Going to the beach is a treat. Whether you live on the coast, or if all your memories of the beach have happened on vacations, there’s something about it that’s a bit magical. The sights, sounds, and smells of such a vast and powerful expression of nature are something to behold. The feeling of warm sand between your toes, and the way your hair feels after a day on the beach is like no other.

Make the most out of your beach day by preparing some activities that will enhance the fun and relaxation that comes with the territory. Check out this list of 19 fun ideas for beach activities that will make for the best beach day ever.

Active Beach Activities

The beach is a great open space filled with natural energy to inspire a fun outdoor workout. If your idea of fun at the beach is getting active, playing games, or breaking a sweat, consider these ideas for your next trip.

Go for a Walk, Jog, or Hike

Jog or walk along the beach. Choose a point on the distant coast and guess how long it takes to get there, and then find out. It may seem obvious, but a tip to consider is that the sand is firmer and easier for walking and jogging down by the water.

Some beaches have awesome coastal hikes as well. Check for hikes along the beach you’re headed to, and remember to bring some water along with you.

Surfing

If you’ve tried surfing, you know it’s a demanding physical activity. But if you haven’t, don’t let that deter you from trying it out. Although it’s difficult and requires proficiency in swimming, there’s no substitute for it—especially the feeling of catching a wave.

Book a surf lesson if you’re interested, they’ll help you catch your first wave. Then you can say you surfed! Even if you spend most of the time floating around and trying to maintain it as you sit on the surfboard.

Beach Bike Ride

A coastal bike ride is a fantastic way to get exercise while exploring the coast. See what’s around the beach you’re at. Find a bike path, ride into town, or if you’re an experienced biker, map out a road ride. Beach towns usually have a place to rent bikes, which is ideal if you don’t have your own or you don’t have a way of bringing bikes to the beach with you.

Throw a Frisbee

Frisbee is an iconic beach classic. Toss back and forth, organize a game of ultimate frisbee, or a round of frisbee golf. Be careful to avoid sunbathers with errant throws.

Beach Volleyball

Beach volleyball is a fun way to get some exercise and feel like you’re playing an official sport in its official location. If you’re serious about it, check for a beach that has beach volleyball nets set up and wear this sporty two-piece to look like a pro. Scale down the competitiveness by playing with an inflatable beach ball and skipping the net.

Snorkeling

Strap on your fins and mask and see what you can find. Sure, some beaches are better than others when it comes to the wildlife you’ll find, but the idea of breathing with your face underwater is still pretty cool. You’re bound to find something out there.

Sand Hopscotch

Draw hopscotch in the sand and get your hop on. You can add on to the course as you go. Use a rock or seashell to throw to your spot. See how far you can go!

Fly a Kite

Beaches usually have some wind going on, making them an ideal location for kite flying. Find a length of beach that’s not so crowded, in case you need to run to get it started or it dives for a crash landing.

Chill Beach Activities

Perhaps you like heading to the beach to get away from the stress. Or maybe you're looking for a way to unwind after a long coastal bike ride or beach volleyball game. The beach is a clinically relaxing space, complete with calming sounds and a natural softness to the ground upon which you can lay for hours. It’s perfect for lounging in the sun (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).

Read a Book

Set up an umbrella, throw down a towel, and escape into a book. Let yourself get fully immersed in what you're reading. After a while, you’ll look up and get a surreal feeling that comes with remembering you’re on the beach.

Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

There may be no greater place to watch the sun do its thing than on the beach. If you’re on an east coast beach, prepare to wake up early and grab a coffee to sip while you watch the sun peak out. West coast beachgoers can sleep in and catch a colorful sunset.

Remember, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. But you can still enjoy them even if you’ve forgotten why exactly that is.

Sip Your Favorite Drink

You’ve got to bring water to the beach, or you’ll probably show signs of dehydration. But don’t stop there. Chilling on the beach and sipping on your favorite drink should probably be a priority, regardless of what other beach day activities you have planned. Grab a cooler, fill it with ice and drinks, and let yourself unwind.

Beach Bonfire

Beach bonfires are the best way to extend a beach trip into the night. Make sure to check the rules at your beach to confirm they allow bonfires. Some beaches include fire pits, although they often get claimed pretty quickly so make sure you get there early.

Roast marshmallows, play some music, and enjoy the conversation. Bonfires are an easy way to get to know new people—maybe you want to invite a group of people you met on the beach to join in the fun.

Sunbathe

Wear your favorite strapless bikini top and lay out to take in some rays. Make sure you’ve got on sunscreen that’s going to help protect you from UV rays, but still allows you to tan. Don’t fall asleep for too long in the sun!

Sand Art

You can make a classic sandcastle. Or draw images or messages in the sand with a stick. You can arrange rocks, sticks, and shells to form an abstract collage. You can dribble wet sand to make stalagmite-like formations. With a bit of creativity, there are countless ways you can make art out of the natural surroundings at the beach.

Collect Beach Artifacts

Walk along the beach and collect rocks, shells, feathers, sea glass, and wood. See if you can find a crab shell, a sand dollar, or even a diamond ring buried in the sand. But don’t get your hopes up for that last one.

Journal or Sketch

The beach is a serene place to be inspired and journal or sketch. Get a few minutes to yourself and clear your head. Take in the vastness of the ocean and the open sky. Let the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun bring a safe calmness over you. Notice how very small you are in the midst of it all.

Observe your thoughts and feelings and record them in a journal, or sketch some beach scenes.

Take a Nap

Napping on the beach should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s definitely one of the top locations for outdoor napping. Try it—even if it’s just 15 minutes. Drift off to the calming sounds of the environment and wake up to the happenings of the world.

Picnic

Bring along a picnic to the beach to make it through the afternoon. Sandwiches, crackers, and cheese, fruits, pretzels, candy, chips—anything you can think of really that’s easy to transport. You’ll have more options if you can bring your picnic in a cooler. Beware of seagulls– put away your food before you head back to the water.

The Beach Is Naturally Fun and Relaxing

Anytime you find yourself at the beach, appreciate the natural beauty and the chance to enjoy it. There are many activities you can plan or make up on the spot. Especially if you’re wearing a dazzling swimsuit, you’ll probably find that it’s difficult not to have fun at the beach.

Sources:

Is Being At The Beach Good For Your Health? | UNH

Why does the Sun rise in the east and set in the west? | NASA

9 Signs Of Dehydration At The Beach (Protect Your Family) | Beach Life Expert

Dribble Castle Sandcastle: 7 Steps (with Pictures) | Instructables