    Are you looking for a way to get off the beaten path and reconnect with nature and your family? Do you love camping and want to take your adventures to the next level? Have you ever considered venturing into the woods to get away from it all for a few days with your kids? Well, then today’s post on backpacking with kids is going to inspire you! Creative Team member and Washington mom of 4, RyAnn Peverly shares her experience backing with her sons. She’s giving us the lowdown on how to choose the right backpacking location, what permits you need to backpack and camp, how to plan your adventure, what (and how) to pack, what to eat, and so much more! This post gives you everything you need to feel confident hitting the trail for your first backpacking adventure with kids. 

    Mother's Guide to Backpacking with Kids - everything you need to know for your first backpacking trip

    Starting our backpacking adventures early

    Camping is one of my family’s favorite pastimes. Loading up the car with tents, sleeping bags, a cooler full of our favorite foods. Camping is a blast no matter where you camp, but every so often we yearn to get off the beaten path and find a little solitude away from the busy campgrounds and everyday noises. Backpacking allows us the opportunity to connect with each other and the world around us in an up-close and personal way. 

    We started backpacking when the youngest was six months old. Back then it meant shorter trips, with mom and dad carrying heavier packs. Now that the youngest is 6 years old, everyone is carrying their own weight, and our trips are getting more adventurous. 

    As my children start to get older, and more comfortable in their own skills, I wanted to teach them about all it takes to put a backpacking trip together. 

    How to plan a mother son solo backpacking trip

    Planning a mother/son backpacking trip

    My boys and I decided that we would go on a “mom and me” trip. Just me solo, with them. I was really looking forward to the time we’d spend together bonding and I was excited to show them (and myself), just how capable I could be.

    We sat down together and started planning our trip together. Backpacking is the perfect adventure to blend hiking with camping. It allows you to explore the area a little more, and spend a night under the stars. There are no designated campgrounds, no bathrooms, or running water. No one else around. And it’s glorious. 

    Because you’re away from your car and campgrounds, backpacking means that you carry everything you need for a camping trip on your back. All food, water, clothing, and camping gear. There’s a lot of packing and thinking ahead that goes into backpacking, so a good plan is key to a successful trip. 

    How to choose a place to go backpacking with kids

    Where to go backpacking?

    Our first step was to choose where we wanted to go for our backpacking adventure. Our favorite resource here in Washington is the Washington Trails Association website. Their website, wta.org, has the most comprehensive list of trails in Washington state. This list of kid-friendly backpacking trips is a great resource. Some of our other favorite resources for choosing a location are:

    • All Trails
    • Local guidebooks
    • National Park websites
    • National Forest website

    Things to consider when planning a backpacking trip with kids

    When choosing a location to go backpacking, we take a few important things into consideration.

    • How many days are we going out?
    • How far do we want to drive?
    • What will the weather be like?
    • How far do we want to hike to a campsite?
    • What type of permit or reservation do we need?

    There are so many questions! For this trip, we decided to return to one of our favorite places, Sand Point out on the Olympic Peninsula. This backcountry camping area lies right on the coast of the Pacific ocean and offers so many opportunities to explore. Since the trip would be just me and the boys, we decided to stick to a shorter, easier trail. At just three miles in, we knew the hike wouldn’t be a challenge and would give us plenty of time to spend the day playing at the beach. 

    How to plan a backpacking trip with kids

    Secure your camping location and get the necessary permits

    After choosing our location, we had to make sure we could secure our campground spot. For this particular location, we needed to get a backcountry permit since we would be camping in a National Park. Areas like National Forests and BLM (Bureau of Land Management) do not require permits or reservations. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to check your local rules and regulations and acquire the proper permits before leaving the house.

    To secure our permit we visited Reservation.gov, made our date selection, and paid the associated fees. In addition to getting our campsite secured, we checked the weather and downloaded a map of the trail and area we were going. The All Trails app (paid version) allows you to download maps to an app on your phone for easy navigation. You can also download and print maps from the National Park and National Forest websites to bring along.

    Backpacking trips are a great way to teach your kids map reading skills. 

    Mother Son backpacking trip - how to plan

    What’s in your backpack?

    Now that our location was set, we needed to make sure we brought everything for a great trip. Since backpacking requires you to carry everything in your pack with you to your campsite, it requires lighter, more compact items. This may mean that not everything in your car camping kit will work.

    5 essential items for backpacking trip

    1. Backpack: This pack needs to be large enough to fit all of your gear inside. As the parent, I generally carry a 45-65 liter pack, and the kids each carry their own day pack. It is important when selecting a pack for backpacking that it fits comfortably. Remember, you could be carrying upwards of 30lbs. on your back. The kids carry their own water, snacks, extra clothes, and their sleeping bag. 

    2. Tent: Car camping tents can be used if that’s what you have, but be forewarned that they are generally bulky and heavy. A good backpacking tent is an investment that can be used for car camping also. This tent made by REI has served our family well for many types of camping trips.

    3. Sleeping bag: Because we live in Washington state (and it gets cold here!) we have decided 32 degree bags were the best buy for our money. A sleeping bag at this rating will take us through most seasons. When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking take into consideration packed weight, temperature rating and type of insulation. This sleeping bag by Kelty is one of our favorites.

    4. Sleeping mat: Sleeping mats play a key role in a good sleep system while backpacking. If your mat is not comfortable you likely won’t sleep well. The same is true for insulation and keeping you warm through the night. There are a lot of pads on the market, and the choice can be a big one. For our family the kids use a closed cell sleeping mat, like this one. For mom and dad, we chose something with a little more cushion. This is one of my favorites!

    5. Stove: There are so many stove options out there, but for backpacking, we have found that we like to keep meals simple and lightweight. For this all we needed was a stove that could boil water, and make a good cup of coffee. So we chose to bring along a Jetboil stove that comes with a french press kit. How perfect is that!

    Some other fun items to bring along are a hammock, a blow-up lantern, small toys, a book for family storytime, and binoculars. For a comprehensive list of what to bring, I generally print off this great list from REI.

    Mother's Guide to Backpacking in the PNW with Kids

    What to eat on a backpacking trip with kids?

    Our next step was to plan out what to eat on our backpacking trip. The boys and I sat down and made a meal plan together. Because we can’t bring the whole camp kitchen with us, we decided to stick with simple foods. When deciding how much food you need, take into consideration how many days you will be out, and how much energy you will be using. We all know busy and active kids get hungry.

    For breakfast and dinners, we stuck with foods that could be cooked with just boiling water. Oatmeal is a great filling breakfast, and adding freeze-dried berries to it is a fun way to add some flavor and nutrition. For dinner, we chose pre-made dehydrated meals that come prepackaged. They are lightweight and generally have 2 servings in each pouch. There are so many great brands out there (Mountain House, Peak Refuel, Alpine Aire) with fun flavors to try. Our family’s favorites are chili mac and teriyaki chicken & rice. I suggest getting a variety of them and trying a few out at home to make sure you like them and pack your favorites. 

    For lunch and snacks, we stuck with foods we know we love. This is the meal plan we came up with.

    2-day backpacking meal plan

    Meal Day 1 Day 2
    Breakfast At home Oatmeal w/ freeze dried berries & coffee/ hot chocolate
    Lunch Backpackers charcuterie 

    (crackers, baby bell, olives, salami, tangerine/ apple)

    		 Tuna wrap

    (packaged tuna, mayo packet, mustard, hot sauce, celery chunks)
    Snack Dried mango, cliff bars, meat sticks Peanut butter M&Ms, banana chips, salmon jerky 
    Dinner Dehydrated meals x2 At home or restaurant
    Dessert Apple Crisp  Extra snacks in car for ride home

    Backpacking meals grocery shopping list

    • Instant oatmeal
    • Crackers
    • Baby bell cheese
    • Olive or pickle packet
    • Salami or summer sausage
    • Packable fruit (apples, cuties)
    • Meat sticks
    • Salmon jerky
    • M&Ms
    • Banana chips
    • Cliff bar (or other granola/energy bars)
    • Dehydrated meals (Mountain House, Peak Refuel, Alpine Aire)
    • Freeze-dried fruit
      • apples
      • mangos
      • strawberries
      • blueberries
      • raspberries
    • Granola
    • Walnuts
    • Cinnamon
    • Brown Sugar
    • Tortillas

    Easy snacks and meals for overnight backpacking trips with kids

    How to store and pack your food for backpacking

    The first thing we need to know is if there are any regulations on food storage in the area we are going to. Each land management has its own guidelines on how to safely store food. It’s important when researching your location that you find out how you are required to do this.

    There are two general ways to safely keep food out of the hands (or paws) of the animals in your area.

    • Bear canister: A bear canister is a hard-shell plastic cylinder with a lid that humans can screw on and off, but animals can not get inside of. The plus side of this type of storage is that you can leave it on the ground. The con is that these canisters are bulky and take up quite a bit of room in your pack. For our trip we were required to bring this, so we filled it with all our food and a few other supplies so as not to waste space. 
    • Hanging your food: The food hanging method is easy to implement, transport, and is made up of a few easy-to-find components. You will need a bag that closes (we use a dry sack), 50 feet of rope or para-cord, and a rock. The idea is to tie one end of the cord to your bag, and the other end to the rock. Then you toss the rock over a tree branch and use the weight to pull your bag off the ground. Then secure the rock end to another nearby tree. When using this method make sure your bag is at least 10 feet from the ground and six feet from the tree trunk. The con of this type of storage is that you have to have larger trees where you are going.

    Setting up your backpacking camping kitchen

    After food storage had been sorted I asked the boys to help me decide which kitchen items would be helpful for our trip. Since we decided on foods that either didn’t need to be cooked or only required hot water, that meant we could pare down our camp kitchen to a few essentials. Besides the stove we were bringing to boil water, our kitchen kit looked like this:

    • Mug for hot beverages
    • Folding bowl for breakfast and dinner
    • Spork
    • Small pack of wet wipes
    • Biodegradable soap 
    • Small microfiber towel
    • Water filtration system

    best water filtration when backpacking with kids

    Water filtration system for backpacking

    One key factor when you go backpacking is to know where your water sources are. Is there a lake, river, stream nearby? If you are hiking into an area with few (or no) water sources you will need to carry more with you. Our chosen campsite had a freshwater stream that fed into the ocean. This meant we only needed to carry enough water for the hike in, and then would be able to gather and filter more as needed.

    It’s important to filter your water before drinking because all natural water sources carry microscopic pathogens. Ingesting these tiny critters can cause some serious upset tummies. In order to avoid this, bringing along a water filter is necessary.

    There are several types of water filtration systems for camping on the market, but our favorite is a gravity filter. These types of filters allow you to fill a larger “dirty” water bag attached to a filter, which then runs through a hose into your water bottle or “clean” water container.

    how to pack your backpack for overnight backpacking with kids

    How to fit everything you need in your backpack

    There’s a lot of gear and supplies that need to go into your backpack. You need a good packing system in place so that you have easy access to the items that you’ll need first and most often. This will keep you from having to dig through your pack every time you need something. Plus, a well-packed backpack means equal distribution of weight, which helps tremendously when carrying a full pack. 

    You should pack your backpack in layers. The bulkiest items will be on the bottom (the stuff you don’t need access to throughout the hike). The most frequently used items at the top. 

    Here are the levels for packing a backpack:

    • Top
      • snacks
      • first aid
      • map
      • personal items (phone, camera, toiletries, bathroom kit, etc.)
    • Middle 
      • food
      • water
      • stove
      • tent
    • Bottom
      • sleeping bag
      • sleeping pad
      • extra clothing

    Now that we had our plan in place, our gear sorted out, our meals planned, and our bags packed, it was time to head out for some fun!

    backpacking with kids - everything you need to know

    Choosing a campsite when backpacking

    My boys and I had such a great backpacking trip. We enjoyed three miles of hiking among old-growth trees that opened onto a classic Pacific Northwest rocky beach. As we continued hiking down the trail we found the perfect campsite right on a point that allowed us to enjoy the beach as the winds changed direction throughout the day. We worked together to set up our tent and lay out our mats and sleeping bags inside. 

    When camping in our area, there’s a right way to set up your campsite in order to keep everything (and everyone) safe. After setting up our sleeping area, we selected a good spot about 70 steps from our tent to set up a cooking area. It’s important to not get food near your sleeping site to ensure you don’t get any visitors in the night. As stewards of wild spaces, it’s our responsibility to ensure that animals don’t eat human food.

    We also picked out a spot where we would store our food when not in use. Again, this should be at least 70 big steps from your campsite. My youngest had fun counting out the steps and finding the “perfect spot”.

    how to safely set up your campsite to keep food away from bears

    A little potty talk…

    Another topic that must be thought about when backpacking is where one will use the restroom. Unlike car campgrounds, there may not be a toilet when backpacking. Fortunately, our site had a shared pit toilet for the area. But, if you find yourself selecting a location that does not have this amenity, you have two options.

    1. Blue bag system: This system is the easiest, but requires you to carry out your poop when you leave. For this style you will collect your poop and toilet paper in a “blue bag” (essentially a dog poop bag), tie it up and put it inside a resealable plastic bag. You take this with you and dispose of it properly after your camping trip.
    2. Dig a hole: This method is a little more work, but means you carry less out with you. First, dig a hole with a small trowel at least four inches wide and six inches deep. Only put human waste in this hole. When you are done bury the waste and put your paper waste in a resealable plastic bag to dispose of properly after your trip.

    Make sure you use the facilities at least 200 yards (or 80 big steps) from your campsite and all water sources. In my pack, I always carry a “bathroom kit” that I keep stocked with a small roll of toilet paper, travel-size wet wipes, small trowel, resealable bag, blue bags and hand sanitizer. This way when one of the kids needs to go I can hand them the kit and they’re on their way.

    how to go to the bathroom when backpacking - bathroom kit

    Backpacking is worth it

    Backpacking can seem like a daunting task to take on when you are new to the idea. I’ll admit, when our family first decided to start this type of camping, I had my reservations. Will we be able to bring everything we need? Can I actually carry all of that on my back? Will the kids complain too much? What if I forget something? 

    Yes, there’s a lot to consider, but its doable, I promise! With a little planning and forethought, it’s easier than you imagine. After our first few trips I realized that backpacking was an amazing way for our family to bond, not only with each other but with the world around us. We have seen some beautiful places because we were willing to get a little uncomfortable, put in the work, and step off the beaten path.

    A few years ago I may not have embarked on a trip with just my boys. I would have been too intimidated, too nervous, too scared to try something new. But, I have watched my kids grow and strengthen their own skills. I’ve seen them become independent and capable, helpful and thoughtful. We work together so it’s not all on me. It builds their confidence and independence. And I can joyfully say that I look forward to many more backpacking adventures with my boys.

    Have you ever been backpacking with kids?

    About the author

    RyAnn is a mom of four (20, 18, 15, 6) that loves exploring her home in the Pacific Northwest. She works as a youth outdoor program instructor for the Mountaineers Org. in Washington state. RyAnn also loves getting out and adventuring with her family as much as possible. They enjoy traveling around the PNW in their converted Sprinter campervan. On her days off she generally loads up the van and hits the trails for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, or climbing. RyAnn is passionate about instilling love and respect for outdoor spaces in her kids and the youth she is lucky to work with.

    You can find more from RyAnn in the following locations:
    Instagram: @mountain_mama4
    Website: Mountain Mama

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Boogie Boarding with Kids

    Boogie boarding is such a fun way to enjoy a day at the beach. Not only is it affordable and fun, but it’s an easy activity for kids of any age. Boogie boarding has physical benefits, as well as helps kids become confident swimmers. Today, Creative Team member and Las Vegas mom of four, Megan Havelaar shares all the tips, tricks, and advice you need to know to get starting boogie boarding with kids this summer! 

    Boogie Boarding with Kids - tips and advice on how to get started.

    Boogie boarding with kids

    Are you heading to the beach this summer? Are you looking for something different for your kids to do besides just swimming and playing in the sand? Let’s talk about boogie boarding! I have found boogie boarding is a fun summer activity for kids of all ages. Our family enjoys it because it’s a relatively inexpensive activity and easy enough for the kids to get the hang of quickly. You don’t need a lot of equipment to try it out and you can learn at any age!

    Benefits of boogie boarding for kids

    Boogie boarding is a great outdoor physical activity for kids. Not only does paddling for waves require a substantial amount of arm, chest, and upper body strength, but you’ll also gain core strength as you balance on your board. Kicking to gain extra speed to catch waves works out your leg muscles. Water has a calming effect on the mind, and being outside in the fresh air and sunshine means extra Vitamin D. It’s also great because kids can do it with a level of independence, and helps to build their confidence in the water. 

    How to get started boogie boarding with kids

    Boogie board or bodyboard?

    There’s no real difference between the act of boogie boarding and bodyboarding. Boogie Board is technically a brand name for a foam bodyboard trademarked in the 1970s. The term has now become synonymous and representative for nearly all bodyboards, even those made by other companies. You can still buy official “Boogie Boards” at lots of retail stores. It’s totally up to you whether you want to call it boogie boarding or bodyboarding; as long as you’re having fun, no one will mind! 

    Boogie boards for kids

    Let’s talk about the boogie boards. This can get as expensive or inexpensive as you want. I have found that they range anywhere from $5 to over $100. I have four kids, so when we originally started boogie boarding it was because we found some on sale for $5 at our local retail shop. At a cost of $20 total for a board for each kid, it was well worth the investment. We are now entering into our third summer with those same boards! For those that would like to invest in a different style, higher performance board (with channels or bottom fins), there are some really nice, quality boards you can get if your kids are really into it. 

    How to choose the right boogie board for kids

    When you’re picking out your boogie board, size is the most important feature. Most boogie boards come in a range of sizes, so pick the best size for your little rider. If you’re a beginner, it’s better to choose a bigger and wider board. It’ll give you more control in the water as you get used to riding the waves. A 33″-37″ boogie board is the best option for smaller kids (under 85 lbs). A board that’s around 40″ or larger is better for bigger kids, teens, and adults (over 90 lbs). 

    Best boogie boards for kids

    Here are a few recommended boogie boards for kids: 

    Beginner's Guide to Boogie Boarding with Kids

    Other boogie boarding gear

    Boards also come with a leash that attaches to the board on one end and has a wristband on the other. This will keep the board attached to your rider and prevent it from getting away. You can also purchase swim fins that will help your child practice their kicks, and if they have sensitive skin a rash guard is great for protection from the sun and friction from the board. 

    Best age to start boogie boarding

    What’s the right age to teach a kid how to ride a boogie board? Well, like a lot of outdoor activities, it depends on the child. There is no minimum age for learning to boogie board. As soon as a child can walk and swim, they’re ready to hit the waves (maybe around the age of four). Parents are usually the best judge of knowing whether or not your child is ready to give boogie boarding a try. You know your child’s skill level, swimming expertise, comfort with the water/waves, and temperament best. It also may depend a lot on your location and the size of the waves. 

    Boogie boarding tips and advice for beginners

    The right beach for boogie boarding with kids

    I recommend going to a beach where the waves crash a little away from the shoreline, and one that stays shallow a good distance out. You also want to make sure your kids can touch the bottom. Familiar beaches are great for building confidence for beginners. And warm water is best for little kids (so they don’t get cold), but rashguards and wetsuits can help if you’re at a beach with colder water. 

    Wherever you are, it’s always important to watch the waves and continue to be observant while you’re near the water. I try and take notice if there are a lot of surfers on the waves because it could be an indication that the waves might be a little too big. Along with that, consider your comfort level with their ability to swim in those conditions. If the beach is too crowded, it might be worth it to wait for the crowd to die down, especially if your kids are young or it’s their first time. 

    How to boogie board

    Boogie boarding is a great introductory beach sport for kids. It features many of the attractive elements of surfing, but on a smaller scale. Like surfing, you’ll want to be where the waves break and then ride them in towards the shore.

    I recommend that kids start in water that’s around waist-deep. When you see a wave you want to ride, you’ll move onto the board with your stomach lying flat across the board. As your wave approaches, kick your feet and paddle with your hands to gain momentum. The current will do some of the work for you, but the kicking will add speed for more experienced boogie boarders. Once you reach the shore, grab your board and head back out to catch another wave!

    How to choose the right boogie board for kids

    Coaching boogie board beginners

    Even if it’s something you never have done, boogie boarding is pretty easy to teach kids. If your little one is just getting started, here are a few tips to make the experience easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

    Start by making sure you put the wristband on the child’s wrist. That way they won’t lose the board if they take a spill. Next, you’ll want to position your kids in the best sport for catching a wave. Go out to where the waves are breaking or just in front. Walk out there with them so you can feel whether there’s an undertow and gauge the depths of the water. 

    Once you see a wave start to break (maybe explain what that means if they don’t know), have them hop on their boards belly down, eyes up, and face the shore. They should start to kick their feet. Once they start riding the wave to the shore they can stop kicking and just enjoy the ride!  Now, just keep repeating this process.

    After the kids get the hang of it they can pretty much do it all on their own, or until you feel comfortable that they are confident in the water. You can always grab a board of your own and join in on the fun with them! I love grabbing my camera or phone, and capturing those smiles and laughs as they ride wave after wave into the shore. 

    Boogie Boarding with kids

    Enjoy spending time at the beach

    Lastly, I thought I would share some benefits I’ve seen in my children as we have spent time at the beach. There’s nothing quite like spending time outside and a day at the beach means you’re surrounded by nature AND water! There is so much sensory play to be found at the beach, between the sand, water, and if you’re at a beach with rocks and tide pools. There are always little creatures to be discovered, shells and rocks to be collected, sandcastles to be built and waves to jump. 

    Saltwater has so many healing properties, and the sound of the waves is very calming. The beach is a great place to socialize, meet and make new friends. It sparks a lot of curiosity and you will probably get asked a lot of questions! You may, or may not, have the answers to them, but you’ll be impressed by your kids’ curiosity and imaginations! Keep that spark of learning about the ocean and beach going at home by reading books about the sea. And lastly, you are making wonderful memories with your kids! 

    More fun ways to enjoy the water

    If you’re looking for even more fun ways to get outside and enjoy the water this summer, check out a few of our other favorite water posts! 

    Have you tried boogie boarding with your kids?

    About the author

    Megan is a wife and a homeschooling mom of four. She is originally from Colorado, but has spent much of her life overseas. First in Eastern Europe, specifically, Hungary, where her first two kids were born. Secondly, in Ethiopia, where she and her husband adopted their second two kids. She and her family are now stateside, currently living in Las Vegas, Nevada. She loves traveling with her kids, either on planes, road trips, or just in their local area! Most of her family’s outdoor adventuring includes water of some kind like beaches, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or pools. They especially love paddleboarding, hiking, rock climbing, camping, and even just going to the local park to play soccer or basketball. Megan also has a passion for photography and loves to bring along her camera to document all their adventures!

    Find more from Megan in the following locations:
    Instagram: @meghavelaarphoto
    RWMC posts: Megan Havelaar

  • BEACH, CANOE/KAYAK, FAVORITE GEAR, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    How to Stand Up Paddleboard with Kids

    Summer will soon be coming to an end soon, but right now there’s still plenty of time to get out on the water! One of the most fun outdoor water activities for families is stand up paddleboarding (SUP). Not only is stand up paddleboarding a great work-out, but standing upright on a paddleboard lets you look down into the water and really connect with the nature around you. Today, we have Chelsea Furlong, a professional photographer and (new) homeschooling mom of two, here with tips on how to stand up paddleboard with kids and everything you need to know to get started. 

    how to stand up paddleboard with kids

    Benefits of stand up paddleboarding (SUP)

    Paddleboarding is a great way to spend time with your family outdoors. You get fresh air and sunlight, which we can all use during stressful times, as well as plenty of full-body exercise. SUP promotes balance, increases arm, leg and core strength, and improves endurance as well. The balancing works on your foot, leg, and core, while the paddling is great for your arms and shoulders! Paddleboarding is also a great way to build confidence in children. They get so excited when they’re able to stand securely and do it themselves. Being on the water is also amazing for stress release, which we could all use more of right now. Being outside and in nature is imperative to your family’s mental health.

    SUP during COVID

    Because of the pandemic this year, there’s been a boom in individual sports that allow for fresh air and physical activity, while still following social distancing guidelines. Biking, skateboarding, hiking, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding are popular outdoor, COVID-friendly family activities. While the beaches may be closed during the pandemic, stand up paddleboarding gives you an opportunity to enjoy the water without using the beach! Our city allowed the residents to exercise outside during quarantine, so stand up paddleboarding was a great option!

    advice on how to SUP with kids

    What do I need to stand up paddleboard with kids?

    The supplies needed for stand up paddleboarding are minimal! You’ll need a stand up paddleboard, a paddle, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each person. There is a fairly wide range when it comes to the price of paddleboards, depending on the size, material and brand. We have two solid paddleboards, but many people now are purchasing inflatable stand up paddleboards (iSUP) because they are easier to store and transport!

    When picking a stand up paddleboard, it is important to note the size and weight limit of the board. Wider boards are easier to balance on and great for doing yoga and toting kids along! They usually have a higher weight limit as well. The thinner boards can be more difficult to balance on but are better for SUP surfing! If you have young children that you plan riding with, be sure that the board you pick can handle the weight of you both!

    Some SUPs come with a paddle, but if you are purchasing the board and paddle separately I recommend an adjustable paddle. With an adjustable paddle, you can make it smaller for the kids when they’re paddling and then make it larger for you when it’s your turn to paddle. 

    If investing in your own SUP isn’t in the budget, look for a local SUP rental company! Renting equipment is a great option for those just getting started to see whether they’ll like it.

    Other items to bring along

    Another great item to have, but isn’t necessary is a waterproof bag that can attach to your board. We have one like this that I’m able to clip right to my board. We usually keep bug spray, sunscreen, car keys, and a cell phone in there in case of an emergency. You obviously run a risk of the bag detaching and losing your keys/phone in the water, so always double-check that it’s securely fastened. When we have our whole family on the water, we feel having a way to call someone during an emergency is definitely worth the risk of the bag detaching and falling in the water.

    tips for how to paddleboard with kids

    How to get started stand up paddleboarding with kids

    Once you have your gear, the only other things you need are water and a sense of adventure! Learning how to stand up paddleboard may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t take long before you’re on your board cruising through the water. Here are a few more tips for getting started. 

    Where to go to stand up paddleboard?

    You can technically try stand up paddleboarding in any body of water. However, I’d recommend that beginners start on lakes and ponds and avoid the open ocean or rivers. This way you don’t have to worry about large waves or fast-moving currents. The more confident and comfortable you are, the easier it will be for you to start transitioning to moving water and the open ocean. 

    Get comfortable on your board first

    Before you get your children involved, you’ll want to be sure YOU are comfortable stand up paddleboarding. You should feel comfortable balancing, paddling, falling and climbing back up on the board. When you add children to the mix, you’ll have to manage all of that PLUS assist them in the water and back onto the SUP if they fall. If you’re brand new to the sport, I recommend taking some time on your own to get the hang of it. Start on your knees and then work your way up to standing.

    how to get started paddleboarding with kids

    Practice in shallow water

    Once you’re feeling ready, it’s time to add in the kids! Before you toss your kids on a paddleboard and head out of a long adventure, you’ll want to be sure they’re comfortable in the water and on the board. You’ll want to help them practice in shallow water so you can stand beside them, hold the paddleboard, and assist them as they become more comfortable. It may take quite a few spills and retries before they figure it out.

    Make practicing fun for the kids

    Before taking our kids out on adventures, we made games for them to play on our stand up paddleboards. It’s important that your children feel comfortable falling off the board, swimming back to it, and climbing back up on it. We let our kids practice by standing up on the boards and jumping off into the water! Kids LOVE doing this! It’s like having your own dock to jump off.

    The other game they play is a made-up game called “Paddle Battle.” This is better for older children. Both kids stand up on a paddleboard facing each other, a few feet apart. I call out, “3, 2, 1..Paddle battle!” and they each use their legs to rock the SUP back and forth until someone falls off.  The last one standing is the winner! This is great for balance and stability practice, and they get used to the feeling of falling off the board and then climbing back on. 

    stand up paddleboarding with kids - games to play on the paddleboard

    SUP with younger children

    For younger children, you’ll want to have them feel what it’s like to sit on the board. You can have them explore the paddleboard on land and in the water. Have them sit on the board while you stand next to them holding the board and give them a nice, slow, calm ride around a shallow spot. Once they’re comfortable with that, you can try kneeling on the SUP with them sitting in the front, and paddling from a kneeling position. That way you’re still nice and close to them, and able to provide comfort and encouragement. 

    Practice paddling

    When the kids are comfortable on the stand up paddleboard, you can then have them begin to practice paddling! You’ll want to start in a shallow place so that you can stand next to them and help them navigate. If they’ve been kayaking, learning to paddle on a SUP will be easy! Make sure your children are comfortable paddling in a straight line as well as making turns before you head out too far. My kids like to paddle forward fast and then stop the paddle in the water to make quick turns. 

    sunset paddleboarding and kayaking with kids

    Get out there!

    Once you and your children are all comfortable on your stand up paddleboard, it’s time to adventure! Depending on the ages of your children, you may choose to have them sit on the stand up paddleboard with an adult paddling or have them paddle on their own.

    Pro tip: Our children are at an in-between age right now. They’re older and able to paddle alone, but not for long distances. So they use these children’s kayaks for longer adventures and paddle in their kayaks while my husband and I use our SUPS. The small kayaks are lightweight and easy to carry. They’re also very easy to turn so it’s great paddling practice. It’s a wonderful way for all of us to have a great experience on the water during a longer journey! 

    Find what works best for your family and head out exploring! The memories you make together will be priceless, and you’ll all go home feeling rejuvenated. 

    Have you been stand up paddleboarding with kids?
    What’s your favorite tip?

    About the author

    Chelsea is a photographer, mother of two busy boys, and a sunshine and fresh air addict. Her family lives in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and spends as much time outdoors as they possibly can! Most of their outdoor adventures involve exploring the beach, inlets, and nature trails nearby. They love biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, building forts, and playing in the sand! During the warm months, you can find them enjoying the Chesapeake Bay almost every night until long after the sun goes down. They’re doing our best to reduce their carbon footprint and always try to leave every trail cleaner than it was when they arrived.

    You can find Chelsea online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @dimples.and.the.blonde
    Website: dimplesandtheblonde.com
    RWMC posts: Chelsea Furlong

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Packing Tips for a Day at the Beach with Kids

    Spending a day at the beach with family is an incredibly fun and enjoyable outdoor activity. However, packing for a beach trip with kids is no easy feat. If you tend to get overwhelmed with how much one family needs for a day at the beach, this post is for you! Today, we have Annie Hamilton, Daytona photographer and mom of four, here sharing her beach packing tips and what you really need to bring to have an enjoyable day at the beach! We’ve even included a printable beach checklist for families with kids to make sure you’ve packed everything you need! 

    Day at the Beach Packing Tips

    Professional beach-goer

    It’s no secret, our family loves the beach! With all the trips we have taken, I would venture to say we are almost “beach pros.” Is that a job? I can’t think of a better way to spend the day with the family; our beach trips have led to so many great memories. I’m a firm believer that the more time you spend outside, the happier you are. However, sometimes just thinking about packing the kids up and heading to the beach is enough to give anyone anxiety. Beach trips require some planning and gear, but it doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are a few of our best packing tips and tricks for having a relaxing and stress-free beach day with your family!

    Family beach trip - beach packing trips for large families

    Set the tone

    For me, the beach is like Disney – it’s the happiest place on earth! Remember, as the parent, you set the tone for your family on each adventure you undertake. If you’re stressed and cranky, the whole family will be. And there’s nothing worse than bad attitudes in the sweltering sun. So, good attitudes are paramount! If you’re relaxed and having fun, your kids will be, too. 

    Lighten your load

    We currently live only 14 minutes from the ocean, so our beach commute is much shorter than others. However, we didn’t always live so close to the beach. We used to have to drive much longer to get there. And with any family of 6, even packing for a short trip can be a ton of work. With so many people to think about and so much to pack, even short trips can feel like a big event. 

    Packing light will help with the stress-level and help you get out of the door quicker. This is especially true for a family of six, because no one ever wants to carry a million toys (dad usually turns into SuperDad; carrying it all). Our best advice is to only take the essentials (you might be surprised how little you really need) and load up the night before. This helps to make an easier trip out and avoids the initial bad attitudes and feelings of frustration and overwhelm. 

    what to pack for a beach trip with kids - beach packing tips

    Avoid peak hours

    I’m a lover of light, as well as the ocean…so I usually plan our trips around the best times for lighting. This means you’ll hardly ever find us at the beach in the harsh sun in the middle of the day. Sunset is definitely our favorite time of day at the beach. We like to go a few hours before sunset to watch the kids play on their boogie boards into the evening while the sun goes down. This also means we avoid the crowds during the day and the hottest hours. 

    Best time of day to go to the beach with kids

    Don’t forget the sunscreen

    The most important essential for a good day at the beach is sunscreen. No matter the weather, it’s always important to protect your skin from the intense rays and burn. It’s a common misconception that you can’t get sunburned when it’s overcast or cloudy. In fact, on those days you can get more sunburnt because up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches us. If you’re swimming in the ocean, I highly recommend you use a reef-safe sunscreen that protects both your kids and the environment. We’ve got a great list of the best reef-safe sunscreens for kids. 

    Next, let’s talk about sunscreen application. I don’t know about you, but I can’t stand touching sunscreen! It usually leaves my hands feeling oily and gross. The sand sticks and it takes forever to get off. So, for a great beach hack, I like to bring along a makeup sponge and use that to apply the sunscreen to my kids. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours before or after swimming.

    What to bring to the beach with kids - beach packing tips

    Other beach essentials

    Bring a beach towel for everyone and pack an extra. A bad setup could have your towels soaking up the surf!

    Pack plenty of water and snacks. If we are going to spend the whole day at the beach, I like to make sure the kids have enough water bottles to stay hydrated. I pack a small cooler with ice for water, fruits and sandwiches. I like to pack individual snacks or even Lunchables. Grapes are great because you can freeze them and put them on the ice. Avoid sugary drinks when in the heat because it dehydrates them. Waters (and possibly Gatorade) is the best choice. We freeze bottles of water and place them in the cooler to keep the rest of the food cold and drink them as they melt.

    Accidents happen, so pack a small First-Aid kit with bandages, Neosporin, and alcohol swabs. Baby wipes are also good to have handy, especially when sand or sunscreen gets in someone’s eyes or face. They make it much easier to help wipe it away. Here’s exactly what should be in your first aid kit for kids. 

    Oh! and don’t forget a big blanket for everyone to lay on. We never really fussed with the pop-up tents ourselves, but some people do like them for added sun protection if you’re on the beach during peak sun hours or have really small kids that need breaks from the sun.

    Beach packing tips - family beach time

    Sand toys for the win

    Our kids are little fishies and spend the majority of their time in the water. They don’t need a lot of toys to keep them entertained or occupied. But when the sun starts going down, they always settle in the sand and start building sandcastles. Watching the sun go down as my kids make sandcastles will forever be my favorite memories. For us, sand/beach toys are essential. Luckily, they’re usually very inexpensive and light enough not to weigh us down when packing them.

    Make sure to pack a shovel and pale with a few sand castle shapers. Shapers are fun if you have them, but the kids can do a lot with just a shovel and pale…trust me. If you want to get serious about sandcastles, check out our post on expert sandcastle building tips. 

    boogie boards for kids and other beach toys

    Boogie boards & beyond

    My kids enjoy boogie boarding. They can spend hours floating in the ocean or riding the waves on their boards. If your kids are 3 and up, adventurous, and love the water, then I highly recommend getting one. They will go out there and ride the waves for hours! You can pick them up at any store and beach towns usually carry them as well. Here’s a great post on everything you need to know to get started boogie boarding with kids. 

    Don’t forget a frisbee or a ball to toss around. A quick tip is to bring a mesh laundry bag to put the beach toys in. This helps to rinse them off, reducing the amount of sand that comes home.

    what to take to the beach for kids to play with

    What to wear to the beach?

    We always head to the beach already dressed in our swimsuits. We find it much easier to get dressed before leaving the house so we’re ready to go when we get there. For my boys, they wear bathing suit shorts with rash guards. My girls, if it’s mid-day or a long day at the beach, tend to wear long-sleeve rash guard-type swimsuit. Rashguards give skin extra protection from the sun, which also means less area you have to cover with sunscreen. Even with a rashguard, make sure to reapply the sunscreen every few hours. I have noticed over the years that while my kids are busy building in the sand, their backs, back of neck and the back of their legs tend to get the most sun.

    My kids would never keep a hat on but if your kids will it doesn’t hurt to bring one to protect from the sun. We used to spend money on swim shoes but after a while we learned they weren’t necessary unless you’re going to a beach with lots of rocks or sharp shells. 

    tips for packing for a day at the beach with kids

    Optional non-essential beach items

    Here are a few extra things I like to bring to the beach that help make the trip smoother.

    • Net – If your kids are into seashells, bring a net. You can find these cheap in the beach toy section at most stores or in the fishing section. My youngest is a novelist seashell collector. While everyone else is in the water, you can find her on the shore shifting through seashells. She has found some pretty amazing and beautiful shells….and even fish!
    • Vinyl bag – These are great to throw the wet bathing suits and towels into. They won’t get everything else in the car wet on the way home and keep the sand from getting everywhere.
    • Tunes – We love music, so we bring along a little Sony Bluetooth speaker.
    • Baby powder – Yes, baby powder works great to help you get all the sand off your skin. Once you’ve dried off, sprinkle it over your feet and legs. The sand just wipes right off and your skin is smooth. My kids absolutely love that trick!

    stress-free packing for a day at the beach

    Don’t forget a camera!

    If you’re like me and you like to capture the memories, I highly suggest a GoPro. They are exceptional at capturing photos mid-day in bright sunlight. They also have so many accessories that make them safe to shoot near sand and water. I personally love the dome because were pretty much always around water and it allows me to take photos over and under the water at the same time. Plus, the GoPro is so small and super easy to pack along with you!

    gopro beach photo

    Beach packing list for families with kids

    Beach day packing tips

    So, there you have it! Everything you need to pack for a successful and stress-free day at the beach with kids! Do you feel more prepared now? We certainly hope that after reading this you’ve picked a new tip or two! Now, get your packing list ready and head to the beach! Enjoy the sun and make those memories with your family!

    About the author

    Annie is a wife to a USMC veteran and mother of 4 adventurous kids (2 boys then 2 girls) based in Daytona, Florida. Her family’s love for traveling and adventure comes from moving around in the military and they believe home is where the heart is. Annie’s Ecuadorian and I’m fluent in Spanish. Her love for photography comes from growing up in the movie industry, on the set of shows like Miami Vice and Bad Boys 2. Now she enjoys capturing her children making memories, exploring, and adventuring as a family. As a South Florida native, she’s a beach connoisseur and you can usually find her family at the beach. Annie and her husband are big fans of creating joy and magic with their kids. The oldest son loves to breakdance, the middle son is getting into surfing, the middle daughter takes horseback riding lessons, and the youngest is in ballet. The oldest three also play baseball. Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment in this family!

    You can find more from Annie in the following locations:
    Instagram: @copperstops
    Facebook: Emerald Grace Photography
    Website: http://www.emeraldgracephotography.com

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, FISH, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER

    Exploring California Coast Tidepools

    Tidepools are incredible little shallow puddles of seawater with a life of their own! Each one is a microcosm – a tiny little rocky world filled with fascinating creatures and sea life. Exploring tidepools with kids provides endless hours of entertainment and learning for the whole family. There’s so much to observe and discover. Today, Araceli Gonzalez, Northern California mom of three, is here to take you on an adventure through the tidepools along the California coast!

    exploring california coast tidepools with kids

    California coast tidepools

    Tidepools are one of the main attractions along the California coastline. Sprinkled all along Highway 1, you’re sure to find these beautiful gems throughout. Some of the best tidepools can be found along the Mendocino Coast, Monterey, Big SUR, Cambria, and all the way down throughout Southern California. The Central Coast (the area roughly spanning the coastal region between Point Mugu and Monterey Bay) is a family favorite with amazing tidepools. The Carmel Coast tidepools are pictured here.  

    Exploring California coast tidepools with kids

    The best time of day to visit a tidepool

    The best time to visit a tidepool is low tide when the water levels are calm and at their lowest. Low tide gives you more tidepools to discover and lets you explore much further out on the beach. You can take a look at a “tide table” in your area to find low tide times of day and make the most of your visit. Tide tables are handy charts with helpful low and high tide information. We recommend going just before low tide to give yourself the maximum amount of time to explore the tidepools. Start inland and work your way out as the tide recedes. But make sure to keep your eye on the tide and what the water is doing. Stay safe and come back inland as the tide starts to rise. 

    Tidepool safety tips for kidsTidepool safety tips

    Tidepools are so much fun, but it’s important to take a few precautions to ensure your kids are safe. Water (and the ocean in particular) can be dangerous and safety should be a top priority when exploring tidepools. Always be mindful of ocean currents and waves. Keep an eye on the time, the tides, and the water level. Never leave littles unattended. Rocks can be slippery, especially when covered in seaweed, so be extra careful when walking around on rocky beaches.  Water shoes with good grip are always a good idea, but if your kids are anything like mine barefoot is their shoe of choice. Remind them to watch their step and not step directly into water where they can’t see the bottom (and know what they’re stepping on).

    For the safety of the animals in the tidepool, I like to remind my kids to be delicate when picking up any sea creatures. If you can observe without touching, that’s even better (but not always preferred for kids – they love a hands-on experience). If they do pick up something, always put it back where they found it. Advise them to never pull or remove animals attached to rocks or the sand. These should be observed just as they are – and that’s fun too! 

    Tidepooling with kids California coast

    Tidepool seashells 

    My kids love finding and playing with seashells in tidepools. Most of the shells we find belong to snails – periwinkle snails, whelk snails, unicorn whelk – mussels or oysters. Teach the kids to observe them, enjoy them (very gently) and then leave them behind for the next person to enjoy. We try to remain mindful of the impact we have when visiting these gorgeous places. We tread lightly and are careful not to trample on these tiny creatures. Most seashells we find are still occupied by little creatures that are still alive so they need to remain in their home. However, if we find an empty shell, I’ll let the kids keep one. We love collecting them, sorting them by shape and color. It really is one of our favorite activities.  

    Seashells in tidepools in California

    Tidepool treasures

    When you explore tidepools, you’ll find so many treasures to uncover. From tiny little snails to great big ones like the abalone that lived in this shell. From colorful sea glass to beautiful seashells. Rocks of every shape, size and color. Crabs and claws, urchin and anemones. Sea stars, slugs, sand dollars, and sculpin. Algea and octopus! In a tidepool, even the sand is interesting!

    Bring along a book or a printable guide that helps you and your kids identify your finds. Get to know the animals and plants in your area and the distinctions between them all. We can spend hours turning over each rock and observing the little creatures. Our kids love the thrill of exploring each tidepool. What will we find…a snail, crab, clam, oyster, starfish? You never know! There’s so much to learn from exploring a tidepool and it’s why we love the California coast so much. The opportunity to explore and learn about nature is priceless. 

    Best tidepools for kids in California

    Slowing down

    Exploring tidepools at low tide gives us an opportunity to uncover endless possibilities.  Look under each rock and you will be amazed at what you will find. Move seaweed aside and peer into crevices. Find craters in the sand or rock with trapped sea creatures. Dig in the sand and see what you can find. Exploring the tidepools always seems to slow us down and make us take notice of all the amazing things around us. I love that our kids stare at everything with such intent. They are so calm and interested while observing. It’s obvious that they’re learning and thinking and uncovering new ideas. They ask great questions and engage all their senses. In a busy and overscheduled world, it is so important to slow down and enjoy the little things.  Tidepooling gives us that opportunity.

    Tidepool adventures with kids - Central Coast California

    Hike it, baby

    Hiking is another family-favorite activity and the California coast is an incredible place to hike. We love a good trail that ends the hike down at the beach with some fun at a tidepool. Just the anticipation of going tidepooling gives the kids something to look forward to and helps us power through a hike. Point Lobos State Nature Reserve in Monterey County not only offers an incredible opportunity to hike along a breathtaking trail, but you can also break to explore some really amazing tidepools. This is one of our favorite hiking trail that leads to tidepools. 

    Exploring tidepools with kids along the California coastline

    Learning made fun

    Exploring the California coast tidepools is a great way to expose kids to marine life and get them interested in the wide variety of aquatic plants and animals. Tidepools have the power to really unleash a child’s curiosity! Exploring a tidepool is a great hands-on full-body way to learn and connect kids to our environment. We enjoy (and highly encourage) any and all questions that come our way. We love talking about what causes a tide, how the moon and sun play a role. Why is there a low and high tide? Why are some animals protected by a shell and not others? What’s the difference between these types of animals? Why the different colors, shapes of sizes? So many questions and so much to learn in a super fun environment! And if we don’t know the answers, we discuss our theories and then look them up when we get home!

    what you'll find in the California coast tidepools

    Cliffs and more

    California coast tidepool adventures are not only about the tidepools. When exploring the California coast, you’ll find so many other amazing sites and things to do. The topography along the California shoreline is incredible. The bluffs and cliffs, the rocks, the crashing waves and the gorgeous beaches. Along the Mendocino Coast, you will find an array of tide pools right alongside some really gorgeous cliffs. You can hike/climb down to the shore and admire all the beautiful flowers on the cliffs. There are dramatic coastal views filled with lush turquoise water all along this coastline. This area is filled with beautiful sleepy little coastal towns, farms and lighthouses, as well. Go for the tidepools, but make sure to check out other natural attractions and sites in the area, as well. 

    California Coast Tidepools with Kids

    California coast tidepools

    I hope this post inspires you to get out and explore the tidepools along the California coastline. There are so many different experiences you can have in so many various locations. The scenery and the finds are different every time you go. Exploring tidepools with the kids never seems to get old. California tidepools offer a wealth of diverse marine and aquatic life that’s sure to please kids of any age. Get them interested in nature – get them in a tidepool!

    About the author

    Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation for a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband make it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. She’s a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative, crafty and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places and she loves documenting their adventures.

    Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
    Instagram: @roaminggonzalez