7 Essentials for the Perfect Beach Day

Hit the sand in style with our editors' favorite must-haves

Arizona Essentials EVA sandals in Faded Lime ($50), BirkenstockThe classic Arizona silhouette gets a sand-and-sea-friendly makeover. Fashioned with rubber-like ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), these slip-ons are shock-absorbing, waterproof, washable, and supremely lightweight, perfect for all summer adventures. Bonus: They’re cute enough to wear to sunset cocktails or dinner by the water. —Abigail Duffy, web editor

Sunshine Rain Citron large bag ($190) and Sunshine Rain Citron clutch ($135), Squeeze de Citron

Handwoven by artisans from 100 percent recycled PVC plastic, this is my go-to bag combo for beach days. Don’t fret if you find your bags are full of sand after a long day of fun—you can literally hose these beauties down. After drying, you’ve got the ideal tote to carry your green market wares and the perfect clutch for brunch with your besties. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, contributing editor

Les Leopards beach towel ($1,325), Hermès

This summer, indulge in luxurious lounging against the striking backdrop of Hermès’ Les Leopards print. From seaside soirees to solitary sojourns, this fabulous and functional large terry cloth beach towel will have you covered. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, managing editor

Roadie 48 wheeled cooler ($450), Yeti

Take the full bar and snack set to the beach in this permafrost-insulated mobile cooler, which is tall enough to hold bottles of wine and 2-liter sodas and grooved to accommodate accessories like Yeti’s dry goods basket and cup caddies. Don’t let the sleek design fool you—it’s rugged enough for treks through sand, rocks, and other imposing terrain. —Paul Rubio, travel editor

Gigi sarong ($135), Lemlem

Wear it as a scarf or a sarong, or use it as a beach throw: The Gigi, in pink and orange herringbone, is as versatile as it is adorable. Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede founded Lemlem to support African artisans, and the brand’s resort wear is made in Africa using traditional weaving techniques. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editor in chief

The Beach playing card set ($25), Gray Malin

Sand and sun are great and all, but one of my favorite parts of a beach day is unapologetic play. Since volleyball isn’t my thing, I always pack a deck of cards so I can break up my lounging with endless rounds of Rummy and Setback. This beautiful set by photographer Gray Malin is the perfect complement to sandy surrounds. —Mary Murray, executive editor