Summer Water Fun with Your Baby: Safety Tips for Lakes, Pools & Oceans
As the weather warms up and families begin planning lakeside weekends, ocean vacations, or afternoons by the backyard pool, one exciting question often comes up for new parents: Is it safe to bring my baby to the lake or ocean this summer?
The answer is yes! Babies can absolutely enjoy the water outdoors—as long as you follow a few essential safety precautions.
Supervision Is Non-Negotiable
First and foremost: never take your eyes off your baby around water. Whether you’re sitting on the dock, dipping toes in the lake, or enjoying a shallow swim together, a designated adult should always be within arm’s reach of your baby, even if they are already a strong swimmer—no exceptions.
Infants and toddlers can get into dangerous situations fast, even in shallow water, so constant and active supervision is the most important safety rule to follow.
Brush Up on Baby Water Safety Before You Head Out
If you’re planning to enjoy water time this summer, we highly recommend getting familiar with key water safety concepts. Here are some of our go-to blog posts to help you get started:
Infant & Child Drowning: A Guide to Drowning Prevention and Child CPR
This guide breaks down drowning risks, what signs to watch for, and how to respond in an emergency. The post also includes a breakdown of child CPR so you can feel more confident around water.
That said—if you’re heading out on a boat or somewhere that requires a flotation device, choose a Coast Guard-approved infant life jacket. Look for:
A crotch strap to prevent the jacket from slipping off
A head pillow or support collar to keep baby’s head upright
A grab handle for easy rescue if needed
A secure fit—life jackets must be snug, not loose
Getting Your Baby Ready to Swim Outside
Outdoor swimming feels different for babies than indoor or bath time swimming—so preparing them helps set everyone up for success.
We’ve written a full step-by-step guide to easing your baby from bath time to pool time, and these steps also work for outdoor swimming:
Here’s a quick checklist of what to pack for a safe, happy swim outside:
1. Baby swimsuit and a sun hat (and optional : goggles)
We also have a blog post talking about recommendations in regard to baby swimwear, where we talk about the benefits of dressing your baby in bright colours around water. You can check that blog post out here. Additionally, depending on their age, you can bring goggles for your baby to get submersion practice in!
2. Swim diapers (and backup!)
Our favourite is the Happy Nappy Swim Diaper. Not only is it reusable and comfortable, but it has seriously never let us down with leaks in our experience.
3. Lightweight towel or robe
A towel or rob that is quick-drying helps keep your baby warm after their swim and make post-water cuddles extra comfy.
4. Baby-safe sunscreen
If your baby is 6 months or older, apply a mineral-based sunscreen to protect their delicate skin. For babies under 6 months, stick to shade and protective clothing instead.
5. A large sunshade or umbrella
Babies overheat easily, so having a shady spot is essential for breaks between swims and to help protect them from direct sun.
6. Snacks, lots of water, and comfort items
Pack easy-to-grab snacks, a bottle or sippy cup to stay hydrated, and a favourite comfort item like a lovey or pacifier to help your baby recharge.
7. A change of clothes
Having a dry outfit ready makes post-swim transitions smoother—and keeps your baby cozy on the ride home.
8. Coast Guard-approved life jacket (if on a boat or required)
If you’re headed out on a boat or dock, your baby needs a properly fitted life jacket with the necessary safety features (see above).
9. A dry bag to store wet gear
Perfect for tossing in wet swimsuits, towels, or used diapers without soaking everything else in your bag.
10. Your full attention (the most important one!)
No flotation device or checklist item replaces your undivided supervision. Staying present, focused, and nearby keeps your baby safest in and around the water.
Why We Love Outdoor Swimming for Babies
There’s something truly special about swimming with your baby outdoors. From fresh air and natural light to the sensory experience of open water, these early moments create magical memories, and boost your baby’s confidence and comfort around water.
Getting your baby familiar with lakes, oceans, and pools from a young age can support their swim journey for years to come. They build trust in their bodies, awareness of their surroundings, and comfort in different water environments, all while bonding closely with you.
With the right preparation and constant supervision, summer can be a wonderful time to introduce your baby to the joys of outdoor water play. If you’re new to swimming with your baby, check out our full library of blog posts for guidance, inspiration, and safety-first tips, or book a lesson with our expert instructors to help you be better prepared for summer swimming.
Here’s to a summer of sunny splashes, giggles in the water, and building your baby’s lifelong love of swimming.
