It takes a lot of effort to plan a wonderful beach vacation. And one challenge you may face is finding a good balance of both relaxing and exciting activities to keep you entertained.

If you’re after more ideas for things to do at the beach beyond working on your tan (be sunsmart!), we’ve compiled a list so you’re never bored in the sand!

Activities for Your Next Beach Vacation

Fishing

Fishing provides a rush of excitement as you pull in your catch, and many beaches around the world allow you to fish from right off the shore. 

You can go for a traditional fishing rod style, take a boat directly out from the beach, or go searching in rock pools with a hand held net.

This can be a great family bonding activity. Keep in mind though that beach fishing can be more challenging as the shallows don’t always hold or attract fish. Look for deep-looking water in the parts of the beach where the waves break. 

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

If you prefer water sports that perfectly blend fun and fitness, stand-up paddleboarding is for you! Improve your arm strength and burn calories simultaneously.

Unlike surfing, stand-up paddleboarding is beginner-friendly, since it was designed for calmer waters.

Surfing

Surfing is an activity that many people plan their entire beach stay around, and many beaches around the world have surf shops set up close-by, offering lessons for both beginners and advanced.

Surfing requires expertise, unlike stand-up paddleboarding. It is also a great way to work out. Go out to a surf shop, get your surfing equipment, and head out for a great day on the waves. 

Have a Picnic

Having a picnic on the beach is a great way to enjoy food with a view.

Most popular beaches have food vendors close-by, but it is much better to pack yourself a nice picnic with fresh fruits and homemade meals and take a seat under the sun.

Hiking

Many beaches around the world offer hiking trails from or to the water, which allows you to get a closer glimpse at nature.

Beach Football

The major advantage of playing football on the beach is that it is far less physically punishing when someone has been tackled.

If you don’t mind playing a little rough, beach football could be a fun way to enjoy the sand and the sun, and you can just jump into the water after a game. 

Beach Volleyball

Playing beach volleyball is one of the most fun activities you can ever partake in on the beach, especially with friends and family.

It can also be a great way to make friends because you can include other beachgoers in your volleyball game.

Windsurfing

Combining surfing and sailing, windsurfing is done on a board with a sail and mast. However, the experience is quite different from regular surfing, as the priority is to catch the wind and not the waves. 

Camp Outdoors

There’s nothing like spending a night out on the beach, especially with friends and family.

From setting the camp up to telling scary stories by the fire and eating smores, all these can become fantastic bonding experiences. 

Beach Yoga

Beach yoga might not be the most intense form of exercise you can commit to, but it will revitalize your mind and body.

It strengthens and cares for your mind and body and could pass for a meditative and calming practice after a busy day. 

Snorkeling

Snorkeling gives us a better view of the ocean’s diverse marine life.

The coral reefs, lovely fish colors, and sun rays shimmering from above will make you understand that the ocean is a completely different world. 

Have a Bonfire

Beaches are not usually crowded at night, and this is the perfect time to have a bonfire party.

You can dance from a safe distance around the bonfire, play exciting games, eat snacks, sing together, or share your secrets. However this is not legal in every country so make sure you check local regulations.

Make Sandcastles

One of the most popular and unique activities you can do on the beach is building castles out of the sand. This is a fun way to spend your time productively and explore your imagination.

This activity gets even better if you are doing it with your children, however if you’re feeling particularily creative, you don’t have to build castles. 

Sand sculpting has become a particularily popular adult hobby, where people make everything from wildlife sand sculptures, to world famous landmarks.

Jet Ski

If you love adventure and high-speed thrills, this is the activity for you.

Whether you are touring the waters alone or with friends and family, riding a jet ski will give you an adventurous spike in adrenaline. 

Sunbathing

A vacation isn’t complete without some relaxation, and there’s no better place to do that than on the beach.

Feeling the heat of the beach sun while enjoying the scenery can be rejuvenating. Don’t forget your sunscreen and your sunglasses. 

Between surfing, camping, fishing, hiking, and the other fun activities listed here, there are several ways to make the most out of your beach vacation.