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Beach Tips & Gear

Here's my "Top 20" list of great tips and our favorite beach gear.

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While I may not be a life-long Floridian, I do know a thing or two about organization and efficiency. Some of these tips are things that I've learned from others, and some are things I've figured out along the way. In addition to the tips, this list also includes our favorite beach gear - items that my husband and I highly recommend!

#1

Make a Good List

I think I may see a few "eye rolls" on this one - but I'm a list maker by nature, and know that without a good list, there's a 98% chance something big will get forgotten. Since my kids were young, I've kept a variety of lists on my computer - ready to print out in a moment's notice. After moving to Florida, of course I created one specifically for my day beach trips. Even though I go frequently, I still review my list to make sure I've got everything before leaving the house.

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#2

Use a Quality Sunscreen

Whether you're in Florida or somewhere else - you need good sun protection! After my cancer diagnosis, I became more cautious about the chemicals I was putting on my skin, so I did some homework to find the best sunscreen options. This meant I immediately stopped buying the cheaper options on the market. Currently, we're using Sun Bum products, including their "cool down" after sun lotions. Since companies seem to be constantly working to improve their products, I do try to keep my eye out in case something better comes along. ​​

Pro-tip: There isn't really a need for SPF's over 30. After doing a little research I found out that "SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%." So really, it's the re-application of the sunscreen that's most important.​

#3

Use Old Sheets

I have TWO great uses for old sheets!

  

​1. I keep one spread out in the back of my Jeep and put all the beach items on top. When I get home, I just pull the sheet out and shake it so I don't have to vacuum the car out! (This is actually a great tip for when you buy plants, or do anything that may get dirt in. It's much easier cleaning a sheet than the car.)

 

2. It makes a great beach blanket! A flat sheet doesn't take up much room in your beach bag, and provides space not only to sit on, but to put all your towels, shoes and toys on. Shaking the sand off the sheet when you leave is so easy!

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#4

Choose the Right Beach Bag

There are several things to consider when choosing "your perfect" bag for the beach. Things I look for are its functionality, if it's easy to clean, lightweight and durable. I actually use 3 different kinds - each serving a different purpose. 

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1. My "pre-stocked" bag. I use a Scout bag with outside pockets as my go-to bag, ready to grab and go on a moment's notice. I fill the outside pockets with sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and various other "every beach trip" items. I roll up 2 towels and put my water bottle inside. I love that this bag stands up, (no floppiness!) and that these clean really well and are very durable.

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2. Plastic totes. I have two that I use regularly - one stays in my car with a couple of small beach towels, bags for trash, wet-wipes and a few other things "just in case" they're needed! The other tote I use for my shelling supplies, water shoes, and anything else that may get sandy or wet. These totes are also great to put kid's beach toys in - keeping them separate from your other items. I would avoid buying cheaper ($ store) versions, and get something that is a flexible plastic that will last a long time.

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3. A fabric tote bag for a change of clothes. We all have more than a few of these, right ladies?! If we're hanging around the beach area to walk around and perhaps grab a bite to eat, we'll keep our fresh clothes in a separate bag in the car. 

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#5

Don't Wear Jewelry

Did you know that sharks are attracted to shiny objects? Think about that next time you're in gulf or ocean water and are swimming around with that pretty necklace or bracelet. Don't think that there are any sharks nearby? Why risk it - remember you're swimming where they live!

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Another big reason is that you would be surprised at the number of people who lose valuable jewelry at the beach. If you are at the beach later in the day here in Florida, it is not uncommon to see at least one person out combing the beach with their metal detector. After striking up conversations with a couple of them, they will tell you that they find a lot of valuable jewelry. 

 

Lastly, saltwater is corrosive. Waves can be rough and loosen gemstones. Fine jewelry will ultimately be damaged.

  

Pro-tip: With these considerations... leave all that jewelry at home!

#6

Get a Durable Beach Chair

A good quality beach chair is important. This is one item I consider an investment, and with proper care, can last for years. The two biggest things you need to look for are a rust-resistant frame and sturdy fabric that is double-stitched. After that, you can look for some of those creature-comforts such as cup holders, back-pack straps, multi-positioning and other features. 

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One of my kids gave me the one pictured for Christmas about six years ago. It was a great gift, considering that daisies are my favorite flower, I love the beach and the brand is known for their quality. It's been a reliable chair, and I've tried to keep it in the best possible condition. While this particular chair is no longer being made, the newer versions appear to be just as solid as this one.

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Pro-tip: to keep your chairs in optimum condition, be sure to get the saltwater and sand off! Hose them down and let them dry in the sun. I highly recommend using sand brushes (see #14 in this list) - to get the sand out of the hinges.

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#7

You'll Need Some Shade

A quality product that offers shade on the beach is really important. This is another item I consider a well-spent investment. ​We have two "go-to's" that we use on a regular basis: an umbrella and a cabana. 

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Our favorite umbrella choice is a Tommy Bahama model with a built in anchor, has tilting action, and can sustain strong winds. Just be sure to get it deep enough in the sand for stability.

 

For a long time I didn't see the need for the cabana - but WOW - my opinion has changed on this and I believe that this is something well worth every penny you spend. Our choice is the Cool Cabana brand. This brand is tried and true and comes in two sizes, and a variety of patterns. These are incredibly easy to put up and take down and are durable!

#8

Invest in a Beach Wagon

My husband is the reason why we ended up getting a wagon, as he was getting tired of sometimes making two trips to the car if we couldn't carry everything in one load. Even before we moved to Florida, we had this one to help transport our beach gear more easily. We have used this on soft and compact sand, and it does the job. I chose this particular model for the reasonable price-point and the large wheels. It folds up nicely and comes with a cover. It has been a great purchase as it has sturdy construction and a nice foldable table surface. We use it every time we go to the beach - and it still works great!

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Pro-tip: avoid buying wagons with small or narrow wheels. Larger wheels roll much better in softer sand!

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#9

Take a Small Shovel

​If you have a sun shade that requires sand as an anchor, this is a really useful item. My suggestion is either pick up a bucket and shovel from the kids' toy section or get a plastic trowel. Having a small shovel really makes filling any sand-anchors (for shade) effortless.

 

I actually use my "kid bucket" frequently! If I'm shelling, I'll put my larger shells in there, use it to put water in to rinse my feet before leaving... or who knows... I may embrace my inner child and want to build a sand castle!

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#10

Wear a Rash Guard

A long sleeve shirt is a great item to have tucked in your beach bag all the time. If you need to cover up from too much sun, or for the cooler temps, rash guards are your answer. You see all kinds of these shirts in beach shops - but there is no need to spend a lot of money on them. I purchased a few for my husband and I after doing a little online research. While ours may not be the popular brands on the market, they are affordable and work just as great as expensive brands. When considering a rash guard,  look for breathable fabric (polyester preferred), and one that has UV protection. 

#11

Pack Clothes Pins

Why do I need these, you ask? Clothes pins are cheap and so versatile! In the past I'd always packed about a dozen or so for our beach vacations. And now, I always keep 2 or 3 of them in my beach bag.

 

They are useful if you need to clip your towel to your chair on a breezy day. And they make great clips for chip bags (we all grab snacks for the beach, but often forget about how we're going to seal them after they're open). We used to use them when staying at a beach rental, as you can secure wet items outside to dry, or for any thing that you may need to clip. 

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#12

Facial Wipes

If you're like me, as soon as you get off the beach, you feel like you just need to wash your face! I found these wipes to be the answer! They are refreshing facial wipes that would be great to have on hand throughout any of your summer adventures. I love the fact that they come in a resealable pouch. I leave mine in the car in my "just in case" tote.

#13

A List Within a List

Yes, I'm cheating here, as I'm sneaking in some additional tips and a few of the most commonly forgotten items...

 

  • Sunglasses. Make sure they're good quality with UVA and UVB protection.

  • A Hat. Wide brim, ball cap, bucket hat, it's your choice... but a hat is always a good idea!

  • Bug Spray. Beaches have bugs... so plan to combat them ahead of time. We have "no-see-ums" down here that can be brutal sometimes. This is another item I'm careful using due to the chemicals. Look for a natural product that is safe. If you use essential oils - make your own!

  • First-Aid Kit. No need to purchase a big kit, just grab a variety of band-aids, an alcohol wipe and a tube of anti-bacterial cream that are already in your medicine cabinet. Put them in a little ziplock bag and tuck in your bag.

  • Frozen Water Bottles. These are great to use in your cooler to keep things cold. No need for a bag of ice - or store-bought ice packs. If you are running low on your drinking water, just pull one out and let it melt! Staying hydrated is important! Gatorade and flavored waters also freeze well.

  • Small Store Plastic Bags. Tuck a couple in your beach bag to use for trash. It is rather disappointing that not all visitors to beaches pick up after themselves. Please pick up any trash you see, especially glass shards from bottles (please don't carry glass bottles to the beach!).

  • A Good Book. Put down your phone for awhile and enjoy time relaxing on the beach with a good beach read.

  • Play Music? Only if you're going to play it at a low volume. Don't be that annoying beach goer who blasts their music for everyone to hear. Trust me, not everyone wants to listen to it, and the noise level gets worse when people try to out-do each other. Just be considerate of others who also want to enjoy their beach time.

#14

Sand Brushes

Before you say, ah, I don't need those... don't dismiss them too quickly! These have been a great asset and I wish I had known about them years ago. No matter how hard you try to get sand off yourself and beach gear before getting in the car, there always seems to be some stuck in crevices or in places you don't readily see. These are great for getting sand off of your feet, shoes, and beach gear (especially in hinges). They work extremely well, and I really like the bristles on these brushes. They're not too tough on your feet, but also tough enough to clean beach gear. I keep them tucked in the back of my car, so they're always handy. 

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#15

Save Time Washing Your Swimsuits

These days a good, quality swimsuit can be on the expensive side, so... you want to take great care of it. You don't want chlorine or salt water ruining the fabric or vibrancy of the colors, so you need to wash it right away. My suggestion: wash your swimsuits while you shower! This may sound crazy, but I have found this to be such an efficient use of time and keeps my swimsuits ready for the beach or pool. I just picked up a $ store plastic tub, and jug of delicate laundry detergent. After my outing, I just jump in the shower and quickly wash my suit and then finish my shower as usual. Then I hang it on a drying rack. Done!

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These last 5 tips are optional gear that will enhance your beach experience - 

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#16

Water Shoes

Depending on the beach you visit, and/or summer activities, these may not be something you've considered. Personally, I prefer to walk on the beach barefoot, however many of my favorite shelling spots (especially during low tide!) pose a challenge when walking. When the terrain hurts the bottom of your feet, it's time to slip on something to help protect them. Since I don't use mine all the time, I just picked up an inexpensive pair. These have been great, as they are easy to clean and lightweight. The insoles are removable, so I just take them out and hose them down when I get home. This particular brand comes in a variety of colors. 

#17

Enjoy Just Floating Around

We recently purchased a set of two "noodle slings" and wished we had bought them much sooner! While these are perfect for the pool, these are great for just floating around in our calmer gulf waters. These are Big Joe brand, made of fabric and come pre-filled. No more having to inflate plastic that becomes hot to the touch! Our friends have them for their pool, and agree that they can't be beat!

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#18

Try Snorkeling!

We really love being able to take advantage of all the gulf has to offer. We purchased some inexpensive snorkeling gear after watching others enjoy floating around exploring what's under the water (and yes, it's a great way to find some shell treasures!). We opted not to get the fins for now, but may add them in the future. Snorkeling is just another fun way to experience the beach!

#19

Carry Shell Bags

Good shell bags are a must! Be sure to buy ones that you can wear as cross body. Mesh bags are a great choice as you can rinse the shells in the bag before heading home. Look for bags that are double-stitched and have an adjustable shoulder strap. Another consideration is the size, as there are a variety of sizes to choose from. 

 

Use caution, however if you find a precious sand dollar! They are very fragile so if you put them in a bag, they'll be broken before you get home. I carry a small $ store plastic food container to put those in.

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Pro-tip: I have both "adult" size and "child" size bags. I sewed one of the smaller bags to a larger one, so I can sort shells as I'm collecting.

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#20

Use a Shell Scoop

These are great for scooping up treasures as the tide is rolling in and out, and are great back savers. Be sure to get ones that have telescoping handles, as they are easier to pack in your beach bag. 

  

I opted to save some money - as there are big price differences on these. I took a risk and purchased a set of two that were very affordable. I thought that perhaps due to the cost, they wouldn't last long, so having an extra one would be a good idea. I have been super happy with this particular set they are better than I had expected. I can report that a year later, I'm still just using the first one! 

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualified purchases.​

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