Preparation Essentials for a Perfect Beach Day: Must-Have Items for an Unforgettable Shore Experience
Bliss Out on the Beach: A Summer Guide
Welcome to our sun-kissed guide for making your summer unforgettable! Whether you're a thrill-seeker or a relaxation connoisseur, this guide has got you covered. After all, a spectacular summer isn't random; you have to make it happen.
Now, if your definition of a fantastic summer revolves around long, lazy days spent basking on sandy shores, we've got some tips to help you score the ultimate beach day. Going prepared is key, and we're here to give you the lowdown on the best gear to bring along.
Beach Basics
Let'sfaceit—rolling up to the shore with a ratty towel no longer cuts it (even a pair of flip-flops might be a luxury these days). Nowadays, comfort comes first, especially when you've got the family in tow.
Towels and Beach Mats
Swap out that lonely, sun-bleached towel for a microfiber alternative. These super-absorbent, quick-drying, and lightweight towels are a breeze on the budget—starting from just $10 for a stylish 72 x 36 inch beach towel.
For a higher-end option, opt for a waterproof, easy-to-carry picnic blanket with an attached strap. And if you need more space for your little ones, consider a 10' by 9' nylon beach mat that compactly packs away for travel.
Sun Shades
UV protection is non-negotiable, and we're not fans of the traditional beach umbrella with its dizzying setup process and risk of leaving chaos in its wake. Instead, we love the ShibumiShade. This ultralight piece of fabric appears to float on the slightest breeze and offers a more reliable shade solution for your peaceful beach day. If winds are scarce, pick up an accessory to create your own breeze.
Personal Sun Protection
Armed with the right sun gear, you'll look cool and feel protected all day long.
Sun Hat
Big, wide-brimmed straw hats are a timeless staple, and the Quiksilver Men's Pierside Lifeguard Beach Sun Straw Hat is no exception. Elevate your look with a stylish and practical hat that delivers exceptional sun protection.
Sunglasses
The Ray-Ban Meta sunglasses are a top choice for sun-lovers seeking durability and multifunctionality. Their price tag may be steep ($300), but they offer an impressive array of advanced features. While we can't vouch for the video-capture capabilities, these bad boys promise to be your beach-day BFF for life.
For those who prioritize sunscreen, Banana Boat remains a dependable choice, while Marlowe's 128 provides a superior facial sunscreen experience for a slightly higher price point.
Fun Times in the Water
With the essentials out of the way, here's where things get exciting. Get ready to dive into the water and make some splashes!
Electric Hydrofoils and Underwater Scooters
If juicing up your summer means cruising the waves in style, electric hydrofoils are definitely worth exploring. Over the past couple of years, they've become a popular sight off the shores of Southern California, and it's time to join the trend with the Waydoo Flyer One. While we can't confidently recommend it yet, have faith that this nifty gadget is poised to elevate your beach adventures.
Snorkeling is a close second in the running for the most fun aquatic activity, and a well-chosen underwater scooter can take your experience to the next level. These compact devices offer over 14 pounds of thrust and provide an amazing way to explore the underwater world effortlessly. You can even clip one to a paddleboard for added cruising power!
Inflatables and Paddleboards
For laughter and entertainment on the beach, you can't go wrong with inflatables. They're budget-friendly, easy to pack, and bound to bring a smile to everyone's faces. Upping the ante, affordable inflatable paddle boards offer a sleek, modern alternative to old-school beach fun.
Surfer Dudes Mini-Surfer
An affordable option for the little adrenaline junkies in your crew, the Surfer Dudes Wave Powered Mini-Surfer lets kids catch waves like real surfers. And for a tidy sum of around $25, hours of joy are guaranteed—so long as waves are present on your chosen beach.
Fun Times on the Sand
For the days when doing nothing is your game plan, you'll still want a feweless-than-nothing distractions to keep things interesting.
An e-Reader
The Kindle Paperwhite offers unparalleled convenience compared to traditional books. Its waterproof design and Bluetooth compatibility make it the perfect companion for your beach days. Just remember to protect your investment with a screen protector.
A Camera
When reminiscing about your perfect day, a picture (or video) tells a thousand words. The GoPro Hero 13 promises an incredible camera experience, perfect for capturing those magical sunset moments or your family's wild water escapades.
A Deck of Cards
Just a simple deck of cards is all it takes for a fun game of spades on the sand. And don't forget about waterproof playing cards from Hoyle, perfect for those who fancy a splash (or two) in the surf.
A Guitar
There's nothing like a beach serenade, but traditional acoustic guitars may not fare well in the sand. Invest in a carbon fiber guitar, such as the Klos Deluxe, for added durability that'll soothe even the saltiest of critics.
A Bluetooth Speaker
If music is your beachside soundtrack, a compact, sand-resistant speaker like the SoundLink Flex from Bose is an essential addition to your gear collection.
An Extra Charger
Be the hero of the beach by offering a much-needed charging station for fellow beachgoers. The Poseidon Nano Charger is a petite yet powerful charging option, delivering eight hours of juice to a variety of devices. Make sure your prized phone stays cool with a thermal case, protecting it from both extreme heat and cold.
A Personal Air Conditioner
For those who prefer a chilly beach vacation over a hot one, slip a personal air conditioner around your neck for an instant cool-down. Your beach buddies just might thank you later.
- To complement your summer beach lifestyle, consider investing in a high-quality microfiber beach towel for comfort and convenience, available from just $10.
- Elevate your beach style with fashionable and practical sun protection gear, such as the Quiksilver Men's Pierside Lifeguard Beach Sun Straw Hat or the Ray-Ban Meta sunglasses.
- For exciting water activities, explore electric hydrofoils like the Waydoo Flyer One, underwater scooters, or inflatable paddle boards to make a splash this summer.
