10 backyard sandboxes that will keep kids busy for hours

With a comfy place to sit, ample shade and convenient side buckets to incorporate water play or simply keep extra toys out of the way, this compact wooden sandbox invites kids to dig right in. A cover is included and according to reviewers, assembly is quick and easy.

Size: 50 x 46.25 inches

Reviewers rave about this solid wood sandbox for its easy assembly and looks that blend perfectly with their backyard. The clever design, which converts the lid into benches is roomy enough for multiple kids to play, whether they sit on them or plop directly in the sand. That said, the slatted lid does not keep out moisture and debris, so if that’s a concern you may want to add a tarp before closing.

Size: 46.5″ x 46.5″ x 9.5″

According to one Motherly editor, this is “the best sandbox in the world.” The cedar planks are easy to assemble and the generous size means at least a few kiddos can play together without argument. (Well, they’ll have room at least—kids find reason to squabble with an entire beach’s worth of sand, so…) The long-lasting design also comes with a durable, eco-friendly cover that keeps out moisture and critters (of the non-human variety).

Size: 84 x 78 x 9 inches (the largest on our list!)

Playing in the sand is fun. Getting a splinter in your bum is not. The best-selling, easy to assemble sandbox from SandLock is made from durable blow molded plastic that unlike wood, won’t rot or splinter. The generous size is great for multiple kids and corner seats give them a comfy place to perch. And when it’s time to head inside, the tarp cover goes on easy and stays in place via a patented lock system. One thing to note, it does need to be installed on level ground, so be sure you’ve got a prime space in mind!

Size: 59 x 59 x 9 inches

For kiddos who’d rather not plop themselves directly in the sand, this clever design features benches on each side which double as a cover when not in use. (Not to mention, it’s nice on parents backs as well.) The bottomless design is made to last from heat-treated cedar and comes with a liner for underneath to help keep it drained and ventilated.

Size: 47.25 x 49 x 8.5 inches

No backyard? No problem. The compact design makes this one a great choice for balconies or decks. There’s space for tiny bums to rest at the corners with enough space for two to play comfortably. A hefty domed lid that doesn’t blow away in the wind also makes it easy to store toys and trucks inside. And the best part is there’s no assembly required!

Size: 28 x 42 x 11 inches

Ships ahoy! With multiple ways to play, this super-fun sandbox will make your yard the neighborhood hot spot. The sand area is big enough to accommodate a kid or two while the back bench offers a cool place to hang out (or plot a takeover). It also comes equipped with a cover to keep sand dry and debris-free!

Size: 59.5 x 44.25 x 78.5 inches

Construction-obsessed kiddos will love the Big Digger from Little Tikes. With a set of sand toys, real working excavator, dump truck and a lid that doubles as a ramp, it’s big on included features but compact enough for use on a deck or in a garage if you don’t have yard space. The lid does a great job of keeping out critters and moisture (though a hard rain may leak just a bit).

Size: 61.74 x 47 x 13 inches

Eighties kids will appreciate the nostalgia of the turtle sandbox. As you may remember from your own childhood, this one is fairly small which makes it a great choice for toddlers. The feet provide a nice perch to sit on as they play and while it doesn’t come with an umbrella, each foot is equipped with a slot to stick one you purchase separately. And unlike the one we had as kids, this version features tethers to snap the lid firmly in place.

Size : 12 x 38.75 inches

There’s more than meets the eye with this clever table/sandbox combo! After lunch, simply remove the middle panel to uncover the secret sandbox inside. Between the minimalist aesthetic and compact size, we love this super popular powerhouse for patios and decks as much as backyard shenanigans. (And major bonus points for the included umbrella!)

Size: 38 x 37.75 x 19.5 inches