Beach Day Essentials

Your beach day essentials guide is here. It’s officially June and like you, I’m looking forward to those longer summer days in the sun. Summer time means we get to meet the nostalgic warm August air again, the pretty glow of a summer sunset, and lastly, those sun kissed beach days. Here is your ultimate beach day essentials list to help you spend your best day in the sun.

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Beach Tech Essentials

Firstly, you’ll want to capture all your summer memories on a disposable camera, as there is something so nostalgic about beach photos on film. I really love a good flash even during a well lit outdoor scene, so you have to definitely try it! You’ll be amazed at how dreamy the photos look. Also consider bringing a waterproof camera or your go pro for those underwater photos. If you’ll be primarily using your iphone for photos, make sure you protect it with a waterproof case and bring a mini tripod for group photos.

Secondly, a beach day is also not complete without your favourite curated playlist, so bring a good sounding portable speaker and add ‘espresso’ by Sabrina Carpenter to your summer essential playlist.

When you’re getting a little bit too hot for comfort in the summer heat, a portable fan or a cooling towel is a good idea if you’re not a fan of jumping in the water. Lastly, if you do go in the water, a lock box for all your electronics gives you piece of mind when you and all your friends are leaving your beach site to go for a swim. I usually hide it in the sand under my beach mat for safe keeping (just remember where you hid it before you leave!)

Beach Bag Must-Haves

Naturally, you will need a large beach bag in order to pack all your beach day essentials. My must-haves include a water bottle to stay hydrated, a protective sun hat, sunglasses, hair scrunchie, a cute swim suit, beach coverup, as well as a pair of denim shorts to slip overtop.

I also usually bring two beach towels, as one tends to get really damp and sandy, whereas my second one will act as my dry towel for the end of the day or lining my car seat. A waterproof bag for your swim suit is also a must have to prevent your bag from getting soaked.

Beach day clothing tip: Be sure to bring a change of clothes! On those really hot summer days, I may end up just staying in my beach wear for the drive home, but for those nights that get a bit cooler, it’s nice to change into dry clothes to stay comfortable. I really love these athletic shorts that you can just throw on for the car ride home.

When it comes to foot wear, make sure to bring sandals that are water safe (you don’t want to bring anything leather, as the salt water will ruin your sandals). Water shoes are especially helpful depending on what kind of shoreline is at the beach (to protect you from pointy rocks, hot sand, sharp shells, etc).

Skin care

My biggest tip: Do not forget to bring your sunscreen to protect yourself from those UV rays. 50 SPF would be ideal and reapply often! Remember that every time you come out of the water, you should be reapplying your sunscreen as well. This will help keep your skin healthy and avoid sunburns. My favourite sunscreen brand for your face is Supergoop!

In addition to sunscreen, you’ll want to stay hydrated and comfortable by doing 3 things. 1) Ensure you find relief from the sun by finding shade throughout the day, 2) drink lots of water and 3) bring the following items to further protect your skin:

Aloe vera gel is essential to put on at the end of the day. A hydrating lip balm with SPF will keep your lips moisturized all day long. Did you know that your lips can burn as well? Bug spray to keep away those pests and if you end up getting a bug bite, an insect bite relief cream will give you some comfort. Lastly, a nourishing hair oil and a hair brush to combat the dry and frizzy hair from the salt water, humidity and heat. Of course, bring a flower clip for a cute beach up-do!

Summer Beach Activities

A beach day often means something different for everyone. I know for me, I enjoy a quiet day floating in the water, taking a nap under my beach umbrella or curling up to a good book while listening to the waves.

Whereas, you may love a fun filled day paddle boarding, boogie boarding or snorkelling. For sand activities, you’ll often find an open court for beach volley ball. Think about what kinds of beach activities you’d want to bring along while you’re packing, such that you have a variety of options to choose from!

The Ultimate Beach Setup

By now, we’ve already gone through the bulk of the beach day essentials, however you’re probably wondering – ‘how am I going to be able to carry all my essentials?’. A beach wagon is something that I recently invested in, and let me tell you it’s a game changer. Make sure it is one that has large wheels that’s able to be wheeled on all-terrain, especially sand. Pst – the one I linked here passes the test.

You also want to consider what your beach set up looks like, as this will be your home base to relax and unwind for the day. Often times when you’re on the sand, there is little relief from the sun, so be sure to bring a beach umbrella for adequate shade. A comfortable beach mat to lye on or a beach chair if you prefer to sit.

Snacks & Summer Beach Drinks

Some beaches have a concession area for a good old beach burger and fries. Honestly, that is my go to – there’s something about an amateur burger that I can’t resist. But incase there isn’t a food shack, make sure you have a variety of options like extra water, electrolytes, and beach snacks so that you don’t go hungry during your long beach day.

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out the travel tips page, as well as the ultimate packing list for your summer vacation to help you plan your next adventure.