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The quick answer
Go as the tide is going out and keep an eye on it: low tide uncovers the most pools. Take a bucket or clear tub of sea water, a small net, grippy shoes and snacks. Look, then put everything back where you found it.
Rock pooling is the best free ocean adventure there is. Crabs, anemones, the odd starfish if you're lucky, and a very happy, very wet four year old. Here's how to make it work.
⏰ Check the tide
Go as the tide is going out, and keep an eye on it. Low tide uncovers the most pools.
What to take
- A bucket or clear tub (fill it with sea water first)
- A small net, used gently
- A simple ID guide
- Shoes with grip, as seaweed is like ice
- Snacks. Always snacks.
The seashore code
- Look, then put everything back where you found it.
- Turn rocks back over the way they were.
- Keep creatures in water and shade, and only for a few minutes.
The Natural History Museum's rock pooling guide and the RSPB's family activity page are both brilliant.
Seashore Rockpools and Beaches kit
Verity hasn't tried this lot yet. Her honest verdict goes here once she has, good or bad.
Questions parents ask
When is the best time to go rock pooling?
As the tide goes out, around low tide. Check a local tide table before you go and keep watching the water.
What should we take rock pooling?
A bucket or clear tub filled with sea water, a small net used gently, a simple ID guide, shoes with grip and snacks.
What is the seashore code?
Look, then put things back where you found them. Turn rocks back the way they were. Keep creatures in water and shade, and only for a few minutes.
Is rock pooling OK for a 4 year old?
Yes, with you right next to them. Seaweed is like ice, so grippy shoes and slow feet.