

Oh hey, spring.
The weather is warming up (FINALLY) and summer is certainly in the air.
My family recently moved to the beachside suburbs of Sydney and we are loving it. But it’s also really brought home just how different “casual” trips to the beach are, now that I have a mischievous toddler in tow.

How simple beach life used to be… I’d throw a bikini on, and a towel over my shoulder, and leisurely saunter to the beach for some people watching (if my husband is reading this — definitely not to stare at cute lifesavers…). I’d read a book in peace and quiet, maybe head off for a cold drink and then return for more baking, gazing and swimming.
Now, those days are long gone… and parents, I’m sure you’ll relate.
1. Packing requires military precision.
These days I need to pack for all eventualities, as if we’re going away for a month. Think tip truck, bucket and spade, spare sets of clothes, food, water, sun cream (which is applied every half hour, at least), hats (which he just throws off every 10 seconds), plastic bags, pram, and towels – you name it, I pack it.
Some might call it OCD, I call it survival.
2. Free as a bird? Think again.
When you’re a parent, you need to factor in naps, feeds, cranky babies, and more. If you time your trip well it can be magic – get that wrong and you’ll be dealing with grumpy children, and panic stations.
And fancy alcoholic beverage afterwards? No chance – it’s bath, feed and bed time, otherwise your child will make sure everyone at that particular café or bar knows EXACTLY how tired/hungry they are.
Top Comments
Easy- just don't go!
Be grateful you didn't take your children to one of the main Adelaide suburban beaches last week. A large brown snake was caught slithering on the sand between the towels of beach goers.