Growing up in northern Indiana, the beaches of Lake Michigan were only a short drive away, and they are some of the most beautiful beaches in North America. The big bonus – NO SHARKS!
I’ll admit, as a kid, I really didn’t like going to the beach for many reasons, the main on being I was very prone to burning and overheating to the point of getting migraines if I was in the sun too long. All of that changed a few years ago once I realized there are things that make the beach much more tolerable and enjoyable, sand included.
With the beaches easily accessible, going to the beach is now an all day event, whether I’m going along or with my family, and sometimes there’s an entire week thrown into the mix. When you get ten 30-somethings together with their parents, collectively we’ve figured out all of things needed to make these beach days last as long as possible as well as have a great time. I’ve separated out the “Must Haves” from the “Nice to Haves” when you’re planning your days. Check out the list below!
MUST HAVES:
Shade
I highly recommend having a shaded area handy. As a fair skinned redhead, I can attest that not having shade was the number one reason I did not like going to the beach when I was younger. As an adult, my cousin introduced me to the Shibumi Shade and my entire attitude about the beach has changed. It needs as little as 4 MPH of wind to keep it flying and luckily, this shade is light weight and easy for one person to put up (I’ve done it!). Just make sure to check the wind direction when you’re setting it up. Also, do yourself a favor and buy the bigger one, trust me.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen is a must – and lots of it! If you’re spending all day out there, remember to reapply every 60 to 90 minutes. A lot of people really love the aerosol cans of sunscreen because they are easier to use, but personally I have not had great luck with those. My go-to sunscreens for the beach are Neutrogena Beach Defense Lotion or Hawaiian Tropic Everyday Active Lotion.
Beach Bag
A beach bag is necessary to carry all of the things. I personally love a big sturdy bag because I spend many beach days by myself or with one other person. On the pricier side, I love a Bogg Bag because of the durability and it’s easy to clean. If a Bogg isn’t in your budget, you can find some good knock offs for a decent price out in the market.
Safe box
You’re at the beach and want to get into the water or take a stroll along the shore, but what do you do with your valuables? This safe box is essential to keeping those belongings locked up so you can relax and enjoy the day.
Beach Chair
Specifically, you NEED this Tommy Bahama Beach Chair.
Top reasons:
1. You can wear it like a back pack so your hands are free to carry other items to the beach
2. It lays flat so you can turn over and tan your backside when you want, or just lay down and take a nap
3. It has a built in cooler on the back, which is perfect for those solo days at the beach when you want one less thing to carry.
Beach Towel
Dock and Bay has the best quick drying, sand resistant, super absorbent beach towel out there. Extra bonus is that it’s lightweight and compact, so it doesn’t take up much room in the beach bag.
NICE TO HAVES:
Books to Read
The most compact book you can take to the beach is one on your Kindle. What I love about the Kindle Paperwhite is that it’s compact and automatically adjusts the screen brightness so you can read while you’re sitting in the sun. Just be sure to download your favorite books before you head out!
Beach blanket
Have you ever been on the beach when you feel like your feet are burning because the sand is so hot? A beach blanket solves this problem for the full day. Slide this under the sun shade you have and it also makes for a perfect napping item. Extra plus, this blanket is water and sand resistant, which is great when you’re ready to pack up at the end of the day. Just shake it out and stuff it back in the bag it came in.
Water Bottle
If you’re at the beach all day, it pays to have a very large water bottle as opposed to packing several small bottles. This 64oz Stanley Jug is perfect as it holds ice all day ensuring a cold drink every time.
Speaker
Listen to music, a podcast, or audiobook with this JBL speaker that can clip anywhere and is waterproof.
Solar Charger
When you need more juice for your phone, kindle or speaker, a solar charger will save you. This one is lightweight and charges quickly. It also has a bonus flashlight and compass built in.
Portable Table
This portable, collapsible table is a game changer. It keeps items sand free and is a nice resting place for other items throughout the day. It also acts as the perfect table for laying out snacks or lunches for everyone. Another item that I will suggest getting the larger one.
Cooler
The day is not complete without cold beverages and a packed lunch. This Yeti Hopper Cooler is the perfect size to hold drinks and lunch for 1-2 people and still manageable to take to the beach.
Again, this is the list of beach items that I think make for the perfect, long lasting beach day. Let me know if there’s anything I’m missing! Happy beaching all!
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