I don’t know about you, but I love the summer. Just thinking about this magnificent season can conjure a thousand precious memories. Memories like; being a kid, darting around through the neighborhood on your bike during the day, and staying up all night catching lightning bugs and sharing stories with your friends around the campfire at night. Memories like going on your first date with Jeanie Diamante from second-period biology. You’ll never forget the way her long black hair fell into tight little pin curls on her shoulders as she leaned forward to kiss you in the shadow of an excessively neon-lit movie theater. You’ll never forget how long it took you to understand what that kind of lean meant, and how quickly you ejected a piece of spearmint chewing gum from your mouth after you finally realized what was going on. This was a pause that stands tall in your memory, as one in which you overcame great fear. This is also a pause that Jeanie would later describe as excruciating to you and a couple of her friends. But for you, it’s become one of those perfect childhood memories. Something soft and sweet and a little embarrassing. Something that you look back on to remind yourself how much has changed since you were a kid. Yes, the summer can hold space for all of these shades in a person’s life, but there is one activity that remains head and shoulders as the most quintessential for any summer vacation. I’m talking about a beach day! There is nothing like going to the beach on a hot summer’s day. The surf, the sand, the heat of the sun. The beach is one of those places where no matter what age you are, you’re sure to have a blast with your family and friends! Now, packing for a perfect day can be pretty tough. But don’t worry! Because I made this handy guide of some of the crucial elements you need for an amazing time having fun under the sun!

Back To Basics!

First things, first. Let’s start with our basics. These are the bare minimum accessories and accouterments that you’ll want with you when you head over to the shore. The first thing you’ll want in your bag is a blanket. Try to find the biggest one you can get, as that means more people will be able to sit on it. Now obviously since this is in the sand try to remember to grab a blanket that you don’t care too much about, and don’t mind getting a little dirty! Next, is the cooler. If you’re making your way out to the beach then you’re planning to be there for a substantial period. Making sure you have enough drinks and snacks to keep you and your group comfortable is crucial to having a good time. Grabbing a big cooler is well worth the investment for anyone who’s looking to throw a bit of a party down by the beach. And remember, this cooler doesn’t have to be anything fancy! A styrofoam or recycled cooler from the grocery store works just as well as anything else! 

Getting a Little Fancy!

So now that we’ve established some of the basic necessities you’ll need for a fun day out. Let’s look over some other options that while may not be strictly necessary, elevate any beach day into something magical. My first suggestion along these lines is to make sure you bring a speaker! What else is more fun than hanging with all your friends bumping tunes? Turn your beach day into a beach party! By kicking out the jams, and letting yourself get a little rowdy! My next suggestion is to make sure you have a couple of pool floats. These amazing floaties are big enough for us adults, and allow us to lounge out in the water. This is amazing when all you want to do is have a relaxing day in the water working on your tan. Now, onto my last suggestion, and this is one for a family or a group of friends. Who is looking to spend a long day along the coast. Bring a tent and a grill! A tent is amazing for the beach as it offers shade when it gets too hot and shelter when it gets too cold. You can also use it as a little bit of privacy if you’re having a more romantic day out. The grill however is for everyone! If you’re staying out on the shoreline all day, you’re going to need to eat. Save some money, and have some fun by bringing a couple of pieces of meat and having yourself a barbeque!

Ultimately anyway you get to the beach, will make for a great day. But if you’re looking for ways to spend all day on the coast, while having the most fun possible. Then please consider these suggestions, as they’re sure to make any day into a memory!