Packing for the beach can go one of two ways: Either you bring everything you own and regret lugging around a tote the size of a small island, or you show up without sunscreen and spend the next three days feeling the burn. Let’s skip both of those. Inspired by Bethenny's knack for cutting through the clutter, we’re sharing a streamlined list of beach essentials that won’t weigh you down or let you down.
Forget about bags filled with things you "might need." The trick to a perfect beach day isn't packing more, it's packing smarter. This edit is your shortcut to exactly that: carefully selected, thoughtfully tested products that actually deliver, from coolers that keep your favorite canned drink perfectly chilled to sunscreen that doesn’t feel sticky or make you break out. There's no fluff and no filler, just reliable gear you'll reach for every time you're headed seaside (or poolside). Consider this your official beach packing list—because great style and practicality can coexist. Here’s to more time spent lounging in the sun, and less time hauling gear across hot sand. Shop our favorite beach essentials ahead.
Sunscreen That Doesn’t Mess Around
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray Sunscreen, $32
A quick, easy mist that smells like vacation without sacrificing protection.
Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+, $40
Gentle enough for sensitive skin and layers easily under makeup.
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40, $38
Leaves a subtle glow—not a greasy shine—which is perfect if you’re skipping foundation.
Supergoop! Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm, $22
Because lips get sunburned too, and glossy hydration never hurts.
A Cooler That Actually Keeps Ice Frozen
Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler, $260
Backpack-style convenience, with serious ice retention for long beach days.
Hydro Flask 20 L Carry Out Soft Cooler, $81
Roomy enough for drinks and snacks but compact enough to carry comfortably.
Ninja Frostvault 30qt Hard Cooler With Dry Zone & Divider Insert, $180
Keeps drinks icy, snacks crisp, and sandwiches from getting soggy—like a mini fridge for your beach day.
Sunglasses That Make You Feel Famous
Ryan Simkhai Eyeshop Alaia Sunglasses, $42
Statement shades with an effortlessly cool, celeb-off-duty feel.
INDY Sunglasses Delancey, $89
Retro-inspired frames with a shape that makes any beach outfit cooler.
Sojos Polarized Vintage Square Sunglasses, $13
Designer vibes without the stress if they disappear into the ocean.
A Swimsuit Worth the Splurge
Stylest Dreamsculpt Square Neck Tank, $198
Feels as sleek as it looks, and flatters from every angle.
Abercrombie Tie-Front Halter Triangle Bikini Top, $34
Playful but sophisticated, and great if you want a bit of adjustability.
Monday Florence One Piece, $174
A one-piece that's chic enough to wear long past sunset.
Montce Isla Floral Tori Ties Bandeau Bikini Top
Fresh florals and customizable coverage make this bandeau easy to love.
Montce Isla Floral Lulu Bikini Bottom
High-cut, flattering, and just the right amount of cheeky.
A Cover-Up You Can Wear to Happy Hour
La Blanca Waverly Long Sleeve Cotton Cover-Up Dress
Breezy enough for beach lounging but elegant enough for cocktails afterward.
Ruitenda Swimsuit Crochet Cover Up
Gives off the perfect laid-back vacation vibe without looking like you're trying.
Montce Isla Floral Swim Skirt
Not just a cover-up—style it with your matching swimsuit or wear it straight to brunch.
Montce Isla Floral Square Neck Crop Top
A cute little top to match the skirt, and pairs just as easily with denim shorts.
The Perfect Hat for Preventing Sun Damage
Hat Attack Striped Canvas Sunhat
Beach-ready stripes that add a pop of color to literally everything.
Lack of Color Holiday Bucket Hat
Casual enough to feel effortless, chic enough to make the look.
Brixton Ellee Straw Packable Bucket Hat
Packable and chic, so you won’t dread carrying it through TSA.
A Towel That Doesn’t Take the Beach Home With You
Amazon Turkish Beach Towel
One good shake and sand won't follow you home.
Sand Cloud Turkish Beach Towel
The cult-favorite towel that packs small and dries quickly.
Great Bay Home 100% Cotton Velour Beach Towel
Thick, plush, and absorbent without becoming heavy or impossible to pack.
Slides You Won’t Lose in the Sand
Tuckernuck White Leather Muse Sandals
Polished leather slides that can handle a sandy walk or dinner reservations afterward.
TKEES Gemma Sandals
Minimalist leather sandals you’ll look forward to wearing all summer.
Ancient Greek Sandals Jelly Flip Flop
Jelly sandals that actually look chic (and not like something borrowed from a kid).
A Book Worth Ignoring Texts For
"One Golden Summer" by Carley Fortune
The kind of breezy, absorbing romance you'll devour in a single sitting.
"The Missing Half" by Ashley Flowers
A mystery so gripping you'll barely notice the tide coming in.
Beach Chairs You Won’t Hate Carrying
Business & Pleasure Co. Margaritaville Manana Backpack Beach Chair
Looks stylish slung over your shoulder and is surprisingly comfortable to carry.
Water Buffalo Bondi Beach Chair
Lightweight, compact, and no annoying setup—exactly what you hoped for.
GCI Outdoor Big Surf Beach Chair With Tray & Sunshade
A comfy seat that brings its own shade (and built-in table) without the extra bulk.
An Umbrella You Can Set Up Without a Fight
Business & Pleasure Co. Margaritaville Manana Umbrella
Sets up smoothly, looks great in photos, and doesn't budge in the breeze.
Outdoormaster Beach Umbrella With Sand Bag And Cup Holder
Extra stable, easy to assemble, plus a handy spot for your iced coffee.
Handy Beach Umbrella & Anchor System
Locks smoothly into the sand in seconds—no wrestling required.
A Drink That Makes Beach Naps Even Better
CANN Roadie Social Tonic
Just enough buzz to help you drift off without leaving you feeling groggy later.
A Portable Speaker That’s Chill, Not Obnoxious
JBL Clip 5 Waterproof Speaker
Compact, waterproof, and clear—ideal background music without ruining the vibe.
A Water Bottle That Stays Cold in the Sun
Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
Keeps ice frozen for hours, with a design you’ll actually want to carry around.
Aftersun Care That Calms Everything Down
Tower 28 Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Instantly soothing and refreshingly cool when your skin’s feeling sun-stressed.
Neutrogena Sun Rescue After Sun Rehydrating Spray
A quick mist of hydration to ease redness and dryness without any stickiness.
Skin Gym Ice Roller for Face
Feels amazing on sun-warmed skin—think instant relief plus depuffing benefits.
Beach days are supposed to be effortless—so skip the stress and pack smarter. Whether you’re planning a casual afternoon at your local spot or an all-day event somewhere fabulous, these essentials help you do exactly what you're supposed to do at the beach: absolutely nothing. Because the secret to enjoying yourself isn't bringing everything you own; it’s knowing exactly what works and leaving the rest at home.