There is a particular kind of magic to a baby at the beach. The wide eyes when they meet the ocean for the first time. The way a toddler will spend forty minutes filling a bucket and pouring it out again. None of it requires much from us, except for the right outfit, some SPF, and a little planning.

Here is what we reach for when packing for sand and salt water with little ones.

Start with a sun safe swim layer

A long sleeve one piece does more than a regular swimsuit, especially for the youngest babies whose skin is too delicate for sunscreen. Our Swim Long Sleeve One-Piece is made from UPF 50+ fabric that gets its protection from the density of the recycled fibers, not a chemical treatment that washes out. The zip front means you are not wrestling a wet baby into a tight neckline, and the protective zipper guard keeps soft skin safe.

For toddlers who want a little more freedom of movement, the Swim Rash Guard and Short set gives the same UPF 50+ coverage with a separates feel. Easier to layer, easier for a potty trained toddler to manage on their own.

Cover the head and the ears

A wide brimmed bucket hat is non negotiable. We love the seersucker styles for summer because the texture lets air move through while still shading the face and neck. Pick a print that coordinates with the swim so getting dressed feels effortless.

Sandals that handle wet sand

Our Fisherman Sandal has the APMA Seal of Acceptance, a wide toe box, and a snap closure tiny hands can actually manage. The non slip sole grips wet boardwalks. For babies still in arms, soft soled booties work, but if your little one is cruising or walking, this is the sandal that will get them from car to shoreline without complaint.

A poncho for the in between

That moment when they come out of the water shivering, then change their mind and run back in, is what the hooded poncho was made for. Throw it over wet swim, let them dry while they keep playing, and skip the towel wrestling.

What goes in the bag

• A change of clothes, sealed in a pouch so sand stays out

• Snacks, the simpler the better

• A muslin swaddle, which doubles as shade, picnic blanket, or wrap for sandy hands

• Water, more than you think you need

• Mineral sunscreen for anyone over six months

Pack it once, and you have a beach kit ready to grab all summer.