Whether you are going on a beach-y vacation or taking a day trip to a local spot, we know you want to make the most of your time on the sand, which is why we put together this checklist for you which has everything you need to keep yourself sitting pretty under the sun.

1.  Sun Protection- Yes, you want a tan, but you also don’t want to go home a red lobster. Use only oil free sunscreen on your face to avoid clogging pores, and don’t forget to protect those precious lips.

[From Left to Right] Sephora’s Sun Safety Kit $22.50, Nia24 $45, Carol’s Daughter Gelee de Soleil Browning Oil $14, Korres’ Watermelon Face $28, Ole Henrikson Fresh Lips $15.

Of course the best way to protect your lovely epidermis is with a Wide-Brimmed hat or a Fedora. We don’t want your pretty faces getting sun-spots or wrinkles!  Here are some cuties:

Straw Fedora (This one is from Forever 21, but they’re all sold out), Michael Stars Shaded Beauty Straw Hat $64.

2. Tunes– Be the envy of all beach-goers with these stylish portable speakers. Don’t forget your ipod or MP3 player.

MUJI cardboard speakers $38, MoMA Store compact speakers $25, Ellula inflatable speakers $15, I.dear Speakers $36.

3.  Fun sunglasses with UV protection.

[Clockwise from Top Left] Classic Ray-Ban Aviators $129, Ray Ban Oversized “Cat-Eye” Sunglasses $129, Marc Jacobs Vintage Oversized Sunglasses $98, Heritage 1981 Square Sunglasses $5.80.

4.  Oversized Towels are best for laying out and possibly wrapping up in if the wind starts blowing.

Beach Blanket with Foam Pillow $27.99, Retro Girl Oversized Towel $19.99.

5.  A Good Read– Trashy romance novels will do, but here are some other books I’ve been hearing great things about:

Miranda’s Big Mistake by Jill Mansell, Dune Road by Jane Green, and The Blue Bistro by Elin Hinderbrand.

6. A Comfy Long Sleeve Throw– Because no one looks good in goose bumps. Be prepared for anything the weather gods throw you with a simple wrap like one of these:

Splendid White Rugby Striped Hoodie $119, James Perse Open Drape Cardigan $155.

8. Fun Beach Jewelry- Don’t even think about bringing your nice stuff, leave it at home and pick up some fun cheapies like these for the beach. If you live in Los Angeles, Santee Alley is a great place to find stuff like this.

All from Forever 21 or Santee Alley.

9. Water- I like to bring a cooler with ice to keep mine cool. If you freeze some wet washcloths the night before, you can stick ‘em in there too for a cool mid-day refresher.

10. Beach Toys!!! You’re on vacation, time to play. Volleyball, smashball, anything with a ball. Boogie Boards, Surf Boards, cards, kites…It’s all good.

[Clockwise from Top Left] Kite $19.99, Smashball Set $8.17, Pink Boogie Board $54.99, Skimboard $25.99.

Get those Beach Totes packed and start making the most of your summer!

Your gal,

Jess