There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach, soaking up the sun, playing in the waves, and enjoying the warm sand beneath your toes. But as much as we love these moments, it’s essential to be mindful of the environmental impact our beach activities can have on our planet.
With the rise in eco-consciousness, more people than ever are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and make sustainable choices, even when it comes to their beach gear.
So, if you’re looking to go green on your next beach day, we’ve got you covered! In this ultimate guide, we’ll share the top eco-friendly products for a sustainable beach day, from biodegradable sunscreens to stylish, recycled beachwear.
10 Eco-Friendly Beach Essentials
Reef-Safe Sunscreens
Protect Your Skin and the Ocean
We all know that sunscreen is a must-have for any beach day, but did you know that many conventional sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage coral reefs and marine life? Opt for reef-safe sunscreens that use mineral-based, non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less harmful to the environment.
Some of our favorite eco-friendly sunscreen brands include Raw Elements, Thinksport, and Badger. Not only do these sunscreens provide excellent sun protection, but they also prioritize environmentally-friendly packaging and sustainable manufacturing processes.
Sustainable Swimwear
Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good
Your choice of swimwear can also make a difference when it comes to sustainability. Many eco-friendly swimwear brands now use recycled materials, such as Econyl, a regenerated nylon made from discarded fishing nets and other waste. These brands also prioritize ethical manufacturing and give back to environmental causes.
Some of our top picks for sustainable swimwear include Patagonia, Summersalt, and Reformation. You’ll feel good knowing that your stylish beach attire is also helping to protect our oceans and reduce waste.
Recycled Beach Towels
Dry Off in Eco-Friendly Style
When it comes to beach towels, consider investing in options made from recycled materials, such as post-consumer plastic bottles or upcycled cotton. These eco-friendly beach towels are not only better for the environment, but they also come in a variety of beautiful designs and colors, making them perfect for your green beach day.
Check out brands like Sand Cloud, Nomadix, and Laguna Blue for some fantastic recycled beach towel options.
Reusable Water Bottles
Stay Hydrated, Save the Planet
Staying hydrated is essential when spending a day at the beach, but single-use plastic bottles are a significant contributor to plastic pollution in our oceans. Instead, choose a reusable water bottle made from sustainable materials like stainless steel, glass, or bamboo.
Brands like Klean Kanteen, Hydro Flask, and S’well offer a wide variety of sizes, colors, and designs to suit your style while keeping your drinks cold and helping you reduce plastic waste.
Eco-Friendly Beach Bags
Tote Your Gear Responsibly
A beach bag is a must for carrying all your essentials, but why not opt for an eco-friendly option made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, or recycled plastic?
Some of our favorite eco-conscious beach bag brands include Baggu, Sea Bags, and Rareform. These stylish and durable bags are perfect for carrying your sustainable beach gear and supporting the environment at the same time.
Biodegradable Beach Toys
Fun for Kids, Friendly for the Earth
If you’re heading to the beach with kids, beach toys are a must for building sandcastles and playing in the surf. Choose biodegradable beach toys made from eco-friendly materials like bioplastic, bamboo, or recycled wood.
These toys will not only provide hours of fun but also help reduce plastic waste in our oceans. Brands like Green Toys, Bioserie, and HABA offer a variety of biodegradable beach toys that are safe for your children and the environment.
Reusable Snack Containers and Utensils
Ditch Single-Use Plastic for a Greener Beach Picnic
Packing a beach picnic is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal by the sea, but single-use plastic bags, cutlery, and containers can have a significant impact on our environment. Instead, opt for reusable snack containers made from stainless steel, glass, or silicone, and bring your own eco-friendly cutlery made from bamboo or biodegradable materials.
Brands like Stasher, U-Konserve, and To-Go Ware offer a range of sustainable options to help you enjoy a green beach picnic without the guilt.
Natural and Biodegradable Beach Blankets
Lounge Sustainably on the Sand
Beach blankets are perfect for lounging on the sand or enjoying a picnic, but many conventional options are made from synthetic materials that can harm the environment. Instead, look for beach blankets made from natural and biodegradable materials like organic cotton, linen, or hemp.
Some of our favorite eco-friendly beach blanket brands include Coyuchi, Rawganique, and Seek & Swoon. These blankets are not only soft and stylish, but they also help support sustainable practices and reduce waste.
Solar-Powered Speakers and Chargers
Harness the Sun for Your Beach Entertainment
Want to listen to your favorite tunes or keep your devices charged while enjoying your beach day? Solar-powered speakers and chargers offer a sustainable alternative to traditional electronics, allowing you to harness the sun’s energy to power your devices.
Some top picks for solar-powered beach gear include the Eton Rugged Rukus solar-powered speaker and the Goal Zero Nomad solar panel charger. With these eco-friendly gadgets, you can enjoy your beach day without relying on non-renewable energy sources.
Ocean-Friendly Sun Hats and Sunglasses
Protect Yourself and the Environment
Finally, don’t forget to protect your eyes and face from the sun with eco-friendly sun hats and sunglasses. Many sustainable brands now offer hats made from natural or recycled materials like organic cotton or raffia, and sunglasses made from biodegradable or recycled materials. Check out brands like Pela, Proof Eyewear, and Conner Hats for stylish and sustainable options to shield yourself from the sun while supporting the environment.
By choosing eco-friendly beach gear, you can make a significant impact on our planet while enjoying a fantastic day at the shore. With these top sustainable products, you’ll be well on your way to a green beach day that’s good for you and the environment. So, pack your reusable water bottle, slip into your recycled swimwear, and lather on that reef-safe sunscreen for an unforgettable, eco-conscious beach experience.