When it comes to beaches, Oahu has some of the best in Hawaii. With crystal clear waters and soft sand, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this island each year. We’ve explored all over the island to bring you our top picks for the best Oahu beaches.

Understanding Oahu’s beaches is key to finding the perfect spot for your vacation. Some beaches are ideal for surfing, while others are family-friendly beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the sun or take part in some water sports, there’s a beach for everyone on Oahu.

Understanding Oahu’s Beaches

When it comes to beaches, Oahu has something for everyone. From the North Shore’s famous surf breaks to the calm waters of Waikiki, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your time on Oahu’s beaches.

North Shore

The North Shore is known for its huge waves and world-class surf breaks. During the winter months, the waves can reach heights of 30 feet or more, making it a popular destination for experienced surfers. If you’re not a surfer, you can still enjoy the scenery at beaches like Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay. Just be sure to check the surf report before you go, as conditions can be dangerous for inexperienced swimmers.

Windward Side

The Windward Side of Oahu is home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Kailua Beach is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, while Lanikai Beach is known for its picturesque views of the Mokulua Islands. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head to Waimanalo Beach, which has miles of soft white sand and turquoise water.

South Shore

The South Shore of Oahu is home to some of the island’s most popular beaches, including Waikiki Beach. While it can get crowded, Waikiki is a great spot for people-watching and taking in the views of Diamond Head. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, head to Ala Moana Beach Park or Hanauma Bay, which is known for its snorkeling.

Best Oahu Beaches for Surfing

If you’re a surfing enthusiast or like me and love to watch surfers in action, Oahu is the perfect destination for you. The island is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the world! Here are our top picks:

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is a popular destination for surfers from all over the world. It’s located on the North Shore of Oahu and is known for its big waves during the winter months. The beach is home to the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, which is one of the most prestigious surfing events in the world.

In the summer months, the waves are calmer, and it’s a great spot if you’re a beginner. It’s also the PERFECT spot to watch a sunset. It’s one of my very favorite Oahu beaches.

Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is another popular surfing destination on the North Shore. The beach is known for its massive waves during the winter months, which can reach upwards of 30 feet. The beach is also home to the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, which is a hugely popular big wave surfing competition that takes place every year and draws thousands of spectators.

Waimea Bay is an incredible location for big wave surfing but is absolutely not a surfing beach for beginners between October through March. If you visit in the summer, you’ll find much more manageable waves for paddle boarding or surfing.

Banzai Pipeline

Banzai Pipeline, also known as Pipeline, is one of the most famous surfing spots in the world. It’s located on the North Shore of Oahu and is known for its massive waves during the winter months. The beach is not recommended for beginners as the waves can be extremely dangerous from November to March.

The Pipeline is also home to the Billabong Pipe Masters, which is one of the most prestigious surfing events in the world. If you want to watch the surfing action on the Banzai Pipeline, find a spot at Ehukai Beach Park.

Mākaha Beach

Located on the west side of the island is another big wave beach. It’s the best spot for surfing out of all the leeward coast beaches. With its waves reaching 25 feet or more, it’s not for the novice surfer, but it’s perfect for watching professionals in action.

Waikiki Beach

If you’re wanting to learn how to surf, you’ll love Waikiki Beach. It’s a great beach for beginners for a few reasons: The waves are smaller, gentler waves than you’ll find on the Northshore or windward coast. You’ll have lots of options for surf schools or private instructors. And the presence of sharks is extremely low at Waikiki. It’s the perfect surf beach if you’re just getting started or even if you’re an experienced surfer.

Best Oahu Beaches for Families

When it comes to finding the best beaches in Oahu for families, there are many options to choose from. Here are three of our favorites:

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and for good reason. This beach is perfect for families because of its crystal clear, calm waters, soft sand, and a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained. Bring your own gear, or rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards right there.

Plus, plenty of restaurants and shops are within walking distance, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or shop after your day at the beach.

We love staying at a hotel right on Waikiki Beach, so we can easily go back and forth and not have to worry about driving or lugging our gear across downtown.

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches on Oahu and in the entire world. In fact, its name translates to Heavenly Ocean. With its fine white sand and crystal turquoise waters, it truly looks like paradise. The water is calm and perfect for swimming with the family.

Kailua Beach

Located next to Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach is another great option for families. This white sand beach is located on the windward side of the island and is also known for its turquoise waters. There are plenty of picnic tables and BBQ grills available, so you can pack a lunch and make a day of it. Plus, there are several playgrounds nearby, as well as restrooms and showers.

Ala Moana Beach Park

If you’re looking for a beach that has it all, Ala Moana Beach Park near downtown Honolulu is the place to go. This beach has a large grassy area, perfect for picnics or playing games, as well as a sandy beach and calm waters for swimming. There are also several playgrounds and a skate park nearby, so kids of all ages will have plenty to do. And if you need a break from the sun, there are plenty of shady areas to relax in. Plus, there are restrooms, showers, and plenty of parking available. While Waikiki is the most famous beach, Ala Moana Beach Park is a favorite among locals.

Laniakea Beach (Sea Turtle Beach)

Your family will love a trip to this beautiful Oahu beach on the windward side, famous for being the home of giant sea turtles. The rocky, moss-covered shoreline is said to draw the sea turtles in, where you can watch them bask in the sun. These incredible, endangered species are fascinating to look at, but note that it’s illegal to get close to or touch them, as they are protected species.

After looking at the turtles walk down the beach past the rocks towards Chun’s Reef, where you’ll find lots of open sand and gorgeous water perfect for enjoying in the summer months with the family.

Best Oahu Beaches for Water Sports

If you’re looking for some fun in the water, Oahu’s beaches offer a wide range of water sports activities. Here are some of the ideal beaches for water sports:

Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach Park is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. The beach is well-known for its clear waters and soft sand, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling. The park also offers rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and bodyboards, so you can try out different water sports activities. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try windsurfing or sailing.

Diamond Head Beach Park

Diamond Head Beach Park is another great spot for water sports. The beach is located near the iconic Diamond Head crater and offers stunning views of the coastline. The beach is popular for snorkeling and diving, as it has a beautiful reef with a variety of marine life. If you’re into boogie boarding, the beach has some great waves for you to ride, especially during the summer months when the south shore waves are at their peak.

Makaha Beach

Makaha Beach is located on the west side of Oahu and is known for its big waves, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers. However, the beach also offers other water sports activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and paddleboarding during the summer months when the water is calm. The beach has a beautiful reef, so it’s a great spot for snorkeling and diving.

Best Oahu Beaches for Nature Lovers

If you’re a nature lover, Oahu has plenty of beaches that will take your breath away. Here are some of our favorites:

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve and marine life conservation area that’s perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The bay is home to over 400 species of fish, making it a paradise for marine enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop for your day in the sun. Hanauma Bay is limited in the number of visitors each day and requires reservations, so be prepared if you’re planning to visit!

Waimanalo Beach

Waimanalo Beach is a secluded beach that’s perfect for nature lovers who want to get away from the crowds. The beach is surrounded by mountains and is known for its soft, white sand. The water is crystal clear, and you can often spot sea turtles swimming in the ocean.

Kahana Bay Beach Park

Kahana Bay Beach Park is a hidden gem on the east coast of Oahu. The beach is surrounded by lush green mountains and is known for its calm waters and gentle surf. It’s a great place for water sports like swimming and paddle boarding. The beach is also home to a variety of sea life, including sea turtles and coral reefs.

Sharks Cove

If you’re looking for snorkeling on the North Shore, Sharks Cove is the ideal location. This reef-protected cove provides ample opportunity to enjoy marine life, like sea turtles, eels, and a variety of colorful fish, including Parrotfish and Butterflyfish. Sharks Cove gets its name for its unique shape, which resembles a shark, so you don’t have to worry about encountering any real sharks here.

Wrapping-Up

We hope this article has helped you discover some of the best Oahu beaches! Oahu has so many beautiful beaches that are worth exploring. You really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. For a girl who grew up with Texas beaches, all of the Oahu beaches are amazing!

Whether you are looking for the perfect spot to relax in the sun with the family or an exciting place to enjoy surfing, snorkeling, or swimming, Oahu has something for everyone. We hope you get a chance to visit these incredible beaches and experience the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands for yourself.

More Tips for Your Oahu Vacation

The post Best Oahu Beaches: Top Spots for Sun, Surf, and Sand appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Planning a beach trip with your crew? If you’re tired of shaking the sand out of your reusable grocery bags, you’ll want to check out my round-up of the best beach bags for moms. I cover all the styles and options: giant totes, backpacks, mesh bags, packable bags, waterproof bags, cooler bags, etc.

No matter the size of your family or your needs, one of these bags is sure to fit the bill. There’s also a variety of options at various price points, so you can find one that fits your budget, too. I’ve provided links for easy shopping.

And if you’re looking to plan your next beach vacation, download my free travel planner to organize your trip from beginning to end!

This post may contain affiliate links to products I love and recommend. These come at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

What to Look For in the Best Beach Bag for Moms

When you’re looking for the perfect family beach bag, you want to consider your needs. Here are a few things to look for when you’re sorting through all the options for beach bags.

Size

Are you looking for a one-size-fits-all bag or a couple of different bags to organize and carry all the necessary beach supplies?

Material

Do you prefer a waterproof bag that will keep your items dry or a mesh material to keep the sand out? Do you want something you can throw in the washing machine or just shake out and wipe it down? You have options like solid EVA material, waterproof polyester, nylon, or jute, or choose a mesh material.

Construction

When choosing the best beach bag, think about what you’ll be lugging around in your bag. Find a durable, well-constructed bag that can handle the weight of wet towels, sand toys, water bottles, etc. If you’ll be using the bag after the beach, think about what you might potentially be hauling, like heavy groceries or sports equipment.

Features

There are tons of options for the best beach bag so narrow it down to the features that are a must-have. Do you want multiple interior and exterior pockets, zippered pockets, a bag that stays upright when open, padded shoulder straps or a carry handle, an extra pouch, a top zipper closure, an attached cooler, etc?

Cost

You can easily spend less than $20 or closer to $100 on a beach bag, so there’s something for almost every budget. The best beach bag is affordable for you, so you have the money to spend on other important things, like shrimp tacos and pina coladas!

Top Picks for Best Beach Bags for Moms

Here are our favorite beach bags for your next day in the sun and sand:

Best Oversized Beach Tote: Scout Four Boys Bag

This Scout utility tote is the biggest beach bag on our list. It is 24 in x 19 in x 12 in and can hold 8 beach towels or whatever you need to carry! It’s the ultimate beach bag for a large family. The water-resistant material is lightweight yet really durable. It can surprisingly hold up to 75 pounds and is said to be “LifeProof,” meaning it will last a decade even with heavy, messy use. It has an interior zipper pocket for securing valuables and comfortable handles for easy carrying.

Just hose the bag off when dirty and then fold it flat when you’re done using it. The Scout bag is available in several sizes and styles, so you can find other bag styles to meet all your needs. It’s the best beach bag when you’re hauling tons of beach gear!

Best High-Quality Beach Bag: Bogg Bag

If you’re looking for a beach bag that will last for YEARS then look no further. This durable beachside champion is not your average bag; it’s a game-changer. With its sturdy construction, spacious compartment, and water-resistant material, the Original Bogg bag effortlessly carries everything from sunscreen to a beach blanket, snacks to sand toys, without breaking a sweat.

Plus it’s lightweight, super easy to clean (just hose it off or wipe it down), and is also great for carrying dirty sports equipment or anything that can get messy. It measures at 19″ x 15″ x 9.5″ and is made from EVA material and has a grip bottom.

Best Bag that Gives Back: Simply Southern Beach Bag

Since the company opened its first little kiosk in 2005, they have donated over 10 million dollars to Child Fund International, the American Red Cross, and turtle conservation funds. If you’d like to purchase a high-quality product that does some good in the world, you’ll love Simply Totes.

Like the Bogg Bag, it’s high quality, waterproof, and durable, and has a grip bottom. It measures W 19in x H 14in x D 9.5in. You can also purchase the CUTEST tote charms that fit in the holes to accessorize your Simply Tote beach bag. It’s a fun bag that supports a good cause!

Best Beach Bag with Detachable Cooler Bag: BAGSMART Mesh Beach Tote

This part beach bag/ part insulated cooler bag is on the smaller side (16.5’’ L x 7.9”W x 19.3”H). But if your family carries a couple of these, you’ll be able to keep everything you need for a day at the beach on hand.

The bag is made from easy-to-dry and sand-proof mesh. It has four exterior pockets, a waterproof inner pocket, and a back anti-sand pocket. The best part of this bag is the detachable cooler. You can pack some cold snacks or water bottles without lugging around an extra cooler. It’s perfect for when you’ll be at the beach for a couple of hours and just need the basics on hand. It’s also my go-to bag for an afternoon at the pool!

Best Utility Tote Bag: DSDCDJ XL Utility Tote

If you have a large family, utility tote bags are a lifesaver. Their spacious rectangular design makes them ideal when you’re hauling around lots of stuff! It can handle up to 100 pounds. The waterproof, heavy-duty polyester bag measures 22.5″ L x 11″ W x 12″ H and has a padded handle. While it can collect sand inside, you can easily shake it out or wipe it with a damp rag to clean it out.

There are 3 mesh external pockets on the front for holding small items, like goggles or sunscreen, two larger, closable side pockets, and an interior pocket for items like phones or keys. One of the best features is that it stands open on its own and doesn’t collapse in on itself like so many other utility tote bags when empty. When you’re done using it, just fold it flat.

Best Packable Beach Bag: Bodysurf Beach Bag

When you’ve got lots of kids and lots of stuff, an oversized packable bag like this Bodysurf beach bag checks all the boxes. It’s waterproof, sandproof, machine washable, and durable. It’s made from recycled ripstop nylon, which is super lightweight and easily packable. It includes the large beach bag and a small zippered pouch, as well for valuables or smaller items you want to keep dry. When you’re not using it, the large beach bag folds up and can easily fit into the pouch for easy packing and storage.

Other awesome features are the short and long handles, making it a versatile bag to hold. I also love the interior and exterior pockets. There are four basic color options. It’s a roomy, practical, stylish beach bag that should last for years. It’s the best beach bag when you’re short on luggage space!

Best Mesh Beach Bag: GOTDYA Extra Large Beach Bag

This sand-proof mesh bag is perfect for the seashore. You won’t collect any sand in the bottom of your bag. Unlike other mesh beach bags, this version has a top zipper closure, to keep your belongings more secure. The inside is spacious and measures 24 in x 18 in x 9 in. It’s perfect for holding all your towels. It also has four exterior deep mesh pockets, so you’ll have room for all of your other beach items, like sunscreen, snorkel gear, etc. The interior pocket will keep your valuables secure.

The material is breathable and quick to dry, so you won’t end up with mildew smells. It’s also super lightweight and folds up small to fit in your luggage. And it includes a one-year warranty through Amazon. And the super low price point is a major plus! Finding a beach bag for under $20 is a big win when you’re planning a potentially expensive beach trip.

Best Beach Backpack: Fasrom Mesh Beach Bag Backpack

While it isn’t the most stylish backpack in my opinion, it has an incredible feature that sets this beach backpack apart from all the others. The bottom of the backpack has a zipper closure to keep your gear dry, while also allowing you to unzip it and shake out the sand through the mesh material before you get in the car. If you love the bottom zipper feature but would prefer a bag instead of a backpack, they also offer this beach tote bag.

This mesh beach backpack also has a translucent built-in waterproof pocket for wet items, so you don’t forget and leave wet clothes to mildew in your bag. It has several other interior and exterior pockets to keep you organized and a spacious opening for big items like towels or flippers. The hands-free backpack design with a hanging strap for your sunglasses makes this bag a breeze to carry around. This is my husband’s favorite beach bag for all of these reasons!

Best Waterproof Fabric Beach Bag: Shylero Beach Bag

I love the Shylero family beach bag. It’s a gorgeous-looking bag that’s made of waterproof coated polyester. It comes in 9 different fun patterns with chunky rope handles. This bag is a looker! It’s sized at sized 22 in x 15 in x 6 in and can hold up to 22 pounds, so you’ll have plenty of room for all your essentials.

The roomy interior has a waterproof lining and inner pockets to keep your beach gear organized. It has deep external pockets perfect for water bottles or flip flops and also includes a waterproof pouch that’s perfect for stowing your keys, cellphone, wallet, etc. The zipper closure keeps all your beach gear secure and the sand away. And one of the best features is that it’s machine washable! Just be sure and air dry it afterward to protect the water-resistant coating on the fabric.

Best Versatile Beach Bag: Skog Å Kust BackSak

With optional carry handles or backpack straps, this is the most versatile beach bag. It’s 19 inches tall, 12.5 inches wide, and 6 inches deep, so you can fit a lot in this beach bag. 35L to be exact. The easy-to-wipe-down waterproof PVC material is perfect for water and sand. And it’s super lightweight, weighing in at only 2.5 pounds when empty.

It’s available in several patterns and colors. It has an outer splash water-resistant splash pocket for things you need to keep dry, a couple of interior mesh pockets, and a large interior zippered pocket. It’s a simple, easy-to-carry beach bag that is perfect for carrying lots of beach essentials.

Best Straw Beach Bag: Hibala Woven Large Beach Bag

This Gucci-inspired dupe is a super chic bag for moms. It’s the perfect accessory for your beach trips if style is one of the most important features for you. I love the classic jute look with the designer-inspired detailing. The thick cotton handles are comfortable to hold and add to the bag’s boho vibe. The dimensions are 18 in x 14 in x 8 in, creating plenty of space inside for all your beach gear. The interior of the straw tote has a waterproof lining, so you’ll keep your towels and clothes dry.

This straw bag looks way more expensive than it costs and can double as a shopping tote or personal item bag on a flight. It’s functional and stylish, making it a perfect bag for your next family beach vacation.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, you found something you love in our list of the best beach bags for moms. Having the right beach bag can make a beach vacation so much easier when you have to carry all the beach essentials for multiple family members. And moms deserve the best, so pick a new beach bag that you’ll love for years and years.

The post 11 Best Beach Bags for Moms | 2026 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

If you’re like me and planning a trip (or two) to the beach or lake this spring or summer, then having the right beach gear can make or break your trip. If you’re going to make a day at the beach relaxing and fun, then the proper beach essentials make a huge difference. That’s why we’re sharing our list of must-have beach supplies to make your beach vacation that much better.

This post may contain affiliate links for products I love and recommend. These come at no cost to the reader. Thank you for supporting my small business!

1. Beach Cup Holders

Keep your drinks, phone, key, and sunglasses out of the sand with these cup holders. They’re even large and sturdy enough to hold a 30-oz tumbler! This set of 5 stacking cup holders is lightweight and easy to toss in a beach bag.

2. Mesh Beach Bag

This beach bag is perfect for storing your kids’ beach toys. Mesh bags air out easily and dry quickly, so you don’t collect smelly seawater and sand in the bottom of your bag. Just give it a shake to release the sand before taking it in the car or indoors. It’s roomy enough to hold a lot of beach toys, too. If you have kids, this is a must-have beach essential.

3. Waterproof Uno Splash Playing Cards

When you need a break from the water, you can pull out the card games without the risk of ruining them with these waterproof playing cards. Uno is one of my family’s favorite games, and we love this version that is beach and pool-friendly. Having some entertainment when you need a break from the water or sun is important, so that’s why these waterproof playing cards on our list of must-have beach supplies.

4. Inflatable Lounger

You’ll never want to lie on the sand again after trying one of these inflatable loungers. They’re easy to inflate if there’s a breeze- all you have to do is wave it in the air, and the wind will inflate it. Otherwise, you might need a pump. Once it’s inflated, you can stake it down and relax on it all day. If you’ve ever had a sore butt or back from sitting on the sand all day (just me???), then you’ll definitely want to add this lounger to your must-have beach supply list.

5. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

If you want a speaker that is sand-proof, waterproof (IP67 rating), and will last all day, then you’ll love this BOSE SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Portable Waterproof Speaker. The battery lasts up to 12 hours, and with a name like BOSE, you know it has incredible sound quality. It’s lightweight, portable, and well-made.

6. Solar Phone Charger

Sponsored

If you’ll be at the beach all day and worried your phone battery won’t last, pick up one of these solar chargers. Unlike other brands, this charger has four solar panels instead of one. Its dustproof, waterproof, and shockproof design makes it perfect for a sandy beach. While it won’t charge as quickly as a powered charger, it will keep your phone alive and charging until you can connect to power. Keep your worries at bay with this must-have beach essential.

7. Beach Cart

If you’ve ever tried to pull a wagon full of heavy beach gear across the sand, you’ll absolutely be interested in this cart. Unlike every other beach cart and wagon on the market, this one won’t make you feel like you ran a marathon by the time you find your spot. The huge balloon wheels make this cart a dream when lugging heavy gear through the sand.

It can hold up to 165 pounds, and even when loaded down, the tires just roll across the sand. It’s made with marine-grade aluminum, so it won’t rust. When not in use, it easily folds up for storage. While pricier than other beach carts, customers say it’s absolutely worth the money due to ease of use and the incredible customer service.

8. Beach Canopy

This lightweight beach canopy is the best for sun protection for a beach day! It has the ease of a beach umbrella but the added protection of a canopy. Unlike other large canopies, this one is easy to assemble and can be done with only one person. It only has one umbrella pole with a screw bottom that makes it simple to anchor in the sand. The legs are anchored down with the attached sand-filled pouches. There is one extendable side to block the sun’s rays without compromising airflow.

It will fit four beach chairs underneath, so depending upon the size of your family, you may need more than one. This beach canopy was perfect for my Hawaii trip with my husband, as well as a Texas beach trip with my daughters. I love this green-striped version, but they have several prints to choose from. It also includes a convenient carrying case. It’s a total must-have beach essential!

9. Sand Anchor for Umbrella

If you already have a beach umbrella and don’t want to spring for a new canopy, you might be interested in this attachment to make installation easier and secure your umbrella pole on windy days. This heavy sand anchor allows you to easily screw your umbrella pole into the ground and is built to withstand up to 35 miles per hour winds. Plus you’ll be supporting a small, family-owned business that offers a lifetime guarantee, which is pretty amazing.

10. Beach Chair

If you’re looking for a must-have beach chair that checks all the boxes and will last for years!

The Tommy Bahama beach chair is one of the best I’ve found! It has all the features you want, including a fully reclining seat back, 5 adjustable positions, 2 side pockets, a headrest, a bottle opener, a back insulated pocket, a back mesh pocket, wooden armrests that don’t get too hot, and padded backpack straps for hands-free carrying. When sitting up, the bar on the back of the portable chair is a great spot for hanging your wet towels. And at only 7 pounds, it’s light enough for even the kids to tote around.

11. Beach Blanket

The size of this beach blanket is great for our family of five, with space to spare if we’re all sitting. We love the three layers of quilted material, which make it more cushioned than other beach blankets. The top layer is soft and water-resistant, while the back layer is waterproof to help the blanket dry.

It’s easy to clean by shaking off sand, wiping off spills, or even tossing it in the washing machine. Rolling it up takes some practice, but once you get it, it has a convenient carry handle that makes it easy to carry. While it doesn’t have corners, we set our belongings along the edges to keep it in place and don’t have any issues. A beach blanket is a definite must-have beach essential for my family.

12. Wheeled Cooler

This isn’t your typical cooler. This RTIC cooler is proven to keep ice for up to 4-5 days even in 90-degree heat. It’s the perfect size for a day at the beach, as it can hold up to 28 cans. It’s really durable and surprisingly lightweight compared to other similar-sized coolers. The wheels are made to handle rugged terrain, making it easy to lug around.

13. Backpack Cooler

If you’re looking for a smaller cooler that will stay cold for 24 hours, then you’ll love this hands-free RTIC cooler. Plus, it’s waterproof, making it perfect for beach trips or days at the lake or pool.

14. Collapsible Cooler

If you’ll be flying to your beach location, hauling a heavy cooler is probably out of the question. But what do you do if you still need something to keep your drinks cold at the beach?

Then you’ll love this pop-up cooler. It’s designed for golfers but works great for beach trips, too. When empty, it compresses down into a disc size, so you can toss it in a suitcase or backpack. It can hold 8-10 bottles or 10-14 cans.

15. Collapsible Sand Buckets

Even if you’re traveling without kids, it’s a good idea to have a sand bucket or two with you. Whether you need to fill sand pockets on your canopy, carry water to clean your feet off before you get back in the car, or have somewhere to stick your trash at the beach, a sand bucket will be useful. These collapsible ones are my favorite, as they’re huge space savers and made of sturdy silicone.

16. Beach Cover-Up

There’s a reason this beach cover-up has over 25,000 reviews. This one-size-fits-all all crocheted cover-up is available in 34 color/pattern options. (The description says it can fit US sizes M-XXL but smaller and larger frames have found it fit, as well.) It’s flattering on any body type, is lightweight, quick to dry, and breathable. The side drawstrings allow you to shorten or tighten it to your frame.

17. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

I love to download books from my library app to the Kindle app on my phone. But reading on my phone in the sunshine is nearly impossible. That’s why this Kindle Paperwhite is the best for the beach. It’s waterproof, has a large 7″ display, and a single charge lasts up to 12 weeks.

For about the cost of what you’d spend on 9 paperback books, you can purchase this e-reader and download books for free from your local library. I know, some people love the feel of a real book. And I do, too! But I absolutely love the convenience and flexibility of this e-reader when traveling.

18. Foldable Sun Hat

I love this foldable sun hat. I wear it to the beach, pool, tennis courts…really everywhere. It’s easy to pack in my luggage since it’s foldable. And it really does return to its shape. It’s really well-made and has held up for several years. I love that it is adjustable inside to be more secure to my head. There are 22 color options, but my favorite is the classic brown with the black band.

19. Body Sunscreen

We all know sunscreen is an absolute must-have beach supply. And I love Sun Bum sunscreen for sun protection from UV radiation. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, is moisturizing, and smells ah-mazing! Not only that, it is Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free, making it reef-friendly, and it’s paraben and cruelty-free.

You can trust this sunscreen to be a great option for your family. And you’ll be smelling like summer all day. If you want extra protection, they offer an SPF 70 option.

20. Face Sunscreen

If you’re looking for an easy-to-apply facial sunscreen, this Sun Bum SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist is an awesome pick. I love that I can spray it all day, even over makeup. It doesn’t burn my eyes, is lightweight, non-greasy, and sprays really evenly. You won’t have to rub it in like most sunscreen sprays. Even my daughter, who HATES rubbing sunscreen on her face, doesn’t mind this Sun Bum Spray.

21. Polarized Sunglasses

These unisex aviator sunglasses are a classic. An aviator frame looks good on just about anyone. The polarized lenses are high-quality, scratch-resistant, and block out 96.6% of glare. The frame is super lightweight Duroframe metallic alloy. And did I mention you’re getting a high-quality, expensive-looking pair of shades for around $20?

22. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Ever been tempted to take your phone in the ocean to catch those water pics? Now you can do that worry-free with this waterproof phone pouch. It’s IPX8 Certified waterproof protection up to 3.3 feet/ 1 meter underwater. It floats and has a detachable lanyard, so you can wear it hands-free. The touch screen window actually works well, so you can check texts or take photos easily while your phone is in the pouch. The back also has a window, so you still have access to the camera.

There are lots of phone pouches available, many of them cheaper. But I trust this brand more than others to protect our expensive phones.

23. Water Shoes

Something we weren’t expecting on our trip to Waikiki was the sharp rocks near the shore. Ouch!!! We were not prepared for this and I ended up with a couple of painful gashes on the bottom of my feet.

My husband and I are flying to Oahu again this year, and this time I’m making sure we pack some water shoes to wear in the ocean. It’s an inexpensive way to protect our feet, even if my vanity is against it (Will clear water shoes look less ridiculous with my bikini?)

Anyway, I’ll settle for a pair of these black aqua socks if it means my feet aren’t cut up and bleeding. They actually have a huge variety of style options and are available for both men and women.

If you’re looking for kids’ sizes, check out the Centipede Demon store’s selection.

24. Folding Beach Table

Make mealtime easier at the beach with this small folding beach table. It’s available in two different sizes It’s super lightweight aluminum, with the large table weighing a little over 2 pounds! The small is only 1.5 pounds. It comes with a carry bag, so it’s easy to store and transport.

Since it’s low to the ground, it will be stable on uneven surfaces like sand, making it perfect for your day at the beach.

25. Baby Beach Tent

If you want to keep your baby or toddler cool and protected from the UVA and UVB rays, this baby beach tent is pretty amazing. It’s an easy pop-up tent with anchors to secure it. Once you take it down, it easily folds back up and has its own carry bag to keep everything together.

The really neat thing about this play tent is the little pool at the bottom, so baby can splash in the water without having to go in the ocean. You can keep baby shaded from the sun and still let them enjoy the ocean water with their beach toys with this beach tent. I wish we had this when my girls were tiny!

26. Life Jacket

It is hard for me to relax at the beach when my kids are in the water. I’m an anxious person and constantly worry about rip tides and drowning. Having them all wear US Coast Guard-approved life vests helps calm my fears. This life vest will make sure they stay upright in the water.

It is specifically designed for kids in specific weight categories, so make sure you choose the right size for your child. While the kids may not be huge fans of not having full movement while wearing the life jacket, it’s a small price to pay for their safety.

27. Multipurpose Beach Tote Bag

I love this structured beach bag. It’s huge and can easily fit 8 beach towels, plus all your other beach gear. There are mesh pockets on the outside, which are great for goggles or other wet or sandy items. The durable material is easy to clean. When not at the beach, this bag is perfect for carrying groceries, camping, etc.

Wrapping-Up

A beach day can be relaxing and fun when you have the right beach accessories. It just takes some proper planning and shopping ahead of time. If you want to enjoy your beach days, make sure you get the right gear ahead of time, so you can spend all day relaxing and making memories with your family.

The post 27 Must-Have Beach Supplies for the Best Beach Trip! 2026 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.