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Beach Umbrellas Are Dangerous and Inconvenient. I Love This Majestic (and Safe) Alternative.
by Kit Dillon
The Shibumi Shade is a lightweight, nimble beach shelter that works better than most umbrellas.
The Best Beach and Pool Toys for Kids and Adults
by Wirecutter Staff
Looking for fun in the sun? Whether you're headed for the beach or the pool this summer, we've picked out the best toys to keep kids (and adults) entertained.
The Best Sunscreen
by Nancy Redd
It takes a shot glass’s worth of sunscreen to adequately cover a body in a swimsuit. Look for broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher and a scent and feel you like.
Swimming in Glasses Is Terrible. These Prescription Goggles Are Far Better.
by Annemarie Conte
Prescription swim goggles are inexpensive, effective, and potentially life-changing.
The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More
by Kit Dillon
After seven years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.
The Best Kids Swimsuits, Rash Guards, Sun Hats, and Other Beachwear
by Kalee Thompson
Time at the beach, lake, or pool is more fun for everyone with kids outfitted in comfortable, protective swimsuits, rash guards, sun hats, and more.
The Best Beach Chair Is the Tommy Bahama Backpack Chair
by Annemarie Conte
This beach chair reigns supreme in portability, versatility, and durability.
I Used to Hate the Beach. Then I Got This Sturdy Umbrella.
by Annemarie Conte
This rock-solid beach umbrella won’t fly away in the wind.
The Best Basic Snorkel Set
by Paulette Perhach
After testing eight snorkel sets in Central Florida and Key West, we think the Cressi Palau LAF Set is the best snorkel set for most people.
The Best Beach Umbrella Is Not Actually an Umbrella
by Kit Dillon
A sunshade can give you a lot more shade than an umbrella, with a lot less drama. We like the four-person Sun Ninja shade best, but we have other options, too.
The Best Beach Towel
by Kit Dillon
After testing beach towels all over the country, we have four great options—plus a towel alternative that’s ideal for families with babies.
40+ Wirecutter-Recommended Sun Protection Picks
by Gabriella DePinho and Wirecutter Staff
A robust selection of gear we like that’ll help stave off sun damage all summer, including sunscreens, sunglasses, children’s beachwear, and UPF clothing.
4 Simple Tips to Keep Your Tech Safe and Dry This Summer
by Rose Maura Lorre
Here’s how to make sure your phone, tablet, smartwatch, or portable speaker don’t get ruined this summer, no matter how wet they get.
We Tested This Viral Sand-Removing Pouch. You Don’t Need It. Just Use an Old Sock.
by Annemarie Conte
Sand can be a pain to remove from your skin after a beach day. We tested solutions that help make it easier and less annoying.
The Best Reef-Safe Sunscreen
by Nancy Redd
Thrive Bodyshield SPF 50 is our favorite reef-safe sunscreen. It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers sunscreens without chemical UV filters.
The Best Swim Goggles for Adults and Kids
by Seth Berkman
A great pair of swim goggles can make your time in the water safer and more enjoyable. Our picks include effective, highly adjustable pairs for adults and kids.
How to Shop for a Hot Tub
by Tim Heffernan
This guide will help you plan out the purchase for the hot tub of your dreams.
How to Wash Your Swimsuits to Prevent Fading and Stretching
by Zoe Vanderweide
Sun, salt, and sand wreak havoc on your swimwear. Here’s how to clean and care for your suits (and yes, you do have to clean them every time you wear ’em).
The Best Inflatable Kiddie Pool (That You’ll Probably Have to Trash at the End of the Summer)
by Elissa Sanci
Though most don’t make it past the end of the summer, inflatable pools bring fun to the comfort of your backyard. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.
How I Made a Stock Tank Pool My Backyard Oasis
by Alejandra Matos
With the right tools and equipment, it’s easy to convert a stock tank into a pool that will keep you cool at home for less than the cost of a single vacation.
Pools Are (Mostly) Closed—Here’s How I’m Staying Cool in My Backyard
by Christina Colizza
How to beat the heat if the public pools or beaches near you are closed.
What to Bring With You If You Want to Learn to Surf on Vacation
by Kit Dillon
These are the items that Wirecutter staffers who surf regularly would recommend for a learning-to-surf vacation.