Can you remember the first time you saw the sea? Close your eyes, drift back into the past, and immerse yourself in that feeling once more. Taking a beach vacation with a baby is more than just a visit to the sea—it’s where precious memories are crafted that last a lifetime. With Iberostar’s family-friendly resorts, your baby’s first moments at the sea will be a true joy for the whole family. With so many incredible destinations around the world, where will your baby’s first experience be?
When can I take my baby to the beach?
Most pediatricians agree that the best time to introduce a baby to the beach is when they are between six months to a year old. Taking them earlier is generally discouraged due to their highly sensitive skin, which makes them more vulnerable to things like sun, wind, and sand, potentially causing sunburns, hypersensitivity, or allergic reactions. It’s important to make sure they are always protected by SPF 50+ sunscreen, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a shirt, and in the shade as much as possible. While being in the sun has many benefits, including boosting your immune system as well as your mood and aiding in vitamin D synthesis, it’s important to teach babies how to enjoy the sun safely from a young age.
When can I bathe my baby in the sea?
Guidelines suggest that babies as young as six months old can safely enjoy the sea. When planning a beach vacation with a baby (or babies), opt for destinations with warmer waters and calm beaches or coves. Gently hold your baby as you approach the water's edge, initially dampening their hands and feet, neck, behind the ears, and head. You can then slowly wade into the water together. Watch closely for their reactions as they experience the new sensations of the sea caressing their skin. With a bit of luck, you might even encounter some gentle marine animals, such as vibrant fish or sea turtles, swimming nearby. Teach your little one to appreciate and respect these creatures from the start.
Tips for a vacation with babies near the beach
Safety comes first
When taking a swim with your baby, make sure to hold them so they feel safe and connected. Avoid inflatables, which not only introduce pollutants into the ocean through their dyes and other harmful substances but can also pose risks to your child’s skin. Even when you're cradling your baby, remain in shallow waters, and never leave them unattended, whether they're at the water's edge or simply playing in the sand. The children's pool at the hotel can be an excellent place for your little one to get accustomed to the water. Iberostar’s family-friendly resorts often feature an Aquafun area and a Star Camp zone, providing a safe environment where your child can be engaged and looked after by skilled professionals, allowing you some well-deserved downtime.
Be careful with the sun and heat
Ensuring a safe beach vacation with babies is straightforward when adhering to essential safety measures. Key among these is protecting them from direct sunlight, especially during peak UV radiation times, typically before noon and after 5:00 p.m. However, these times can vary depending on the season and your location, with increased vigilance recommended during summer. It's crucial for everyone, young and old, to stay well-hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses. When it comes to feeding, stick to their regular schedule, and for those on solid foods, opt for light and nutritious snacks like fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, including fresh juices, chilled purees, and simple sandwiches. For families with specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan, make sure to plan ahead, as suitable options might not be readily available at every beach location.
Not all children's sunscreens are made equal
When choosing sunscreen, aim for a minimum SPF of 50+ but also be mindful of potentially harmful ingredients found in some children's sunscreens. These substances can irritate their sensitive skin or, over time, introduce toxic particles into their system and the environment. Mineral-based sunscreens are a more natural, eco-friendly alternative, avoiding the adverse effects of chemical filters. Sunscreens free from nanoplastics are also preferable—better for both humans and the health of our oceans. If you’re unsure about which sunscreen is most suitable for your baby, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional you trust.
Baby-friendly beaches
Choosing beaches and coves with calm waters, gentle waves, and shallow areas ensures that both babies and older children can safely enjoy the sea. Clean beaches, with well-maintained facilities like showers, restrooms, and ample shade are ideal, as well as the convenience of nearby eateries or beach bars for leisurely breaks from the sun. Easy access to the beach is another important factor, making your visit smooth and hassle-free. Picturesque coastal regions like Mallorca in the Mediterranean, Tenerife or the Algarve along the European Atlantic, and the Caribbean's Punta Cana are renowned for offering family-friendly beach destinations where everyone can enjoy a fun and memorable vacation.
The best beach destinations to go with your baby
Mallorca
Mallorca's Playa de Muro stands out not only for its commitment to environmental preservation and exceptional water clarity but also for its welcoming atmosphere for families. This beach proudly flies the Blue Flag, a symbol of its high ecological and safety standards. With its inviting turquoise waters, shallow enough for the little ones to splash around in, and an expansive sandy shoreline segmented into three well-equipped zones, it's the perfect setting for a beach vacation with a baby. Located here in this picturesque setting is the Iberostar Selection Albufera Park hotel, crafted especially with family comfort and pleasure in mind. This prime location serves as a gateway to other child-friendly beaches and coves around Mallorca, as well as other cultural experiences around the island. Discover Mallorca’s rich artistic heritage through visits to local museums and galleries that can spark creativity and wonder in young minds.
Tenerife
Tenerife's coastlines are a testament to nature's artistry, with their unique volcanic landscapes and breathtaking beauty. Many of its beaches are within natural reserves, providing sanctuary to a variety of plant species and rare fauna such as the blue chaffinch, a bird unique to Tenerife and Gran Canaria. These settings offer a perfect backdrop for introducing children to the wonders of nature, fostering a respectful and mindful engagement with the environment. The southern region of the island is particularly family-friendly, with serene waters and a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere that's ideal for visitors of all ages. The Iberostar Selection Anthelia, situated in the picturesque Costa Adeje has direct access to the beach and is a haven for families with child-friendly pools complete with fun slides and a pirate ship. Adults can relax with a refreshing fruit cocktail in hand, enjoying the best Canarian cuisine the island has to offer.
The Algarve
The Algarve, often referred to as the Portuguese Caribbean, is celebrated for its idyllic beaches that serve as a haven for relaxation and a range of outdoor activities. For the adventurous souls who love to explore with their little ones in tow, the region has an array of cycling routes that meander through this stunning coastal area and beyond, offering a unique way to experience Portugal's scenic landscapes. Located along the expansive Meia Praia, a popular area for families is the Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve. This hotel is not just a place to stay; it's an experience, featuring its own bicycle hub where guests can rent, park, and service their bikes. As the hotel faces the sea, it acts as a serene vantage point, allowing guests to take in the view of the Atlantic, making it an ideal retreat for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Punta Cana
Upon arriving in Punta Cana, you'll immediately feel the warm hospitality that defines the Dominican Republic, where the local tradition of gathering around a table laden with delicious Dominican food unites families and creates a sense of belonging. The Iberostar Waves Punta Cana, a family-friendly five-star hotel, caters to visitors of all ages and is situated on the stunning Playa Bávaro, offering an idyllic backdrop for your beach vacation with a baby. The hotel’s thoughtfully designed rooms provide a comfortable and harmonious space for relaxation. For families with older children, the resort's coral nursery offers an educational and fascinating experience, showcasing the beauty and importance of marine conservation. For those intrigued by coral reefs and looking for more adventures in the Caribbean, Mexico's vibrant coasts, particularly the Riviera Maya, offer additional splendid opportunities for family explorations.
