We love summer in LA—the sunshine, the salty breeze, and those long, golden afternoons by the water. The beach feels like an extension of our backyard this time of year, and we soak it up as often as we can. With four kids in tow (including one very determined crawler), our beach days are all about simple pleasures, lots of sunscreen, and a little planning ahead.
Here’s what we bring to keep things smooth(ish), fun, and just the right amount of sandy—for all six of us.
The Bags
Oversized Tote: I use one of our Mark and Graham bags—roomy, wipeable, and cute enough to double as a diaper bag.
Soft Cooler: Packed with snacks, fruit, and the all-important PB&Js.
Towels: I like to bring two kinds these fluffy ones as well as these quick dry ones.
The Setup
Beach Shade or Umbrella: Shade is non-negotiable. We love something easy to set up and lightweight to carry.
Foldable Beach Chairs: One or two for the grown-ups when we’re lucky enough to sit.
For the Kids
Swimsuits + Rash Guards: I especially love these ones as they have spf in them to make staying protected easier.
Beach Toys + Boogie Boards: Buckets, shovels, and whatever digging mission is currently in progress.
Sunscreen Station: A zip pouch with sunscreen and wipes to keep hands clean.
Baby Must-Haves
Pop-Up Shade or Tent: Creates a cozy little baby zone under the umbrella.
Clip-On Fan: Essential for nap time on warm days.
Muslin Blanket: Lightweight and multipurpose—for changing, covering, or cuddling.
Snacks & Sips
Pouches, Crackers, Cut Fruit: Individually packed and easy to grab.
Mini Sandwiches: PB&Js cut in quarters, wrapped in parchment.
Water Bottles + Coconut Water: We bring a mix for the kids and a few electrolyte packets for the grownups.
Secret Stash: Lollipops or gummies for those “just five more minutes” moments.
Clean-Up Essentials
Baby Powder: The magic trick for removing sand from little legs and toes.
Wet/Dry Bag: To corral damp suits and soggy towels.
Change of Clothes: One for each kid, just in case.
The Extras That Make It a Vibe
Bluetooth Speaker: Low volume, easy playlist. love that this one clips on.
A Book I Pretend I’ll Read: It’s the thought that counts. Here is what I am currently reading.
Shell or Sea Glass Bag: The kids always find treasures.
Foldable Wagon: Optional, but majorly helpful when the haul gets heavy.
Simple, Sweet, and Full of Sunshine
Our beach days aren’t perfect, but they’re perfectly ours. A little planning and a lot of sunscreen go a long way—and somehow, the sandy toes and salty hair feel like the best kind of summer souvenir.
