6 of the best summer beach essentials

1. Rocking deck chair

No trip to the beach is complete without a comfortable deck chair. We love the vintage look of the Suffolk Stripe fabric on this Rocking deck chair (above) from Idyll Home and the beech-wood frame means it will stand the test of time. An added bonus of this design is that it is a rocking chair as well as a deck chair, so when you aren't using it on the beach (we don't think trying to make it rock in sand would be that relaxing), you can put in your back garden and while away the afternoon.

2. Acapulco beach umbrella

With no trees to sit under, the beach can be a cruel mistress. To avoid coming home the colour of a lobster, put on lots of suncream and take an umbrella or parasol. We love this colourful Acapulco design (above) from Oliver Bonas and the fabric has UPF 30 protective coating, meaning you can stay safe outside all day long. It also comes with a handy carry pack, so it's easy to transport home at the end of the day.

3. Coastal wicker picnic hamper

What could be better than a picnic on the beach? (Apart from fish and chips of course.) This smart Coastal wicker hamper (above) from John Lewis, with seaside-inspired lining, is made from durable dark willow wood and contains everything you need to serve a picnic for four people, including ceramic plates, goblets, cutlery, cotton napkins, a cruet set and a Waiter's Friend corkscrew. All you need to provide are the sarnies, snacks and some fizzy pop.

4. Aerobics windbreak

As we all know, the British weather can be unpredictable at the best of times and a sunny day can quickly turn into a cold rainy washout. Be prepared for any eventuality with a windbreak, which can protect you from the wind and also offers some much needed shade if the sun does come out. Plus if you need to get changed on the beach, a windbreak offers a screen to protect your dignity. This vibrant striped Aerobics windbreak (above) measures 1.5x2.7m and is made from yarn-dyed woven cotton and wooden poles.

5. Padded beach mat

A step up from a plain old towel, this Padded beach mat from Out There Interiors comes with a matching cushion, and both are filled with polyester to provide optimum comfort - perfect for reading, sleeping and relaxing on the beach! The contemporary jacquard design comes in two colourways: black and white and mint-green and white (above), and the mat measures 180x70cm.

6. Estee tote bag

Made in natural jute and with a large embellished tassle and striped cotton lining, this chic Estee embroidered bag in Natural/Navy (above) by Star Mela at Beach Café, is just the thing for carrying your towel, novel and suncream down to the beach. Equally, it will add a sunny mood to the Saturday morning grocery run. A versatile piece, indeed!

If you want to bring that seaside feeling into your home, take a look at these 7 steps to beach house style.

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