Best Sandboxes
Kids will dig scooping, raking and shoveling in these fun sandboxes.
By Babylist Team
Scooping, raking, shoveling, pouring… a sandbox is a backyard essential for kids of all ages.
It’s the perfect outdoor spot for sensory and imaginative play, where creativity—and sand—are overflowing. From forming sandcastles to digging tunnels with their buddies, little ones will be hard at work on their social and fine motor skills (without having a clue all this fun is good for their development).
Handing over a favorite sand toy or sharing a shovel isn’t always easy, but it’s a great way to learn the rules of cooperating with friends. Better yet, kids will be so immersed in building new creations, you just might get to pull up a seat and have an uninterrupted cup of coffee.
Can you dig it? We thought so. Here are our favorites:
The Classic
Relive your best backyard memories with the adorable Little Tikes’ turtle sandbox—a fan favorite for decades. This classic childhood staple fits 150 pounds of sand, and the removable “shell” serves as a handy cover to protect the inside from the elements. There’s a new update to the design: two seats are molded on the outside of the sandbox, so little ones can comfortably take a seat when they’re sculpting sandcastles. It’s a great starter sandbox that easily fits one to two kids. No assembly required—just pull it out of the box and start pouring in the sand. We have a hunch it’ll be as fun as you remember.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Ages 1+ |
| Dimensions | 38.75”L x 43.25”W x 12”H |
| Weight | 11.20 lbs |
The Neutral
The Step2 Play and Store Sandbox With Cover is a bit bigger and heavier than the turtle (it fits 200 pounds of sand) and has four molded-in seats. The neutral color and design blends in nicely with other outdoor decor. Parents also appreciate the durable, secure lid. While several kids can happily play together, there’s more room for digging when they’re seated on the outside rather than in the sand. A cool perk: it can be used as a planter when your kids grow out of it. We love kid gear that does double duty. It comes fully assembled.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Ages 1+ |
| Dimensions | 28 x 42 x 11 inches |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
For Big Backyards
Splurge item alert: If you want all the neighborhood kids to come and play at your house, just set up this premium sandbox. The large size fits tons of sand, toys and friends. It’s made from heavy duty fir wood and non-toxic paint to keep kids safe. Fully equipped with built-in benches, this one is good for parents too. Some assembly is required.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Ages 3+ |
| Dimensions | 47” L x 47” W x 9” H |
| Weight | 20 lbs |
For Smaller Spaces
If you don’t have room for a traditional sandbox, the Naturally Playful Sand Table from Step 2 is a perfect fit for small spaces (pun intended). It holds up to 80 pounds of sand, and the elevated height is just right for a crew of toddlers to stand and play. But keep in mind, the height is not adjustable, so we really recommend this for preschoolers and under. Kiddos can dig in right away, thanks to the included accessories: two shovels, claw rakes and a bucket. The lid is held down with elastic ties to keep sand clean and dry. And here’s a huge bonus for the grownups: less mess. Your kids (most likely) won’t wind up covered in sand from head to toe when playing at a table, compared to plopping down inside a sandbox. Minimal assembly is required.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Ages 2+ |
| Dimensions | 36” L x 26” W x 16.38” H |
| Weight | 17 lbs |
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