Everything Moms Need for a Successful Day at the Beach

This cooler, which folds flat for easy storage, has five-layer insulation, and enough space for 30 cans (27 liters). It can keep things cold for up to 12 hours, and it’s leakproof and tear-resistant, with reinforced straps. So sling it over your shoulder and you’ll have the perfect beach picnic coming right up. ($34.99, Amazon)

Get ready to live in this all summer long. These lightweight, 100% cotton button-downs are perfect for the beach or pool, or even just wearing as an extra layer when you’re out and about. They come in four colors and sizes XS–3X. ($28, Target)

We actually used this as an indoor playpen long before ever bringing it to the beach. Once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly easy to just pop open and fold shut, and we love how it’s basically one giant piece (plus a play mat for the floor, sun canopy, and the tools you’ll use to anchor it in actual sand). You might want one to get dirty at the beach all summer, and one for indoors while you’re lucky enough to have a little one who can still be contained. Note that the play mat element is sold separately. ($159.99, Amazon)

A washable waterproof tote that sits flat on the ground and has plenty of room for everything you need at the beach? We’re adding to cart immediately. This XL Bogg Bag isn’t cheap, but it’s a cult favorite for a reason. And it’s available in 41 different colors and prints. ($90+, Amazon)

We think of this stuff as halfway between your regular sunscreen and a tinted foundation. While it only comes in one shade, it has a matte finish that should work well either pre-makeup or as your only layer for a day at the beach. Its mineral formula SPF 40 will protect your face, while the slight touch of color will leave you feeling just a bit more put together. For SPF 40 with no tint at all, we also like Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen, which goes on completely clear. ($40, Supergoop)

It took us one or two summers to realize that the only acceptable way to tote sand toys around is in a mesh bag that lets all the excess sand drain out as you trek back to the parking lot. This toy set with an included bag is easy to throw in the trunk as you rush out the door, and easy to pack up at the end of the day. It won’t prevent all sand from coming home with you, but it’ll certainly get you close. ($18.74, Amazon)

It doesn’t get much more classic than this. This Andie one-piece with spaghetti straps comes in 12 different colors and patterns, and sizes XS–XXXL. Go for basic black, cherry red, ribbed white, or a colorful abstract floral design—they’re all beautiful and beach-ready.($112+, Andie)

We love A&F’s Curve Love collection for denim, and this Curve Love bikini is another great pick, specifically designed for cup sizes D–F. Depending on the look you’re going for, you can mix and match with a couple of different tops. ($55, Abercrombie & Fitch)($40, Abercrombie & Fitch)

Nothing gets kids moving quite like trying to avoid their parents’ sunscreen-covered fingers. Make it less of a struggle and more of a game with these brushes specially designed for applying sunscreen. Each set comes with two: one for the face and one for the body. Before long, your kids may even be begging to put on their sunscreen themselves. ($24.95, Amazon)

Nothing like a plastic bottle that’s been heating up in the sun all day to put you off drinking water altogether. These insulated water bottles are pricey, but they’ll last a long time, and work just as well for long school days as they do for hot beach adventures. They hold 18 ounces of liquid at a time, and should keep it nice and cold without sweating in your bag. At the end of the day, you can just throw them in the dishwasher. Rinse and repeat. ($30, Amazon)

Obviously, packing lots of snacks is a must. Keep the kids interested with these fun snack containers that spin around when you hit the button in the middle. Pack them with a variety of little things like Goldfish, blueberries, M&Ms, etc., and let the kids play snack roulette all afternoon long. ($29.95, Amazon)

There’s a reason thousands of people have given this beach chair five-star reviews. Actually, lots of reasons—from the towel bar, storage pouch, cupholder, and insulated cooler to the five possible seat-back positions, there’s a lot to love here. Plus, when you’re ready to go, you can just throw it on your back and head for the car. ($64.53+, Amazon)

Our favorite easy summer shoe also happens to be perfect for the beach. When you need something as quick and easy as a pair of flip-flops, but also don’t want to go without foot support for an entire day, these are ideal—and they look cute, too. You’ll find they’re super comfortable even for a long walk around town. ($38, Fit Flop)