North Queensland has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world although the presence of jellyfish and crocodiles means that many are not safe for swimming.
However, you shouldn’t let that deter you from visiting or camping at the beach because there are so many fun beachside activities that don’t require getting wet.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]1. playing in the sand[/headline]
Building sandcastles, creating amazing sand sculptures, digging holes or just getting out the bucket and spade are always great pastimes for kids.
Playing in the sand is endless fun and something kids never tire of.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]2. hopscotch on the beach[/headline]
If you have a stick and a great imagination, you can create any game you like at the beach.
Just drawing pictures or writing names can provide hours of fun but one of our favourites is to draw a hopscotch ladder on the sand.
Then all you need to do is grab a shell or two as your markers and you’re off.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]3. hunt for crabs[/headline]
When the tide starts to go out, there is a pretty good chance of spotting crabs of all sizes on the beach, in the mud or around the mangroves.
And if you are lucky, you might spot mudskippers too.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]4. beachcombing[/headline]
Who doesn’t love collecting shells? You would be surprised at how different the shells are from one beach to the next.
You can also find other little treasures washed up like sea urchins, unusual driftwood and seed pods.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]5. build a fort on the beach[/headline]
With a little imagination you can create an amazing fort, cubby or shelter with stuff you find on the beach.
Dig a hole and use palm fronds for a roof, decorate with sticks and shells and other beachy treasures.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]6. fishing off the beach[/headline]
Fishing is a great pastime for young and old whether using a hand reel, a fishing rod or a casting net.
Just be careful when standing close to the water’s edge if fishing at a beach close to crocodile habitat.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]7. look for animal tracks in the sand[/headline]
You would be amazed at just how many bird and animal tracks you can find along the beach if you look for them.
Early in the morning is often the best time to look and it’s fun to try to decipher who and what made each marking in the sand.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]8. fly a kite[/headline]
It can get pretty windy at the beach sometimes so when the wind is up, it is the perfect time to have a go at flying your kite.
And with miles of beach in front of you, you can see how high and how long you can keep your kite in the air.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]9. beach cricket[/headline]
A favourite Aussie tradition, beach cricket is just as popular as backyard cricket, so make sure you pack the cricket bat, ball and stumps for your next trip to the beach.
Young and old can join in and its one activity everyone loves.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]10. hang a hammock[/headline]
Most beaches in Far North Queensland have palm trees or paperbark trees lining them so it is pretty easy to find a spot to hang a hammock.
And it’s the perfect spot for reading a book, having an afternoon nap or for the kids to swing in.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]11. watch the sunset[/headline]
There is something incredibly magical about watching the sunset on the beach and it is even more special when it is shared with those you love.
Kids love watching the changing colours of the sky and then turning on their torches as the sun goes down.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]12. have a campfire on the beach[/headline]
It is the perfect way to end a day by the seaside, with a campfire on the beach.
Get everyone involved by collecting some firewood or driftwood, then pull up your camp chairs and grab a bag of marshmallows to toast on the fire.
Note: Make sure you check beforehand if you are allowed to have a campfire on the beach as not all beaches allow campfires.