30 Fun Things to Do at the Beach That Go Beyond Swimming
Some of my best beach memories have nothing to do with swimming. Don’t get me wrong—floating in the ocean or catching waves is amazing.
But after years of beach-hopping across different continents, I’ve come to love the slower, often overlooked things you can do by the shore.
I wrote this list because I know that not everyone wants to be in the water all day—or maybe the weather isn’t right, or the waves are too rough.
The beach is still full of magic, and you don’t need to be drenched to soak it in.
So if you’re wondering what else to do at the beach besides swim, I’ve got you covered. These ideas are simple, fun, and make the day feel just as full—if not more.
1. Build a Sandcastle
No age limit on this one. Use your hands, a bucket, or whatever tools you’ve got.
2. Collect Seashells
It’s calming, and you might come across a few rare beauties. Just check local rules before taking them.
3. Watch the Sunset
It never gets old. Bring a blanket and just be still for a while.
4. Read a Book
Few things beat reading with the sound of waves in the background.
5. Have a Picnic
Bring snacks or a full meal. Food tastes better by the sea, always.
6. Take a Beach Walk
Go barefoot if the sand’s not too hot. Let your mind wander.
7. Play Beach Volleyball
It’s active, fun, and easy to set up even with just a few people.
8. Fly a Kite
Feels like childhood again. The beach breeze makes it easier than most places.
9. Write Messages in the Sand
Poems, names, doodles—watch them wash away and start again.
10. Take Photos
Capture the colors, the textures, and those candid beach moments.
11. Do a Mini Photoshoot
The lighting’s perfect, and the background’s unbeatable.
12. Try a Beach Yoga Session
Stretching in the sand at sunrise or sunset is pure bliss.
13. People Watch
Just sit and observe. The beach brings out all kinds of characters.
14. Meditate
Close your eyes, breathe with the waves, and let everything else fade.
15. Hunt for Sea Glass
Little bits of smooth, colored glass worn down by time and tide.
16. Sketch or Paint
Bring a small pad and pencil or watercolor set and let the scenery guide you.
17. Toss a Frisbee
It’s low-key, takes little effort, and is surprisingly satisfying.
18. Play Paddle Ball
You only need two people and a bit of open space.
19. Make a Driftwood Sculpture
Let your creativity run wild with whatever nature gives you.
20. Try Slacklining Between Two Poles
If the beach has sturdy palms or posts, it’s a great balance workout.
21. Listen to a Podcast or Music
Zone out with your favorite playlist or catch up on that true crime series.
22. Build a Beach Fort
Use sticks, towels, and imagination—great for shade and kids.
23. Make a Time-Lapse Video
Set your phone up and capture the beach changing over an hour or two.
24. Stargaze After Dark
If you can stay into the evening, bring a blanket and look up. Beaches make amazing spots for stargazing.
25. Draw a Giant Beach Mural
Use sticks or your feet to sketch large art in the sand.
26. Try a Beach Scavenger Hunt
Create a list and search for things like seaweed, feathers, bottle caps, and heart-shaped rocks.
27. Skip Rocks
Flat, smooth stones plus calm water equals endless entertainment.
28. Take a Nap
The breeze, the sound, the sun—perfect conditions for a peaceful doze.
29. Dance Barefoot in the Sand
Let go of self-consciousness. The beach is freeing like that.
30. Just Sit and Think
You don’t always need a plan. Let the rhythm of the waves do the talking.
Final Thoughts
The beach offers more than just a place to swim—it’s space to play, reflect, create, and connect.
Over the years, I’ve realized that the simplest activities often become the most meaningful ones.
So next time you head to the shore, try something different. Bring curiosity instead of a schedule. Let the day unfold slowly. The ocean has a way of giving you exactly what you need.
