There’s nothing quite like a perfect beach day—the sun on my skin, the sound of waves crashing, and the feeling of sand between my toes.
But to truly enjoy the experience, I always make sure to pack everything I need.
Over time, I’ve learned that forgetting even one key item can turn a relaxing day into a stressful one.
So, to help you avoid that, I’ve put together my ultimate beach necessities list.
1. Beach Bag
I always start with a spacious and durable beach bag.
It needs to be large enough to carry everything but lightweight enough to tote around easily.
A waterproof or mesh bag is ideal because it prevents sand from accumulating inside.
2. Sunscreen & Sun Protection
Nothing ruins a beach day like a painful sunburn, so I never forget my sunscreen.
I go for a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen and reapply it every two hours.
A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses are also must-haves to shield my face and eyes from the harsh sun.
3. Beach Towel & Blanket
A good beach towel is non-negotiable.
I bring a large, quick-dry towel to dry off after swimming and a lightweight beach blanket to relax on.
If I’m with friends, a big sand-proof mat is a great addition so we all have space to sit comfortably.
4. Swimsuit & Cover-Up
Obviously, I wear my swimsuit, but I also bring a stylish cover-up.
Whether it’s a flowy dress, sarong, or lightweight shirt, it makes transitioning from the beach to a nearby café or boardwalk much easier.
5. Hydration & Snacks
The sun and saltwater can be dehydrating, so I always carry a reusable water bottle.
Insulated bottles are my favorite since they keep drinks cold for hours.
For snacks, I pack easy-to-eat options like fruit, granola bars, and nuts to keep my energy up without feeling too full.
6. Beach Umbrella or Tent
If I plan to stay for several hours, I bring a beach umbrella or pop-up tent.
Shade is a lifesaver, especially during peak sun hours.
It also helps keep my belongings from getting too hot.
7. Waterproof Phone Case
Since I love capturing beach memories, a waterproof phone case is essential.
It protects my phone from water and sand, and some even allow me to take underwater photos!
8. Entertainment
While the sound of waves is relaxing enough, I like to bring entertainment options.
A good book, a magazine, or a Bluetooth speaker with a fun beach playlist can enhance the experience.
If I’m with friends, a frisbee or paddleball set is always a great idea.
9. Flip-Flops or Water Shoes
Hot sand and rocky shorelines can be tough on my feet, so I never forget a pair of comfortable flip-flops or water shoes.
They make walking around much more pleasant.
10. First Aid Kit & Essentials
I always keep a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers, just in case.
A bottle of aloe vera gel is also a lifesaver if I end up with a little too much sun exposure.
11. Trash Bag or Wet/Dry Bag
To keep the beach clean, I bring a small trash bag for any waste.
A wet/dry bag is also super helpful for carrying home damp swimsuits and keeping everything else dry.
Final Thoughts
Packing the right beach necessities makes all the difference between a good and a great beach day.
Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my list to include everything I need for comfort, protection, and fun.
Whether I’m heading to the beach solo or with friends, these essentials ensure a stress-free and enjoyable time.
Do you have any must-have beach items I missed? Let me know in the comments.