If you're headed to the beach (or pool) this summer, don't leave home without these essential items!

Sunblock: If you don't want to look like a lobster--or like a leathery Lindsay Lohan--you gotta protect your skin.  The Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion SPF 45 is ideal because it doesn't clog pores or cause breakouts, and it's also fragrance-free (because while it's a good idea to wear sunblock, you'd rather not have everyone be able to tell from a mile away!) Plus, it has a broad spectrum of UVA/UVB protection, and helps prevent premature skin aging caused by spending a lot of time in the sun.

Beach towel: Rest comfortably on a colorful towel  like this whimsically-designed one featuring beach crabs from Pottery Barn. It's a steal at $30, and it's a lot more fun than the blue and peached striped ones in your grandmother's closet.

Flip-flops: After laying out in the sun or taking a swim, chances are you'll want to take a stroll down the beach (how else will you see and be seen?).  Don't forget to protect your feet from the hot sand by wearing cushy footwear. You can be both comfy and fashionable by slipping on Havaianas Pink Crystal Top flip-flops, available at Flipflopstyle.com . They feature three crystals on each strap, and are advertised as being "extremely butter soft." 

Snacks: After a long day hanging out at the beach, you're going to get the munchies. But you'll want to bring something that won't melt and won't be greasy--something small, light and delicious. The solution? For people with a sweet tooth, you can't go wrong with the simple goodness of Rice Krispie Treats. They come both individually packaged and in packs of eight and sixteen.

Those of you who are more health-conscious might want to try Glenny's Soy Crisps. Cosmo says that they are "even better than potato chips!" The crisps are low fat, wheat and gluten free, and come in 13 different flavors. So you can snack on something tasty and still keep your beach bod!

And of course, a beach bag! You'll need a durable bag to carry all this stuff to the beach. What better than a bag that will also keep your cell phone, camera and iPod charged all day? Rewarestore.com offers a Solar Tote Bag for $249, and claims it is the "world's first heavy-duty solar beach tote."

If you're looking for something more affordable, Ecobags has a handwoven French Basket (at left) that's stylish and roomy enough to fit everything from your beach towel to your treats. Plus, they are made from natural renewable resources including palm leaves and water reed stalks, so it would be a purchase that's both beach and eco-friendly.