1 | Get hooked.
For the beach house, enjoy a hint of island living with the classic (and kid-friendly) cousin of the barroom dart board. The simple hook-and-ring game is deceptively simple to set up and play, alone or with friends, but still requires some skill and finesse.
Tiki Toss, $29.99, Learning Express Toys at The Shoppes at Wyomissing, 746 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.TOYS (8697). learningexpress.com/store/Wyomissing
2 | Anchors aweigh.
Even a landlubber who can't tell starboard from port side can appreciate the lovely nautical theme dominating this season's fashions. So it's appropriate that they grace every woman's must-have sun accessories — a chic burlap beach bag and a coordinating floppy sun hat.
Burlap anchor tote and sailor knot hat, $25 each, It's A Gift! The Woman's Exchange of Reading, 720 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.0960. itsagift.org
3 | Ring toss.
You don't have to be Carlos Ruiz to enjoy a friendly game of catch with this playful game. Using a beach ball and a hoop, even the least athletic among us can snatch a ball from the air effortlessly. Perfect in the pool or on the sand, but don't be surprised if it finds its way into regular playtime rotation in the backyard, too.
Smakaball, $24.99, Learning Express Toys at The Shoppes at Wyomissing, 746 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing, 610.372.TOYS (8697). learningexpress.com/store/wyomissing
4 | Land or sea.
Ditch the inflatable inner tube for an elegant lounger that won't leave you treading water. Chic rattan styling blends seamlessly with other patio furniture as you recline poolside, then toss it in the water to float blissfully along. When you're done, it folds away compactly for storage or traveling to your next sunny destination.
All-weather SwimWays Sonoma Chaise Lounge, $150, Apollo Pools and Spas, 3711 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, 610.779.1228. apollo-pools.com
5 | Covetable cover up.
Class up life as a beach bum and help little ones cover up in style with a terry pullover in a quintessentially tropical print. Your only complaint will be trying to find one in a larger size for yourself.
Lilly Pulitzer cover up, size 2-3yrs, $12, Fig & Will, 609 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.373.3400. figandwill.com
