Before you head out for the beach you need to make sure you take the right gear.

Hats –

If you can not work up the nerve to wear a hat on the street a beach hat is a great chance to release your inner hat diva. Small kids benefit from the extra protection from the sun and sand hats afford if you can get them to leave them on.

Swim Trunks-

 It seems obvious but a lot of people pack cuts offs or shorts. It is best to use swim bottoms made for swimming. You can risk embarrassing exposure if your shorts fall off as you emerge from the water and they are water logged.

Travel Clothes- Again this seems obvious but what if the car breaks down or you have to stop at a truck stop to use the bathroom? That nifty thong that got all that attention at the water will stop you in your tracks going in any non beach public place.

Blankets and Sheets- Towels are best used for drying off. Blankets and sheets can be used to cover a larger area to lay out or eat. Sheets are good because you can easily shake them out before you put them in the car. Sand tends to stick to textured towels and blankets..

Aloe Vera –

The faster a sun burn is treated the better. It can also be used for after sun moisturizer.

Lip Balm- Get a lip balm with a sun screen. We can forget about out lips but sea salt , wind , and water can chap them as easily as winter cold.

Frisbees and Toys- Pick toys kids and active adults can enjoy on the beach. You will have a better chance of getting to read that summer novel if your kids are not bored .This applies to the big kids (adults) who are not inclined to sun.

Long Sleeved Shirts- These can provide extra protection from the sun. They can also take off the early morning or evening chill if you plan to be at the beach early or late.

Sunglasses-

Go for sun glasses that provide the UV protection you need. Again they are great to have the kids wear if you can get them to leave them on.

Sunscreen - You will need at least a SPF 15 to have any protection at all. Most folks will want a much higher number to avoid looking like a lobster at the end of the day. Reapply sun screen to kids often as they are most active and in and out the water.

Beach Umbrella. –

They now have lots styles to choose from. You should try to find a free standing umbrella or one large enough to tilt on its side to provide shade when you need it.