Summer Lovin' ~ Beach Bag Essentials

With the heat of summer just around the corner, it's time to get your beach bag organized. Here’s my list of beach bag essentials you’ll need when sitting poolside or on a sandy beach.

Carry a Cute, Yet Practical Beach Tote - When selecting a beach bag look for one that is big enough all your beach items. I love the chic clear vinyl tote by Trina Turk – it’s waterproof, easy to clean and allows you to view what’s inside. I picked mine up at Bloomingdales - Trina Turk stores are sold out of this bag already!

Pack a Generous Beach Towel – A big, soft towel should be at the top of your beach bag essentials list. Amy Butler is offering several bright and vibrant options this summer with unique seashell green, orange peacock and floral reef designs. Any would make a great companion at the beach or pool. Available at Bed Bath & Beyond. 

Throw on a Versatile Cover Up - The right cover up will allow you to transition seamlessly from beach to dinner with friends. The Elina cotton tunic by Lilly Pulitzer gets my vote for it’s flexibility – wear over swim, skinny pants or jeans. Also, it’s colorful, bright pattern is perfect for summer!

Slip on Some Chic Summer Sandals – A fun flip-flop sandal is a must. Lilly Puliter’s McKim pearlized patent sandal in "shorely blue" is one of my favorites. Love the signature metal o-ring detail. I will take them in black too, please.

Protect Your Eyes - No beach bag should be without a pair of sunglasses. I am smitten with Kate Spade’s "Ally" Petite Aviator Sunglasses. Available at Bloomingdales. And be sure to protect your eyewear with a "SPECS" needlepoint glasses case by Jonathan Adler.

Keep Your Hat On – Shade your face from the sun with a hat like the darling "Malibu" Terry Hat from Juicy Couture. Available at Nordstroms.

Toss in Some Sunscreen - Sunscreen is a must for every beach bag. Don’t mess around with sunscreens that include lots of harmful chemicals. My favorite is Lavera's Sun 40SPF because it is an USDA-certified organic sunscreen free from ingredients we should all avoid, including fragrances, gluten and parabens. Wouldn't want it any other way.

Keep Hydrated – Fill up a reusable water bottle to pack in your beach bag. I love the Dragonfly water bottle by EarthLust. It is handmade from high quality #304 food grade stainless steel and non-toxic paints - a stylish way to reduce the use of plastic water bottles. Available at Paper Source.

Now, grab your Elle Décor, House Beautiful or book of the week and head out for a day at the beach. What's a must in your beach bag?

*not a sponsored post