School’s out, the sun is shining, and it’s time to celebrate the first day of summer with something creative, colorful, and fun! If you’re looking for summer break activities that combine imagination and sunshine, beach-themed crafts are a great way to launch your summer bucket list for kids. Whether you're heading to the shore or staying home, these DIY summer crafts are perfect for every little artist.
Seashell Crafts for Kids
If you’ve got a collection of seashells from your last beach trip—or picked some up at the craft store—these seashell crafts for kids are a beautiful way to bring a bit of the beach to your home. Use Kwik Stix Paint Sticks for mess-free summer crafts that dry in 90 seconds with no water, no brushes, and no clean-up. Let kids paint seashells with bright colors for creativity that stands out!
Check out this craft on Instagram @mamaknowsbestactivities
Check out this craft on Instagram @heartmadewithmom
Check out this craft on Instagram @mrsgreenartartbaby
Summer learning fun tip: Label shells with sight words, math facts, or letters for a beachy twist on summer learning.
Ocean-Inspired Art Projects
For a fun kids summer art project, try painting ocean scenes using Wonder Stix on windows, mirrors, or even rocks! Kids can draw waves, starfish, fish, or their dream beach scene. This makes for the perfect art project outside, ideal for summer fun at home or crafts for summer camps.
Creative summer activities tip: Add glitter glue, sand, or googly eyes for a fun sensory twist!
Check out this craft on Instagram @playingcreatingeducating
Check out this craft on Instagram @lulu_make
Check out this craft on Instagram @messyhands_lessonplans
Popsicle Stick Beach Crafts
Collecting popsicle sticks this summer? Turn them into easy summer crafts by gluing them into the shape of a beach chair, surfboard, or mini lifeguard stand. Then, decorate using Magic Stix markers that won’t dry out for 7 days—perfect for easy crafts for busy moms or summer classroom activities.
Backyard art project idea: Build a beach scene on cardboard using sand, shells, and your popsicle stick crafts!
Check out this craft on Instagram @playingcreatingeducating
Check out this craft on Instagram @thefamiliahric
Check out this craft on Instagram @everydaywithindie
Outdoor Crafts for the Summer Season
Nothing says summertime like fun outdoor activities. Set up a craft station outside with Kwik Stix Paint Sticks and let the kids decorate rocks, planters, or driftwood. These children's outdoor crafts are perfect for screen-free summer activities that keep kids engaged and unplugged.
Pro tip for teachers: These make wonderful summer crafts for teachers to prep for bulletin boards or end-of-year keepsakes.
Check out this craft on Instagram @thehricfamily
Check out this craft on Instagram @homeschoolinghomestead
Add to Your Summer Craft Bucket List
Here are a few more summer craft ideas to add to your summer vacation ideas for kids:
-
DIY beach-themed photo frames
-
Sand art using colored salt
-
Handprint fish on canvas
-
Painted beach balls or flip-flop cutouts
Why Beach-Themed Crafts Are the Ultimate Summer Kickoff
Beach crafts spark creativity, support sensory development, and encourage outdoor exploration. They’re also ideal end of school year activities and fantastic for summer classroom activities or crafts for summer camps. With easy-to-use, no-mess tools like Kwik Stix, Wonder Stix, and Magic Stix, your kids can jump into summer with color and creativity.
Whether you’re a parent planning summer fun for kids, a teacher organizing summer crafts for teachers, or just looking for ways to enjoy summer fun at home, beach-themed crafts are the perfect kickoff to a season filled with sunshine, smiles, and art.