It's that time of the year! The sun is out and the flowers are blooming and you are probably already making your beach plans. Sometimes we get so excited that we forget things that are essential for the perfect beach day. Well I made a list so that you never forget the things that you need!

1. Sunscreen

If you forget everything else, do not forget this! You want to get tan, but not fried. You can get some sunscreens at Rite Aid or Walgreens for as low as $10. Don't forget chapstick either!

2. A Beach Towel

Beach towels are essential. You don't want to just lie in the sand all day! You can get super cute beach towels for a great price from target! Oversized beach towels are the best. They allow for extra room to put your belongings.

3. Sunglasses

You want to protect those eyes! You can grab sunglasses from basically anywhere if you don't have any. Tip: make sure your glasses are able to protect your eyes from UV rays.

4. A Hat

Wearing a hat is an excellent way to shield your eyes and your face. You may not think you'll need it, but trust me, it is always a good idea to take a hat to the beach. PS, Floppy hats are really cute.

5. Headphones

Bring headphones to listen to music while you are at the beach! There will be a point when you get out of the water or put your book down where you want to just soak up the sun and hopefully not fall asleep. And if you don't use them, then someone else might!

6. A Book

I'm sure you have a long list of books that you want to read, but don't have time because of your busy schedule. Beach days are the perfect days to catch up on all of that reading you want to do!

7. Snacks & Water

You're going to get hungry and you're going to get thirsty. Why spend money on expensive beach food when you can bring your own? You need water to keep you from getting dehydrated. Tip: My family freezes bottles of water before we go to the beach so that it stays colder throughout the day.

8.Money

It is always a good idea to bring cash to the beach. You might need quarters to pay for parking or you might want to get food or ice cream before you head back home.