This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly love and believe will add value to your beach day experience. Your support helps keep this blog running, thank you!
There’s nothing quite like a sun-soaked day at the beach, feeling the warm sand beneath your feet and the ocean breeze in your hair. But to truly enjoy your beach day in style and comfort, you need to pack the perfect beach essentials. Whether you’re heading out for a solo self-care moment, a fun day with friends, or a sunset beach picnic, having the right beach bag must-haves will keep you feeling refreshed, protected, and effortlessly put together.
In this guide, I’m sharing the ultimate beach bag checklist filled with trendy, practical, and must-have items for that girl who always looks effortlessly chic, even at the beach. From sun protection and hydration to beauty must-haves and stylish accessories, this list will ensure you’re fully prepared for the perfect beach day!
The Must-Have Beach Essentials for That Girl
1. A Stylish Tote Bag to Carry It All
Before we dive into the items inside, let’s talk about the foundation of your beach bag checklist—the actual bag! A spacious, lightweight, and stylish tote is a must. Opt for a canvas tote, a woven straw bag, or a waterproof beach bag that can carry all your essentials without getting ruined by sand or water.
Fashion & Accessories Must-Haves
2. A Trendy Bikini Cover-Up
A chic bikini cover-up is essential for looking stylish when you’re not in the water. Flowy linen dresses, crochet beach cover-ups, or oversized button-down shirts work perfectly.
✨ Style Tip: A white or neutral-toned linen cover-up goes with any swimsuit and looks effortlessly put together.
3. Sunglasses for Extra Glam
No beach day is complete without a stylish pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and add a chic touch to your look.
✨ Try This: Oversized, cat-eye, or vintage-inspired aviators give a trendy, fashionable vibe.
4. Stackable Bracelets or Anklets
Adding a few gold or beaded bracelets and anklets elevates your beach look effortlessly. Waterproof jewelry is a plus!
✨ Try This: Dainty gold anklets or colorful bead bracelets for a fun, summery aesthetic.
5. Sandals or Flip-Flops
A cute and comfy pair of sandals or flip-flops is a non-negotiable beach essential.
✨ Try This: Birkenstocks, braided sandals, or Havaianas flip-flops keep your look chic and comfortable.
6. A Lightweight Sarong or Scarf
A sarong is super versatile—it can be used as a wrap skirt, a lightweight towel, or even a headscarf for extra sun protection.
✨ Try This: Opt for neutral tones or fun tropical prints to match your swimwear.
Skincare & Beauty Must-Haves
7. Waterproof Mascara
For that effortless, “I woke up like this” beach look, a waterproof mascara enhances your lashes without smudging.
✨ Try This: Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara is a cult favorite.
8. Tinted Moisturizer with SPF
Instead of heavy foundation, a lightweight tinted moisturizer with SPF keeps your skin protected while evening out your complexion.
✨ Try This: Supergoop! Glowscreen gives a dewy, radiant finish while offering sun protection.
9. Aloe Vera Gel for Post-Sun Hydration
After a day in the sun, your skin needs some extra love. Aloe vera gel soothes and hydrates sun-kissed skin.
✨ Try This: Banana Boat Aloe Vera Gel is a great after-sun essential.
10. Compact Mirror & Blotting Papers
A mini compact mirror and blotting papers help keep your skin fresh and shine-free throughout the day.
✨ Try This: Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Blotting Papers are compact and effective.
11. Hair Oil or Leave-In Conditioner
Saltwater and chlorine can dry out your hair, so a nourishing hair oil or leave-in conditioner is a must to keep it silky.
✨ Try This: OUAI Leave-In Conditioner protects hair from sun and saltwater damage.
12. A Fresh Nail Polish for a Beachy Mani
Having a cute, fresh manicure makes everything feel more put together. A soft pink, white, or pastel blue nail polish is perfect for a beach day.
✨ Try This: OPI’s “Funny Bunny” or “Bubble Bath” for an effortlessly chic look.
Wellness & Hydration Essentials
13. Electrolyte Powder Packets
Staying hydrated is key, especially under the sun! Electrolyte packets replenish lost minerals and keep you feeling energized.
✨ Try This: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is a great option.
14. Cooling Eye Patches
If you want a luxe beach moment, pop on some cooling eye patches while you relax under your umbrella.
✨ Try This: Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox Hydra-Gel Eye Patches.
15. Essential Oil Roller for Relaxation
A travel-sized essential oil roller with lavender or peppermint can help you feel refreshed and calm.
✨ Try This: Vitruvi Peppermint Oil Roll-On for an instant energy boost.
16. Silk Scrunchies or a Claw Clip
Keeping your hair out of your face is a must, and silk scrunchies or a claw clip prevent breakage.
✨ Try This: Kitsch satin scrunchies or a neutral-toned claw clip for an effortlessly stylish updo.
Beach Day Extras
17. A Cute Beach Towel
A soft, aesthetic beach towel is a necessity for lounging in style.
✨ Try This: Turkish cotton towels are lightweight and dry quickly.
18. Waterproof Phone Case
A waterproof phone case protects your phone from sand, water, and unexpected splashes.
✨ Try This: JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch works with most smartphones.
19. A Good Beach Read
A relaxing beach day isn’t complete without a great book.
✨ Try This: “Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum for a captivating summer read.
20. A Disposable Film Camera
Capture aesthetic, vintage-inspired beach memories with a disposable film camera.
✨ Try This: Kodak FunSaver for a nostalgic touch to your beach pics.
Final Thoughts: Pack Your Beach Bag Like a Pro
With these beach essentials, you’ll be fully prepared for a picture-perfect day by the ocean. Whether you’re relaxing under the sun, taking Instagram-worthy pictures, or enjoying a swim, this beach bag checklist ensures you have everything you need to stay stylish, comfortable, and refreshed.
So grab your tote, pack up your beach bag must-haves, and get ready for the ultimate beach day in true “that girl” fashion!
Would you add anything else to your beach essentials list? Let me know in the comments!