Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

Make sure to have at least one maillot on hand, to ensure that you’ll look incredible laying in the sun, but can hit the water in a more active capacity on a whim as well. Bonus points for one that’s chic enough to act as a bodysuit, like this one! 

Sunglasses are a must for a beach vacation. Whether you’re watching the waves, reading a book on the sand, or wandering through town, make sure to protect your eyes with the chicest accessory around.

For a true dramatic entrance, no matter where you’re headed, make sure to pack an ultra-wide-brimmed hat that will shade your face and, of course, make you feel like a 1950s movie star.

Every beach vacation requires a great pair of denim shorts, for casual days and bikini toppers alike. Opt for a pair of vintage (or vintage-inspired) for that truly lived-in look.

For those perfect beach slides that are just as perfect for long walks through town, Birkenstocks are your new best friend. Besides, not only are they a huge trend of the moment, but they’re also insanely comfortable.

Floral midi dresses are a true must-have for beach vacations when you’re looking for something that will make you feel pulled together, even if you’re just styling your after-hours look with a pair of Birkenstocks slides.

The French beach-goers know it best: there’s nothing quite like a classic oversized straw market bag, on and off the beach. The bigger, the better when it comes to your throw-everything-in-and-go beach vacation special.

The sun can be incredibly drying and, besides, you want that radiating glow when you’re on a beach vacation, right? Make sure to have Virgin’s botanical body oil on hand at all times, moisturizing your skin as well as helping you to protect against sun damage. What’s more? It smells divine.

When in doubt, style it with a white tee. Denim shorts by day, midi skirt by night, over a bathing suit, or tucked into a pair of jeans. It’s important to have this true wardrobe essential on hand at all times, and this super-soft topper is one of the best out there.

Once you try a French bikini, you will never go back. With over-the-shoulder straps, it offers more support than a halter for those with larger chests, but isn’t too structured and overwhelming like an underwire. Wear it alone on the beach, or peeking out from a button-down or tank and shorts while walking around.

Dress up your look for day or night with colorful enamel jewelry, like Bea Bongiasca’s bright collection. With whimsical shapes and mis-matched rainbow tones, a simple pair of hoops packs quite a punch.

For all those cool sodas, fresh snacks, and—yes—frigid six-packs you’re hoping to save from the heat of the beach, a cooler is essential. And with these colorful, stylish coolers, you can sling it over your shoulder like a tote and you’re good to go.

Instead of keeping your tunes to yourself by way of a pair of headphones, share them with the group while you’re taking in the sun or splashing around in the ocean. Make sure, however, that you shop for a waterproof speaker to avoid any mid-dance party breakdowns.

A crisp, classic button-down is another multi-duty packing essential for any beach vacation. Tie it up over a maillot, let your French bikini top peek through with an open neckline, or tuck it into a denim mini for a walk around the town.

Ok, yes, sometimes you get overzealous in the sun and you don’t want to live to regret it. If you’re feeling a little too hot and tender, make sure you have some after-sun cooling gel or aloe on hand to make sure you don’t crisp up before nightfall.