Beach Day

Swimming in the ocean is an experience like no other. It's an endless pool where you can see dolphins jump in the distance, fish swimming below, and the most magical, vibrant sunsets and sunrises. Unlike a calm body of water, currents are powerful in the ocean, and swimming against waves is a challenge like no other. Fins can help propel you further. With the high salt content, you will also want a mask and snorkel. Remember water shoes too.

With the different elements, if you are a beginner or preparing for your kid's swim, bring flotation devices like arm floaties, sir rings, life jackets, and noodles. A kickboard is another excellent option for intermediate swimmers. You often can't see what is at the bottom of the ocean, so protecting your feet is vital.

Buy earplugs, nose clips, goggles, and a water cap for comfort. Water caps are great for keeping your hair wet and damage-free and protecting the inside of your ear from getting water inside.

While swimsuits may be the apparent clothing piece, you still need more for the best beach day. Gear up for an entire day in the sun. If you burn easily or don't have an umbrella for shade, you will want a rash guard, cover-up, hat, and sunglasses to shield your skin.

After swimming, bring a change of clothes. Wet clothing can cause chafing and uncomfortable lounging. Bring tops, underwear, shorts, and socks to change into. If you are going into air conditioning, opt for sweatshirts, pants, leggings, and sweats to keep you warm - especially if you have damp hair. If there are no changing rooms or bathrooms, buy a changing mat and parka to keep covered.

Bring a wet bag for your clothes and towels so that you don't dampen your car or other belongings. Keep extra towels in the car for drying off with a sand-free towel that won't stick to you. You can also get a sand remover for added support.

Ocean storms are frequent. Luckily they usually only last a few minutes, but having a rain jacket, cap, and rain pants will keep you waiting out the storm in comfort. Check the forecast beforehand, but having one is always a good idea as they are often unpredictable.

Whether it comes in handy when the ice cream truck goes by or in an emergency, always bring your wallet with an ID, insurance card, credit card, and cash. You will want to keep these valuables close. If you are swimming, you will want to at least be within eyesight. Purchasing a beach locking bag is an option that helps with safety too.

Having something to pass the time while relaxing or sunbathing is always good. Bring a tablet or book to read and a notebook to write in. Don't forget to bring scrunchies, hair ties, and clips to keep cool from the heat and prevent your hair from getting in your face with the ocean breeze.

The sun at the beach is an entirely different beast than you may be used to. Whether you are prone to burning or rarely do, you need high blockage while there. The sun reflects off the ocean, and the breeze masks the intensity of the rays hitting you. Be sure to lather sunscreen frequently, apply lip balm with SPF, and spray your hairline so your scalp doesn't burn.

Put toiletries like deodorant, lotion, and soap if washing off in a bag. Tissues are always a good idea. Pack extra contacts or glasses in case sand gets in your eye. And, of course, don't leave without a first aid kit and meds like ibuprofen and anti-nausea.

You are in a prime location for photos! Whether it's a sunset, dolphin fins in the distance, or the kids posed beside their towering sand castles, you will want to take advantage of this photo opp. That's why you will want to bring more than just your phone. If you get a camera, ensure you have a waterproof case or bag to stick your photography equipment and a cleaning cloth to wipe sand off the lens.

I promise you'll take more photos than you intend to, so bring memory cards and batteries to record all the fun. Another technology piece you may want is your smartwatch (mainly if swimming or running on the beach), a power bank for your phone (the heat kills your battery), and a speaker or headphones to listen to music and podcasts.

The sun will soak up all your energy. Keeping your body nourished and hydrated is a must. Bring food that is easy to eat, like sandwiches, nuts, and bars. It's the perfect spot for a picnic, and as long as you have a cooler, you can bring anything you want.

The salt and heat dehydrate you quickly. Bring plenty of water, and make sure you are drinking often. After a long, fun day at the beach, clean up the space you were using by bringing a bag for wrappers and trash.

The beach is a wonderland for kids. There are endless opportunities for fun everywhere. A simple shovel can provide hours of fun. They can dig moats, find shells, and perform the classic trick of covering their entire body with sand. If your little ones, or yourself, love making a good castle, then you can even purchase molds and get buckets to recruit more water and sand to your design.

Sports games are also great things to bring for a day at the beach. I see a lot of people play spike ball. But soccer balls, volleyballs, frisbees, and footballs are also great options. The ocean breeze makes it an excellent location for flying kites too!