3 Fun outside ocean activities for kids

ByJenni

For teachers and parents looking to inspire kids while fostering a love for the ocean, hands-on outdoor activities are the way to go. The ocean is an amazing resource for both fun and education, offering countless opportunities for discovery. Whether you’re near the coast or heading there for a trip, here are three engaging outside ocean activities to get kids exploring and learning about marine life.

1. Beach Scavenger Hunt

Plan a beach scavenger hunt to get kids moving and observing their surroundings. Create a list of items to find, such as seashells, seaweed, driftwood, rocks, crab shells, or evidence of marine life like bird feathers. Add fun challenges like spotting tide pool creatures, drawing shapes in the sand, or finding natural items in different colours. You can also include categories like “find something smooth” or “find something rough.” Children can tick things off their list as they go. Remember – all these things should be left in place, have children tick off a list, draw pictures or even take photos rather than remove things from the beach!

 Learning Aspect:

As kids tick off items, take the opportunity to teach them about what they’ve found. For instance, explain how seashells are formed, the role seaweed plays in ocean ecosystems, or how different types of marine life use camouflage to survive. Scavenger hunts encourage curiosity, observation, and teamwork, making them a hit with kids of all ages.

sand dunes over looking a sun rise between coastal grasses
Sand dunes over looking a sun rise between coastal grasses

2. Mini Marine Biologist Day

Transform kids into junior marine biologists for the day! If you’re at the beach, pond, or even a backyard with water experiments, provide tools like nets, magnifying glasses, and small water containers. Kids can collect and observe tiny creatures like crabs, fish, or even insects. Be very careful with the creatures and always put them back where you find them! You could also test water salinity with simple experiments (like floating an egg in saltwater) or measure water temperature.

 Learning Aspect:

This hands-on activity introduces kids to scientific observation and exploration. Teach them about marine food chains, the diversity of marine life, and how animals have adapted to saltwater environments. Incorporate conservation by discussing the importance of keeping oceans clean to protect these ecosystems. Kids will love the chance to play scientist and explore the mysteries of the underwater world.

3. Rock Pooling and Marine Identification

Take kids to a rocky shoreline during low tide and let them explore rock pools. With a little guidance, they can discover a hidden world of crabs, sea anemones, starfish, barnacles, and more. Bring along a guidebook or download an app to help identify the marine creatures they find. Encourage kids to observe closely without disturbing the creatures or their habitats. A small notebook can be handy for sketching and recording what they’ve seen.

 Learning Aspect:

This activity helps kids learn about the unique tidal zone ecosystems, where marine life must adapt to constantly changing conditions. Discuss how tides work and the challenges animals face in this environment, such as predators and temperature changes. It’s a great opportunity to show kids the importance of leaving habitats undisturbed while still enjoying the wonders of nature.

Sea bird predating a crab on the beach with waves in the back ground
Sea bird predating a crab on the beach with waves in the back ground

Tips for Success

  • Safety First: Always supervise kids near water and teach them to tread carefully on slippery rocks.
  • Leave No Trace: Encourage kids to pick up trash they see and leave natural habitats as they found them.
  • Be Prepared: Bring sunscreen, hats, water, and a small first aid kit for outdoor adventures. Waterproof shoes can make exploring tide pools safer and more comfortable.

Why Outside Ocean Activities Matter

Outside ocean activities like these aren’t just fun; they’re essential for building environmental awareness. By immersing kids in the natural world, they’ll develop a deeper understanding of the importance of marine conservation and the incredible diversity of life in our oceans. Plus, being outdoors encourages physical activity, teamwork, and curiosity—skills that benefit them far beyond the classroom.

So grab your bucket, a checklist, and a sense of adventure, and get ready to dive into these fun, educational ocean activities!

For help with lesson plans check out the educational resources page!

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