Last Updated on February 18, 2024 by Kat Marie
I know since we have a beach themed lifestyle blog, but did you know there are great reasons to go to the beach?
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Taking the kids to the beach is incredibly healthy and they can learn from nature too! With the ocean just in our “backyard” we try to go to the beach as often as we can.
Also I’ve mentioned in the past that I am a medical professional so I also see a positive healthy impact to go to the beach.
Take a look at this list and see for yourself!
Where should I go to the beach?
I’m so glad you asked! If you’re on the East Coast, you have plenty of options! Since this blog is based in Virginia Beach, VA here are the beaches near me:
Check out here a more detailed guide of where to go to the beach near me!
Sandbridge Beach
Located just south of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge Beach offers a quieter and more secluded experience. This is more of a local’s beach but very close to the main Virginia Beach Oceanfront. It features pristine sandy shores, gentle waves, and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you want to go to the beach for waves for surfing or body boarding, it’s very popular with surfers during hurricane season!
Chick’s Beach
Situated in the Chesapeake Bay area, Chick’s Beach is another local favorite. With its calm waters, soft sand, and beautiful views, it’s a great spot to go to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beachside activities.
This beach is popular for parents because of the smaller waves and shallow waters.
First Landing State Park
Located at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, First Landing State Park offers a combination of beach and nature. You can explore hiking trails, campgrounds, and enjoy the sandy shores of Chesapeake Bay Beach within the park.
Ocean View Beach Park
In Norfolk, just a short drive from Virginia Beach, you’ll find Ocean View Beach Park. This family-friendly beach offers a spacious shoreline, picnic areas, and a fishing pier!
If you wanted to go to the beach “off the beaten path” and if you’re looking to get away from the crowds at the main Virginia Beach Oceanfront, put this place on your list!
1. Boosts Vitamin D intake
Going to the beach can boost your vitamin D levels due to several factors. Firstly, sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, specifically ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, it starts a reaction in your body that produces vitamin D.
The beach provides ample opportunity for sun exposure, especially if you’re wearing light clothing or swimwear that exposes a larger surface area of your skin.
Beaches often have reflective surfaces like sand and water, which can increase the amount of UVB rays that reach your skin. This means that even if you’re in a shaded area under an umbrella or a beach tent, you may still receive some indirect UVB exposure.
It’s important to know that the amount of vitamin D your body produces depends on various factors such as the time of day, your location, skin type, and the amount of exposed skin.
It’s important to practice safe sun exposure by avoiding the peak hours of sunlight (usually between 10 am and 4 pm), wearing sunscreen, and seeking shade when necessary to prevent sunburn and other skin damage.
Remember, while you go to the beach with your family, it can be a great way to boost your vitamin D levels, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your individual needs and health considerations.
Spending time at the beach can help boost your child’s vitamin D intake too.
According to Medical News Today, vitamin D is important for healthy bones and teeth, as well as overall immune function. Exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D naturally, and the beach is a great place to soak up some sun.
2. Improves mental health
When you go to the beach, it can have a calming effect on both adults and children. The sound of the waves, the feel of the sand, and the fresh sea air can all help reduce stress and anxiety.
The sight of the vast expanse of water and the beautiful scenery can have a soothing and therapeutic effect on the mind, allowing for a break from daily pressures and worries.
The feeling of warm sand beneath your feet, the sensation of cool ocean breeze on your skin, and the scent of saltwater in the air all contribute to a sensory experience that can uplift mood and enhance well-being.
Being in nature and getting sunlight boosts serotonin levels, which is known as the “feel-good” hormone, improving mood and overall mental health.
Research has shown that spending time in natural environments like the beach can improve mood and overall mental health.
3. Encourages physical activity
When you go to the beach, it provides a natural playground for kids, with endless opportunities for physical activity such as swimming, running, and playing beach games (don’t forget the sunscreen!). Engaging in physical activity is important for children’s development and helps promote a healthy lifestyle.
Related beach articles:
- Amazing Beach Coloring Pages!
- Best Surf Lessons In Virginia Beach
- The Best Beach Day Packing List
- 9 Best Beaches Near Me: A Virginia Beach Native Guide
4. Develops social skills
The beach is a great place for children to socialize and interact with others. They can meet new friends, play games with siblings or cousins, and work together to build sandcastles or other structures. This type of social interaction can help improve social skills and increase self-confidence.
5. Stimulates creativity
The beach is a great place for children to use their imaginations and be creative. Building sandcastles, collecting shells, and drawing pictures in the sand are just a few examples of activities that can stimulate creativity and encourage self-expression.
Final Splash
And don’t sweat it if you can’t afford to take the kids on a beach vacation right now; you can have a “beach day” right at home in your own backyard. This article highlights the amazing attributes of just getting outside and enjoying Mother Nature!
#teamocean
DISCLOSURE: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I RECIEVED A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.
Welcome! I’m Kat Marie, founder of Beach Kids Club! Virginia Beach, VA is my hometown and I love where I live! My connection to the beach is more than just a geographical one; it’s a profound passion. Whether I’m catching waves, enjoying long walks by the oceanfront, or simply enjoying the sun, I find so much happiness at the beach. Virginia Beach is more than just a location; it’s a way of life, and I’m here to share my hometown experiences and love for the beach with all of you!