You might have a stroller at home that you love and use to take your child (or children) everywhere, but will it hold up for a trip to the beach? Any parents who have tried to lug a heavy stroller through wet sand can probably tell you – not ALL strollers were created for the beach!
If you’re planning a beach vacation or plan on spending a good portion of your summer near the water, you’ll need a reliable stroller that doesn’t leave you completely spent at the end of the day. Likely, you’ll be that way anyway!
While we fancy ourselves as somewhat of an expert on beachgoing excursions with kids, finding the best beach stroller took some trial-and-error!
We’ve taken a deep dive into finding some of the best strollers for the beach that you can manoeuvre comfortably both on (and off) the sand.
This post is part of our best family travel gear series
What to Look For in a Great Beach Stroller
While many of the features of a great beach stroller are similar to those you would want in a regular stroller or compact travel stroller, there are a few key differences. Let’s take a look:
Durability
As tempting as it might be to choose an inexpensive stroller for the beach, our advice is to invest in one that will last for at least a few years. In addition, we advise selecting a stroller with tear-resistant, easy-to-clean fabric (as it will likely be covered in sand). You also need to be careful of what material the stroller’s frame is made of so that it doesn’t rust if you get it wet.
Sun Canopy
A large or oversized sun canopy is an important consideration for any beach stroller. You’ll want to protect your bub’s sensitive skin from harmful UV rays. It also provides much-needed shade for an afternoon nap while other children are still playing. Of course, it also helps if the canopy is made from a wind-resistant, quick-drying material for those surprise splashes!
Storage Space
Generous storage space is a must, especially if you’re packing a diaper bag, towels, beach toys, and all the other must-haves for taking your baby or toddler to the beach. Look for a beach stroller with a large cargo basket underneath and several side pockets and holders for sippy cups. A word of caution, however – although it might be tempting to overprepare, packing your beach stroller to the hilt will make it more challenging to manoeuvre in sandy areas.
Manoeuvrability
Manoeuvrability is one of the most critical factors when deciding on a stroller for the beach. A sound suspension system is a must, especially considering you’ll be pushing the stroller over multiple types of terrain. You also don’t want to choose a beach stroller that’s too narrow, as it might turn over more easily in sand. Lastly, larger wheels are beneficial in terms of stability and durability.
Hard vs. Pneumatic Wheels
After going through our fair share of all different types of strollers, we firmly believe the best beach stroller should have pneumatic wheels. Pneumatic simply means air-filled wheels, not hard, plastic ones. Air-filled wheels act as better shock absorbers over uneven and difficult terrain for a smooth ride. They also don’t sink into the sand as much as their solid plastic or rubber counterparts.
3 vs 4 Wheels
You’ll also find that the three-wheeled jogging stroller works much better than more standard strollers with four wheels. When it comes to difficult and sandy terrain, there’s simply no argument which type of stroller is better. The larger rear wheels will see you through soft sand while your smaller front swivel wheel aids manoeuvrability. Look for strollers marketed as “all-terrain strollers”.
It won’t take you too many attempts on soft sand to realise the only way you can get a 4-wheeled stroller through is to drag it on two rear wheels!
Ease of Storage
Unless you live conveniently close to the water, you will probably pack your baby beach stroller in your vehicle while travelling to your destination. A one-hand folding design is always a bonus, especially since you’ll probably have several other accessories (and children) in tow.
Size (Disney compliant!)
Although not essential for all beach strollers, we know many of you want a stroller that will last for all types of family vacations, including the trip of a lifetime to Disneyland or Disney World. We have made sure to note for all our strollers when they are size compliant for Disney too!
Best Strollers for the Beach
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Pricing guide $ = Under $250USD; $$ – $250 to $500 USD; $$$ – over $500USD
Best Beach Strollers
Best Overall Beach Strtoller: Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller
You really can’t go wrong with the Joovy Zoom 360. The ultra-lightweight frame is made with 6061 aircraft aluminium, which allows you to manoeuvre it easily over rough terrain. The straight-through axle also provides the most comfortable ride possible for your bub, along with an oversized canopy, extra-wide seats, and multi-position recline.
There are perks for the parents as well, such as a parent organizer, running leash, and easy compact fold for quick and effortless packing and storage. The oversized cargo basket offers plenty of storage for all your essentials and several in-seat mesh pockets and cup holders.
The extra-large pneumatic tires are perfect for long walks on the beach, and you can easily lock the swivel front wheel when it’s time to get out and play. Customers have remarked that if you take the stroller on the beach, it manoeuvres best on wet packed sand.
Full Product Specs for the Joovy Zoom 360
Product Weight: 25.7 lbsMax Child Weight: 75 lbsDimensions: 54 x 25 x 46Folded: 34 x 25 x 19Disney Size Compliant: NoTravel System Option: Car Seat Adapter (sold separately) Seat and Positions: Multi-position recline, 5-point harnessColours: Black, Blueberry, Charcoal, RedCanopy Coverage: XL UV Canopy Storage: Neoprene parent organizer, zippered pocket, large storage basketWheels: Pneumatic, 16” rear and 12.5” front swivel
Best Value Beach Stroller: Baby Trend Range Jogger Stroller
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach stroller option, the Baby Trend Range Jogger is an excellent pick. Your bub will be comfy, cosy, and secure in the 5-point harness with padded covers. The 3-tiered canopy expands to protect them entirely from the sun.
The child’s tray also has two cup holders, and you can attach an infant car seat to create a travel system. In addition, the stroller has a fully cushioned seat with a multi-position recline for those much-needed afternoon naps.
The Baby Trend Range Jogger also offers maximum manoeuvrability with an extra-wide, ergonomic push handle and all-terrain pneumatic wheels. There are several storage compartments and a large cargo basket underneath the seat for all of your beach essentials.
As long as you don’t try carrying everything plus the kitchen sink in this beach stroller, it’s reasonably easy to push in the sand and rockier beach terrain. However, some customers did find it hard to manoeuvre through deeper sandy beaches.
Full Product Specs for the Baby Trend Jogger
Product Weight: 27.5 lbsMax Child Weight: 50 lbsDimensions: 46 x 22 x 41.5 inchesFolded: 33 x 22.5 x 16.5 inchesDisney Size Compliant: YesTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: Multi-position reclining, 5-point harnessColours: Ash, Bubble Gum, Millennium, PhantomCanopy Coverage: 3-tier expandable canopyStorage: XL storage basket under the seat, parent tray and parent cup holderWheels: Pneumatic, 16” rear wheels, 12” front swivel
Best Premium Beach Stroller: BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller
Often considered “top of the line” for robust strollers, the Bob Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 is certainly impressive.
The premium suspension system provides one of the smoothest rides out there. Your child will love relaxing in the ultra-padded compression seat with infinite recline positions. The oversized canopy also shields your bub from the hot summer sun and keeps them as cool as possible.
The Flex 3.0 also exceeds expectations regarding storage space. There are six storage pockets and an extra-large cargo basket to store your beach bag, towels, swimsuits, etc. There’s also a cell phone pocket near the adjustable handlebar, so you’ll always have it handy.
This is also one of the best strollers for the beach due to the oversized pneumatic tires. They provide excellent manoeuvrability for a stroll in the sand or wherever your adventures take you. If your bub needs a car seat, the BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 also comes travel system ready. All you need to do is purchase a universal car seat adapter, and you’ll be on your way.
We can’t say enough great things about this stroller; however, there is one thing – it’s on the pricier side. Well worth it, in our opinion if you live near the beach!
Full Specs for the Bob Gear Revolution Flex
Product Weight: 28.5 lbsMax Child Weight: 75 lbsDimensions: 46 x 25 x 45 inchesFolded: 38 x 25 x 16Disney Size Compliant: YesTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: Infinite recline, 5-point harnessColours: Graphite Black, Lunar BlackCanopy Coverage: XL UPF 50+ Storage: 6 storage pockets, generous cargo basketWheels: Pneumatic, 16.75” rear, 360-degree swivel-locking front wheel
Double Beach Stroller Options
We can’t count how many times we travelled to the beach with a baby and toddler in tow, and we certainly appreciated the convenience of our double jogging strollers for travel.
Here are a couple of suggestions if you have multiple children in tow:
Best Value Double Beach Stroller: Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger
The Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger is an affordable option that does well on multiple types of terrain, including sand. The shaded canopy can be adjusted depending on the sun’s position. The 5-point safety harness keeps your little ones snug and secure as they enjoy independently reclining seats and plenty of wiggle room.
The pneumatic bicycle tires are easily detachable for storage and travel. You can quickly and effortlessly fold the stroller down when you’re finished with it. The lightweight frame and front swivel wheel add ease of manoeuvrability, and there’s plenty of storage in the parent tray, covered storage compartment, and under-seat cargo basket.
One potential con is that the frame is prone to rust, so we advise wiping it down to remove excess moisture.
Product Specs for the Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger
Product Weight: 25 lbsMax Child Weight: 50 lbsDimensions: 46 x 31.5 x 42 inchesFolded: 32 x 27 x 20 inchesDisney Size Compliant: YesTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: Multi-position recline, 5-point harnessColours: Carbon, Elixir, GriffinCanopy Coverage: Ratcheting shade canopyStorage: Generous – large storage basket, parent tray, covered storage compartmentWheels: Pneumatic, locking front swivel wheel
Best All-Terrain Double Stroller: Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller
The Thule Urban Glide 2 is an excellent example of an everyday stroller that also works well at the beach. This all-terrain double jogger is the ultimate in comfort for both parents and children. It comes with features like a multi-position canopy and ventilated windows to catch those cool sea breezes.
A standout parent feature of this lightweight beach stroller is the one-handed compact fold. It takes up minimal space so you can make room for what you need. The integrated hand brake also provides extra control, along with built-in suspension and oversized pneumatic tires.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 also comes with a decent amount of storage, like the large storage basket with a zip-top cover, rear mesh pocket, and two mesh compartments for toys and other small items.
One of the main cons of taking this stroller on the beach is that you have to purchase many accessories separately. Unfortunately, this only adds to an already hefty price tag.
Full Product Specs for the Thule Urban Glide 2
Product Weight: 34.2 lbsMax Child Weight: 100 lbsDimensions: 34.3 x 30.1 x 16.2 inchesFolded: 35 x 30.1 x 13.5 inchesDisney Size Compliant: YesTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: Reclining seats, 5-point harnessColours: BlackCanopy Coverage: Multi-position canopy with side ventilationStorage: Large cargo basket with zip-top cover, three additional pocketsWheels: 16” rear, 12” swivel front
Best Beach Wagons
We wanted to include a few stroller wagon options as alternatives to strollers for the beach, mainly because they may be able to offer easier transportation for toddlers and older children and more storage options.
They lack certain features that the all-terrain strollers we’ve mentioned above include, such as a five-point harness and reclining seat. What they can add though in terms of storage and versatility is incredible, and a serious consideration for regular beach-goers.
Best Beach Wagon: Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
Your little ones can travel in style and comfort with the Evenflo Pivot Xplore. The wagon has two adjustable UPF 50-plus canopies that offer plenty of shade on a sunny day. The middle child tray and cupholders are perfect for a quick snack break before playing in the waves.
In terms of manoeuvrability, this beach stroller wagon has all-terrain wheels that roll easily over wet sand. You can flip the handle to either push or pull the wagon (depending on what’s easiest for you). There is also an attached cargo bag with plenty of room for necessary items.
A potential con would be that there isn’t any room underneath the wagon for extra cargo storage. This means you’ll have to carry additional items yourself or place them in the riding area of the wagon.
Full Product Specs for the Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
Product Weight: 34.7 lbsMax Child Weight: Rear-facing: 55 lbs/Forward-Facing: 55 lbs/Overall: 120 lbsDimensions: 45 x 27 x 39 inchesFolded: 27.5 x 23 x 37.5 inchesDisney Size Compliant: NoTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: N/AColours: Adventurer, Olive, WayfarerCanopy Coverage: Two adjustable coversStorage: Adequate storage in an attached cargo bagWheels: Solid all-terrain wheels
Premium Family Beach Wagon: Wonderfold W2 Luxe Multi-Function Stroller Wagon
If you want a higher-end stroller wagon for the beach, the Wonderfold w2 Luxe may be just what you’re looking for. It has a full coverage adjustable canopy top, reclining seats, automatic magnetic buckles, and plenty of room for your children to stretch their legs out and enjoy the ride.
Many customers have marvelled about the superior manoeuvrability of Wonderfold stroller wagons. The heavy-duty front wheels come with suspensions and bearings for ultimate comfort and steering. The adjustable handlebar is perfect for any height, and you can also pull the wagon with an included strap.
This beach stroller wagon has plenty of storage, including a rear storage basket and additional pouches. Mesh panels on the sides offer maximum breathability. The wagon itself is incredibly easy to fold and store when not in use. You’ll find this is an unbeatable weight capacity if you’ve got larger children or a lot to carry.
Full Product Specs for the Wonderfold W2 Luxe
Product Weight: 58 lbsMax Child Weight: 200 lbsDimensions: 44.5 x 25 x 54 inchesFolded: N/ADisney Size Compliant: NoTravel System Option: YesSeat and Positions: Reclining seats, automatic magnetic buckle systemColours: Charcoal Black, Charcoal Gray, Elite Black CamoCanopy Coverage: Full canopy coverageStorage: Generous storage in multiple compartments Wheels: Solid all-terrain wheels
More Help Preparing for a Family Beach Vacation
Once you’ve got your stroller sorted for the beach, here are a few more things you will need to consider to complete your baby beach trip checklist!
Grab our complete “Baby to the Beach” checklist. We cover every little essentail item you may not have thought of and also cover of any safety concerns you may have.
Got a toddler? We have you covered too! Here we share our toddler beach essentials, plus tips and hacks to make sure it stays a pleasant day for you all.
Once you’re set up on the beach, will you need an additional shaded area for your tots to play? We look at the best pop up baby beach shade tents, all the way through to family-sized beach tents.
In addition to shade, you may want to pack a family-sized beach blanket for you all to sit on, we love these sand-free and waterproof options for the beach.
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