🌄 10 Things To Do At The Beach With Friends

Staring at your phone, wondering what to do with your squad at the beach besides just, you know, being there?

We get it. Sometimes you need a little nudge to turn a good day into an epic one.

Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up some seriously fun ideas that will make your next beach day unforgettable.

1. Host a Gourmet Beach Picnic

• Best For: Foodies, chill vibes, anyone who appreciates good snacks.
• Vibe: Effortlessly chic, delicious, Instagram-ready.
• Why it works: Everyone loves food, and elevated snacks beat soggy sandwiches any day.

Forget sad, squashed sandwiches. We’re talking charcuterie boards with artisanal cheeses, fresh fruit like vibrant strawberries and juicy mango slices, and even a thermos of chilled rosé or sparkling lemonade.

Pack some cute reusable plates and a big, comfy beach blanket—maybe one with a cool geometric pattern or a classic stripe. Don’t forget a sturdy cooler to keep everything perfectly chilled, even that fancy prosciutto.

Pro Tip: Prep everything at home. Nobody wants to be slicing a block of cheddar with sandy hands.

2. Organize a Friendly Beach Volleyball Tournament

• Best For: Active groups, competitive spirits, showing off your spikes.
• Vibe: Energetic, sweaty, high-fives all around.
• Why it works: It’s a classic for a reason—great exercise and teamwork.

Dust off that old volleyball net or just mark out a court in the sand with some driftwood. Divide into teams, maybe even make some silly team names like “Sandy Cheeks” or “The Dune Dudes.”

Keep score, talk some light-hearted trash, and don’t be afraid to dive for that impossible save. A good beach volleyball is a must, maybe a bright neon one so it doesn’t get lost.

Pro Tip: Bring a small prize for the winning team, like bragging rights or the first scoop of ice cream.

3. Unleash Your Inner Artist with Sand Sculptures

• Best For: Creative types, patient friends, anyone who loves a good challenge.
• Vibe: Artistic, focused, surprisingly competitive.
• Why it works: It’s a creative outlet that’s literally washed away by the tide, so no pressure.

Forget basic sandcastles. We’re talking elaborate sculptures here. Think intricate mermaids, majestic dragons, or even a detailed replica of your friend’s notoriously messy bedroom.

Bring small shovels, plastic spatulas, and even a spray bottle for controlled wetting. You might be surprised at what masterpieces you can create with just sand and water.

Pro Tip: Look up some advanced sand sculpting techniques online before you go. You’ll be a pro in no time.

4. Have a Beach Bonfire (where permitted)

• Best For: Evening gatherings, storytellers, s’mores enthusiasts.
• Vibe: Cozy, nostalgic, slightly smoky.
• Why it works: There’s something magical about a fire by the ocean as the sun sets.

First, check local regulations—beach fires aren’t always allowed. If they are, gather some dry firewood and kindling. Bring classic s’mores ingredients: marshmallows, chocolate bars (Hershey’s milk chocolate is iconic), and graham crackers.

Pack some cozy blankets and maybe a portable speaker for some chill acoustic tunes. Share stories, sing songs, or just enjoy the crackling flames and the sound of the waves.

Pro Tip: Always have a bucket of water or sand nearby to fully extinguish the fire before you leave. Safety first.

5. Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) or Kayaking

• Best For: Adventurous souls, water lovers, those seeking a new perspective.
• Vibe: Serene, active, slightly wobbly (at first).
• Why it works: It’s a fantastic workout and offers incredible views of the coastline.

Rent some SUPs or kayaks from a local vendor, usually around $25-50 for an hour or two. Paddle along the shore, explore hidden coves, or just float peacefully, soaking up the sun.

It’s surprisingly meditative once you get the hang of it, and a great way to see marine life from above. Just remember to wear a life vest, even if you’re a strong swimmer.

Pro Tip: Go in the morning when the water is typically calmer, making it easier for beginners.

6. Host a Themed Photo Shoot

• Best For: Social media mavens, fashionistas, memory makers.
• Vibe: Glamorous, silly, utterly fabulous.
• Why it works: You get amazing content and hilarious memories.

Pick a theme! Maybe “Boho Beach Babes” with flowy dresses and flower crowns, or “Retro Surfer Squad” with vintage swimsuits and colorful boards. Bring props like oversized sunglasses, fun hats, or even a sparkly sequin backdrop.

Take turns being the photographer and the model. Experiment with different poses and locations, from the water’s edge to the sandy dunes. Golden hour light is your best friend here.

Pro Tip: Use a portable tripod and a phone remote for group shots where everyone can be in the frame.

7. Play Beach Games (Beyond Volleyball)

• Best For: Energetic groups, those who love a good laugh, competitive spirits.
• Vibe: Playful, boisterous, slightly chaotic.
• Why it works: Keeps everyone engaged and moving, even the “I’m just here for the tan” friend.

Think outside the net. Bring a Frisbee for some ultimate frisbee, a bocce ball set for a more relaxed game, or even a kite to fly high above the waves. Limbo is always a hit, especially after a few refreshing drinks.

You can also invent your own games. How about a scavenger hunt for specific types of shells or interesting pieces of driftwood? The possibilities are endless when you have a bit of imagination.

Pro Tip: Pack a small bag just for games. That way, you won’t forget the tiny beanbags for cornhole.

8. Learn to Surf or Bodyboard

• Best For: Thrill-seekers, water sports enthusiasts, those ready for a challenge.
• Vibe: Exhilarating, challenging, a little humbling.
• Why it works: Riding a wave is an unparalleled feeling of accomplishment.

If there are good waves, grab some bodyboards or rent beginner surfboards. Many beaches offer lessons, which are super helpful for getting the basics down without too much flailing.

It’s tough at first, but catching even a small wave feels incredible. Plus, wiping out with your friends is half the fun and makes for great stories later. Just embrace the salt water up your nose.

Pro Tip: Start with bodyboarding to get comfortable with wave dynamics before attempting to stand up on a surfboard.

9. Stargaze After Dark

• Best For: Romantics, deep thinkers, anyone who appreciates natural beauty.
• Vibe: Peaceful, awe-inspiring, a little bit magical.
• Why it works: Far from city lights, the beach offers an incredible view of the night sky.

Wait until the sun has completely set and the stars begin to pop. Lay out a thick blanket or even a sleeping bag. Download a stargazing app like SkyView Lite to identify constellations, planets, and even satellites.

The vast, open expanse of the beach provides an unobstructed view of the heavens. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa or tea to keep warm, and just let the universe blow your mind.

Pro Tip: Choose a night with a new moon for the darkest skies and best visibility of fainter stars.

10. Meditate or Practice Beach Yoga

• Best For: Wellness warriors, stress-relievers, those seeking inner peace.
• Vibe: Calm, grounding, refreshing.
• Why it works: The natural sounds and open air enhance relaxation and focus.

Find a quiet spot away from the main crowds. Roll out some yoga mats or simply use the soft sand. Guide each other through some gentle stretches or a full yoga flow, focusing on your breath and the sounds of the ocean.

If yoga isn’t your jam, simply sit or lie down, close your eyes, and listen to the waves. Let the rhythmic ebb and flow wash away any stress. It’s like a free spa day, but with more sand.

Pro Tip: Try a guided meditation app with ocean sounds to truly immerse yourself in the beach’s calming energy.

Our Top Recommended Finds

• A high-quality portable cooler: Essential for keeping all your gourmet picnic items and beverages perfectly chilled. Look for one with good insulation and wheels for easy transport across the sand.
• Quick-drying beach towels: Nobody likes lugging around heavy, soggy towels. Microfiber options are super absorbent and pack down small.
• A waterproof Bluetooth speaker: Perfect for setting the mood with your favorite tunes, whether it’s for a photo shoot, a bonfire, or just chilling out.

Which of these will you try first?

See, who said beach days had to be boring? There’s a whole world of fun waiting beyond just sunbathing.

Grab your besties, pick an adventure, and make some unforgettable memories. We’re betting your next beach outing will be anything but basic.

Tell us in the comments which idea you’re hyped to try!