Shifting sands and a heavy stroller are arch enemies. The biggest beach day challenge comes in getting your baby (and supplies) from the car to the beach. Even some of the best all-terrain strollers can have trouble moving through sand, so it’s time to call in the specialists. Below, you’ll find our top choices for best beach stroller. These move over sand almost effortlessly, making a fun day at the beach with your baby a breeze.
Best Beach Strollers
Although it is a more expensive option, the Evenflo Pivot Xplore is an all-terrain stroller wagon that can fit two children, instead of just one child. This wagon is an Amazon Choice product and very well rated by customers who say it is sturdy, easy to maneuver, and great for 2 kiddos. Our other picks are various priced, well rated, one child jogging strollers such as the least expensive, compact Jeep Classic; the well priced, Amazon Choice Baby Trend Expedition; and the pricey but smooth riding Joovy Zoom.
Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
The Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon has all the features you want in an beach stroller. The handle easily moves back and forth so you can push or pull it and there are two seats for babies or toddlers. With a ride range of adapters for a baby car seat or toddler seat (sold separately), you can easily make this work for your family.
Evenflo features a large, wagon-like design. This stroller easily folds to fit in the trunk of your car. It is a little bulky, but not any more so than a standard stroller. While it is designed for use with children ages 6 months to 55 pounds, you can also use it for infants with a car seat adapter. The stroller wagon has two three-point harnesses designed to keep your child in place.
In addition to being able to easily roll over all types of terrain, these strollers are great for traveling with drinks, snacks, sunscreen, diapers, gear, and more. It comes with an easy-access basket on the side that can be rotated into the wagon if you only have one child inside and under-carriage storage. There is also a snack tray for each seat, pockets for cups, and more. With all the storage space, there is still plenty of room for your children’s feet.
This also has two reversible canopies that let you change the accent color. The canopies offer UPF 50+ protection, which is important, especially on a sunny day at the beach.
Additionally, this beach stroller is only 27″ wide so it will easily fit through standard doorways when you are at the mall, checking out stores, or getting food somewhere other than the beach.
Parents will also appreciate the telescoping handle, which has three different positions and moves back and forth for a customized pulling/pushing experience. The brakes are flip-flop friendly, which is something you want when you’re at the beach.
Finally, the outside edge of the wagon stroller can be put in a down position so your child can easily crawl in and out.
Pros
- Can use for one or two children
- Plenty of extra storage space
- SPF 50+ canopy for sun protection
- Telescoping handle for height adjustment
- Can push or pull the wagon
- Flip-flop friendly brakes
- Can be used with adapters for younger or older children
Cons
- A little bulky/heavy
See all our top stroller wagon recommendations.
Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller
The Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller is a great budget-friendly stroller for the beach. It can also be paired with several car seats to make a travel system. Some of the car seats it works with without using an adapter include Graco SnugRide Click Connect, Evenflo Nurture, and Evenflo Embrace.
The suspension on this stroller lets it absorb shock and travel over all types of terrain while your little one enjoys a smooth ride. With larger rear wheels (16″) and a smaller front wheel (12″), this is perfect for sandy terrain. Something to note, however, is that the the front wheel can be hard to inflate because it can be difficult to find a pump with the right attachment.
This beach stroller provides the sun protection your baby needs at the beach with an extendable UPF 50+ canopy. It also has a 5-point harness to keep them safe and secure, as well as reflective piping for increased visibility in low-light. Your baby will also appreciate the well-padded seat and child’s tray. The child’s tray swings out so it is easier to get your baby in and out of the seat.
Another benefit of this stroller is that it’s easy to pack up and take on the go. The no-frills design makes it compact and easy to stow in the trunk of your car on the way to the beach. Quick-release wheels make it easy to make the stroller even more compact. Even though it is compact, this can be difficult to fold- especially if you’re holding your baby.
Parents will also appreciate the padded handle that makes it more comfortable to push the stroller along, two parent cup holders, and roomy under-carriage storage area.
Pros
- Works as a travel system (some car seats don’t need an adapter)
- Extendable UPF 50+ canopy
- Safety features like a 5-point harness and reflective piping
- Child’s tray swings out
- Parent’s cup holders and comfortable handle padding
- Compact design when folded with quick-release wheels
- Shock-absorbing frame
Cons
- Can be hard to find a pump to fit the front tire
- Difficult to fold the stroller
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller
The Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller travels easily over sand and other obstacles. It features three bike wheels and a front swivel wheel that maneuvers over obstacles or can be locked into place for jogging.
This jogging stroller for the beach is designed to work with a car seat to make a travel system for the beach. You can use it from birth with a car seat from 5-30 pounds and then as a stroller up until your baby is 50 pounds. Your baby will be safe and comfortable the entire time with features like a five-point safety harness and tether strap, foot rest, padded seating, and a multi-position recline. The foot rest also has reflectors for better visibility in dim lighting.
There is also a good amount of storage space in this stroller. It has a child tray with two cup holders, a parent tray with two cup holders, and a basket under the stroller. Another feature you and your child will appreciate is the adjustable canopy that comes with sunroof ratchets to block the wind and the sun.
This jogging stroller is easy to push along. It has a sturdy lightweight steel frame and an extra-wide, ergonomically shaped handle. The handle is also coated in rubber for added comfortable. It is also easy to fold and folds compactly, making it easy to stow in the trunk on the way to the beach.
There are two downsides of this stroller. It doesn’t have a one-foot brake and the brakes can be hard to press down on. Additionally, the canopy is open in the back so it doesn’t provide sun/rain protection on the back of your baby’s head.
Pros
- Bike wheels easily move over sand and other obstacles
- Lockable front swivel wheel can be locked into place for jogging
- Can be used from birth to 50 pounds
- 5-point harness
- Lightweight frame and ergonomic handle
- Plenty of storage
- Folds easily and compactly
Cons
- Brakes can be hard to press
- Canopy doesn’t provide full coverage
Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller
The Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller features an incredibly lightweight and compact design that is perfect for riding along the beach. It also comes with a tire pump, which is a nice added feature so there is no guesswork when you fill the tires for the first time.
This stroller features larger 16″ wheels in the back and a single 12.5″ wheel in the front. The back wheels also have a quick-release function so you can take them off when the stroller is folded, making it incredibly compact. Additionally, the front wheel locks into place so you can easily move over sand. When you’re ready to stop, a one-step brake secures the wheels.
While your child is sitting, they’ll appreciate the extra-wide seat that adds comfort. It also sits a little higher than some other jogging strollers, which will let them take in the sights while you’re strolling the beach. If they get tired, the multi-position recline gives them a chance to lie back and relax.
Under the stroller, a roomy storage area has space for all your essentials. There is also a parent organizer conveniently located on the top of the stroller and mesh pockets on the sides for your child’s toys and snacks. The parent organizer has a mounting system that makes it easy to remove if you don’t plan on using it.
This stroller will last well into the toddler years. You can buy a car seat adapter to work with this from birth up to 75 pounds. It also has a five-point harness, so you can be sure your baby will be safe.
The one thing to note is that this can be a little hard to fold and unfold. Even though it has a compact design, the release mechanism can be tricky and some parents have mentioned pinching their fingers trying to fold the stroller.
Pros
- Has a five-point harness, works from birth to 75 pounds with a car seat adapter
- Comes with a tire pump
- Unique suspension for better maneuverability
- Plenty of storage space for you and baby
- Quick-release wheels can be removed for added portability or more compact storage
- Mounting system for the parent’s organizer
- Tri-wheel design handles sand well
Cons
- Can be difficult to fold and unfold
Best BOB Beach Strollers
These BOB jogging strollers are similar in many details. They offer large, air filled tires, aluminum alloy frames, UPF 50+ canopy shades, great storage, and fits children up to 75 lbs. While the BOB Revolution Flex is rated slightly better by Amazon customers than the BOB Rambler, it also comes with a higher price tag.
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller is a great choice for beaches, jogging, and more. It has a suspension system that mimics that of a mountain bike’s for handling bumps effortlessly and a tri-wheeled design that is perfect for driving over sand. The large, air-filled tires also make it easier to drive on the beach.
You can stroll any time with this stroller, which has ultra-reflective lunar fabric that keeps you and your baby visible in low light. The aluminum alloy frame is sturdy without being too heavy and the locking wheel is perfect for rolling along in the sand. Additionally, the front swivel wheel locks into place for jogging and rolling over sand.
This beach jogger stroller can be used from birth with an infant car seat and adapter and up to 8 pounds. It has an almost flat recline and a no-rethread five-point harness. There is also an extra-large canopy with UPF 50+ protection that will shade your little one from the sun.
Something else that sets this stroller apart for the beach is its storage. In addition to the extra-large cargo basket, this comes with two in-seat snack pockets for your baby, a cell phone pocket, and three seat back pockets. Parents will also like the 9-position adjustable handlebar that lets you adjust for your height.
Pros
- Good suspension and three-wheeled design is perfect for the beach
- Ultra-reflective lunar fabric for low-light safety
- Swivel wheel locks into place
- No-rethread five-point harness
- Reclining function
- Extra large canopy
- Plenty of storage
- Adjustable handlebar
Cons
- We couldn’t find any!
BOB Rambler Jogging Stroller
The BOB Rambler Jogging Stroller is perfect for trips to the beach with your baby, from birth up to 75 pounds. It is designed to work with BOB infant car seats or you can use it with Britax seats if you purchase an adapter.
Under the stroller, there is a suspension system similar to what you’d find on a mountain bike for a smooth ride over bumps. It also has three 12-inch tires filled with air instead of being rubber or polyurethane. There is an option to lock the front wheel in place for jogging or let it swivel, letting this stroller roll over a wide variety of terrains. Finally, this also has a one-foot parking brake that is easier for stopping on the beach.
Another feature parents will appreciate this is that this stroller has a no-rethread harness, meaning you don’t have to worry about struggling to rethread the straps as your child grows. The five-point harness keeps your precious cargo safe and a one-handed recline that lays almost flat keeps them comfortable. Additionally, an extra-large canopy with UPF 50+ protection keeps them safe from the sun.
Being designed for jogging, this BOB stroller is also light enough to easily navigate the beach. It has a sturdy aluminum frame and weighs just 25 pounds. Your child will also appreciate the well-padded seat and good ventilation, which keeps them comfortable and prevents overheating. Some other features include an under-carriage storage area and padded handlebar.
This stroller also folds shut easily. However, it is not very compact when folded and even when locked cannot stand up on its own. This can make it difficult to store any way other than flat or lying down in your trunk.
Pros
- Can be used from birth up to 75 pounds
- No-rethread five-point harness
- One-handed recline
- Extra-large UPF 50+ canopy
- Lightweight design navigates well across all types of terrain
- Good ventilation and padding in the seat
Cons
- Doesn’t stand up well when folded
Best Fold Up Wagon
Hauck Eco Wagon
The Hauck Eco Wagon is a good choice for older babies and toddlers. It doesn’t have safety features like a seat belt, however, so you will want to wait until your child can sit up on their own and follow instructions to stay in the wagon.
As a beach wagon for toddlers, this is the perfect fit. It holds up to 110 pounds and comes with comfortable seating pads, allowing your children to use it until each is 55 pounds. The thick wheels easily move over sand and other terrains and it comes with a hand brake that you can use to stop the wagon in place, a feature that is missing on more traditional style wagons. Inside the wheels, bearings ensure that they roll along smoothly on any surface.
This is also a lightweight wagon, having a foldable steel tube frame that is durable without being too heavy. It also folds so it’s easier to take on the go. The entire outside is made of fabric fitted over this frame. Even though plastic is generally easier to wipe clean, the fabric can be removed and hand washed, then fitted back over the frame.
This also comes with a canopy to keep your child out of the sun and protected from the rain. Something to note, however, is that the canopy stretches over the top of the wagon and doesn’t necessarily provide protection from the sides.
Pros
- Roomy and carries up to 110 pounds
- Fabric is removable and hand washable
- Foldable steel frame folds compact and is lightweight
- Canopy to protect from sun
- Thick wheels with bearings for a smooth ride over sand and other terrains
- Hand brake to lock the wagon wheels in place
Cons
- Doesn’t come with seat belts
- Canopy doesn’t provide sun/rain/wind protection from the sides
Best Double Stroller for Beach
Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger
The Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger is designed for use by babies from 6-50 pounds, which makes it a good choice for parents of twins or siblings who are close in age. The three-wheel design makes it a good choice for the beach.
Each seat features a multi-position recline that makes it comfortable for your child whether they are sitting up and taking in the sights or lying back after a long day at the beach. The seats recline separately, so one can lie down and the other can sit up. Additionally, a ratcheting canopy provides as much (or as little) shade as your child wants. You can also keep an eye on them through a peek-a-boo window.
The rubber pneumatic bike tires let this stroller roll easily over sand and other types of terrain. It has large 16″ rear wheels and a 12″ front wheel. The front-wheel also locks into place for easier maneuverability over sand. When not in use, a quick-release mechanism lets the wheels come off the stroller for more compact storage.
For storage, there is a large compartment under the stroller. This also features a parent tray with a covered storage compartment and two cup holders. Parents will also appreciate the single-press foot brake, which lets you quickly and safely stop the stroller.
Something to note is that this stroller does have a wide design. It may not fit through some doorways. While this isn’t necessarily a problem for strolling the beach, it can be a problem if you want to use your stroller at the mall or when you stop into a restaurant. On the other hand, however, the wide seat design ensures your child will have plenty of room to sit as a toddler.
Pros
- Seats have separate recline functions
- Works from 6-50 pounds without a car seat adapter
- Parent tray and under-carriage storage area
- Wheels have a quick-release mechanism for easier storage
- Single-press foot brakes
- Ratcheting canopy and peek-a-boo window
Cons
- Wide design doesn’t always fit through doorways
The Best Beach Strollers Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon | 9.9 | 9.6 | 319.99 |
Hauck Eco Wagon | 3.9 | 9.0 | 259.48 |
Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger | 9.9 | 9.4 | 179.99 |
Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller | 9.8 | 9.4 | 144.99 |
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller | 9.9 | 9.4 | 129.99 |
BOB Rambler Jogging Stroller | 8.8 | 9.4 | - |
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller | 8.6 | 9.6 | - |
Joovy Zoom Lightweight Jogging Stroller | 9.4 | - | - |
Buying Criteria for Beach Strollers
Age Range and Safety
As always, your top priority when choosing car seats, strollers, and other products for your baby should be his or her safety.
If you are looking for a stroller designed for a baby younger than six months, you’ll need something that is car seat compatible. Alternatively, you could look for a newborn stroller designed to lie flat until your child is able to support their head and neck.
Having the right type of harness also affects how secure your baby is in their beach stroller. A five-point harness is better than a three-point harness because it supports your baby’s upper body and keeps them from sliding out of the stroller. This is especially important when your baby is less than a year, as they’ll need the extra support for their head and neck.
Something else to consider regarding the harness is how well the metal parts of the seat belt are covered. If the stroller is sitting on a hot beach, these metal pieces are also going to get hot. While they can still get hot if they’re covered, it creates more of a barrier between the metal and your child’s skin.
You’ll also want to look for one-touch brakes. When you’re on an uneven surface like sand, they’ll be a lot easier (and safer) to use than standard brakes.
Finally, having a canopy can also improve beach safety. Many canopies have an SPF rating that you can use to gauge the amount of protection provided from the sun. However, note that the canopy needs to be large enough that it covers your baby’s skin to provide protection.
Maneuverability
One of the biggest struggles moving a stroller across the beach is maneuverability. Standard strollers don’t usually roll over sand. Their smaller, thinner wheels are great for concrete, however, they quickly get stuck in the sand. As they sink on uneven ground, there’s also a big risk the stroller will tip over.
It’s important when you’re choosing the best stroller for walking on the beach that the wheels are designed to travel over sand. Usually, beach strollers and all-terrain strollers have tires that are wider and larger than standard strollers. They may also be filled with air instead of being made of polyurethane, rubber, or another solid material.
Another feature that affects overall maneuverability is the design of the wheels.
Generally, three-wheeled strollers tackle terrain like the beach better than four-wheeled strollers. While the wide, thick wheels on wagons do a little better, standard strollers often have at least one front wheel that sinks into the sand and makes the stroller harder to push along.
Having a front wheel that locks into place can also be helpful. While some terrains might benefit from a swivel wheel, like when you’re moving through stores or strolling through the park, having a lockable front wheel stops it from turning. When you’re moving over material like sand, this is an important feature for navigating.
Storage
A day at the beach with your baby means you’ll need to carry plenty of cargo. From diapers, wipes, and other necessities to things like sunscreen, swimwear, and beach toys, having a stroller that helps you carry these things can be a lifesaver.
It’s important to follow guidelines about storage to keep the stroller from tipping over in the sand. Adhere to weight limits recommended by the manufacturer for the underside and top of the stroller.
Something to remember when you’re on the beach is that carrying a lot of gear can make even beach strollers a little less stable. If you’re worried about carrying gear, invest in a backpack or other carrying bag for the beach. You could also choose a wagon instead of a stroller, especially if your child is old enough to sit up safely in a wagon.
Comfort
While comfort isn’t the most important factor, it can affect how willing your child is to sit in their stroller as you navigate the beach.
As the beach is hot, you want fabrics that allow air to flow through the stroller to prevent your child from overheating. In addition to providing shade from the sun, having a high-quality canopy can help keep your little one cool.
The amount of padding in the stroller also affects comfort. While you may not want an overly-padded seat because it blocks airflow, padding on the shoulder straps and harness prevents rubbing.
Finally, think about how comfortable the stroller will be for you to push around the beach. While features like an adjustable height or padded handles aren’t necessary, they can make your trip easier.
Convenience and Extra Features
Once you’ve considered things like all-around safety and comfort, you can decide if you want any added features for comfort. Consider the folding mechanism and how compact the stroller is, especially if you’re limited on space for travel or storage in your home. Other features might improve the overall experience of using the stroller.
Some extra features you might consider include a child’s tray for snacks, parent’s cup holders, or a peek-a-boo window. While these aren’t necessary in a standard beach stroller, they can make a trip with your baby more convenient.
FAQs – Beach Strollers
Can you use a stroller on the beach?
Yes, you can use a stroller on the beach.
However, you’ll want to decide if taking a stroller to the beach is worth it. Sand is notoriously difficult to push a stroller through. With the right style of wheels and design, however, beach strollers and all-terrain strollers can move over sand. Not only will you be able to move your child more easily, but you can bring along drinks, snacks, toys, towels, and anything else you might need for a day at the beach.
Of course, you’ll also want to think about where you are going to put your stroller. Some beaches have bike racks or lifeguard towers where you can lock it up while you’re walking the beach. You could also leave it on the beach if you’re not planning on going too far.
Is it safe to take a baby to the beach?
There is no reason you can’t safely take your baby to the beach. Beaches are a great way to stimulate your baby’s natural curiosity.
One of the biggest risks of taking babies to the beach is exposure to the sun and heat, especially babies under 6 months old that can’t regulate their temperature as well. You’ll want to be sure to bring along a beach umbrella so you know your little one has enough shade, especially if they are younger than six months.
You can read the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for sun and water safety here.
Something else you’ll want to consider before planning a fun day at the beach is water safety. With pollution being a major issue today, sometimes the warmer summer temperatures and wind causes bad water quality. This can include an excess of trash and dangerous bacteria. Since babies are likely to put their fingers in their mouths, you’ll want to be sure the water quality is good before swimming with your baby.
Some beaches have this status posted at the beach but you can also look online before heading to the beach. Even if it’s not safe for your baby to play in the water, there’s still plenty of fun that can be had playing in the sand and listening to the splashing water.
Finally, while it may go without saying, you will need to keep a close eye on your baby or toddler at the beach. You’ll want to avoid being too close to the water’s edge. Keep in mind that you’ll want to be far enough back when tide comes in, too. Additionally, watch your baby’s hands and mouth to be sure they aren’t swallowing any sand, rocks, or shells.
Should I buy a beach stroller or a wagon?
The biggest factor that you should consider when choosing between a stroller and a wagon is the safety for your little one.
When your child is under a year, strollers have the advantage of having a harness and other various safety features. You cannot lay a baby flat inside a wagon because it’s not safe and there is no other way to provide the head and neck support they need.
On the other hand, wagons have the advantage of being roomier. Many are built to roll over sand and other terrain. However, they aren’t a good choice until your baby is a little older. In addition to keeping them upright, it’s important they are old enough to know they need to sit inside a wagon.
If you do choose a wagon over a stroller for trips to the beach, look for a model that comes with safety belts, brakes, and other features that will keep your child safe.
What is the best all-terrain stroller?
For parents that visit the beach often, investing in a stroller for walks and a stroller for the beach isn’t a bad idea. For parents who don’t want two separate strollers, an all-terrain stroller might be the better choice.
All-terrain strollers are designed to move easily over sand, gravel, paths, grass, and many other surfaces. They usually have larger wheels for navigating bumps and might have front wheels that can be locked into place when moving through sand or jogging.
The best all-terrain stroller is the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller. You can learn more about this stroller and other best all-terrain strollers here. These have the advantage of letting you choose just one stroller that can tackle a wide variety of terrains. This means whether you’re strolling through the mall, jogging in the park, or rolling over sand, you don’t have to worry about how your stroller will perform.