Long summer days are finally here and the next dozen or so weekends will be filled to the brim with beaching, park parties and music festivals. Too much sun and time out in the elements (yes, it’s quite temperate now, but we’ll crawl into the hot, humid belly of the NYC summer beast soon enough) can turn a season of fun into a never-ending slog of discomfort. But, with a little bit of planning and the right gear for skin protection and proper hydration, you can spend more time making the sweet summer memories that will last you through next winter.
Rock Rock Rockaway Beach Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. Listening to the surf while you bake in the sun is glorious…for about five minutes. Most local beaches have very little sanctuary for sunbathers desperately in need of shade. First priority: protect your skin by pre-ordering sunscreen recommended by EWG, a group that analyzes beauty and wellness products for their environmental and personal safety to make sure that you aren’t slathering on toxins with your sunblock. Jersey Shore Cosmetics Sans Tan Sunscreen ($40 full/ $25 travel duo) scored a 1 (zero is a perfect score–some of the worst sunscreens got 7s), and has the added bonus of showing your Jersey pride. Next up: make your own shade. The common beach umbrella is a test of patience and wind resistance, often resulting in the near skewering of neighboring beachgoers. The Sombrilla by Hollie & Harrie ($198 with free shipping; 20% off with promo code Brooklyn20) will probably change your beach life. It sets up similarly to a tent, but allows for airflow and offers more protection than a regular beach umbrella. Plus, it rolls up into a tiny carrying case so you’ll still be able to carry the cooler.
A normal sized beach towel is usually too small, but the Latitudes Throw by 41 Degrees North ($120) (which is made in Montauk) offers up enough space for a full-on sprawl. And when you’ve finished catching up on your beach reads, burn some energy by playing a round of sand tennis with these beach paddles by Sunny Life ($28). Rather go for a dip? No need to take off your sunnies when you jump in the ocean. The Monroe Sunglasses by Panda ($120) are so light, they float, making them easy to spot as they drift away on a summer breeze. When it’s time to pack up, use a large canvas tote that’s handmade right here in Brooklyn. The Kempton & Co. Red Hook Beach Bag ($195) will hold everything you brought with room for your new shell collection to boot.