18 Must-Have Beach Day Essentials

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Nothing screams summer quite like a beach day with your besties. There’s just something about the sun, sand, and salt water that helps instantly elevate your mood.

If a beach day is on your agenda, then there are likely some things you shouldn’t leave the house without if you want to make the most of it. And if you’re one of those people who says they don’t like the beach, it’s probably because you don’t have these essentials.

Our team of shopping experts has put together a comprehensive list of beach day essentials, including everything from SPF to coolers, beach umbrellas and lounge chairs.

A beach towel is an obvious must-have (bonus points if it has a cute print), but our list includes beach day essentials that once you have them, you won’t be able to live without them.

For instance, a beach chair is the key to comfort! It offers back support and helps keep your bum off the sand. We’ve found many options too, like one with a built-in sun visor, and another that reclines for optimal lounging. And while it might seem cumbersome to carry, a large beach umbrella or even a beach cabana can really elevate your whole outdoor game. 

Not only can an umbrella or cabana provide extra sun protection (we recommend a few ultra stylish ones from Sunnylife), it can also provide some relief from the sun and help keep you cool. Plus, the bigger the better— a spacious beach cabana can typically help shade everyone in your group!

Of course, you can’t go to the beach without SPF, because no one wants sunburn. La Roche-Posay and Goop both offer must-have face sunscreens. And don’t forget a spray sunscreen. We’ve found options from Sun Bum and Coola that make reapplying a breeze.

Whether you prefer to lay out with a good book and a cooler full of snacks or just can’t wait to take a dip in ocean, you’ll need these beach essentials for a perfect day filled with sand, sun, and surf.