Travel Gear

Beach Essentials for Families with Kids

by Lindsay
Kids at the Beach in Serifos

Last updated 1 Jan 2026

What do you need for sweat-free family beach trips in Greece? Including foldable beach parasols that will fit into your suitcase, we’ve rounded up the must-haves to make your outings with kids a lightweight breeze.

Beach umbrealla and mat
The beach umbrella is very necessary if you’re going to a beach that: 1) doesn’t have umbrellas or natural shade, 2) may have umbrellas, but is so popular you need backup, or 3) charges ridiculously for umbrellas (e.g. Mykonos). Terra Nation‘s three-fold model folds down small enough for a large suitcase (or pick up a parasol from the island mini mart). You are also likely to need hammering stakes and anchors in the windy Cyclades. Alternatively, consider a canopy that packs smaller and lighter like Otentik.
Don’t forget a beach mat or blanket – quick-dry, sand-proof, lightweight and compact, Grand Trunk’s parasheet blankets have stake loops and sand anchor pocket corners to make sure they stay put. Otherwise, just seek out an “organised” beach (as they say in Greece) with all the amenities you need for a fuss-free day at the beach.

Best types of swimwear for kids in Greece
In the blaze of the Greek summer sun, we favour long-sleeved swimwear for maximum sun protection during the hottest part of the day. For evening swims, less material for quick dries works better. right colours are also far easier to spot in the water than darker shades, particularly on busy beaches. Greek brand Marie Raxevsky (pictured here) carries an extensive collection for the family with almost every style of swimwear, and may be found in major Athens’ departmental store Attica. Lastly, a dry/wet bag with two compartments keeps things organised – one for clean, and the other for wet and dirty.

Sun protection
Sunday Afternoon’s sunhats fit securely (with an adjustable chinstrap) even in gusty winds (to be expected in the Cyclades), has a large rim for ample shade, an extension at the back to cover little necks, and air vents for breathability. They also pack flat for travel. /
Thinkbaby is a great SPF 50 mineral (Zinc Oxide based) sunscreen that glides on easily with minimal white cast. For a clean chemical sunscreen, Supergoop’s Play Everyday SPF 50 all-over face and body gel-textured lotion is good for kids and adults alike. Sunscreens from popular French brands like La Roche Posay and Avene are also be readily found in Greek pharmacies alongside local labels Korres and Apivita.
Beach towels and ponchos
To throw on the sand or sunbed (these quality towel clips from Terra Nation are always in our beach bag to secure towels to sunbeds – it gets windy on the islands), the perfect beach towel is thin, light, absorbent, sand repellent, and dries quickly. Proudly Greek, Aelia Anna’s 100% cotton towels fit the bill and can be found in many island boutiques. For little ones, bathrobes and ponchos stay put on wiggly bodies better than towels do. Greek brand Sun of a Beach has cotton ponchos for kids 3 and older that are plush, bright, and beautiful.

Beach sandals
On the beach, open-toed sandals and flip flops are the best options for allowing sand and pebbles to slip through. Crocs Kids’ Bayaband sandals are quick-dry and easy for kids to put on independently. Otherwise, enjoy a barefoot feeling with swim shoes by Slipfree. Protecting small feet from burning sand, pebbly shores, and pool decks, it’s also useful for hotel room lounging.
sunnies and goggles
Sunglasses are especially necessary in the Greek sun. Roshambo Baby sunglasses are Italian-made, unbreakable, polarized and free from BPA, phthalates and lead. Also high on style and with a slightly sturdier feel are Babiators.
For swimming adventures in Greece’s crystal clear waters, mask-type goggles like the Aquasphere offers 180 degree panoramic vision to facilitate underwater explorations.

snacks for the beach
One of our favourite things about Greece? A gorgeous selection of seasonal fruit (e.g. peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, figs, melons). Pack into a lunch bag with other favourite snacks to tide the family through long beach afternoons. One of our favourite local supermarket brands is Violanta, with palm oil free options on a dizzying selection of cookies.
pura water bottle
If you’re travelling to an island where water is not drinkable, a water bottle may be redundant. Otherwise, will up with Pura’s or Eco Vessel’s Boulder stainless steel bottle range to avoid ingesting microplastics. Both brands have insulated options to keep water cold without sweating outside to attract sticking stand, and covered spouts for keeping sand out. The wide mouth construction of Pura’s sports top is also easy to clean without having to fuss with straw cleaners and bottle sponges while travelling.
beach toys
Packing light? The Scrunch Bucket is a roll-able silicone bucket you can squash into a suitcase. Belgian brand Quut also makes durable and ingenious beach toys with small footprints. Cuppi and Raki rake and scoop (pictured here) fit into the Scrunch bucket for a basic play set worth hours of fun. 
life jacket for kids
Most floatation devices (swim floats and vests) are designed for the pool. In the open water, use a coast guard approved life jacket so they can swim confidently as the seabed drops.

Spending more than a week on the beach? We’ve also put together an adventure kit to make the most of an unforgettable Greek summer.

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