11 Black-Owned Brands in My Beach Bag

A solid beach tote is almost as important as the items that go in it. I love that the Kuba Weekender Bag is large enough to hold my essentials and has a zipper pocket for my personal items. It’s also strong, sturdy, and has an attractive design. What’s more, Ubuntu Life supports Maasai craftswomen in Kenya’s Ngong Hills while contributing to the education and healthcare of children with special needs in the country.

The moment I was introduced to Turkish towels, I knew my beach days had forever changed. Beach House towels are extra large (71x39 inches), super-absorbent, and flat enough to fit in a suitcase for adventures abroad. Made of 100 percent cotton, they’re that touch of luxury that elevates any beach excursion.

The McBride Sisters Collection Sparkling Brut Rosé is my go-to for holiday gifts and boozy brunches with friends. Since many beaches have a policy against bringing glass bottles on the sand, this is a perfect alternative for summertime sips. Served cold, the fruity notes make it just the right drink for a warm, sunny day. 

Are potato chips the best beach-day snack? Not exactly. But this South Jersey girl always needs something a little salty to go with her hoagie. Rap Snacks are that flavorful nibble that keeps me from getting hangry while I unwind on the shore. And because it comes in a multitude of flavors, including Snoop Dogg’s O.G. Bar-b-que Cheddar and Nicki Minaj’s Sour Cream and Truffle, there’s always a satisfying flavor for whatever I’m craving.

These chocolate chip cookies stand out because of their vegan, allergen-free ingredients. And while I don’t personally have food restrictions, I like that I can bring these to the beach with friends without worrying about whether others can partake. Plus, they taste so good I never miss the ingredients that make sugar-filled snacks so hard to resist.

Staying hydrated in the hot summer sun is essential. For me, that means keeping a sizable bottle of alkaline water in my bag. Positivity Alkaline Water has a pH of 9.5+, and although the jury is still out on whether this hyped form is, in fact, more quenching, I think it’s the ultimate refresher. Visit the company’s store locator to find the water near you.

A high-quality, high-waist bikini is my go-to look for summer travel. While I’m obsessed with just about every look from this Nigerian designer, I’m particularly fond of the versatility this top brings. The straps can be worn five different ways, and when paired with jeans, it’s a great day or evening look.

This cover-up comes in handy once I’m done taking my dip and soaking up the sun. It easily transitions from daytime to nighttime and gives me suitable coverage for a sit-down dinner on the boardwalk.

Beach days changed after I was introduced to Layd Life hats. From the bonnet strings that keep it in place on windy days to the silk-lined interior that helps keep friction from damaging my 4C strands, there’s a lot to love about this thoughtfully designed cap.

Nroda glasses are about as fancy as they come. The brand name is “adorn,” spelled backward, which is fitting as the sunglasses are designed with jewels and gems that exude luxury. Whether I’m unwinding in Cape May or Cape Verde, they make me feel like a million bucks.