Shore days are pure gold when you live aboard or spend your days cruising. They offer a chance to stretch your legs and swim in clear water. You can also enjoy a little time off the boat. But if you’ve ever arrived at the beach and realized you forgot something essential, it turns relaxation into frustration quickly.
Here’s your ultimate list of beach essentials to pack in your dinghy for the perfect day on shore. These include everything a liveaboard sailor, cruiser, or long-term traveler should have. There are also a few you’ll wish you’d thought of sooner.
Disclaimer: We do have an Amazon affiliate link, which we have used here for items we really love. This in no way affects the price you pay. A lot of the items have links in our Gift Ideas post so have a look there too.
🧺 The Beach Bag Basics
1. Oversized Beach Bag (Waterproof or Sand-Resistant)
A durable waterproof tote or mesh beach bag keeps everything organized. It makes it easy to carry items from the dinghy to shore. Look for one with inner pockets and quick-dry fabric.
2. Microfiber Beach Towels
Lightweight, fast-drying towels are a cruiser’s best friend. They take up minimal space, dry quickly on deck, and resist mildew.
3. Beach Blanket or Mat
Opt for a sand-free beach mat — easy to shake off, compact, and great for impromptu picnics.
☀️ Sun Protection Must-Haves
4. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Choose a high-SPF, ocean-friendly formula that protects your skin and the reefs.
5. Wide-Brim Hat or Cap
A foldable hat with a neck flap or adjustable cord is perfect for breezy beach days. This one is great, has a hole in it for your ponytail!
6. Polarized Sunglasses
Essential for cutting glare and protecting your eyes from harsh reflections on the water.
7. UPF Sun Shirt or Rash Guard
Stay cool and protected — especially if you plan to snorkel or walk long stretches of beach.
8. Lip Balm with SPF
Often forgotten but crucial under the tropical sun.
🩴 Swim & Comfort Gear
9. Water Shoes or Reef-Safe Sandals
Ideal for rocky shorelines, dinghy landings, or coral shallows.
10. Lightweight Beach Chair or Inflatable Lounger
Compact folding chairs or inflatable loungers add comfort without taking up space in the dinghy.
11. Sarong or Quick-Dry Cover-Up
Doubles as a towel, blanket, or even a light shawl for sundowners.
🧊 Food & Drink Essentials
12. Soft Cooler Bag or Portable Cooler
Keep drinks cold and snacks fresh all day. Choose one that’s leakproof and easy to carry.
13. Reusable Water Bottles or Insulated Tumblers
Stay hydrated without single-use plastics.
14. Reusable Utensils & Collapsible Cups
Perfect for eco-friendly picnics or beach barbecues.
15. Snack Box or Bento Container
Pack fruit, wraps, or sandwiches in leakproof containers.
16. Portable Grill or Mini Gas Stove (Optional)
For those who love an impromptu beach braai — just remember to pack responsibly and leave no trace!
📸 Fun & Adventure Gear
17. Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture your beach day without worrying about splashes. (This Kodak camera is highly recommended; it takes a beating and still keeps clicking!)
18. Dry Bag
Keep your phone, keys, and electronics protected on the dinghy ride.
19. Snorkel Set or Full-Face Mask
Many beaches near anchorages have great snorkeling right off the shore. It’s also a necessity when swimming around your boat. It’s essential for checking things up close.
20. Floating Strap for Electronics
So your camera or phone doesn’t sink to Davy Jones’ locker. Can’t tell you how many items we lost (including car keys!) before we found this nifty little invention!
21. Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Choose a waterproof model with long battery life for mellow beach tunes.
🧴 Hygiene & Comfort
22. Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
A must for quick clean-ups before eating or heading back to the boat.
23. Eco-Friendly Trash Bag
Always pack out what you pack in. Bonus: reusable bags can double as wet gear storage.
24. Compact First Aid Kit
Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and sting relief — just in case.
25. Bug Spray or Citronella Lotion
Even paradise can have mosquitoes.
26. Travel Tissue Pack or Mini Toilet Roll
You’ll thank yourself later for this one.
🔋 Bonus Gear for the Organized Cruiser
27. Portable Power Bank or Solar Charger
Keep your phone and camera charged off-grid.
28. Waterproof Phone Pouch
So you can check your maps or snap a photo without risking your phone. Not gonna lie, this little piece of plastic probably saved our marriage! Should have got it years ago.
29. Small Anchor or Dinghy Sand Spike
Secure your dinghy safely while you explore.
30. Mesh Bag for Wet Clothes or Gear
Prevents mildew and keeps sand out of the dinghy.
31. Compact Umbrella or Shade Tent
For extra sun protection or if you’re spending a full day ashore.
🌅 Wrapping Up: Less Stress, More Sun
Packing the right beach essentials means less hassle and more time to enjoy that sundowner. Every cruiser has their personal must-haves. This list covers the ones we have , or hope to have soon.
When you’ve got your dinghy packed, cooler stocked, and sunblock on, all that’s left to do is start the engine, (have you packed your spare tools set in the dinghy in case the engine gets temperamental? ) head ashore, and soak in that endless blue horizon.
Fair winds and following seas,
– The Sailing & Sunshine Crew ⚓
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www.sailingandsunshine.com 
Some good tips and thanks for the links!
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