The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) doesn't have an official age recommendation for when babies can go in bodies of water like oceans, lakes, and rivers, but most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is about 6 months old or can hold their head up well on their own (around 4 to 5 months).

Pediatricians generally recommend waiting until a baby is at least 6 months old before introducing them to the ocean. There are three primary reasons for this "wait-and-see" approach. First, infants under 6 months have very thin skin and cannot safely wear most sunscreens; since the ocean provides no shade and reflects UV rays, the risk of severe sunburn is high. Second, babies this young lack the ability to regulate their body temperature, and even "warm" ocean water can quickly lead to hypothermia for a small infant. Third, the ocean contains bacteria and salt that can be irritating to a newborn's developing immune system and eyes. In 2026, even for babies over 6 months, experts suggest "dipping" rather than "swimming," ensuring the water is calm and using a full-coverage UV swim suit. Always check the local "water quality" reports for the beach, as runoff or red tide can be particularly harmful to infants. A 10-minute "introduction" to the waves is plenty for a baby's first seaside experience to ensure they stay safe, warm, and hydrated.