Are you going to the beach? Think about it! Here are 12 beach essentials, from sunscreen and sand gear to beach toys and stylish cover-ups.

1. Sunscreen

Remember sun protection - the most essential beach must-have! To be safe, carry plenty of water- and sweat-resistant broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply frequently, especially after swimming and sweating. Choose from a lotion or spray formula. Find reef-safe options to protect marine life. Don't risk sunburn ruining your beach vacation - sun protection is necessary.

2. Wide brimmed sun hat

A cute foldable sun hat can protect your face from the sun. Opt for wide-brimmed styles made from breathable fabrics like straw – the wider the brim, the better the UV protection for sensitive facial skin. The floppy type covers the ears and neck. A sun hat will keep you cool and make your photos sparkle. Add a hat strap so the sea breeze won't take it away.

3. Polarized sunglasses

The glare of sunlight streaming through the water requires polarized sunglasses to filter, and block reflected UVA/UVB rays. This reduces eye strain and protects vision while allowing you to see clearly. Find athletic wrap styles that provide a secure fit during active water adventures. Don't be afraid to go on vacation - high-quality polarized sunglasses are a must.

4. Sun protection clothing or overalls

Protect your skin from the sun in and out of the water with UPF-certified swimwear and rash guard clothing. The lightweight, quick-drying style blocks 98% of UV rays, even when wet. Choose breathable shirts, dresses, shorts, skirts, kaftans or wrap skirts made from sun-resistant fabrics. Cover up to prevent burns, but still enjoy water fun.

5. Reusable water bottles

Stay hydrated in the heat with a reusable water bottle. Ditch the single-use plastic and fill an eco-friendly bottle with tap water, juice or iced tea. Choose insulated variants to keep drinks cold longer, such as the B. Insulated Metal Bottle or the Freezable Collapsible Silicone Bottle. Carrying a water bottle with you can save money, even at expensive beach resorts.

6. Foldable tote

The foldable canvas or nylon tote is small but expandable to hold all your beach gear. Look for lightweight bags with mesh panels to drain wet items and separate dry clothes. The tote keeps sand under control. Avoid single-use plastic bags that harm marine life. The foldable tote makes beach time easy.

7. Sand resistant picnic blanket

Snuggle up and relax on the lightweight, soundproof picnic blanket to dine, sunbathe, or play. Look for oversized blankets made of parachute nylon or quilted polyester with a waterproof backing to keep sand from sticking. Some come with conveniences like bags and pegs. A picnic blanket keeps you comfortable and clean.

8. Parasol

Take shelter from the harsh midday sun and heat with a portable foldable beach umbrella. Compact design, only for two people, can be folded into a small package. Choose a hands-free cover that can be inserted upright into the sand. Look for a UV-coated version with 50+ UPF protection. Position your umbrella appropriately to keep your place shaded.

9. Water shoes

Protect your feet with athletic water shoes on rocky shores, slippery docks, and hot sand. Water shoes with mesh panels that wick away moisture while offering a grippy rubber sole. Look for amphibious models for hiking to explore bays, trails, and tide pools with toe guards on. Closed-water shoes prevent injury.

10. Snorkel set

Put on a mask, snorkel, and flippers and discover the colorful life beneath the waves. Complete snorkel kits are inexpensive, and make sure you have the right equipment. Choose kid-friendly options for your family vacation. Consider using an eco-nor without a flush valve to avoid damaging the reef. Snorkeling accessories like dive bags and flotation keychains are also handy.

11. Beach games and toys

Make leisure fun with beach games and toys. Bring something lightweight like a bocce ball, peg ball, frisbee golf ball, or kanjam. Inflatables like balls and unicorns make swimming in the waves fun. Sandplay equipment such as buckets, shovels, molds, and filters keep kids busy. Water cannons, kites, and paddle games will keep older children energized.

12. Chic beach cover up

Go seamlessly from surf to restaurant in chic beach dresses, wrap dresses, kimonos or kaftan blankets. Carry lightweight, breathable styles that you can layer over your suit so they won't stand out at the beach. A sarong covers all clothing. A flowy smock in a bright pattern adds to the allure. Protect yourself from overexposure to the sun on vacation with these stylish layering pieces.

Diploma

Get ready for all beach fun. Bring sunscreen, shoes, accessories, beach toys, and an elegant cover-up. This beach vacation packing list will help you unwind comfortably while staying safe and competent on your coastal adventures. Add any special items you need to customize your ultimate beach getaway!