The Globe and Mail

Stylish shades

Brighten up your beach look in Oakley’s cucumber-melon-coloured Pampered sunglasses. The cheery shades have a flexible frame that can withstand thermal shock and extended heat exposure. A plutonite lens offers complete protection from harmful UVA/UVB/UVC rays and, if your eyes are particularly light sensitive, you can upgrade further to polarized lenses. Starting at $130; ca.oakley.com

Sun shade

Ditch that unruly beach umbrella and take cover under Hollie and Harrie’s Sombrilla. Designed in Australia in such bright patterns as Moroccan Blue and French Stripe, the stylish all-cotton, 95% UV-protected canopy is big enough to shield the whole family. When you’re done for the day, roll it up into a carrying case that’s slightly bigger than a yoga mat. $150 ($157 Cdn); hollieandharrie.com.au

Keep your gear dry

Proenza Schouler’s roomy neoprene beach bag keeps things dry, organized and easy-to-access. Zip your valuables away in the waterproof inner, your sunglasses and sunscreen in the mesh exterior pocket, and your wet bathing suit in a vented bottom compartment. Adjustable drawstring straps make it easy to tote everything over the shoulder or on your back. $485 (U.S.); proenzaschouler.com

No more no-see-ums

Formulated to ward off biting insects (including mosquitoes, black flies, and deer ticks), Watkins Insect Repellent Lotion is a must-take to ward against no-see-ums. Slather some on under your sunscreen and the powerful 28.5 per cent DEET lotion will keep you protected for up to six hours. $7.99; mec.ca