Several a summer mornings you’ll find me sunscreen and towel in hand, waiting for the first glimmer of sun to peak through the fog. Growing up in a surf town like Santa Cruz, life revolves around the beach and surf.
The guys adamantly check the surf report searching for the days best tides and waves, while the girls don their bikinis and shades in preparation for another lazy day of basking in the sun and chatting up cute boys who happen to wander by. Life can’t get much better!
Long days at the beach, though fantastic, can’t exist without some essentials. Beach bums worship the sun knowing they must protect their skin and hair vehemently from UVA/B rays. With that in mind, here’s my list of beach bum essentials and a few not so vital must haves.
1.) Duh…Sunscreen: When it comes to sun block the Hawaiians know what’s up. HIC (Hawaiian Island Creations) created the strongest defense against both UVA and UVB rays. Available in either a 30 or 50 SPF, this long lasting, stay put formula is slathered on by some of the top pro surfers in the world. When you’re in and out of the water, or dripping sweat from an intense volleyball match, you’ll be covered with no worries about the block running in your eyes. Don’t miss out on their 30 SPF lip balm either. Lips are the most sensitive skin on the face, and sadly almost always neglected. Coat yourself head to toe 20 minutes before heading to the beach.
2.) A Shield For Hair? The sun is notorious for lightening even the most permanent die job. Shield the sun by running a treatment mask or conditioner with UV-deflecting ingredients. These products seal hair’s cuticle layer to help prevent fading. Toss a hat in your beach bag or spritz on a leave-in conditioner like Ouidad Sun Shield Spray, $20.
3.) Accessories Galore: You’ll need a big tote to haul your beach gear.
Pack one of these with:
-Towel
-Hat
-Shades
-Frisbee or other tossable goodie
-Reusable H20 bottle
-Sunscreen
-Beer- optional, but always highly recommended and appreciated.
-Towel
-Hat
-Shades
-Frisbee or other tossable goodie
-Reusable H20 bottle
-Sunscreen
-Beer- optional, but always highly recommended and appreciated.
4.) Slippers: Otherwise known as flip flops or sandals, you’ll need some protection when walking or riding from the beach. My style, barefoot all the way. Keep a few cheap bright colored pair around.
5.) To and Fro: Parking will forever be a nightmare at any beach parking lot, so spare yourself the stress and cruise to the water.
Now that you’re all set to hit the sand, relax and soak it all in.
