Outdoors · Cohasset & Scituate · September 18, 2026 · 5 min read
Tide pooling with little ones
Our rocky coastline is full of tiny treasures at low tide. Here’s how to explore safely and leave every creature where you found it.
Few things capture a curious kid like peering into a tide pool and spotting a crab scuttling under a rock. A little planning makes it a great outing for everyone.
Check the tide chart
Aim to arrive about an hour before low tide. That gives you the most pools to explore and plenty of time before the water returns.
Dress for wet rocks
Sneakers or water shoes with good grip beat flip-flops every time. Bring a towel and a change of socks for the car.
Look, don’t take
Teach kids to touch gently with one finger, put rocks back the way they found them, and leave creatures in the water. It’s their home.
Stay close
Rocks can be slippery and waves unpredictable. Keep little ones within arm’s reach and away from the water’s edge.
