Our backyard now consists of 2-raised bed gardens separated by a sandy beach.
We might be starting a new trend, sandy beach back yards!
My husband first extended out into the lawn the garden beds. Both are now about 20 feet long by 8 feet wide. He got sick of mowing and edging the lawn strip in between the beds. It really is only about 3 foot wide so he thought, why not pull out all the lawn and put down sand? Why not have a sandy beach?
So now we have our very own beach in our back yard. We have our beach chairs and the chaise that really look inviting on the sand. The sand glistens and gets hot under foot. Walking up and down is good calf muscle exercise like you get walking on any deep sandy beach!
Two obvious concerns have been addressed with life on the beach.
- Tracking sand into the house.
Since the beach is below deck level and the perimeters are gravel, limited sand is tracked inside.
- Will the cats think our sandy beach is a giant kitty litter area?
Since they primarily are indoor cats they are not interested in the beach but to scamper and play!
My husband has brought in 4 yards of sand so far. It compresses so I am sure a few more loads of sand will be applied to our beach before summer ends. I like the beach to be a bit deep, because what’s the point otherwise?
It is true we don’t have the ocean to run to cool off our feet but…
Have you considered making your yard a beach?
My backyard is not a beach–it is a lake! And my front and side yards too! 😉
But what a fun idea you had. I would love to sit out there during the day, and bury my feet in warm sand. The warm sand is my favorite part of going to the beach.
I know Bethany that is a nice feature however I am surprised how hot the sand can get! Thanks for your comments.
I wouldn’t have thought of it but it actually looks really pretty. If you ever put an ocean in back there let me know, I’m coming to visit.
At least a wading pool and or a mister is certainly needed. With climate change we may have river frontage some day! Thanks Karen for your comments.
A memory: Years ago, my husband and I bought a home in Wichita, Kansas, in a neighborhood that had very sandy soil. When we moved in (in August) we quickly learned that our lawn consisted of mostly sand burr plants. We were never able to get rid of them. It was my first home, and I looked forward to being able to walk on the lawn. So, I hope this sandy beach idea works for you and that you get lots of enjoyment – but watch out for the sand burrs!
Ha, now I have to look up Sand burrs! We will see what an Oregon wet winter does to the beach, but for now it is fun. I appreciate your comments.
Fabulous idea, I also would love to see more pictures Because it’s just such a great 👍 idea!
Thanks so much! I was just on the beach but had to come in it was so hot, just like the real beach can get! I appreciate your comments.
I think a backyard beach is a brilliant idea! This would be the next best thing to actually living on the beach!
You are so right Lois! Thanks for commenting.
Love this and would love to see more photos.
Thanks Beth! It is very fun and very summery. I appreciate your comments.
I think a beach can be wherever you want it to be! Step outside your door and relax 🙂
Exactly Candi! I am thinking of a mister to imitate sea breeze. Thanks for your comments.
Hi Haralee! How fun creating your own beach. The 2nd best thing to being there. And you are so right about it helping with the legs. When we first arrive at the beach house where we rent, it takes us several days to “get our beach legs” because it takes a lot of different muscles. But it is so great to be able to walk barefooted each day–I am loving it. But do watch out for cats. Even if your cats don’t like it…neighbor CATS will love it!!! ~Kathy
It is a hoot Kathy! We have kitty proofed our yard so no wandering cats can get in. We seem to have an possum able to get in. I guess they can flatten themselves into the tiniest crack. They don’t poop on the beach but we find in the garden some strange looking poop, not cat or dog soo…. Yes poop identifier is not my calling. Thanks for your comments.