Beach Camping: Tips, Tricks & Essential Gears NOT To Forget!

Why go beach camping in 2025?

You can immerse yourself and become one with nature at beach campgrounds. From stargazing under a clear night sky to enjoying the gentle sea breeze, the experience is magical and refreshing.

It's the perfect outdoor activity for nature lovers, adventurers, families, couples, and friends. Just make sure you have a sturdy tent and layered clothing, check the weather forecast, bring ample water and food, and you are good to go! Read on to find out what you need to bring for beach camping in 2025 and learn some basic survival skills.

Camping or glamping?

Glamping combines "glamorous" and "camping," offering luxury outdoor accommodations with amenities like real beds and electricity for a comfortable nature experience. Camping, however, is a more traditional outdoor activity involving tents, sleeping bags, and minimal amenities, emphasizing a closer connection to nature with fewer comforts.

What to pack for beach camping

Packing wisely is crucial for a successful beach camping trip. Here’s our list to ensure you have everything you need:

Camping gear

1. Tent: Choose a lightweight, waterproof tent with good ventilation.
2. Sleeping Bags and Mats: Opt for lightweight, insulated sleeping bags and mats for comfort.
3. Air mattress: There is nothing worse than sleeping on uneven or rocky surface.
4. Foldable chairs: Sitting on the ground or a rock is very uncomfortable in the long run.
5. Camping Stove and Fuel: A portable stove with enough fuel for your stay.

Clothing and footwear

1. Swimwear: Pack swimsuits for water activities.
2. Lightweight Clothing: Breathable, quick-drying clothes like shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops.
3. Warm Layers: Evenings can be cool; pack a light jacket or hoodie.
4. Footwear: Waterproof sandals for the beach and sturdy shoes for any hikes.
5. Toiletries and Personal Items
   • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF sunscreen and protective lip balm to prevent sunburn.
   • Insect Repellent: To ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
   • Personal Hygiene Items: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer.
   • First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Cooking and eating supplies

1. Reusable Utensils and Plates: Eco-friendly, reusable cutlery, plates, and cups.
2. Cooler and Ice Packs: To keep food and drinks fresh.
3. Food Supplies: Non-perishable items like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and instant meals.
4. Water and Filtration System: Plenty of drinking water and a portable filtration system.
5. Miscellaneous Items
   • Beach Umbrella or Shade Tent: For protection from the sun during the day.
   • Snorkeling Gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins to explore underwater life.
   • Books and Games: Lightweight entertainment options for downtime.
   • Trash Bags: For waste disposal to keep the beach clean.

Electronics

1. Power Bank: High-capacity power banks are essential for beach camping to charge your phone and other devices.
2. Speakers: The sound of nature is beautiful, but you might want to play your favorite tunes too.
3. Solar Charger: Never run out of electricity with a portable solar panel.
4. Electronic Mosquito Repellent: Electronic mosquito repellents (EMRs) function by emitting high-pitched sounds that are nearly inaudible to humans, effectively repelling female mosquitoes.
5. Lanterns and Flashlights: Bring rechargeable lanterns and flashlights, along with extra batteries.
6. Cameras: Although most modern smartphones have fantastics cameras, to capture amazing photos of the stars, you might still need a proper DSLR or MILC camera.
7. Drone: Elevate your Instagram with mindblowing drone footage

Choosing the right tent and setting it up

When selecting the best beach tent for a holiday weekend, consider factors such as size, weight, and weather resistance. A lightweight, waterproof tent with good ventilation is ideal. Traditionally, you have 3 options when it comes to tents:

Pop-up tents (such as inflatable or 2-second tents)

• Pros: Very quick to set up and you can do it in rain too.
• Cons: Everything else. Heavier, difficult to disassemble alone, and has a very big carrying bag.

Traditional tents (such as dome tents or tunnel tents)

• Pros: Small bag, lighter, can be assembled and disassembled alone, better wind resistance.
• Cons: Takes longer to set up and usually you can't do it in rain because the waterproof layer goes on top at the end.

Multiroom tents (such as cabin or wall tents)

• Pros: Very comfortable, high and relatively vertical walls
• Cons: Heavy, big and difficult to set up. It is only practical if you are staying for several days.

There are even more tent types, such as bell tents, teepee tents, A-frame tents, pyramid tents, hammock tents or rooftop tents that you can install on the top of your car. However, for practical reasons, to find the best beach tent for camping, you should choose one from above.

To set up your tent at beach campgrounds, find a flat, elevated spot to avoid high tides. Clear away any sharp objects, then lay down a tarp for additional protection. Secure the tent using sandbags or stakes designed for sandy terrain to ensure it remains stable against coastal winds.

Pro tip: Always, and I mean always, set up your tent in shade because it gets very hot very quick from the first rays of the sunrise, even the so called fresh & black tents. Also make sure that falling coconuts are not going to be an issue at night.

Essential tips for beach camping

Beach safety

1. Check the weather

   • Weather forecast: Caribbean weather can be unpredictable. Monitor forecasts and plan your trip during the dry season to avoid storms.

2. Know the tides

   • Tide charts: Always check the local tide charts to avoid setting up camp too close to the water. High tides can pose a risk to your campsite and belongings.
   • Swimming safety: Be aware of rip currents and swimming conditions. Swim in designated areas if available and never swim alone.

3. Sun protection

   • Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF and reapply regularly, especially after swimming.
   • Shade: Bring a beach umbrella or a shade tent to protect yourself from prolonged sun exposure.

4. Hydration

   • Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the hot Caribbean sun. Carry enough drinking water for your entire trip.
   • Electrolytes: Consider bringing electrolyte packets or drinks to replenish minerals lost through sweat.

Comfort and entertainment

1. Pack wisely

   • Ensure you bring lightweight camping gear suitable for a beach environment. Essentials include a sturdy tent, sleeping bags, a portable stove, and plenty of water.

2. Comfort items

   • Camping chairs and hammocks: Lightweight camping chairs and hammocks can make your stay more comfortable.
   • Sleeping gear: Ensure you have comfortable sleeping mats or air mattresses for a good night’s rest.

3. Entertainment

   • Water sports gear: Bring gear for water sports like paddleboards, kayaks, or snorkeling equipment to enjoy the ocean.
   • Beach games: Pack beach games like frisbee, beach volleyball, or paddleball for fun and active entertainment.
   • Books and music: Bring along books, a portable speaker, or a musical instrument like a guitar for evening relaxation.

Local culture and attractions

1. Explore the area

   • Local attractions: Research and visit nearby attractions, such as hiking trails, local markets, and cultural sites.
   • Wildlife watching: Look out for opportunities to observe local wildlife, like sea turtles, birds, and marine life.

2. Respect local customs

   • Cultural sensitivity: Be aware of and respect local customs and traditions. Engage with the community respectfully and consider learning a few phrases in the local language.

3. Engage in activities

   • Sports: Make the most of your camping trip by engaging in activities like snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking. The Caribbean’s diverse marine life and scenic trails provide endless opportunities for adventure.

How to make a bonfire or campfire while beach camping

Creating a bonfire or campfire can enhance your beach camping experience, providing warmth, light, and a great spot for socializing and cooking. Here’s how to make campfire safely and responsibly:

1. Check Regulations

Before starting a fire, double-check with local authorities or park management to ensure that bonfires or campfires are allowed on the beach. Many beaches have specific rules and designated fire pits.

2. Choose a Safe Location

Set up your fire in a designated fire pit or a clear area away from flammable vegetation and structures. Ensure the fire is far enough from the waterline to avoid being extinguished by high tide.

3. Gather Materials

Collect or purchase dry, seasoned wood. Avoid using driftwood as it can release harmful chemicals when burned. Gather small sticks, leaves, and paper to start your fire. Make sure you have a reliable ignition source like matches or lighter.

4. Prepare the Fire Pit

If there’s no designated fire pit, dig a shallow pit in the sand and surround it with rocks to contain the fire. Remove any debris or flammable materials within a 10-foot radius around the pit.

5. Build the Fire

Place tinder in the center of the pit and arrange kindling in a teepee shape around it. Once the kindling catches fire, gradually add larger pieces of firewood in a crisscross pattern to maintain airflow.

6. Maintain the Fire

A smaller fire is easier to control and safer for the environment. Never leave the fire unattended. Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby to extinguish it if necessary.

7. Extinguish the Fire

Pour water on the fire, stirring the ashes until they are cool to the touch. Ensure no embers are left smoldering. If water is unavailable, use sand to cover the fire completely.

8. Leave No Trace

Remove all trash and debris, and ensure the fire pit is restored to its natural state if it was not a designated one.

How to set up a beach BBQ

Setting up a BBQ on the beach can add a delightful culinary experience to your camping trip. Here's some tips for beach BBQ:

1. Choose a Safe Spot: Select a location away from vegetation and tents to reduce fire risk. Ensure it’s not too close to the water to avoid high tide disturbances.
2. Use a Portable Grill: Bring a portable BBQ grill that’s easy to set up and clean. Make sure it has a stable base.
3. Prepare the Fire: Use charcoal or propane, depending on your grill type. If using charcoal, allow it to heat up until it’s covered with white ash before cooking.
4. Mind the Environment: Place aluminum foil or a grill mat underneath to protect the sand from grease and food residue.
5. Cook and Clean: Grill your favorite beach foods like seafood, vegetables, and burgers. Always extinguish the fire completely after use and dispose of waste properly.

Fun games to play with kids around the tent

Beach camping with kids can be an absolute joy, especially with a variety of games to keep them entertained. Here are some fun and engaging games you can play:

Sandcastle building contest

Encourage creativity and teamwork by having a sandcastle building contest. Provide buckets, shovels, and molds to help kids create their sandy masterpieces.

Nature scavenger hunt

Create a list of items for kids to find around the beach, such as seashells, driftwood, or specific types of rocks. This game encourages exploration and observation of the natural surroundings.

Treasure hunt

Plan a treasure hunt with clues leading to small hidden treasures around your campsite. This game is great for adventure and problem-solving skills. You can try to bring a real metal detector to find real treasure in the sand.

Kite flying

A windy day should not ruin your day. What's more, it's the perfect opportunity to fly a kite. Kite flying on the beach is a budget-friendly and fun activity for both kids and adults. You wouldn't believe, but it is also a great excercise for hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills.

Glow stick hide and seek

As the sun sets, give each child a glow stick and play a game of hide and seek. The glow sticks add an exciting twist to this classic game and keep everyone visible. But make the rules clear right away: Hiding the stick under clothing is cheating!

Beach ball games

Bring along a beach ball for games like volleyball, catch, or keep it up. These activities are excellent for burning off energy and improving coordination.

Storytelling circle

Gather around the tent and take turns telling stories. You can start a story and let each child add a part, creating a fun and imaginative group tale. Might not be the best idea, but no campfire storytelling is complete without some spooky tales so come prepared.

Nighttime bioluminescence

Seek Out Bioluminescent Bays. Some areas in the Caribbean, such as Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico, are known for their bioluminescent waters. Plan a nighttime kayaking or swimming adventure to experience this magical phenomenon.

The tiny glowing organism are called Dinoflagellates, or in short: “dinos”. They can be found on many beaches (even if just a few), so keep your eyes open. It can be a fun game with kids to go on a "dino hunt" at night.

Look for turtles

Walk down the beach at night and look for turtles who usually come out of the sea to lay their eggs after sunset. If you are lucky, you may encounter baby turtles hatching. Don't touch them though, and don't use flashlight as small turtles may mistake it for the moon and won't find their way into the sea. If your flashlight supports it, use red light.

Best practices to repel mosquitoes while beach camping

Follow these tips to enjoy a mosquito-free beach camping experience in the Caribbean.

1. Use effective repellents: Apply DEET or Picaridin-based insect repellent on skin and clothing.
2. Wear protective clothing: Opt for long sleeves, pants, and socks, especially during dawn and dusk.
3. Set up mosquito nets: Ensure your sleeping area is covered with mosquito nets or a tent with mesh screens.
4. Seal your tent: Keep tent doors and windows closed, and check for any holes in the mesh.
5. Use natural repellents: Place citronella candles or essential oils around your campsite.
6. Avoid scented products: Steer clear of scented lotions and perfumes that attract mosquitoes.
7. Eliminate standing water: Remove any containers collecting water around your campsite.
8. Utilize fans: Use battery-operated fans to create a breeze and deter mosquitoes.
9. Light a campfire: If permitted, smoke from a campfire can help keep mosquitoes away.

Top spots for beach camping in the Caribbean

For obvious reasons, we can't list all the beaches where you can set up your tent in the Caribbean but here are a selected few of the best beaches to camp at. 

Guadeloupe, Anse de la Perla

Known for its golden sands and turquoise waters, Anse de la Perle is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene backdrop for your camping adventure.

Puerto Rico, Flamenco Beach

Often listed among the world's best beaches, Flamenco Beach offers soft white sands and calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The designated camping area ensures you’re close to nature while enjoying basic amenities.

Jamaica: Treasure Beach

This hidden gem on Jamaica’s south coast is ideal for a laid-back camping experience. The rustic charm and friendly locals make it a favorite among campers seeking an authentic Caribbean vibe.

St. Thomas: Magens Bay

With its crescent-shaped shoreline and clear waters, Magens Bay is a picturesque spot for camping. The beach is well-maintained, and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas add to its appeal, and you can even enjoy some surfing if conditions are right.

St. Maarten: Petites Cayes or Tintamarre Island

If you want to go beach camping in St. Maarten, try Petites Cayes on the French side of the island. It is tucked away in a remote area called “Wilderness” by locals. It's facing Anguilla which will give you a great view and if you are a professional surfer, it has some of best waves. You can also hire a boat and go over to Tintamarre island to beach camp where you will find excellent snorkeling.

Aruba: Baby Beach or Mangel Halto

Interestingly, Aruba has a camping season called Campamento when local families gather on the beach often causing surprise to foreign visitors. You can set up your tent at any beach except Palm Beach in front of the high rise area.

Curacao: Playa Guepi

Playa Guepi is the perfect place for beach camping in Curacao. It is the most remote beach on the island that barely has any visitors so it's best for couples. The place also features excellent snorkeling.

Anguilla: Scrub Island

The best place for beach camping in Anguilla is the uninhabited Scrub Island where you can truly feel like Robinson Crusoe. Just ask a local fisherman to take you over and bring you back the next day. Bring plenty of water, as there is nothing on the island. Keep in mind that there is very minimal shade on Scrub Island.

Benefits of beach camping in the Caribbean

Beach camping allows for a deep connection with nature. The sounds of the ocean, the sight of star-filled skies, and the feel of sand under your feet create a unique sensory experience.

Compared to staying in resorts or an RV, beach camping is a cost-effective way to enjoy the Caribbean. Many camping spots are either free or charge a nominal fee, offering an affordable getaway with no minimum stay.

So pack your picnic gear and escape the crowds to enjoy the serenity of lesser-known beaches during a holiday weekend, providing a private retreat where you can unwind and recharge.