I wonder if number 1 would be stronger with upped contrast to increase the silhouetting. Cropping out the stuff on the sand takes away distraction from the boys and gives the image a focal point and pleasing simplicity.
Can't see what you were trying to acheive with number 2. The scenery is a bit dull, and while the umbrella and flag pole provide a focal point, they don't belong with it and seem orphaned within the image.