What to Bring to the Beach

There have always been dueling opinions from beach vets and tourists alike on what’s acceptable to bring to the beach. After many experimental visits, a few suggestions, and trial and failure – here is my fool-proof list of items to bring in order to have a perfect sun soaking, sand stepping beach day.
1. Sitting Options
Some go for the bare minimum and grab a towel, but I suggest bringing at least two sitting options to the beach. Snag a beach chair and lay a blanket in front. The blanket will preferably be made of a cool, tight-woven fabric, so as to avoid unnecessary sand sticking and sweat. This way you’ll be able to sit comfortably to watch the waves, and stretch out on the blanket at your leisure to steal a few rays on your back.

2. Moisture Mends
If you’ve been to the beach, you know the toll it takes on your lips, skin and hair. To counter the salt and sun, bring your favorite chapstick and sunscreen. I suggest Neutrogena Fresh and Cooling Body Mist Sun Block SPF 45– which has cooling affects that keep you feeling fresh no matter what the temperature outside. For extra sparkle, pack a spray bottle with fresh water and spritz it on your skin whenever the sun gets too warm.

3. Refreshments
Finally, you’ll need something to sweeten your insides. After a dip in the deep blue, nothing beats a cooler packed full of frozen fruit. The night before your ocean outing, cut up some fresh pineapple, mango and strawberries, throw them in a zip-lock bag, and stick them in the freezer. The next day, the frozen fruit will double as an ice pack to keep your cooler icy, while chilling your insides and putting a smile on your face.

If you follow my suggestions of What to Bring to the Beach, you will be sure to enjoy your day with sweetness and ease. Have your own beach-accessory suggestions? Tweet @Clichemag and let us know!