Steive Ondricka 
Is there any idea more compelling on a warm day than spending a day at the beach with family or friends? But if you’re planning on a day at the beach, there’s more to it than throwing on a swimsuit and a towel. With a little bit of pre planning you can turn an average beach day into a day full of relaxation and memories. Below is a complete guide to the basics you should have when making the perfect beach picnic!
1. Sun Protection Essentials
The first step to a successful beach day is sun safety. You’ll be spending hours exposed to the sun’s rays, so proper sun protection is non-negotiable. Here’s what you need:
- a. Sunscreen: Seek a high SPFlater, ESPF greater than 30, broadspectrum sunscreen (protects against UVA and UVB rays). If you will be swimming, waterproof formulas are best. Because it takes time for sunscreen to penetrate the skin, make sure to apply 20 – 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, and reapply every two hours—or immediately after swimming or sweating. Pro tip: Often missed spots like the tops of your feet, ears, and the back of your neck don’t want to get forgotten, either!
- b. Hats and Sunglasses: Hats that spread out wide are an excellent method for preventing your face, neck and shoulders from the sun. UV protective sunglasses help protect your eyes from harmful rays. If you’re heading to the beach, the glare off of the water can be reduced with polarized lenses, so you can take in that view without squinting!
- c. Beach Umbrella or Sun Tent: They give off important shade to provide a place to cool off from the heat. If you’re with friends or family, a big beach umbrella or a sun shelter will give you plenty of room for everyone to have their own space out of direct sun. Wind resistance on your umbrella or tent is nice — the wind at a beach can be crazy strong.
2. Beach Picnic Blanket and Comfortable Seating
Once you have your sun protection sorted, it’s time to set up a cozy lounging area. A good blanket and comfortable seating are essential for a relaxed beach experience.
- a. Waterproof Beach Blanket: A waterproof beach blanket means it keeps you dry, and as a result, the sand doesn’t stick to the fabric. Find one that’s small enough to carry easily, yet large enough for your group. For particularly windy days some blankets come with stakes or built in sand pockets to help keep them in place.
- b. Portable Beach Chairs: Blankets are great, but beach chairs just take it up a notch. Folding, low sitting beach chairs are lightweight and easy to carry, and you will be sitting off the sand (which is great, if you don’t love sand being everywhere). If you want to relax even more consider bringing a reclining chair or a chair with a built in shade.
- c. Beach Towels: Beach towels are easy enough to pack, so I bring extra ones to dry off after swimming or as a layer over your beach blanket. And microfiber towels are very absorbent and dry very quickly, they are not large so they are great for a beach trip.
3. Picnic Basket with Food and Drinks
The heart of any picnic is, of course, the food. Preparing easy-to-eat and refreshing snacks will keep you energized throughout the day.
- a. Cooler Bag for Refreshments: You definitely need an insulated cooler bag to keep your food and drinks fresh. When it comes to carrying, choose a soft cooler with a shoulder strap or a hard sided cooler if you need the extra insulation. Using ice packs or frozen water bottles will help keep the inside cool and by the time they melt, you’ll have—you guessed it—another chilled water bottle to drink!
- b. Non-perishable Snacks: Bring beach friendly snacks that will not go bad in the sun. A sandwich with a hardy filling (e.g. turkey and cheese or peanut butter and jelly), chips, granola bars and trail mix. Watermelon, grape, and apple — fresh fruits that are hydrating and also easy to munch on. Pre cut vegetables with hummus could also be something healthy to bring for a snack.
- c. Hydration Essentials: It is also very important to stay hydrated if you are in the sun. Reduce your waste by bringing many reusable bottles filled with water. If you’re feeling creative, you may even want to pack some flavored water or iced tea. Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or cucumber is a refreshing drink that gives your beach day a spa like feel.
4. Entertainment Options
A beach day isn’t complete without some entertainment. Whether you’re looking to be active or just relax, there are plenty of options for fun by the ocean.
- a. Beach Games: Games that you can easily play on the sand bring along. Frisbee or paddleball, or even a volleyball net provided your beach allows. If it’s kids that you’re with think about beach balls and sandcastle building kits. All ages can play these games which are a lovely little bit of activity to liven up the day.
- b. Portable Speaker: Setting the mood is the fine work of music. Take a small, waterproof portable speaker and make a beach playlist that everyone will like. If the beach is crowded just be mindful of others around you and keep the volume low.
- c. Books and Magazines: A good book or magazine can fill for quieter moments and the perfect beach companion. Perhaps it’s a slight addiction, but there’s something magical about reading with the sound of the waves in the distance.
5. Cleanup and Eco-Friendly Essentials
Beach outings come with a responsibility to respect and protect the environment. Here are a few items to ensure you leave no trace:
- a. Trash Bags: Collect all your waste with reusable or compostable trash bags. You should always take back with you what you brought. If your beach has recycling bins then sort your waste in the proper bins. Think about picking up a bag just for your recycling such as cans and bottles.
- b. Reusable Utensils and Plates: Replace single use plastic plates, cups and utensils, with reusable options. The good thing is that you are spoilt for choice, bamboo, stainless steel, you name it. When you choose to use items that can be reused, it means more plastic waste is curbed, and you are making a good move into the environment.
- c. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: These are handy for quick clean-ups after eating or for freshening up. Choose biodegradable wipes if possible, as they are kinder to the environment.
6. Extra Comfort Items
To truly elevate your beach picnic experience, consider bringing along some additional items for extra comfort and convenience.
- a. Portable Fan or Misting Bottle: On particularly hot days, a small battery-operated fan or a misting bottle can be a lifesaver. Look for fans that are rechargeable via USB for added convenience. A misting bottle can provide instant refreshment and is particularly nice if you’re trying to cool down quickly.
- b. Beach Pillow: For those who love lounging on the sand, a small inflatable pillow or a specially designed beach pillow can provide great neck support. This makes it easy to relax while reading, napping, or just gazing out at the ocean.
- c. First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, so it’s always a good idea to have a small first aid kit on hand. Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, aloe vera for sunburns, and pain relievers. A minor scrape or sting doesn’t have to ruin your day when you’re prepared.
Conclusion
From a beach picnic pro to someone trying it out for the first time, with these 6 essential items you will leave your beach parties unforgettable. In the spirit of summer sun protection, comfy seating, yummy food, entertainment, green mentality and a few more perks, you’ll not only be ready to enjoy the beach picnic, but to make it the ultimate one. Packing your bags and your favorite people, get ready for a blissful day by the sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What foods are best for a beach picnic?
A: Stick to items that are easy to eat and won’t spoil. Sandwiches, wraps, fresh fruits, chips, trail mix, and pre-cut veggies with dip are all excellent choices. These foods are filling, easy to transport, and less likely to attract sand.
Q: How can I keep my drinks cold on the beach?
A: An insulated cooler bag is the best way to keep your drinks cool. Use ice packs or freeze some water bottles to help maintain a cold temperature. As they melt, you’ll also have extra chilled water to enjoy.
Q: What should I bring for entertainment at the beach?
A: Classic beach games like frisbee, paddleball, and volleyball add an active element to your day. If you’re in the mood to relax, bring along a good book or a portable speaker to listen to your favorite tunes.
Q: How can I make my beach picnic more eco-friendly?
A: Opt for reusable or compostable items like bamboo utensils, stainless steel water bottles, and reusable plates. Bringing trash bags to collect your waste and separate recyclables is another great way to minimize your impact.
Q: What are some tips for beach picnic safety?
A: In addition to wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated, pack a small first aid kit for minor injuries. Pay attention to local beach advisories, avoid swimming in rough conditions, and always supervise children if they’re near the water.
