There’s something magical about trading city skylines for ocean horizons—especially when you’re sleeping under a canopy of stars with the sound of waves as your lullaby. Last weekend, I checked coastal camping off my bucket list, and it turned out to be the most rejuvenating escape I’ve had all year. Here’s a peek into the adventure, plus my must-have gear for anyone planning their own beachside retreat.
We set up camp at a family-friendly coastal reserve two hours from the city, arriving just as the sun began painting the sky in hues of peach and lavender. The campsite was nestled between dunes dotted with sea grass, a short stroll from a secluded stretch of sand where seagulls glided lazily overhead. Unloading the car felt like unwrapping a present: folding chairs, a portable stove, and our trusty tent—all ready to transform the beach into a home for two nights.
Setting up camp at the coast comes with its quirks. The soft sand made driving stakes a bit tricky (pro tip: bring sand anchors for your tent!), but once we got the shelter secured, the hard work faded away. By dusk, we had a cozy setup: a tarp laid out for bare feet, a cooler stocked with fresh fruit and cold drinks, and a small fire pit (permitted at the site) crackling gently. As darkness fell, the ocean transformed—moonlight glistened on the water, and the rhythmic crash of waves drowned out all thoughts of emails or deadlines.
Morning at the coast is non-negotiable. We woke at 6 a.m. to catch the sunrise, sipping steaming coffee from reusable mugs as the sky shifted from deep indigo to bright gold. The beach was empty save for a few early-morning dog walkers and shorebirds darting along the tide line. We spent the day hiking coastal trails, collecting smooth seashells, and even taking a quick dip in the crisp water (bring a wetsuit if you’re camping outside summer!). By afternoon, we retreated to the shade of our tent for a nap, lulled by the ocean’s constant murmur.
The highlight? Dinner with a view. We grilled fresh fish (bought from a local seafood shack on the way) and roasted veggies over the fire, pairing it with a bottle of chilled white wine. As we ate, we watched the stars emerge—brighter and more numerous than I’d ever seen them. No phone service, no distractions—just good food, fresh air, and the kind of peace that only nature can provide.
4 Must-Have Gear for Coastal Camping
- Waterproof Pop-Up Tent: Coastal weather is unpredictable—sudden sea breezes or light rain are common. Look for a lightweight, waterproof tent with sand-resistant flooring (I love the Coleman Coastal Breeze Tent for its easy setup and wind protection).
- Sand-Resistant Beach Blanket: Regular blankets trap sand, but a mesh or nylon sand-resistant blanket (like the Yukon Outfitters Sand Escape) shakes clean in seconds—perfect for picnics or stargazing.
- Portable Camp Stove with Wind Shield: Windy coastal conditions can ruin campfires. A compact stove with a built-in wind shield (such as the Jetboil Flash) lets you cook hot meals without fighting the breeze.
- UV-Protective Pop-Up Canopy: The beach sun is intense! A foldable canopy (like the E-Z Up Endeavor) provides shade for your tent area, keeping you cool and protected from harmful UV rays during the day.
