What to Bring (and What Not To!) to a Kids’ Beach Party

What to Bring (and What Not To!) to a Kids’ Beach Party

Planning a beach cabana rental for a kids’ party can be the best idea you’ve had all year if you pack smart.

We’ve helped dozens of families host kids’ birthday parties at the beach across Los Angeles, and here’s what we’ve learned: the success of your day often comes down to what you bring and what you leave at home.

When you're working with The Beach Oasis, you already have a strong head start. Our setups are designed to eliminate stress and let kids enjoy the day while giving adults the comfort they need to actually relax. But there are still a few key things you should pack to make the day flow smoothly and a few things that only get in the way.

What to Bring to a Kids’ Beach Party

Shade and a Home Base

First, let's talk shade. If you’ve ever tried to host a group of kids under one tiny umbrella, you already know how chaotic that gets.

That’s why we created The Outing for 12, a thoughtfully designed private cabana on the beach that gives kids room to eat, play, and reset, and gives adults a place to breathe.

Included in The Outing for 12:

  • 3 hardwood tables
  • 3 beach umbrellas
  • 2 small beach rugs
  • 1 cooler bag
  • 1 speaker
  • Decorative vases with flowers
  • Decorative candles
  • 12 seating pillows
  • Decorative table runner
  • 12 full place settings (plates, flatware, placemats, and napkins)

This isn't just a place to drop your bags. It's a real party space. And it’s what sets beach cabana rentals apart from any DIY setup.

Note: Just a note, ice isn’t included unless you purchase it as an amenity. Always bring a couple of extra bags.

Kid-Friendly Food and Drinks

Packing food for a beach party isn’t just about what tastes good; it’s about what survives wind, sand, and a crowd of distracted little hands.

Keep it simple:

  • Mini sandwiches in sealed containers
  • Pre-cut fruit like melon, grapes, or oranges
  • Veggie sticks with hummus
  • Goldfish crackers or pretzels
  • Water, juice boxes, and small reusable bottles

Cupcakes in jars or a small sheet cake work great. Avoid anything that melts quickly or needs utensils unless you’ve got helping hands.

Our hardwood tables from The Outing for 12 make serving much easier. Set up your spread in the shade and let the kids help themselves.

Extra Towels and a Change of Clothes

One towel per child is not enough. Bring two for each, if you can.

Also include:

  • A clean change of clothes
  • A hoodie or long-sleeved shirt for after sunset
  • A plastic bag for wet items
  • Baby wipes, even for older kids

These basics can save you from wet car seats and sandy meltdowns on the ride home.

Sun Protection and Hydration

Sun Protection and Hydration

At a beach party, nothing matters more than staying cool and safe.

Pack:

  • Spray sunscreen for fast coverage
  • Stick sunscreen for faces
  • Sun hats and sunglasses
  • Shade-friendly seating
  • Refillable water bottles
  • Electrolyte drinks if it’s a hot day

Luckily, with a cabana beach rental, you already have the major shade issue handled. But the sun still reflects off the sand, so reapply often.

Toys and Games That Work

Overcomplicating the entertainment is a common mistake. Simple is best.

Bring:

  • Buckets and shovels
  • Bubble wands
  • Beach balls and paddles
  • Kites
  • Coloring pages or beach crafts under the cabana

With our help, you can even organize a beach scavenger hunt, sandcastle contest, or mini relay race. If you're planning a beach party in Los Angeles, we’re happy to offer suggestions based on the age group.

What Not to Bring to a Kids’ Beach Party

Glass Containers

No exceptions here. Glass is dangerous on sand, and most beaches strictly prohibit it. Use stainless steel or BPA-free plastic alternatives.

Bulky Furniture and Oversized Coolers

This is a beach party, not a full-blown campout. Our beach party rentals already include shaded seating, tables, and storage space. Don’t lug extra gear that you'll end up not using.

Toys with Small Parts

LEGO bricks, puzzle pieces, or tiny figurines are a nightmare in the sand. They’ll get lost, buried, or stepped on. Leave them at home.

Elaborate Decorations

Wind and sand don’t mix well with balloon arches, paper streamers, or backdrops. Let our beach setup service in Los Angeles take care of the mood and aesthetics. We include natural, tasteful decor that photographs beautifully and doesn’t blow away.

Overplanning

You don’t need a five-hour schedule broken into 15-minute blocks. Kids at the beach just want to play. Plan a few core moments like cake, games, or a group photo, and let the day flow.

Our cabana rentals in Los Angeles give you the flexibility to adjust as needed. If the kids want to dance in the sand or play tag for two hours, great.

Don’t Forget Permits and Guest Limits

Depending on where you’re hosting your beach party in LA, you may need a permit, especially if you’re planning a larger gathering.

We always remind our guests to stay within the allowed group sizes per cabana or lounge area. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help guide you through the Los Angeles permit process. That way, you’re covered and free to enjoy the day.

Make Your Kids’ Beach Party Stress-Free and Special

Make Your Kids’ Beach Party Stress-Free and Special

Planning a kids’ beach party doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right setup, thoughtful packing, and a few smart choices, it becomes the kind of day that kids talk about for years.

At The Beach Oasis, we’ve hosted countless beach birthday parties, family gatherings, and playful picnics. Our private beach cabana packages, like The Outing for 12, are built to take the pressure off you and let the kids enjoy the beach the way they’re meant to, freely, joyfully, and safely.

If you’re ready to turn just another birthday into a full-on memory-making day at the beach, we’re here to help.

Book your beach cabana rental today and let’s plan a kids’ beach party that’s fun for everyone.

Back to blog