Beach Essentials to Pack

Essential Items to Bring to the Beach in Cornwall

Introduction

Cornwall's breathtaking beaches are among the best in the UK, offering golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic coastal scenery. To ensure you make the most of your beach day, it's important to pack wisely. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential items you should bring for a perfect beach outing in Cornwall.

1. Sun Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial when spending time on the beach.

• Suncream: Choose a broad-spectrum suncream with a high SPF rating. Apply generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides shade for your face, neck, and ears.
• Sunglasses: Wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from glare and harmful rays.
• Beach Umbrella or Tent: Create your own shade with a beach umbrella or pop-up tent, perfect for resting out of direct sunlight.

2. Swim and Surf Gear

Enjoy Cornwall’s beautiful waters with the right gear.

• Swimsuits: Bring comfortable and durable swimsuits. Consider packing a spare set if you plan on swimming multiple times.
• Wetsuits: For cooler days or extended time in the water, a wetsuit can keep you warm.
• Towels: Pack large, absorbent beach towels for drying off and lounging on the sand.
• Snorkeling Gear: Explore the underwater world with a mask, snorkel, and fins.
• Surfboards or Bodyboards: Take advantage of Cornwall’s famous surf spots with your own board or rent one locally.

3. Comfort and Convenience

Ensure a comfortable and hassle-free beach experience with these essentials.

• Beach Blanket: A large, sand-resistant blanket provides a comfortable spot to relax.
• Beach Chairs: Foldable beach chairs offer a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the view.
• Cooler: Keep your drinks and snacks cool with an insulated cooler. Pack plenty of ice packs or frozen water bottles.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle. Many beaches have water fountains where you can refill.

4. Entertainment

Make your beach day fun and engaging with these items.

• Books and Magazines: Bring along some reading material for relaxation.
• Beach Games: Pack games like beach volleyball, frisbee, or paddleball for active fun.
• Portable Speaker: Enjoy your favorite tunes with a waterproof, sand-resistant portable speaker.
• Sand Toys: If you’re traveling with kids, bring buckets, spades, and other sandcastle-building tools.

5. Safety and Health

Stay safe and healthy during your beach visit.

• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can handle minor injuries.
• Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and hot sand with water shoes.
• Insect Repellent: Keep bugs at bay, especially in the evening, with a good insect repellent.
• Hand Sanitizer: Maintain hygiene with hand sanitizer, especially before eating.

6. Environmental Care

Respect the natural beauty of Cornwall’s beaches by being environmentally conscious.

• Bin Bags: Bring bags to collect and carry out all your waste.
• Reusable Containers: Use reusable containers for snacks and drinks to reduce plastic waste.
• Biodegradable Soap: If you need to rinse off, use biodegradable soap to minimize environmental impact.

Conclusion

Cornwall’s beaches are a paradise for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike. By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable, enjoyable, and environmentally friendly beach day. Whether you're looking to relax, play, or explore, make the most of your time on Cornwall’s stunning shores. Happy beach-going!