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Won’t you please shine down on meeeeee...and my new cute Aerie bathing suit.

I'm a Shopping editor (and mom to two toddlers) who covers a variety of topics, including helpful parenting/kids products, exciting gadgets, cozy products (think: home goods and fashions that'll make you want to snuggle), and any magical Disney item that crosses my path.

While, historically, I'm not a big fan of summer, the hot sun, all that jazz, after the really rough winter New York had, even *I* am appreciating the return of our old pal Mr. Golden Sun. I'm celebrating his comeback by telling you about some must-haves for Sunny Season — I'm talkin' a new Coola sunscreen collab with Volupsa (it smells UNREAL), a cute Stanley soft cooler that comes in a bunch of colors, a waterproof Adirondack chair from Step2, must-have outdoor speakers, and so much more!

Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! 

Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned Black woman and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin. Like you're not wearing anything at all." —Martina

Get it from Amazon for $14 (also available in a two-pack).

I tried this at the beach for the first time recently, and it was fantastic. I'm very pale and burn easily, so I'm always hesitant to test a new sunscreen. This one smelled incredible (a bonus), went on easily, didn't feel greasy, and even after sitting in direct sun for an hour, I didn't get burnt. I reapplied it after the 60-minute mark (I started to feel toasty) and hung around for about another 45 minutes — no redness! 

Promising review: "Lightweight and gives great protection." —Kathleen Jarboe

I love this product! I've been using it for years, and it remains one of my favorites! A little goes a long way. It leaves the perfect amount of shimmer on my skin, and I love that it adds a bit of extra SPF to my beauty routine.

Promising review: "The best powder sunscreen to keep in your purse and have to reapply on the go!! Works well over makeup. I use it when I take walks at work, and it does not mess my makeup up, and it does not make me feel greasy since it is powder!" —Krystal Turnwald

Get it from Amazon for $35 (available in four shades).

It doesn't contain any parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or SLS.

Promising review: "I bought this before I went on a cruise. We stayed in a hotel for a few days prior, and I got a little too toasty in the sun. Used this and it helped dull down the burn feeling and helped heal my skin within days. By the time of the cruise, I was fine with no pain from the burn. Continued to use it daily while on vacation. Works like a charm. Love it! Smells great too! It's not a loud smell or anything. Would totally recommend and buy again!" —Victoria Ramsey

Promising review: "I’m really impressed with this product. It’s very easy to apply, the same way you would any lotion. It absorbs quickly into the skin. There is a very light, pleasant fragrance. I had no issues with the application or streaks. The tanning lotion gives a nice bronze appearance to the skin, which is what I was looking for. The sunless tanner allows you to continue to build the color until you reach your desired look." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $10.47 (available in Fair to Medium, Medium to Deep, and several sizes) 

Promising review: "I'm not one to write reviews; however, this small cooler/lunch box deserves one. It's totally worth paying the extra money. I filled it up with sushi rolls for a concert, and it stayed very cold for over 10 hours. The cold packs I placed inside were still frozen after all that time! It is also roomy, a nice soft material, and very stylish, and the shoulder strap option makes it more functional. I love it!" —Leticia Hampton

Get it from Amazon for $75+ (available in 22 colors and three sizes).

Promising review: "The Yeti Roadie has become my go-to cooler for day trips and smaller outings. The compact size makes it incredibly portable, and the shoulder strap is a game changer for easy transport — no more awkward carrying with both hands. What impressed me most was how well it maintains temperature. Living in Texas, I put it to the ultimate test during our brutal summer heat. Even after hours in a hot car, the ice and gel packs stayed remarkably cold. This cooler doesn't mess around when it comes to insulation. The thoughtful design really shows in the details. Wine bottles fit perfectly when laid on their side, making it ideal for picnics or beach days. Yes, it's pricier than basic coolers, but the performance justifies every penny. When you need reliable cooling in extreme conditions and want something easy to transport, the Roadie delivers on all fronts.  —Jim Cahill

Get it from Amazon for $200 (available in 17 colors).

Promising review: "I love that it’s cheeky and high cut. I am flat-chested, so I can’t comment on the support, but it works for me." —Amber

Get it from Aerie for $38.46 (originally $54.95; available in women's sizes 2XS–2XL and three styles).

These sunglasses feature anti-glare lenses that block 99.99% of UVA and UVB radiation.

Promising review: "This is actually the first time I decided to buy sunglasses online without trying them first, but honestly, it was a great decision. They look exactly like in the pictures and fit perfectly. Worked great during my trip to Puerto Rico, so def would buy again." —Marta

Get them from Amazon for $15.97+ (available in 13 styles).

Promising review: "Got these as house sandals to keep my feet off the tile floor. It feels like walking around on one of those kitchen mats; I love them. So much easier (and less hot) than putting on sneakers. I've gotten them muddy in the yard, and they wash up nicely. They fit my wide feet and high arches great. Never did I expect to buy sandals online and have them fit and be comfortable, but here we are" —BlueSkies

Get them from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–11 and dozens of colors). 

I recently upgraded myself to a pair of these Birks (though I *also* picked up a new pair of my beloved EVA Birkenstocks that are ultra-lightweight for running around in the yard with my kids). I wasn't sure how I'd feel about the sturdier soles, but so far, I love them! I like that I can wear them with dresses, leggings, or jeans (what else is there to wear, anyways?), and really adore the ballerina-pink color with the gold buckles. As a mom, I need practical shoe options, but like that these are *also* pretty!

Promising review: "Love it. Beautiful color. The gold buckle really sets it off. Very soft and comfortable." —Karen B.

Get them from Birkenstock for $129.95 (also available in mocha and women's sizes 4–11.5)

This device uses scent-free repellent mats containing naturally occurring plant-based repellents to repel mosquitoes.

Promising review: "I love Thermacell patio shield! Being able to enjoy the outside without being harassed by mosquitoes or other bugs. I noticed a difference in my backyard immediately, especially since I have standing water in certain spots when standing outside with my dogs. I have also used this at my kickball games at night while waiting and there were no mosquitoes bites. Easy to refill and easy to work for bug defense outside." —Raleigh919

Get it from Amazon for $21.49+ (available in five colors).

Promising review: "I have had this pool for about two weeks now and I LOVE IT!!! It was simple to set up. I got a little electric pump, and it took about 10 minutes to inflate, then about half an hour to fill with water. Pay attention to making sure you set it up on level ground, or it will be lopsided. It is probably good for two adults, maybe one adult and a couple of kids. The built-in seat and headrest are really quite comfy and relaxing. I will definitely buy this same pool again if it springs a leak and can't be fixed. If I could give it 10 stars, I would. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!!" —kathryn j.

Promising review: "This is great! We got the large, and it is absolutely perfect for our 95-pound German Shepherd! I will be ordering another large one soon for our Husky! I absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a chew-proof bed! We are really looking forward to keeping our boys cool! Most beds we buy end up getting off and onto the floor because they get hot at night. As of this moment, my GSD has not gotten off the bed. He is fast asleep! 🥰" —Deborah Ulloa

Get it from Amazon for $26.38+ (available in two colors and four sizes).

The corners of the sails have D rings so you can attach them to whatever you'd like with your choice of hardware or rope.

Promising review: "Purchased this to increase privacy and provide some shade. The color is vibrant, hasn't faded, and the loops are well-stitched. The sail has also fared well in winds, thunderstorms, monsoon rain, and the brutal heat of Vegas. Shade is wonderful, and one can definitely feel the temperature difference from full sun to being under this sail. The look and feel complements our pool area and will certainly be purchasing an additional one." —VHC Media

Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in 78 sizes and eight colors/patterns).

Pick up a sturdy, rust-resistant curtain rod while you're at it! 

Promising review: "These curtains are AMAZING! Beautiful and elegant. Hangs beautifully, very light blocking, keeps rain out of our Tiki bar, we can sit out there in the rain, and keeps the heat in on a cool fall evening when we have the fireplace on!" —Sara Bushendorf

Get it from Amazon for $9.47+ (available in 16 sizes and 16 colors). 

Woodland Steelworks is a small business based in Woodstock, Georgia, that hand-selects the pieces of wood they use to make quality furniture and decor.

Promising review: "Love it!!! We needed a portable table for our adult beverages while sitting by the firepit or when playing cornhole and we found it!!! This beer table even has a bottle opener attached to the side! Well crafted and totally exceeded our expectations. Shipped quickly and packaged well." —dawn ricci

Get it from Woodland Steelworks on Etsy for $63+ (available in three finishes with six engraving options to choose from).

Promising review: "What a cool use of space and it's a great match for our outdoor set. I store sunscreen and other items when not entertaining. There’s a reason thousands of people purchase this. It’s a functional, cool piece." —Mamma 4

Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in two styles).

Promising review: "Used this for the first time today at the park. The ground was still wet from last night’s rain, but the blanket kept all dampness out. It’s a big blanket, and two adults, two children, and a large picnic basket fit easily on it with room to spare. It was easy to shake clean and fold right back up into its little bag (and fit into the bottom of our mostly empty picnic basket). Can’t wait to try it at the beach." —Lauren

Get it from Amazon for $25.37+ (available in eight sizes and seven designs). 

Promising review: "Chair was super easy to set up (done in about 10–15 minutes with one person). The design is quite modern — the curve of the chair was a nice contrast to a standard flat bed lounge chair, and was perfect for cozying up with a book next to the pool. It's still pretty cold where we are, so I haven't had a chance to test it out on the pool sun shelf yet, but so far it's been great just for use in the yard. I like that the chair's sides are solid and sturdy - my toddlers were both trying to sit in it, and I didn't have to worry about them falling out. Will definitely get another one to have a matching set." —Chang Liu

Promising review: "This is really a nice wooden chaise lounge chair. It took me about 30 minutes to assemble, and it came with everything needed. All the bolts and screws were there. The assembly mainly just requires putting the four legs and braces on. Holes are predrilled, and if needed, instructions are included. The cushion is also of nice quality. I will be buying another one. Good height. Not hard to get out of, and the back has six seating positions, all the way down. Great value and great chair." —Belle

Get it from Amazon for $315.77+ (available in 20 styles). 

Promising review: "These are so fun! I love taking them to the lake. They are a bit slippery, which can make shuffling hard, but worth it for the waterproof aspect. They are pretty durable!" —Abby Marsing

Promising review: "These playing cards are a HIT. I take them out with me for social events, when visiting people, and even to the beach. We just play and play. So you can get them wet, and they won't get soggy and tear, just become a little hard to shuffle. It is so cool that they look like you can see right through them, but you can't." —Tabitha

Get them from Amazon for $5.99 and check out this waterproof version of the ever-popular Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game while you're at it!

Promising review: "I cannot understand how something this size can possibly produce such amazing, loud, clear sound and bass. It is a truly incredible device that I intend to use daily because it works well outside, too. Do not be deceived by the affordable price. It is significantly better than a $400 JBL. The battery life is great, too. If I want it loud, half the volume is all you need. If I want to blast my neighbors, 80%. I haven’t needed to push it further. The bass-up function is awesome. You’re gonna love this thing." —Rob and Piper

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in three colors).

Promising review: "My husband and I picked out a similar set at a big box store that cost $200 more, but it was out of stock, so I decided to shop around, and I am SO GLAD I did. This arrived in two days and was well packaged. I quickly unpacked it and separated all the parts into groups to make sure everything was there. I wasn’t missing any pieces. Once it was together and everything was tightened, it felt very sturdy and well-made. It fits our deck perfectly. I know some of the reviews mentioned it was small, and it is, but that’s what we wanted. Neither of us is particularly tall, and our deck is only 10x11, so we didn’t want something huge. It’s perfect for our space. It’s lightweight, so I like that we can move it easily from the deck to the front porch or into the yard. We just put it together last night, so we will have to see about longevity, but for now, we are very happy." —Brooke A. Bailey

Get it from Amazon for $199.99 (available in six color combinations).

Promising review: "The frame is lightweight and easy to move. The hammock itself is made of thick but breathable cotton and is very comfortable. The price is great, too. Overall, very happy with this purchase." —KD324

Get it from Amazon for $71.81+ (available in six styles).

Promising review: "A cute, sturdy little bistro set at a great price. Open the package, and it's ready to go. The peacock blue is a beautiful color and a welcome addition for the garden." —Amazon Customer

"AMAZING!! Arrived well packaged and FULLY ASSEMBLED! So, so easy. And they look great — I am going for a Jardin du Luxembourg look for a Paris party, and they are perfect (the real ones are $1000 per chair!)." —Stephanie

Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in 19 colors).

This "little guy" is Made In's first heat-sourced cooking tool! It's made from a mix of carbon and stainless steel (so it's light enough to transport) and has space for the Made In Griddle (which I personally own and love), so you can make tons of different dishes on it, not just grilled items! It has an adjustable fire bed that adds extra heat control, and its smaller size makes it great for anyone who has always wanted a grill but doesn't have a lot of outdoor space.

Promising review: "Yes, I absolutely love my Made In Grill. Its solid construction and quality craftsmanship have made this a winner. And the fact that I can effortlessly swap the grate for the griddle is a real game changer. Adds a whole new dimension. I love me some smash burgers." —Daniel W.

Lillie's of Charleston is a Black- and family-owned small business based in South Carolina that bottles and sells their award-winning sauces and spice mixes inspired by Sunday dinners at Aunt Lillie's house. 

Promising reviews: "Delectable. Someone bought this for us as a gift a few months ago. I used it for the first time as a rub on some chicken drumsticks and everyone LOVED it. So I used it a few more times to keep some drumsticks in the fridge as a staple. We ran out so fast, so I HAD to buy another one." —Charisma

"This is THE BEST BBQ sauce I've ever tasted. Warning: If you don't like spicy, you won't like this! But I LOVE THIS 🤩 AND GIVE IT 100,000/10 stars! It's smoky, it's spicy, it's sweet. I add this stuff to literally everything. Sandwiches, Persian food, pizza, pasta, you name it, it's good!" —T.Krug

Get it from Amazon for $11.62 (available in hot or mild). 

Promising review: "Was looking for something to keep us busy and cool in our backyard. This is incredible, and my son (20 months) absolutely loves it! There's so much to keep us busy, from the ball toss to the misting slide. I even lay on it to sunbathe, and it was comfortable, lol. Really excited to use this for the summer and have people over to enjoy it with us!! If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign to buy! ☀️" —Ashley Edberg

I've had this water table for about four years now, and it's been a hit with every tyke that comes to play. At the start of the season, we give it a quick power wash, and it's good to go! We've admittedly lost a bunch of the original toys that come with it, but most kids are just happy to scoop water in and out with a shovel or bucket. I often give my kids some toy cars to "wash" — that usually keeps them busy for about an hour! Definitely a summer must-have.

Promising review: "Purchased for my grandson who loves to play in the water. Perfect height for a 2-year-old. Easy to put together, sturdy and lots of different things to do. The top part is like a waterfall, it has lots of little holes for the water to come through." —dd

This item is intended for children under 3, and please never leave your baby unattended in it, as there *is* a shallow body of water present.

Promising review: "Found this after our first experience with our 9-month-old at the beach. He wanted to crawl straight to the beach, so I wanted to find something that would keep him busy while still letting him play with sand and water! This was perfect!!!! He loved it, and it kept him occupied all day, on and off. We didn’t use the shade since we had a canopy up already for shade, so not sure how strong the shade part of it is." —Brittany

Shakalo is a San Diego–based small business that started figuring out how to help people, especially parents, remove sand before leaving the beach. The soft fabric pouch allows the powder to remove the sand without scattering everywhere.

Promising review: "We recently moved to a beach area, and we are constantly there. This item has changed our entire lives! It lasts a decent amount of time (depending on how much you use), smells super good (not at all like baby powder), and is super effective. It has saved me from vacuuming my car at least 1x–2x a week. I even use it on my dogs' paws and bellies to make sure they're well cared for. I will definitely be buying the refill and another bag to have exclusively in the car." —Gabbs Uresti

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two sizes).

Reviewers have also attached it to their little one's cribs and car seats for extra airflow. I personally used one on my stroller during my son's first summer (he was about three months old at the time) and bought a second one when my daughter was born. Now, both kids enjoy a nice lil' breeze when we walk in warmer weather.

Promising review: "This little fan has changed my life! I bought this for Disney, and now I use it all the time. I had gotten this fan for the stroller and four little handheld fans. If I had the space, I would have bought four of these. It is lightweight, easily attached, has flexible legs, a powerful fan, and Bluetooth, too! I set it up as a phone stand for the kids while they waited for food, cooled everyone off all day, and charged it at the end of the day. We used it off and on daily, not continuously. Now I use it in my girls' room when it’s stuffy and set a timer if needed. It has speed controls, too. It’s a great product, 100% recommend to every parent or anyone needing a portable fan." —Robert

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in four colors).

Promising review: "Assembly is so easy, just clean, snap on the couple of pieces, and it's ready to go! Load it with Ice and your margarita base, choose how many drinks you want it to shave ice for, and it does its thing. I was skeptical because it looks just like a regular blender, but the mechanism up top shaves ice into the blender, then blends the ice and mixture together into a smooth, restaurant-quality cocktail. This was worth every penny! I love it so much!" —Philip Lang

I have this machine and can assure you it is actually worth every penny. IDK about you, but where I live in New York, it's gotten VERY expensive to go out for ice cream (or buy it to bring home). Now that I have a family of four, it just makes more sense to find a way to make our favorite flavors at home. Setting the Ninja Swirl up was very simple; the "hardest" part is just remembering to freeze the "base" of your ice creams ahead of time so they're ready to be "spun" when you want to eat them. I've seen all over TikTok how people "meal prep" their ice creams for the week and just pop 'em in the freezer (incredible). Anyways, the soft serve feature is incredible! With our first attempt, we tried making chocolate soft serve ice cream and were so surprised by how it tasted just like a Wendy's Frosty. My kids also had a blast making and eating their homemade treats.

Promising review: "The Ninja Swirl has seriously leveled up dessert at our house. We’ve made soft serve, milkshakes, sorbet — you name it. The texture is smooth, the process is easy, and the cleanup isn’t bad either. I was a little skeptical at first, but it’s legit. We’ve started making our own 'copycat' DQ Blizzards and frozen yogurt bowls, and it’s actually saving us money. You can load it up with toppings or keep it simple with just fruit, and it handles both like a champ. I’d highly recommend grabbing the extra containers too (we got a couple more) — it’s super convenient to prep a few different flavors and just swap them in whenever. If you’re even halfway into ice cream or frozen treats, you won’t regret buying this. It’s a hit in our house." —Toadchaser Fishing

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.