Summer is the perfect time for families to head outdoors and make the most of the water, whether that’s a day at the beach, a first go at kayaking, paddleboarding, or an afternoon of splashing around at The Lagoon’s Water Park.
With a little planning and a few simple precautions, parents can relax knowing everyone is ready for a safe, enjoyable day outdoors. In this guide, we’ve put together practical advice to help your family prepare for a fun day on and around the water this summer.
Plan Before Your Visit
A great day on the water usually starts with a little preparation the night before. Check the weather forecast so you know what to expect, and if you’re planning to try an activity like kayaking or paddleboarding, book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy summer weekends.
Pack the essentials before you leave the house: water bottles, snacks, sunscreen and a change of clothes all make the day run smoother. It’s also worth building in regular breaks throughout the day. Children (and adults) tire more quickly than they realise when they’re active in the sun, and staying hydrated is just as important as staying safe in the water itself.
Dress for Comfort and Safety
What your family wears can make a big difference to how comfortable and safe everyone feels. Swimwear is best worn underneath wetsuits for water-based activities, and it’s worth packing towels and a spare set of clothes for afterwards. A hat and sunglasses will help protect against sun exposure during the day, even when it’s cloudy.
Brightly coloured clothing or swimwear can make children easier to spot when moving between activities or waiting at the water’s edge. And if you’re worried about sourcing the right gear, there’s no need to invest in specialist equipment: wetsuits are provided for all participants at The Lagoon Activity Centre , so families can simply turn up ready to go.
Why Life Jackets and Buoyancy Aids Matter
Properly fitted buoyancy aids & lifejackets are some of the most important parts of water safety and getting the fit right matters just as much as wearing one at all. A buoyancy aid that’s too loose or too tight won’t do its job properly, so it’s always worth asking an instructor to check the fit before heading out.
Once on the water, it’s important to listen to instructor guidance and never remove safety equipment, even if the water looks calm or the activity feels easy. A correctly fitted life jacket allows everyone to focus on enjoying the activity, knowing they’re properly equipped from the moment they get on the water.
Buoyancy aids are provided as standard for every water-based activity at The Lagoon, so families can be confident that everyone is properly equipped before they set off.
Listen to the Safety Briefing
Every water activity should begin with a safety briefing from a qualified instructor, and it’s one of the most valuable parts of the day. The briefings at The Lagoon typically include a demonstration of key skills, an explanation of what to expect on the water, and a chance to ask questions before getting started.
A safety briefing isn’t just about rules. It’s an opportunity to learn what to expect, understand the equipment and pick up a few useful tips before getting started. Listening carefully means everyone can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the experience.
Help Children Build Confidence Around Water
Rather than focusing on fear, the best approach to water safety is helping children build genuine confidence through positive experiences. Trying something new, whether that’s their first time in a kayak, standing up on a paddleboard, or taking on the Water Park’s inflatable obstacles, is a great opportunity for children to learn at their own pace.
Swimming lessons throughout the year are one of the best ways to build a strong foundation, but confidence around water also comes from smaller moments: celebrating a first successful paddle, cheering on a wobbly first attempt at standing on a board, or simply encouraging children to listen and follow instructions. These small wins add up, and they help children develop a healthy respect for water rather than a fear of it.
Water activities aren’t about being the fastest or the bravest. They’re about trying something new, having a laugh, working together and celebrating the little victories along the way.
Follow Trusted Water Safety Advice
The HSE’s summer safety guidance for parents echoes many of these points, particularly the importance of staying within arm’s reach of younger children near water and never assuming another adult is keeping watch. It’s a helpful reminder that most water safety comes down to simple, consistent habits rather than anything complicated.
- Always supervise children around water, whether they can swim or not.
- Apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, particularly after time in the water.
- Encourage children to drink water often, especially in warm weather.
- Always stay within designated activity areas.
- Never underestimate how quickly weather and water conditions can change.
What to Pack for a Family Day on the Water
Family Water Activity Checklist:
✔ Swimwear
✔ Towel
✔ Sunscreen
✔ Refillable water bottle
✔ Hat
✔ Change of clothes
✔ Old runners or water shoes (if appropriate)
✔ Snacks
✔ Waterproof bag for valuables
Enjoy the Adventure
The best family days out aren’t remembered because everything went perfectly, they’re remembered because everyone tried something new, laughed together and went home with stories to tell. A little preparation helps make those moments possible, giving parents peace of mind while children enjoy the freedom to explore, play and build confidence on the water.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, The Lagoon is ready to help your family make the most of summer in West Cork.
