10 Beach Essentials for Families

Take along these beach essentials for a carefree day in the sun or evening fun.

No More Wet Messes

Put those wet bathing suits inside Itzy Ritzy’s sealed wet bag and keep sand, moisture and smells contained (some moms use them for diapers or wet baby clothes, too). The machine washable bags come in stylish patterns in medium (11 by 14 inches) and large (14 by 17 inches). $17.99 and $21.99.

Ever So Cool

Yeti’s soft-sided shoulder-bag cooler, The Hopper, isn’t cheap, but it is effective, keeping ice from melting for days. It’s sturdy and leak-proof and easy to transport to the beach or camping. Also available at sporting goods stores. $250 for The Hopper Flip 12, which holds 13 cans and ice.

Have a Ball

Soccer on the beach doesn’t have to end at nightfall with NightBall Soccer. The ball has built-in motion-activated LEDs that are water resistant, so no worries if it rolls into the ocean. Tangle Creations also manufactures light-up basketball, volleyball, hockey and more for more nighttime fun. Soccer ball: $30. Also available at Amazon, Walmart and other major retailers.

Good Looking

Giggly Goggles aren’t just eye-catching, they’re functional and easy to use, too. There’s no need for adjustment each time, and they stay in place, plus lenses are fog-free and the goggles can be personalized with name or initials, so they won’t get lost. Available in three sizes (toddlers, kids or teens). Also available at Amazon and Walmart. $25.

Cotton Up to These Two

Poncho Towel: Made from bamboo cotton with a terry cloth interior, Kindhood’s children’s poncho towels are fast drying, antibacterial and protective against UV rays. A hood and pouch pocket keep kids warm on breezy days or evenings. Available in sizes XS to L. $42.

Keep Off, Sand! Absorbent, light-weight, quick-drying and sand-resistant, Hoa Kai’s hand-loomed towels are made for the beach, plus they help support weavers in a small village in southeastern Turkey. $24+.

Quick, It’s a Tent

Pacific Breeze’s Easy Set Up Beach Tent uses a hub system to make it one of the fastest and easiest tents to set up or take down. It protects against sun and rain, has windows for ventilation, is light and compact to carry and has room for four. $64.99

Sensitive Solution

For those with sensitive skin, they’ll appreciate La Roche-Posay’s fragrance-free Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen for Face & Body with SPF 100. It’s water-resistant and specifically formulated for those with easy-to-burn skin. $25.99.

Get a Hint

Make sure to stay hydrated this summer with Hint Kids Water. This boxed water is perfectly packaged for small hands and includes flavors watermelon, blackberry, cherry and apple. It contains no sugar, sweeteners or juice and is easy for grab-and-go no matter where you’re headed this summer. Learn more about the importance of staying hydrated here.

Sparkling Results

SeaStar Sparkle SPF 50 sunscreen has bits of glitter, so your child will want to slather it on. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes and comes with pink, teal and silver or rainbow glitter. $19.95.