What to Pack for a Family Winter Beach Vacation

Essential Clothing for a Winter Family Beach Vacation

What to pack for a trip to the sandy beaches of San Diego in Southern California (where it very well might be a balmy 75 degrees) will be quite different from your packing list for, say, Virginia Beach or Oregon's Cannon Beach in the winter months.

But for the purposes of this blog, we'll discuss what to pack for cooler temperatures, transitional weather, and unpredictable forecasts.

Packing Layers for Changing Temperatures

When packing for a winter beach vacation with children, it's wise to bring layers. This will give you options to pull on and take off when the temperatures change throughout the day and throughout the week.

For kids, this can include:

• Tight underlayers like long underwear or leggings  
• Looser pants to layer over, like linen pants or joggers
• Form-fitting undershirts, such as tank tops or long-sleeve shirts
• Top layers, such as crewneck sweatshirts, button-down flannels, or cardigans 
• Outerwear (think windbreakers and fleeces)
• Shorts and T-shirts in case you get warmer weather

It's all about being comfortable and warm enough while having options if the weather takes a turn.

If you plan on taking beach photos with your loved ones, consider packing winter beach vacation family outfits in coordinating colors.

Swimwear That's Perfect for Cooler Beach Days

It depends on the month you're traveling and the exact location you're headed to, but in general, we still suggest bringing bathing suits on winter beach vacations. You'll just want to choose warmer swimwear with extra coverage.

Top Swimwear Options for Kids From Maisonette

We carry swimwear options for kids from parent-approved brands. This includes long-sleeve one-pieces, surf suits, rash guards, and long-sleeve raglan tops with UPF protection, plus cover-ups. 

You can mix and match with pieces that work for your children and your upcoming beach trip.

Stylish and Warm Swim Cover-ups and Sweaters

Maisonette has lots of stylish, flattering swimsuits and warm swim cover-ups for moms, including long-sleeve one-pieces and high-coverage dresses. You can also shop for sweaters and wraps for when you need an extra layer of warmth.

Footwear for Both the Sand and Cooler Evenings

When spending time at the beach in the winter, you'll be glad to have multiple footwear options. This includes sandals and a pair of closed-toe beach shoes you can get wet and wear comfortably while walking in the sand or along the tide. On extra-cold days, you might want to wear boots with wool socks.

Of course, your trip will likely include other outings, like sightseeing in town, visiting museums, shopping, or going out to eat. Be sure to also pack shoes you and your family can wear for these excursions. This pair doesn't necessarily have to be any fancier (unless you have reservations at a fine-dining restaurant) but should be separate from the shoes you're getting wet and sandy.

Comfortable and Stylish Footwear Selections for the Entire Family From Maisonette

Maisonette has lots of options for toddlers and babies, including sandals, sneakers, boots, and booties. We also have beach-ready women's footwear, from water-resistant slides to slip-on walking sneakers, plus comfy slippers for padding around your vacation rental.

Must-Have Accessories for a Cozy Winter Beach Vacation

Beyond clothes and footwear, there are several must-have items and extras you'll be glad you brought. Here's what to add to your packing list:

• A carry-all bag for travel days (which can double as a diaper bag)
• A beach bag to bring towels, layers, toys, etc. to the beach each day
• A chic sun hat or packable wide-brimmed visor
• Kids' hats and sunglasses
• Sunscreen, including non-aerosol spray and easy-to-apply SPF sticks for kids 

You might also want to throw in some packable water gear and beach toys, like kids' goggles or a water-friendly fillable sand doll. And if you have space in your luggage or car, you can't go wrong with buckets, shovels, and other sandcastle-building toys.

Shop Clothing, Accessories, and Extras to Keep Everyone Warm and Sun-Safe

Maisonette has what you need for your next family winter beach vacation. From layerable clothing and cozy outerwear to swimsuits, cover-ups, and warm accessories, you'll find it here. And while you’re packing, don’t forget that it's a great chance to capture those family Christmas photo outfits!