Beach Essentials You Shouldn’t Hit the Sand Without (2024)

What do you need in a beach bag? There's one thing that's 100 percent necessary: a huge waterproof mat. This 63-square-foot nylon blanket has a pretty classic stripe design reminiscent of South Beach, but also features four sand-anchored pockets to weigh it down and a front pocket to safely stash valuables.

Store all your snacks and refreshments (it fits 24 cans!) in this zippered, leakproof cooler bag. The durable reinforced bottom ensures nothing gets crushed en route and also allows it to stay upright on the sand. And it's collapsible for easy storage.

Protect your phone from overheating (and in the winter, freezing) with this neoprene smartphone case. An exterior slip pocket stores cash, while a handy carabiner clips onto your beach tote.

Clip this portable combination safe onto your bag or beach chair so you can take a dip without fear that someone will snatch your wallet or smartphone.

A pink beach ball filled with golden confetti is summertime magic. Whether you're going on a girls' trip down to the shore or bringing your kids along for a family vacation, this ball is sure to add an extra bit of joy.

If you're going to spend the whole day at the beach, you might as well set up shop. This umbrella has a large 8-foot canopy with a UPF 50+ coating, as well as side panels for added protection from the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Still, it weighs just nine pounds and slips into a convenient carrying case.

When the temperature and humidity are high, a mini portable fan will do absolute wonders. This one lasts eight hours, perfect for a full day of fun in the sand. Pack this in your beach bag and you'll be thanking us later.

If you're always in the water or sweating, this towel was made for you! It dries quickly and sand brushes right off. Plus, it folds into its own pouch to save space in your bag.

Get your glow on—this hydrating primer with SPF 40 and blue-light protection leaves a subtle shimmer for days you want to go au naturel.

If snorkeling, paddle boarding, or just pool floating is on your vacation agenda, you'll want to invest in a waterproof digital camera to capture all the fun. This model takes both photos and video, and even features a dual screen for selfies—say "cheese!"

A breezy cover-up does so much—it protects you from the sun's rays if you're starting to burn, or it adds a little extra warmth when the sun goes behind the clouds, providing the coverage you need to pop into a store or sit down at a boardwalk café. This versatile and lightweight linen-blend number (also available in six other colors) fits the bill nicely.

A game and towel in one? You'll never have a dull beach day again! It's perfect for the entire family.

If you've ever found a melted lipstick in your bag after a long day in the heat, consider this sleek insulated cosmetic bag. Designed to regulate temperature and keep moisture out, you can stash your makeup (and even electronics) away worry-free.

You can't leave the beach without taking an adorable selfie on a sunny float! It's a must-do on any beach day.

This SPF 30 full-body sunscreen spray eliminates the need to carry multiple formulas. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, plus it's formulated with transparent zinc—making it the perfect sunscreen for protecting your scalp.

Cleverly engineered like springform baking pans, these sandcastle molds release your towers intact. The bagged kit also comes with brick and window molds so you can build an impressive-looking structure.

Rally the crew and hold your own summer Olympics with this packable volleyball and badminton set.

These cute retro-inspired chairs easily fold up, so you can keep them in your trunk for beach or park trips.

Bring breezy shade to your next trip with this paper straw ivory panama hat. It is so chic!

If beach beers aren't your thing, not to worry. Sip on a bubbly rosé while relaxin' on the beach.