Of utmost importance are the items that keep your skin safe — sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, a cover-up, and maybe a quality lip balm with sunscreen in it. Also bring a sunshade, whether that’s a simple umbrella or a more deluxe popup canopy.

It’s hard to imagine why you’d be using your phone when you’re at the beach, other than to take photos, but if you expect your battery to drain, but sure to take along a portable charger. Also bring some sandwich-size zip bags to store your phone in to protect it from sand and water.

Photography: Amazon

Towels are important beach necessities. Bring one for each family member, and bring a couple spares, too. You’ll need a towel to dry yourself off after a dip in the ocean and some folks may want to lay on a towel to air dry in the sun. Others might want to use a towel to wipe off their sandy feet.

Food is a must for beach trips If you’ll be there all day, bring lunch and plenty of snacks for everyone. Equally or even more important, don’t forget to bring water. With the hot sun and lots of activity, family members can quickly get dehydrated.

With all the food and drinks your group will consume, you’ll need a trash bag to collect all the empties. Bring one or two kitchen trash bags, plus a clip of some sort to attach the bag to your canopy or chair.

Speaking of activity, don’t forget to bring toys for the grownups and the kids. Plastic sand pails and shovels will keep the tots occupied, while older kids might enjoy a Frisbee to toss around. Bocce ball is another favorite beach activity, as are washer pitching and paddle ball.

Many beachgoers like having a chair to sit on, as sitting in the sand can be tiring after a while. Camp chairs or low beach chairs work just fine. Some chairs have a built-in awning, which is great for keeping the sun off your skin.