If you’re planning a beach day and wondering about the things to take to the beach, you’re in the right place. I live in Miami, where beach culture is part of daily life, and let me tell you—being properly prepared makes all the difference between a dreamy, relaxing experience and a stressful one.
Over the years, I’ve developed my own essential beach checklist, based on real experiences, a few mistakes, and plenty of sunny, sandy trial and error. In this guide, I’ll share exactly what to bring to the beach, whether you’re going solo, with friends, or with family.
Why It Matters: Being Prepared Changes Everything
There’s something magical about spending a full day at the beach—until you realize you forgot sunscreen, drinks are warm, and your towel is half-covered in sand. Having the right things to take to the beach can transform your day from “ugh” to “ahhh.”
The sun is no joke, especially here in South Florida. Without shade or hydration, a fun afternoon can quickly turn into a sunburned disaster. On the flip side, with the right setup, the beach becomes your outdoor living room: shaded, breezy, and full of joy.
Essential Things to Take to the Beach (You’ll Actually Use)
Let’s cut through the noise. These are the beach essentials that I consider non-negotiable—items I pack every single time:
- Sunscreen (SPF 60+) My favorite water resistant recommendations are ISDIN Fusion Water MAGIC and La Roche-Posay Sunscreen SPF 100.
- Large towel or beach mat One of my favorite recomendation here
- Comfortable chair or lounger
- Sunshade, umbrella or canopy
- Cooler or insulated backpack
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or light food
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Hat and sunglasses
- Flip flops or water shoes
- Bag for wet clothes
- Trash bag for cleanup
These aren’t just random suggestions. They’re the things to take to the beach that will genuinely improve your day.
What I Always Bring for a Beach Day in Miami
Living in Miami, I get to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. When I hit the sand, my must-pack items are based on the hot, sunny, sometimes unpredictable conditions of South Florida.
Here’s what my personal packing list looks like:
- A strong beach umbrella: The Miami sun is powerful. I always bring one to avoid burns and heat exhaustion. After an hour in direct sun, trust me—you’ll want shade.
- Two folding chairs: Comfort is key. Whether I’m reading a book or chatting with friends, sitting off the ground makes all the difference.
- My backpack cooler: It’s lightweight, keeps drinks icy all day, and is perfect for two people. I pack it with water, juice, and yes—cold beers.
- Snacks: Fresh fruit, cookies, and protein bars are perfect for quick bites. It avoids beachside hunger crashes.
- Sunscreen, always: I’ve seen people leave red as lobsters. I lather up before leaving home and reapply often.
- Extra towels and a bag for them: Sand finds its way into everything. Having dry towels and a designated space for them is a game changer.
These are not just recommendations—they’re the things to take to the beach that come from years of real beach life.
⚠️ Top Mistakes to Avoid (Learn from Mine)
Let’s talk about what happens when you forget something important.
1. Forgetting bug spray
One day I left it at home… big mistake. Mosquitoes and sandflies ruined the vibe. Since then, it’s a permanent item on my list.
2. No bag to rinse feet
At a smaller beach with no showers, I ended up tracking sand into the car. Now, I bring my Portable Shower for Camping to rinse us before heading home.
These moments taught me that things to take to the beach aren’t always obvious until you need them.
3. No hydration boost when you need it most
One hot day, my husband was playing volleyball under the sun for hours. He drank tons of water but still felt extremely dehydrated. It wasn’t until a friend recommended Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier that we found the real solution. This little packet helps your body absorb water faster and replenishes essential electrolytes. Now I always pack at least two. They take up no space and make a huge difference after swimming or sweating under the sun. It’s one of those things to take to the beach you don’t realize you need—until you really do.
👨👩👧 Family Beach Trips: What to Pack When You’re Not Alone
When I go with my daughter and a couple of friends, my packing list expands. Here’s what I never forget for family beach days:
- Beach toys: Buckets, shovels, a beach ball. Keeps the kids happy for hours.
- Extra water and snacks: Kids burn energy fast. I pack fruit, sandwiches, and electrolyte drinks.
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer: Sticky fingers + sandy hands = chaos.
- Umbrella or pop-up tent: For extra shade and naps.
- Hammock: A surprise hit. My daughter loves swinging in the breeze.
A family outing means thinking ahead. Things to take to the beach with kids always include backup snacks, shade, and activities.
🌊 Beach Day Must-Haves You Probably Didn’t Think About
Some of the most useful beach items are the ones you didn’t realize you needed—until you did.
- Dry bag for valuables
Waterproof and sandproof, perfect for phones, wallets, and keys. - Snorkel mask or goggles
Especially in places like Virginia Key, where the shallow reefs are full of marine life. - Phone protector case
Saltwater, sand, and sun are brutal on electronics. I use a waterproof pouch that lets me take photos and text without worry. - Portable waterproof speaker
Music changes the whole mood. Ours is small, loud, and totally beach-safe.
These are now essentials on my list of things to take to the beach.
🥤 Water, Snacks & Shade: Core Beach Needs Explained
If I had to pack just three things, they would be:
- Shade: Whether it’s an umbrella or a pop-up tent, this is your #1 protection.
- Hydration: Dehydration sneaks up fast in the heat. Water bottles, hydration tablets, and cold drinks are key.
- Food: Light, salty, energizing snacks keep the good mood going.
Without these, the best beach in the world won’t save your day.
🎶 Bonus Add-ons for the Perfect Beach Vibe
Want to level up your beach setup? Here are a few extras that make every trip feel luxurious:
- Hammock (with straps!)
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Small Bluetooth speaker
- Foldable beach table
- Insulated wine tumblers
- Frisbee or paddleball set
- Cold towel or face mist
You don’t need everything—but a few of these will turn a simple outing into a mini vacation.
📋 Quick Checklist: Things to Take to the Beach
Here’s a quick printable-style summary of things to take to the beach:
Essentials:
- Sunscreen
- Towels
- Shade (umbrella or canopy)
- Beach chairs
- Water & drinks
- Snacks
- Swimsuit & cover-up
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- Sunglasses & hat
Nice-to-haves:
- Hammock
- Cooler with wheels
- Bug spray
- Dry bag
- Waterproof phone case
- Speaker
- Wet wipes
- Bag for trash
- Book or magazine
- Toys (for kids or adults)
🏁 Final Thoughts: Your Beach Day Starts Before You Arrive
After living in Miami and spending countless hours by the sea, I’ve learned that planning ahead makes every trip better. The right things to take to the beach will keep you comfortable, protected, entertained, and hydrated—all the elements of a perfect day.
So next time you’re packing for the coast, don’t just grab a towel and go. Bring the essentials, throw in a few comforts, and create the kind of beach day you’ll want to repeat again and again.
☀️ Sand, sea, and smart packing. That’s the recipe.