Our beach bag essentials

What’s on your must-do list for our fleeting (but incredible) Northwest summer?

Whether you can’t wait to fly a kite at Gas Works, plunge off a canoe into Lake Washington or lounge alongside Lake Sammamish, these essentials will help you make the most of your time in the sun.

Alaffia bag

PCC carries a variety of these sturdy, colorful grass bags, handwoven in West Africa by the Alaffia Basket Cooperative. Weavers receive fair wages for their work, enabling them to support their families.

ICU Eyewear sunglasses

These fun, retro-inspired shades are crafted from reclaimed plastic. Catch up on your summer reading (and protect your peepers) in style.

Harvest Bay coconut water

Take along a liter of all-natural refreshment, enough to slake your thirst after a volleyball match or to share with your neighbor on the next beach blanket over. Made from fresh, young, green coconuts.

Cool Cups Natural Snacks

This gluten-free and vegan gelatin-like dessert in a cup is light, refreshing and easy to transport — just remember to bring a spoon.

Green Toys Sand Play Set

Beach gear for kids that’s sturdy and built to last, complete with bucket, spade, rake and sand castle mold. Made in the USA from 100 percent recycled plastic.

Goddess Garden Sunny Body (and Sunny Kids) Sunscreen

This broad spectrum sun protection is made with titanium and zinc oxides and can be applied in a continuous spray for ease. Reef-safe, gluten-free and cruelty-free.

Aubrey Pure Aloe Vera

Soothe dry, rough or sun-exposed skin with pure, straight-from-the-leaf aloe, nature’s finest skin hydrator. Made with 98 percent organic ingredients, including aloe leaf juice and vitamin E.

CleanWell hand sanitizer

This alcohol-free sanitizer kills germs with a patented formulation of thyme (yes, the culinary herb!), which is naturally antibacterial, smells pleasant, and is gentle on sensitive skin.