Planning a day at the beach? Whether you’re a seasoned beachgoer or a first-timer, having the right gear can make all the difference between a delightful seaside adventure and a sunburnt, sandy ordeal. From sun protection to entertainment options, beach essentials can enhance your experience and ensure you’re well-prepared for whatever the coastline throws your way.
In this article, we’ll explore 16 must-have beach essentials that will help you soak up the sun, surf, and sand in style. Whether you’re lounging on the shore, taking a dip in the ocean, or playing beach games with friends and family, these items will ensure you have everything you need for a memorable day by the sea. So, grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and let’s dive into the ultimate packing guide for a perfect beach day!
1. Sunscreen
(image via Shield your skin from harmful UV rays with reliable protection like Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+. Praised by Wirecutter in The New York Times, this physical sunscreen offers great defense.
Alternatively, opt for Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, a chemical sunscreen also recommended by Wirecutter. Whichever you choose, ensure your beach day is safe and enjoyable with these trusted options. Obviously, top of the list for beach essentials.
2. Beach Towel
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Try the Sand Cloud Turkish Beach Towel! Crafted for sandy lounging and post-swim drying, this versatile towel goes hard on beach duty. It doubles as a yoga mat, picnic blanket, scarf, or wall hanging and comes in 12 prints and three different sizes.
With its fast-drying, sand-resistant design and lightweight construction, it’s perfect for on-the-go adventures. Plus, it’s made of 100% organic Turkish cotton, ensuring both luxury and eco-consciousness. The best part—10% of profits support marine conservation efforts.
3. Sunglasses
(image via Protect your eyes in style with KALIYADI Polarized Sunglasses for Men. Featuring HD polarized lenses with UV400 protection, these sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare. The classic rectangular design complements any outfit, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
The WOWSUN Polarized Sunglasses for Women feature a classic vintage round shape and a ton of chic color options. Each purchase includes a hard case, pouch, and cleaning cloth for convenience. One of the most important in beach essentials.
4. Hat
(image via For fun in the sun, try the Breathable Wide Brim Summer UV Protection Hat. With anti-UV and UPF 50+ technology, it shields you from harmful rays while the wide brim guards your face and neck. The sweatband and breathable lining keep you cool, and it’s lightweight and foldable for easy transport.
For a more romantic beachy look, the FURTALK summer straw hat is the way to go. Crafted from premium paper straw, it’s lightweight and flexible yet tightly woven for durability. Featuring a wide brim offering UPF 50+ sun protection, an adjustable chin strap, and a foldable design, it’s perfect for beach days, vacations, and more.
5. Swimsuit
(image via Have fun in this flirtatious criss-cross one-piece swimsuit with cutout details. Adjustable straps and a back tie ensure a perfect fit. It’s ideal for summer escapades, with enough cover to keep you comfortable. Take your pick from the multiple print options.
If you prefer showing a bit more skin, try this swimsuit featuring a tank-style wrapped bikini top with a lace-up back and high-waisted bottoms. It comes in 17 unique patterns and removable pads.
For our guys, the Kanu Surf Men’s Barracuda Swim Trunks feature UPF 50+, quick-dry microfiber, side seam pockets, mesh lining, and an elastic waistband for a perfect beach day. They also come in a mind-blowing 45 options to choose from!
If you prefer shorter trunks, try maamgic Mens Swim Trunks. These are modern swim trunks with a slim fit and above-the-knee length. Quick-drying, with three pockets, they’re ideal for fishing, surfing, or beach activities. Choose from multiple options. An obvious in beach essentials.
6. Beach Bag
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The HOXIS Mesh Beach Tote is spacious and durable, crafted from nylon and polyester. With a simple design and ample room, it’s perfect for carrying around essentials while letting water and sand escape.
If you plan to be on the beach for hours, a lunch cooler is a must. The Macadamla Weinas Insulated Lunch Cooler is constructed from durable, water-resistant fabric and keeps food fresh for hours. Spacious compartments and convenient portability make it perfect for long beach days.
These MUYIZI Beach Shell Bags are the best for shell collectors! Crafted from high-quality mesh, these bags are easy to clean and dry, effortlessly releasing water and sand. With adjustable shoulder straps, they offer comfort for all ages. Featuring a zipper opening and portable design, they’re ideal for beach adventures and toy storage.
7. Water Bottle
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Stay hydrated under the sun. The Owala FreeSip Water Bottle is a 32-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle. The number one best seller on Amazon, it features a patented FreeSip spout for versatile sipping options and a push-button lid with a lock for added convenience and cleanliness.
If you’re looking for portability and space-saving options, the SPECIAL MADE Collapsible Water Bottles Cups are just the thing. Crafted from BPA-free, odorless food-grade silicone, they feature leak-proof technology and easy cleaning.
A water bottle that offers friendly reminders to drink water is seriously handy. The Enerbone 32 oz Water Bottle with Times to Drink and Straw is a trendy water bottle that will keep you hydrated no matter how busy you are at the beach. Hands down a must in beach essentials.
8. Snacks
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Pack some lightweight and easy-to-eat snacks for energy. Sunbelt Bakery Oats & Honey Chewy Granola Bars and CLIF BLOKS – Energy Chews are tasty options for quick energy.
Happy Belly Nuts and Dole Fruit Bowls No Sugar Added Variety Pack are healthy and refreshing snacks to have on hand—just make sure you pack your fruit bowl in a cooler!
Goldfish Crackers Big Smiles Variety Pack are some of the most popular beach snacks because they’re convenient, taste good, and hey, they’re fish! They were meant for the beach.
9. Beach Umbrella or Tent
(image via Stay shaded and secure with the AMMSUN 7ft Heavy Duty High Wind Beach Umbrella. Its portable sand anchor ensures stability, while UV-resistant fabric and sturdy aluminum pole offer durability. Enjoy beach days worry-free!
Maybe you are more of a tent beach-goer. In that case, the Gorich Beach Tent is the tent for you. With a spacious interior fitting three persons, easy setup, and compact carry size, it’s perfect for beach outings, camping, and more. Enjoy UV protection, ventilation, and water resistance wherever you go! A no-brainer in beach essentials.
10. Flip-Flops or Sandals
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Keep your feet cool and protected. Reef Women’s Cushion Breeze flip-flops offer unparalleled comfort with a no-break-in period. Featuring amazing traction and durability, they’re perfect for any water adventure, from beach to poolside lounging. The Reef Women’s Water Vista Sandal are another solid choice.
For our guys, try the Reef Men’s Twinpin Flip-Flop. Crafted with vegan leather straps and soft jersey lining, they offer instant comfort. Flexible and classic, perfect for beach adventures. If you prefer a sandal, Reef Men’s Oasis Double Up Slide Sandals are another great option.
11. Beach Chair
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Create a comfortable place to sit or lie down. The Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair is lightweight at 5.3 lbs. It offers hours of comfort with a relaxed backrest and full seat support. Convenient storage, durable steel frame, and a carry bag included.
If you’re more of a lounger, the Best Choice Products Set of 2 Zero Gravity Lounge Chair provides the ultimate comfort with lockable reclining technology. They feature a detachable tray with cup, phone, and tablet holders, plus durable construction and adjustable headrests for added relaxation.
If you like a built-in cooler, the Coleman Portable Camping Chair features a built-in cooler for four cans, a fully cushioned seat, side pockets, and a sturdy steel frame for up to 325 pounds.
12. Waterproof Phone Case
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Protect your phone from water and sand. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch is IPX8 certified and equipped with triple-layer lock-down technology. It guards against water, snow, dust, and sand. Compatible with most phones, its responsive touch screen allows for face ID unlock and clear photo capture underwater. Complete with an adjustable lanyard, it’s perfect for beach outings, water sports, or everyday adventures.
13. Beach Games
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Bring along a frisbee, beach ball, or paddleball for some fun. Some exciting choices include the TOSY Flying Disc, the JOYIN 4-Pack 20″ Beach Balls, the Sunlite Sports Waterproof Football, and Spikeball 3 Ball Original Roundnet Game Set. You’ll be the life of the party! The most fun item in this list of beach essentials.
14. Portable Speaker
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Enjoy your favorite tunes while relaxing on the beach. The Bluetooth Speaker with HD Sound provides superior sound quality. Engineered for durability and weather resistance, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Enjoy vibrant light effects synced to your music!
15. Portable Cooler
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We mentioned a lunchbox to keep your snacks cool, but if you need something a little bigger, try the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Portable Cooler/a>! Designed for beach adventures, its TempLock insulation promises ice-cold drinks all day. With a large-grip bail handle, it’s easy to carry. The quick-clean top is convenient, and its USA-made quality guarantees durability. Holds 11 cans with 8 lbs. of ice.
16. Trash Bags
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Help keep the beach clean by disposing of your trash properly. The Boat Trash Bag is a durable, space-saving solution. Made of robust nylon and mesh, it withstands water and UV rays. Easily empty and prevent litter, ensuring a hassle-free day at the beach. A major among beach essentials!
