The Best Pool and Beach Gear for Families

With Memorial Day just around the corner, that summer feeling is in the air. And I am here for it! Today I am sharing the best pool and beach gear for families. I've tried lots of different things and I'm sharing my favorites - I've done the work so you don't have to!

With three young kids, my summer days at the pool or beach may not be as relaxing as I'd like (poolside with a book is ideal), but that's okay. From pool days to beach days, summer camp to late nights in the yard, it's the best season.

Check out the best pool and beach gear for families below and you'll be prepared for a great summer ahead.

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The Best Beach Gear for Families

Ahh, the beach. So beautiful and relaxing right? Slathering sunscreen on a squirming toddler, lugging all the stuff, getting sand in every nook and cranny. How can you not love it?? When it comes to heading to the beach as a family, here are some of the must-have items that make for a smoother and more enjoyable trip.

Beach Cart. If you purchase one thing this year, make it this cart. It's a true MVP. It folds up for easy storage in your car, holds lots of stuff (even toddlers) and can be pulled through the sand. We can fit ALMOST everything for our family of five in here for a day at the beach. Bonus - we also use it for pool trips, apple picking, picnics, etc. You need this.

Mesh Bag. This was a game-changer for us last summer. The sand FALLS RIGHT OUT and the bag dries quickly, so you are not cleaning a wet, sandy bag at the end of the day. We use this for beach toys or anything else meant to get sandy. It's inexpensive and practical.

Beach Toys. There is no shortage of cute beach toys out there, with so many different sets to choose from. I think this little sand baking set is adorable. This silicone set is very sweet. These collapsible buckets look like fun, too!

Waterproof Blanket. A must-have for any beach trip. This blanket is waterproof and folds up for easy carrying. Win-win. Lots of color options and only $14.

Quick Dry Towels. If you are traveling this summer and need to bring beach towels, give these a try. I don't have them myself, but I've seen many people share how great they are and they have over 4K reviews on Amazon. They fold up small and dry quickly - perfect for travel.

The Best Pool Gear for Families

We love our local town pool, and we'll spend many days there this summer. If you'll be heading to the pool this summer, here are some great products for you and your family.

Beach Cart. Obviously you need this cart, see above.

Pool Towels. Pottery Barn Kids has great quality towels with beautiful colors and customization. And they last for years. I also like this set of oversized cabana striped towels. It's $38 for 4, and over 13K reviews!

MOM TIP! Need a birthday gift idea for a spring or summer birthday? How about a beach towel? Most families need them, and can you ever have too many? Pair it with something else for the summer - beach toys, a great book, a game, snacks - whatever works best for the child's age.

Clear Pouches. I love this set of three waterproof pouches not only for the beach and pool, but for travel year-round. I keep one packed with sunscreen, one with meds we might need, and one with toiletries. I never unpack them, they just get tossed into our pool bag, beach bag or suitcase as needed.

Sunscreen. This is my all-time favorite sunscreen for myself and my family. It goes on smoothly and rubs in easily. I buy this big pump bottle every summer and it lasts! You can also get a spray version, which I like to use for touch-ups during long days in the sun.

Cute Sunnies. If you are going to be running around after your kids all day at the pool, you might as well look good doing it. And if these get lost or stepped on, you won't feel too bad.

Kid's Sunglasses. I love these sunnies for kids. They are flexible rubber so they hold up well, they come in many colors, and they are only $10.

Uno Splash. Need a break from the water? We are big fans of UNO, and this is a fun set to keep in your pool bag. The cards are waterproof - very clever.

One More Must-Have

It probably goes without saying, but don't head to the beach or pool without snacks, snacks and more snacks. I mean, is it even a pool or beach day without more snacks than you can carry? Check out my list of the best gluten free snacks for some healthy, portable, kid-approved options.

This is the best pool and beach gear for families. Stock up now and you'll be ready to hit the pool or beach come Memorial Day.

Do you have any favorites? Share them below - I'd love to know.

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