Maui’s beautiful beaches are a great place to spend time with your baby.

Going to the beach with your baby doesn’t have to be a hassle. In fact, it can become a fun activity that you cherish together for years to come. Here are some tips to help your baby embrace the beach:

  1. Pack lightly.You may be tempted to bring the stroller, twenty beach toys and enough food for the week. However, by bringing only the essentials for you and your baby, you will have less to lose and be able to focus on enjoying your time together at the beach. Use a backpack to store your essentials and dress ready for the beach, perhaps wearing a sarong that can double as a beach blanket.
  1. Screen Shot 2015-05-21 at 9.32.56 PMApply sun protection prior to leaving for the beach, then pack some for later in the day. In addition to sunblock, be sure to grab a beach hat, rashguard or t-shirt, sunglasses, etc.

  2. Keep baby powder in your car, as it easily removes sand from your baby’s skin after a long day at the beach.

  1. Reuse large juice jugs and store water inside. The water stays warm, and allows you an easy option for rinsing off your baby while avoiding cold beach showers.
  1. Bring an inexpensive blow-up baby pool for your baby to play in If she does not care for sand, it’s a clean space for her to relax and play with toys, while also keeping her within arm’s reach.
  1. Introduce your baby to the ocean by going when the water is calm. Show your baby how to splash and watch his cues. If he becomes nervous, stay calm yourself, and try again later. Also, as your baby sees you having fun in the water, he will want to as well. Give it time if your baby isn’t ready for the ocean. Many babies learn how to swim and even surf, so keep practicing and have fun in the process.
  1. Let your baby explore. The beach offers many learning opportunities for developing senses. From the texture of the sand to the roar of the sea, exploring the beach together enriches your baby’s development.