BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More

Yes, you do in fact need a fast-drying towel poncho that’ll allow you to change out of your swimsuit before you leave the beach.

I am a contributor and former editor who has been writing for BuzzFeed Shopping since 2017, with a focus on beauty, travel, and practical products, and in addition to writing, am in the process of getting my master’s in speech-language pathology.

Promising review: "Great cart! We love the ease of use. It folds up pretty flat (except, of course, for the balloon wheels) and fits easily in the trunk. It can hold an impressive amount of gear! We have packed it with two large beach chairs, a small cooler, drinks, speakers, blankets, towels, a diaper bag, an umbrella, a small baby tent, a little table, flip-flops, drinks, etc., and we still have room for more. The balloon wheels are THE ONLY way to travel through deep, soft sand. Even when loaded down, it is very easy to tilt the cart back on the two big balloon wheels and roll through the sand. Other carts' wheels just bog down and get dragged through the sand or dig in and become immovable, making it a miserable trip. We live in Pensacola and visit the beach constantly, so we hope the cart holds up! So far, it seems sturdy and shows no signs of failing. Best beach cart we have owned so far!" —Jboogy Groove

Get it from Amazon for $249.99+ (available in two styles and three colors).

Promising review: "A must-have! This cover-up is perfect! The sleeve length is dreamy. Truly, I've been looking for a cover-up like this since my teens, and nothing was ever just right. If you're on the fence, just do it! Material feels nice. It is a smidge heavy to me, but it will be perfect for the evenings around the pool or on the beach." —Keirsten

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 25 styles). 

You can also use this in your room to keep valuables protected.

Promising review: "This is a must-have for vacations. We took it to Atlantis in the Bahamas. It worked perfectly. Held our phones, room keys, etc. while we were out enjoying the beach or pool. Just looped it to the beach chair or table. Highly recommended." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $37.95+ (available in five colors).

The lightweight microfiber fabric folds down compactly and includes a sewn-in handle for carrying or hanging up afterward. The brand also carries sizes for both kids and teens.

Promising review: "I LOVE my SunCube! Got the pretty teal. And it's so soft! I was iffy about microfiber, as sometimes that can feel like a shammy cloth. Ick. But not so with this robe. Feels just like a terry robe, inside and out, but better, because you're not driving home in a 'wet towel,' wet car seat. It's super absorbent but stays dry. Magic! And it is the perfect shape/size. You'd think something called Cube would look boxy and embarrassing to be seen in, but it's really not!! Can't recommend highly enough, especially for the price!" —Sus

Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in one size that fits up to 3X, according to reviewers, and in 10 styles).

Promising review: "I burn very easily, so I try to stay out of the sun or wear tons of sunblock. On those days when I still manage to get burned, this has been the absolute best for pain relief. I’ve used it for years. Instead of trying to drive around to see which store carries it, Amazon has made it easy. I’ve tried other things that are too greasy, sticky, or just don’t work. This stuff relieves the pain, smells nice, and it turns to tan rather quickly, skipping the peeling part. I swear by this stuff." —Danielle K. Schmidt

Promising review: "I got absolutely FRIED at the beach this past weekend and tried everything under the sun (literally) to provide some relief for my sunburn. I was in so much pain, and every over-the-counter aloe gel, lidocaine, and cold shower was not helping. I found this wrap on my TikTok and immediately bought it. As soon as I put this on my burn, I was immediately relieved of any burning or irritation. I am wearing four patches right now, and I plan on wearing them all day, every day, until this burn heals. I will say the only downside is that they slip off when the aloe has worn off! And it is a little bit hard to maneuver to cut since it is so slippery. But overall, I love this product and will be a forever customer!" —Nick

Promising review: "So, when I was buying a large beach umbrella, it was suggested that I buy the table. I was really on the fence about buying it, but I said to myself, it would be nice to have things off the ground. Well, we went to the beach with about eight of us, and everybody loved it and started to use it. I think it is such a smart concept, and I will eventually buy another one since I bought two umbrellas. Don't double-think, just get it." —CB

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in three colors).

This set includes the net, a carrying case, and three balls. You and your partner have three hits to bounce or spike the ball into the net on the ground. Once the ball bounces up, it's the next team's turn. Whoever lets the ball hit the ground loses that round. It's designed for four players (two vs. two) and is recommended for players 12 years and older.

Promising reviews: "The kids love this. Easy to move and take to the beach or play in the backyard. They are entertained by this for awhile. Easy to learn and great for any age." —Kristin Kelly

"This is a well-built game that uses high-quality plastic to hold it in shape. There is a groove along the bottom that prevents the feet from twisting and falling over. The three balls included are also of high quality. Overall, I am extremely impressed with the entire set. Everything feels of the highest quality." —TheProfessor101

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!

Just be aware that this is a 6-ounce spray bottle, so it would have to be packed in your checked bag! But not to fret! If you're only bringing a carry-on, you can still enjoy Sun Bum goodness thanks to this 3-ounce roll-on SPF 50!

Promising review: "Worked perfectly on my Disney World vacation. I’m very fair. This stood up to the heat and humidity of the hot Florida sun. I definitely would buy again for body sun protection." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (also available in SPF 15, 50, and 70).

This is paraben-, fragrance-, oxybenzone-, octinoxate-, silicone-, and aluminum-free. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free! 

Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman–owned brand that was created as a natural, nonwhite residue sunscreen for women of color. Be sure to also check out their BGS Kids SPF 50 Sunscreen!

Promising review: "I’ve tried many, many sunscreens that claim to blend and not leave a white cast when applied. This was so much better than I expected. A nickel-size amount goes a long way and blends into a smooth, dewy finish. I also didn’t notice a scent, so there were no worries of walking around smelling like sunscreen." —Target Customer

Get a 2-ounce tube from Amazon for $9.99 and a 3-ounce tube from Target for $15.99.

Check out my colleague's Black Girl Sunscreen review for more info!!

Promising review: "Absolutely love this beach bag! It’s lightweight, stylish, and surprisingly spacious. The mesh design is perfect for the beach because sand falls right through instead of getting trapped inside. I was able to fit towels, sunscreen, water bottles, and even a change of clothes with no problem. The inner pocket is super convenient for keeping my phone and keys safe. The material feels durable, and the color looks exactly like the pictures. Perfect for vacations, pool days, or even casual summer outings." —Raidel Gonzalez Cabrera

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six styles).

Promising review: "While I usually sit upright most of the time at the beach, having the option to be able to lay face down and read is so amazing. We spent six hours at the beach the other day, and I downloaded some of my TV from Netflix to catch up on, and used a large towel and draped it over the sides of the headrest, and had my own little personal theater in the fresh air! It's very light and easy to carry, and the sand comes off super easily. The cushion around the face opening makes it super comfortable as well!!! Love this thing! —The Slow Care Vertical

Get it from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in 13 colors and two versions). 

Promising review: "Got this blanket for the lake and it is great, sand comes right off. You can still fold it to fit in the bag that is attached so I do not lose the bag. Very durable, as I have had it for a couple of years, and the color has not faded. Functionally, I use it at the lake, beach, and just on the grass for a picnic." —William Williams

Get it from Amazon for $34.95 (available in six colors).

Promising review: "We bought these for our beach vacation, and I am so glad we did! They are pretty unnoticeable until it is time to add more sunscreen, then they turn a light purple color. They worked great and stayed on through swimming and sweating. It came with a ton, so you will definitely have enough to go around. A MUST-have for sun protection." —Mindy

Get a 16-pack from Amazon for $16.49 (also available in packs of 32 and 48).

Shadey Attachments is a UK-based small business that came up with this idea after seeing people struggle to view their phones while lounging in the sun. The shades attach to most mobile devices by suction and fans out to protect your face from UV rays. 

Promising review: "I ordered this last-minute for Christmas holiday, and I can honestly say, I now can’t use my phone in the sun without it! It took a second to get going and to realize you have to point it at the sun to put your face in the shade (also better for the wrinkles). It's literally the best thing ever for the sun." —Hayley Place

Get it from Shadey Attachments on Etsy for $19.40 (available in six colors). 

Promising review: "I was going back and forth between this and an off-brand to save a few dollars. Glad I got this, though, it really works great. My drink was cold hours later, even in 80 degrees at the beach." —roni

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in 19 colors).

Promising review: "Last-minute purchase for a trip to Jamaica. So happy I bought them. They always kept our towels on the chairs correctly. It was also easy to tell our chairs apart from others on the resort. Will definitely be recommending them to others." —Rose's Favorite Finds

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $11.99 (available in five colors).

Promising review: "I love how bright the suit is! I also like the fit of the suit, it's high-waisted but not too tight. The backside is a little cheeky but nothing wild. I also love how the straps are adjustable. I feel confident, and I love myself in the suit." —Cyndi Lundeberg

Get it from Amazon for $19.89+ (available in sizes S–XL and 24 colors).

Promising review: "I threw these in my bag last minute for a trip to a resort in Cancun, and we absolutely loved them! They take up no room, and I easily fit two pillows in my carry-on bag to have for the beach. Made the beach chairs so much more relaxing by being able to be comfortable. They blew up so easily. It just took four big breaths for each pillow. Loved that I could either use the straps or sand to hold them in place. I also like the idea of traveling with them in my carry-on in case we have a delayed flight, and I have enough time for an airport nap. I'll be bringing these on all future vacations." —Nikki Miller

Get it from Amazon for $36.95 (available in 21 colors).

The set comes with three collapsible pails, three shovels, and a mesh carrying bag.

Promising review: "These are great and fold down nicely for easy packing in our beach bag. They are an amazing quality and do not feel flimsy at all when open! Kids even collected shells in them and they held up wonderfully with the weight." —Ally

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in four color combos).

Promising review: "This is my go-to for sunscreen protection for my scalp. With the applicator tip it is easy to apply without getting all over my hair. I use to have to wear a hat all the time in the sun but this product offers me the protection I needed." —Anne

Shibumi is a small business based in North Carolina.

Promising review: "This was so much easier to set up than the umbrella that we've used for so many years. Plus the fact that I don't have to worry about it flying away. That was always an issue with our umbrella. The shade was wonderful. I purchased the classic, which was the bigger one. And my daughter, two granddaughters, and I had more than enough room for ourselves and all of our things on the beach. Thank you, Shibumi, for such a great product that is lightweight, easy to put up, and fun to enjoy!!! We would highly recommend this to anybody." —Linda H.

Get it from Shibumi for $215+ (available in two sizes and seven colors).

Promising review: "These are big enough for various-sized cups, as you can see in the photos. I like that they come stackable and in a little mesh carrying bag. I also like that it comes with four, so you can share it with friends. It isn’t easily knocked over, it’s tall enough to stay sturdy in the sand, and they’re not bulky to carry in your beach bag. Definitely recommend!" —Brittsface

Psst — a lot of reviewers swear by this for easy hands-free shade solutions for strollers and wheelchairs as well!

Promising review: "I got this small beach chair umbrella to take on vacation to Florida because the hotel does not provide umbrellas. I did not want to pay to rent a large one and have to carry it back and forth to the beach. This umbrella was perfect. It is lightweight, comes in a nylon carry bag with an over-the-shoulder strap. It fit into my large suitcase. It easily clipped onto the lounge chairs at the beach and withstood some fairly strong winds. It fit my needs for vacation, and I will continue to use it in my pool as I often like to shade my head and face." —Jane

Get it from Amazon for $15.17+ (available in two sizes and two colors).

Promising review: "I bought one for me and one for my dad after getting caught in a rip current at the beach. We feel much safer with the swim bubble. They are easy to blow up at the beach, easy to attach to the waist, very light and unobtrusive, and great to hold and float in the ocean. I feel much safer knowing I can grab onto it at any time and float if I get tired." —LD

Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in four colors and a version that comes with a dry bag for a phone, etc.).

This item is noted for children under the age of 3.

Promising review: "Found this after our first experience with our 9-month-old at the beach. He wanted to crawl straight in the beach so I wanted to find something that would keep him busy but yet be able to 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

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in nine styles).

Shakalo is a small biz based in San Diego!

Promising review: "We recently moved to a beach area, and we are constantly there. This item has changed our entire lives! It lasts decently long (depending on how much you use it), it smells super good (not at all like baby powder), and it's 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 taken care of. I will definitely be buying the refill and another baggie to have exclusively in the car." —Gabbs Uresti

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in a three-pack). 

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.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.