13 Ways to Beat Beach-Time Boredom

For many kids, the best part of Summer is a trip to the beach. After securing the best spot and lathering on the sunscreen, little ones are ready to take on the sand and surf. Of course, they can only swim in the water and play with their toys for long before they start begging for a new activity. To help them beat beach-time boredom, we've rounded up 13 kid-friendly activities that your little ones will love. From sports to crafts, we have plenty of ways to keep your kids occupied on the beach. Source: Flickr user Josar

01
Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Before you head to the beach, make a list of things for your tots to find — a striped umbrella, a lifeguard, a seagull, etc. See how many items they can find throughout the day, and reward them with an ice cream cone. Source: Flickr user marcia shields photography

02
Create a Seaweed Masterpiece

Create a Seaweed Masterpiece

Turn the green and brown plant into a colorful work of art. Just make sure to snap a shot of the masterpiece before the water washes it away. Source: Flickr user Wanderin' Weeta

03
Fight in a Water War

Fight in a Water War

If a rough current is keeping your kids out of the water, this is a fun way for them to stay cool. Simply fill a few water guns, and let the battle begin! Source: Flickr user Pane & Vino

04
Have a Ball

Have a Ball

Whether you kick it, hit it, or throw it, a beach ball keeps kids entertained and moving for hours. Source: Flickr user AndyLawson

05
Construct a Sand Castle

Construct a Sand Castle

A classic beach pastime, sand castle competitions are a great way for kids to show off their creative side. For an extra challenge, see if they can construct a life-size fortress. Source: Flickr user jurvetson

06
Build a Mini Aquarium

Build a Mini Aquarium

Fill a bucket with water, and turn it into a temporary home for various sea creatures. Bring along a nature book so your child can identify and learn more about ocean life. Source: Flickr user Joe Shlabotnik

07
Host a Beach Fashion Show

Host a Beach Fashion Show

Mini fashionistas will get a kick out of turning their colorful towels into runway-ready looks. Once they complete their designs, they can strut their stuff down the sandy catwalk. Source: Flickr user OrangeCounty_Girl

08
Draw in the Sand

Draw in the Sand

Why carry your child's crayons and coloring books to the beach when they have an empty canvas to work with? Source: Instagram user dopezubair

09
Throw the Frisbee

Throw the Frisbee

Make sure your kids find an empty area before they throw around their Frisbee. The last thing you want is for them to hit a fellow beachgoer. Source: Flickr user Brian Hathcock

10
Fly a Kite

Fly a Kite

Windy days don't have to keep you from enjoying the beach. Take advantage of the weather, and send your kite soaring. Source: Flickr user bitzcelt

11
Give Them a Mermaid Makeover

Give Them a Mermaid Makeover

When your kids are ready to rest, let them lie down and build a fin around their legs. Draw on fun patterns, or decorate with seashells. Source: Flickr user Jolanter

12
Build a Beach Fort

Build a Beach Fort

When the sun gets too bright, your kids will need something to shield them from the rays. You'll be surprised what they can make out of beach towels, chairs, and sticks. Source: Instagram user wildflowerrrrr

13
Search For Shells

Search For Shells

Grab your buckets, and seek out the best shells on the beach. Bring them home to use as decorations or for future craft projects. Source: Flickr user catd_mitchell