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There’s nothing like going to the beach, or “down the shore,” depending on the area you live. It’s a great way to unwind and relax and get your mind off of work and school. There’s just something about the salt air that seems to take your worries away. “Put your toes in the water and butt in the sand,” as Zac Brown says, and hunker down with a good book and an icy mug of your favorite beverage.
Unless, of course, you prefer to be active on the beach. There are many different activities that you can enjoy while vacationing at the beach such as swimming in the ocean, sunbathing on the sand, catching a wave, and surfing. Don’t forget your volleyball to bump, set, and spike, a couple of paddle ball racquets and a ball is a must, get your hands dirty and build some sandcastles, and explore the tide pools.
Whatever you decide to do, you’ll need to be prepared. We compiled a list of great items everyone should have in their beach bag (including some cool beach bags to get started) to ensure a fun-filled or relaxing stay down the shore.
Mesh Beach Bag
A mesh beach bag is always a good choice. Sure, the sand gets in, but it also gets out! This one has many pockets, too, so your beach-wares won’t get lost among all your stuff.
Canvas Beach Bag
Beach Please! If canvas is more your speed, this one is terrific. It’s a great size and is super cute! Plus, you can throw it in the wash at the end of the season.
Stylish Tote
If looking good is as important as carrying all your stuff, then this bag is for you. It’s big. It’s stylish. It’s waterproof.
Neoprene Tote
I don’t know if you can find a more suitable textile for a beach bag. This neoprene tote will hold it all comfortably, and even the man in your life will look cool carrying it.
Secret Flask
If having a little nip is your game, these sunscreen flasks are for you! These are absolutely brilliant. Now you may feel like a little weird about sipping out of a sunscreen bottle, but it’s worth it to enjoy a little fun drink while at the beach.
Plastic Booze Bladder
These plastic booze bags are great to fill with your favorite rum punch. They’re convenient and lightweight. And if you’re going on a cruise, they’re perfect for sneaking in your luggage. Shhh…
Beach Blanket
Beach blankets are great, but they usually take up so much room and seem to collect all the sand from the beach when it’s time to pack up. That’s why we love this beach blanket. It’s large enough to fit the family, yet folds small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Plus, its thin material dries quickly, so you don’t have a crazy mess in your car on the way home.
Beach Shelter
Beach umbrellas are so early 2000s. We love this beach shelter because it’s easy to carry, easy to assemble, and easy to disassemble. Not to mention it does the trick. The beach shelter provides some shade if you want to get out of the sun, and is a great place to store your cooler and electronics like phones and Bluetooth speakers so they don’t get too hot from the sun.
Bluetooth Portable Speaker
You can find Bluetooth speakers at discount stores and pharmacies, but it’s been my experience that you get what you pay for. JBL is a trusted name in audio tech and this speaker is compact, water and sand-proof, and everything you want at the beach.
TikiTunes Portable Bluetooth Speaker
These speakers look cool and might even help you get home if you stay out too late!
Detangling Brush/Comb Combo
There’s nothing worse than having a great day in the surf, only to come home and have your hair look and feel like rats have been living in it. A good brush, comb, and hair accessories are must haves at the beach and these are perfect for what you need.
Large Women's Satin Square Hair Wrap
I love this head wrap for the beach so my beachy waves look cute without having to see the mess on top!
Inflatable Chair
Beach chairs don’t have to be uncomfortable, especially when trying to get sun on your back. Check out these inflatables!
Sun Visor
Sometimes you just need to get your face out of the sun. This visor is SPF, looks great, and leaves room for your pony.
Kindle
I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. Anywhere. And this one is perfect for the beach or the pool because it has page-turning buttons so you don’t have to put your wet or sandy fingers on the screen.
Baby Powder
Did you know baby powder is the super secret way to get sand off your feet and body? Plus, it smells great! Don’t go to the beach without it.
Big Buddy
Big Buddy is such a gift to anyone down the shore whether you spend your time at the beach, at the pool, or sitting in the air conditioning. This device acts as a cocktail shaker/tumbler, and a plastic bottle insulator. You can’t go wrong!
Beach Toy Mesh Bags
These bags are great for having your kids carry their own beach bags, or to have handy in case of a major seashell haul!
