Who loves to spend a languid day on the beach during a hot summer’s weekend? Apparently, all of Los Angeles. If you’ve ever been stuck in afternoon traffic along with the majority of Angelenos heading to Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach or Hermosa, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

If you plan to spend a day on the soaking up some rays and listening to the waves, there are a few beach essentials you won’t want to be without!

Image via Hermosabch.org

1. Great Swimwear: Check out this post on some flirty and fun options, and don’t forget to hit up sales in July and August when your favorite stores start to clear out the bikinis and boardshorts in favor of sweaters and scarfs.

2. Sunscreen: Have you ever forgotten to slab on the sunscreen before hitting the waves, only to return scrambling for pain killers and aloe vera? Yup, we’ve all been there before. And it isn’t pretty. Don’t put your skin in danger just because you’re hoping for a killer tan (no skin cancer pun intended there…). Put on the SPF in order to avoid feeling that burn! According to Consumersearch.com, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55 is rated as one of the best overall sunscreens out there, and you can pick some up at your local drug/grocery store!

3. A Good Read: Whether you’re a fan of Vogue or Voltaire, no trip to the beach is complete without some decent reading material. Pack a mag or a novel into your bag before you leave the house! Some of my summer favs?

For those who love the classics: Kate Chopin’s “The Awakening”

For those who want something free-spirited and fun: Pearl Cleage’s “What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day”

For foodies, and people who like to learn new things: “Molecular Gastronomy” by Herve This

4. A Good Friend: Good company often equals a good time, so bring some buddies to the beach with you!

Image Copyrighted to THE POP FIX 2009.

5: Hydration: Don’t forget to bring some water, being in the sun for long periods of time can dehydrate your body. But for those of you crave more flavor in your drink, I suggest an iced tea (flavored or not). Snapple and Arizona Ice Tea make some great classic teas and green teas that are fantastic beach-worthy refreshments.