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For me, summer means long sunny days, an ice-cold beverage in hand, and trying to spend as much time outdoors – and at the beach – as possible. Since my earliest childhood summer vacations, the beach has always had an outsize allure to me, a place of ultimate pleasure and a carefree connection to nature. To this day, summertime just isn’t complete without some sand between my toes and the smell of salt air.
But a day at the beach isn’t as simple as just slipping on your suit and grabbing a towel. Oh no. It requires a bit more stuff to optimize and enhance your experience. And you certainly don’t want to show up with subpar beach accessories. A proper day in the sun and surf requires items that are easy on the eye, easy to use, and easy to carry (or roll) onto the sand. And this list of must-pack beach products is just that – and much more.
If there is one absolute must for my beach trips, it’s a comfy spot to sit. (Lying on a towel on the sand just doesn’t have the same appeal once you hit your mid 30s, am I right?) There is certainly no shortage of beach chairs, but Business & Pleasure’s Pam Chair simply outperforms and outshines them all. Forget about sitting on woven straps or a fabric seat – this baby has fully upholstered cushions (that can also be removed to wash) that keep you as you soak up some rays. It also features 5 reclining settings, a detachable phone and drink holder and a zip pouch on the back to stash valuables. And when the beach day is over, just fold it up and carry it to the car using the padded backpack straps.
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A beach day can become a seaside party when you add a bit of music into the mix. Pack this portable Bluetooth speaker from JBL and you’ll have up to 10 hours of playback to take you from afternoon uptempo to soothing sunset. At just 3” x 5” it will take up barely any space – but still pack plenty of auditory punch. There’s no need to worry about sand or surf spoiling the party either. It’s waterproof and dustproof, and with the built-in carabiner, I just clip it to my beach bag and work on my tan while enjoying the tunes.
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Nothing says timeless outdoor dining like a wicker picnic basket. But this version from Aussie brand Sunnylife has a secret inside that makes it ideal for bringing to the beach. It features an insulated interior perfect for keeping snacks, sandwiches and slices of watermelon optimally cool. And don’t worry about the wicker because it’s totally waterproof as well. When it comes to transporting it, a pair of woven handles and a lightweight design (it weighs in at just 3 pounds) make it a breeze to bring with you too.
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As much as we may enjoy spending time in the sand, no one wants to be covered in sand (especially in those uncomfortable nooks and crannies of your body). While a normal beach towel is a magnet for those fine particles, the Teselate beach towel is made with a unique AbsorbLite™ fabric that actually repels sand. That’s right, no more sand in your nether regions! Plus, it’s ultra absorbent and rapid drying – taking about half as much time to dry as a regular cotton version. The 50 pattern options ensure there is a style to match your suit (I prefer the minimal black Koko) and when not using it to sun yourself, it tucks away in a teeny drawstring pouch.
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Shade can be a precious commodity at the beach. But when it comes to a beach umbrella, you want something that is far from precious. Instead, I suggest something substantial, sturdy, stylish, and easy to stick in the sand. In other words, the Sunday Supply Beach Umbrella. The 6.5-foot canopy is made of a UPF 50 waterproof and fade-resistant fabric (in 18 solid colors and patterns), and the solid wood pole is made to last for many summers to come (and can be tilted for optimal coverage). You won’t have to lug a cumbersome or pointy object onto the sand either. Each umbrella easily folds in half and comes with a coordinating carry bag.
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All coolers are not created equal. Case in point: the BrüTank. This 35 quart cooler is outfitted with features that make it the indispensable choice for dispensing beverages – starting with the impressive exterior. A telescoping handle and heavy duty wheels ensure easy rolling on any surface (yes, even sand). On the inside, there is an oh-so-smart 1.8 gallon drink tank with a tap for easy serving, a bottle opener, and space for 36 cans. Plus, there is one more very cool selling point. The BrüTank can actually keep ice-cold for 7+ days (!), ensuring you will always be sipping on an ice cold drink.
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When the sun is blazing and the sand is scorching, you will want to seek shelter – in style – in this pop up tent from Minidip. Not only does the chic polyester checkerboard pattern offer UPF 30 sun protection, it’s also a breeze to assemble. Just toss it into the air and it pops open in seconds (they don’t call it the pop up tent for nothing!). The included stakes can be secured into the sand so it won’t blow away when you’re out in the water, and at 90” wide, there’s plenty of space for couples, kids, and pups, to spread out and enjoy a bit of seaside shade.
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Even if you find yourself landlocked or far from the ocean, any trip to a body of water, be it a lake or river, can benefit from these stylish accessories. So pop open the trunk, grab the SPF 50, and get ready to have a stylish summer in the sand.
For even more fashionable fun at the beach check out, 5 Sunscreen Brands Your Dermatologist Would Actually Recommend, The Best Tote Bags For Summer, and The Swimwear Edit: 9 Must-Know Swimwear Brands for 2024