What’s in My Beach Sunscreen Bag: My Everyday Coastal SPF Routine
When I moved to my little coastal golf cart town in December, sunscreen honestly wasn’t the first thing on my mind. I was focused on settling in, finding my routines, and adjusting to a completely different pace of life.
But it didn’t take long to realize something: life near the water means constant sun exposure — even in winter.
Quick golf cart rides turn into long afternoons outside. Lunch plans become sunset drives along the coast. Everyday errands somehow mean hours in the sun without realizing it. And after a few weeks here, I quickly understood that sunscreen wasn’t just a beach-day product anymore. It became part of my everyday routine.
And if I’m being honest, I’m also very committed to taking care of my skin long term.
I’m not trying to look 26 again — just healthy, rested, and maybe a few years younger than I would otherwise. Living in the sun every day means being much more intentional about protecting my skin, especially my face.
Over the last several months, these have become the products that permanently live in my beach bag, golf cart bag, and honestly sometimes even my car console.
My Base Body Sunscreen
The foundation of everything is the Coppertone Sport SPF 50.
This is my “real life” sunscreen — the one I actually trust when I’m outside for long stretches of time. Whether I’m walking the beach, sitting outside at lunch, or spending the afternoon riding around town on the golf cart, this is always my base layer.
It holds up beautifully in heat and humidity without feeling heavy, and I never feel like I’m constantly wondering whether it’s still working.
The Glow Layer
Once my base sunscreen is on, I layer the Kopari Sunglaze Body Mist over it.
First of all, it smells incredible.
But more importantly, it gives skin the prettiest healthy glow without looking glittery or overdone. It catches the light in such a subtle way and makes everything feel a little more polished — especially in the summer when shoulders and legs are constantly exposed.
It’s one of those products that makes skin look expensive in the best possible way.
My Everyday Face Sunscreen
For my face, I use EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40.
I alternate between the sheer and tinted versions depending on the day and how much color correction I want. The tinted version is especially good on days when my skin looks a little tired or uneven, while the sheer version layers beautifully underneath makeup.
This is one of those products I’ve repurchased over and over because it simply works. Lightweight, comfortable, hydrating, and never too heavy for humid coastal weather.
Makeup + SPF Together
After makeup, I set everything with the COOLA Makeup Setting Spray SPF 30.
This product was a game changer for me because it adds another layer of SPF protection without disturbing makeup. When you’re constantly in and out of the sun throughout the day, layering protection really matters.
It also helps everything stay fresher in the humidity.
The Midday Refresh
And finally, the product I probably use most often throughout the day: the COOLA Refreshing Water Mist SPF 18.
This stays in my bag at all times.
I use it constantly for quick refreshes throughout the day, especially after sitting outside for a while or spending time on the beach. I’m very liberal with this one — if I’m outside, I’m reapplying.
Because while I absolutely love coastal life, I also know that daily sun exposure adds up over time.
And honestly? Good sunscreen is probably one of the most “looks more expensive” things you can do for yourself long term. -LME
*I only share pieces I genuinely wear, use, and love. Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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