Here at Muddy Puddles, we love a fun filled day at the beach. There really is nothing else like the sound of the waves lapping on the shore and the feeling of sand between your toes! With sandcastles to build, rockpools to explore, lots of splashing in the sea and a well-earned ice cream at the end of the day, there is plenty to keep the whole family happy.

Once you've planned where to go (if you need some inspiration, take a look at some of our recommendations) it’s time to get packed. We’ve put together a list of some essential items to pack in your beach bag for your next seaside adventure with the family. Let the good times flow!

1) Sun cream

The forecast may not be balmy, but you know how fast British weather can change. Pack plenty of sun cream, which you can put on first thing and stay protected all day without having to worry but don’t forget to reapply after swimming to keep children’s delicate skin safe.

2) UV protective clothing

For the ultimate protection from the sun, try our UPF 50+ swimwear, made using recycled fabric. These bright and bold swimsuits, surf suits, surf sets, rash vests and swim shorts are designed to make a splash and protect your growing explorers from the sun’s harmful rays.

3) Sun hat & sunglasses

A sun hat and sunglasses are essential items for protecting growing adventurers on hot summer days and means they can spend all day splashing in the sea and running on the beach.

4) Towel or dry robe

We may be biased but we think our towelling ponchos are pretty fab and a must-have for family adventures at the beach. The absorbent towelling fabric will keep active explorers warm and dry after all that splashing in the sea. Our snuggly waterproof robes will make sure that your little one is cosy while having fun with the 100% recycled 'lambswool' polyester fleece inner and a full hood to keep the wind and rain out.

5) Wellies

Nothing beats wellies for practical footwear! Taking a pair of wellies to the beach may seem odd but as muddy beach lovers, we believe they are an essential for exploring rock pools, pebbly beaches and paddling in the sea. Read more about why we think wellies are the perfect beach footwear.

6) Beach activities

Don’t forget the classics like a bucket and spade for building the ultimate sandcastle. We love this bucket from Scrunch which is made of 100% silicone and perfect for collecting all those shells and other beach treasures in. A frisbee or ball is great for a game of football or volleyball on the beach. If it’s a dry day with a gentle breeze, why not try flying a kite with your little ones? They will love controlling it as it swoops and turns through the air and it’s a great way to build skills like hand-eye coordination and persistence!

7) Snacks

Bring all the snacks! With all that running around and splashing in the sea, your growing explorers are sure to build up an appetite quickly. Picnics are great for the beach and we’ve got some delicious picnic ideas to inspire the perfect family picnic.

8) Waterproofs

We highly recommend bringing a waterproof jacket such as our brilliant and lightweight EcoLight jacket for those unexpected sudden downpours. Convenient and packable into its own pocket, you can easily carry this jacket or pop it in your beach bag.

9) Shelter

An umbrella or tent is a great idea to bring to the beach, offering up some shade to keep the whole family cool and protected. On windier days, wind breakers are the ultimate windscreen and can shield your picnic spot, lounging area or nap area in one go.

10) Picnic rug

After all that running around and splashing in the sea, you’ll need somewhere for children to sit and recharge their batteries while eating their picnic lunch. A picnic rug can also double up as a great place for an afternoon snooze for those all-important naps!

Enjoy your day at the beach!