How did we get to November? Many of us are now turning their attention to the Christmas shopping. Some people enjoy the task, while others find it stressful. This requires a great deal of research, thought and effort. It takes a lot of time to find something unique, heartfelt and something that will truly be appreciated. What could be a better gift than a present that allows someone to indulge their passions and gives back along the way?
We’re willing to bet that each of us has at least one ocean lover in our life. 80% of Australians live within 25km of a coast. With Christmas occurring in the middle Australian Summer, it’s likely that many people will plan a day on the beach or by the sea.
Ocean Lovers’ Christmas Gift Guide was curated with the intention of showcasing the best Australian small businesses. It brings together all the things that ocean lovers – big and small – will smile at when they unwrap them under the tree. Little Fishy swim is proud to have been featured and I will definitely be shopping at the amazing Australian businesses that share the pages.
We are a swimwear company for kids and babies, so we care about the next generation of ocean lovers. And we know that you’re also passionate about the little ones in your life. We’re happy to share our top 10 ideas for gifts that will delight the little ocean-lovers in your life.
1. The Reef Express Bath Toy Set, by Happy Planet Toys | $44.95
This set of 8 recycled milk bottles is made in Australia and will keep your little one entertained for hours in the water. Happy Planet Toys prevents over 20,000 milk bottles being thrown away every year. They also make all of their toys using only recycled plastics. It’s not only fun, but it’s also zero waste.
2. Aussie Silicone Beach Bucket Set by Wild and Wandering | $65
These silicone bucket sets with Australian themes are perfect for Little Wanderers who love to explore. You can take them anywhere: to the beach or park, in the dirt, on a trip. The moulds are easy to scrunch, roll and fold, making them ideal for packing. They keep their shape even when they’re packed. The adorable Australian-themed moulds are sure to please both Little and Big Wanderers. They are also a great option for sustainability, as they are made from 100% silicone and not plastic. Silicone is safe for even the smallest of children, since it’s free from BPA and Phthalates.
3. Sustainable and Ocean Inspired Swimwear by Little Fishy Swim | from $39.99
We wouldn’t be in business if we never bragged about ourselves . We think our bathers would make a great Santa gift. All Little Fishy swimwear is carefully crafted from recycled plastic bottles to protect your child and the oceans they swim in. $1 of every purchase goes to ocean cleaning. Our bathers are the cutest possible way to save our oceans.
4. Handmade Sand Brush by Sande Kids | $32
The beach is behind you… quickly sweep wet or dried sand off of kids, adults and beach toys. Also, sand can be removed from surfboards, pets and car upholstery. This Sand Brush has been ethically made in Sri Lanka, is Fairtrade and biodegradable. Plus, $1 of every Sande Kids ™ product sold is donated to Take3forthesea.
5. Ocean Themed Wooden Memory Game by Sailfish Creative | $35
Sailfish Creative’s wooden memory game is ideal for the next generation. Beautifully made with whimsical illustrations, and 10% of profits go to marine conservation. This is a beautiful book that inspires learning about the ocean. This is a great gift for the holidays!
6. Premium Neoprene Kids Wetsuit by Move 2 Change | $89.95
All year long, you can enjoy better beach days with your family! It is a must for every beach-loving family. You can extend the time you spend in and on the water by three times. These Move 2 Change wetsuits, made from premium neoprene and designed to protect your little one from the elements, are both practical and stylish. All in all, the perfect first wetsuit.
7. Wooden Turtle Bucket & Scoop Set by Explore Nook | $49.95
Explore Nook’s beautiful and durable Wooden Bucket & Scoop Set is made from sustainable materials, rather than plastic. The burnt stamps of sea animals are meant to promote the use of sustainable materials which are more environmentally friendly, rather than contribute to plastic pollution in our ocean. It’s ideal for outdoor use at the beach, sand pit, or for carrying little treasures.
8. Family Beach Tent by OZoola Beachlife | $139
OZoola Beach Tents will protect your family from the sun on the beach, in the park or wherever you are! The tent is wind-resistant, offers excellent UV protection (UPF50+), and allows you to enjoy our beautiful beaches. It only takes a couple of minutes to set up and take down. And given the amount of stuff parents bring to the beach already, its light weight (only 1.8kg!) is a great bonus. It is perfect for anyone taking their little ones to the seaside.
9. Talc-free Sand-Removing Powder by Salty Sister | $19.95
This talc-free, natural powder is the holy grain of summer! The Sand-Removing Powder is an essential beach item for the whole family. It ensures that sand remains on the beach. Sandy Sister is ocean-friendly and suitable for all body parts. It’s perfect to pair with the Sande Kids Brush we mentioned before!
10. Eco Hooded Beach Towel by Little Fishy Swim | $59.95
So soft, so snuggly and so environmentally friendly. The hooded beach cover-ups for kids are made of between 17 and 26, recycled plastic bottles. They come in three cute candy stripe patterns that look fantastic on the beach. Psssst They’ve been designed to complement our prints, so they will look absolutely stunning together!
The year has been funny, and people are more determined than ever to make their dollars work. Making each dollar go further is not only about cost but also impact. Supporting local Australian businesses is the best way to turn your Christmas shopping into a force for positive change, particularly those that have a positive effect on our oceans. This year, shop from these small Australian businesses that love the oceans. You’ll be making Mother Nature and your loved ones smile.
