Love a trip to the beach, but let’s face it, it’s not quite the same when there are kids in tow! How do you balance keeping them entertained whilst being able to enjoy the beach too?!

We all know it can be a major expedition, so planning is key. From the tech entrenched teenager to the tiny tots who require half the car boot space before you begin, below are some ideas where you don’t have to pack the kitchen sink, break the bank or highlight that need for a gym membership.

5 Beach Games You Can Draw In The Sand

The beautiful sandy beach of Old Hunstanton is perfect for games in the sand. We all know the sandcastle competition - get some sand sculpting inspiration here, and fun burying dad, but many traditional games from home can be translated onto the beach by simply drawing or using what’s already there. You need not pack anything extra, they’re free and crucially, beach friendly.

1. Hopscotch
2. Snakes ‘n’ ladders
3. Noughts and crosses
4. Hangman
5. Sand Pictionary

Beach Game & Holiday Hacks

Stuck with the thought of being weighed down with the windbreaker, towels and other beach paraphernalia? Start with getting a camping or festival cart these are Shopomo’s top 5. If there’s room left, you can cart the kids too! Here’s some beach game hacks where the rules are simple and games familiar, so you can just let them get on with it.

1. Footgolf. The latest craze, very popular in Norfolk and so simple to replicate on the beach. Just dig a few holes, sometimes a great task for younger family members, and away you go. This one is probably best when the beach is not so busy, but suits if you’re playing on your own or in teams and can be made as easy or difficult as you want.

2. Small adaptation of the above with the opportunity to upgrade to crazy golf if you build ramps or obstacles with the sand.  Many variations exist TidalBall is one, visit their website for details on rules and how you can score.

3. Beach pong. As a parent you may already be deft at the adult version. If you’re already lugging a collection of buckets and spades, the buckets are perfect and can be laid out in a familiar ten pin formation, if not, use the spade to dig some holes. You can replace a lack of balls with items you find naturally on the beach like shells and pebbles. Now big in the US where you can by ‘Bucketball’

4. Pooh sticks, an undeniable classic. Use your lolly stick (remember to take home or dispose of responsibly) or bits of driftwood. If there’s no stream leading to the beach create your own channel. The perfect game for all ages with minimal effort that strangely brings out the competitive nature in everyone.

Beach Games Under £30

Kite flying isn’t quite what it used to be. There are hundreds of different kites on the market nowadays from stunt to classic, pocket ones for little fingers to the pro-status power kites. Reminisce about your childhood or pass on your flying skills, kites are a classic (when the wind is blowing!) and a site for all to enjoy.

Brookite have been manufacturing kites for over a hundred years and their website provides helpful tips on age recommendations, wind range and sizing. Pocket kites can cost as little as £4.99 up to £30 for a stunt kite like the Symphony Beach III.

Brands like Aerobie and Nerf are constantly launching new flying discs, rings and balls for all ages and skills. They’re easy to store and carry and make good fun for all the family. Click here for a list of Nerf stockists .

Over 240 million people around the world play football and these handy popup goals will save you a towel or two from being used as posts. Check out 5 of the best at Soccer HQ.

Last but not least, if you’re part of a group or are just lucky enough to own a lot of kit, Beach Olympics is the ultimate beach entertainment. Club together and arrange an obstacle course or series of competitions. It’s sure to draw an audience and keep everyone entertained across the day.

A Break By The Beach

Whatever you plan for the beach make sure you’re well protected from the sun especially at midday and remember to only ever leave footprints. Searles Leisure Resort is perfectly located with 7 beaches within 20 minutes and just a stone’s throw from Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk. With a variety of accommodation to choose from, take advantage of Searles Early Summer Offer before the beach gets too busy!