Here’s a list of Made In America essentials for relaxing by the water.
Nothing beats a trip to the beach during the summer months. Whether you’re visiting a quaint beach town, relaxing in a peaceful tropical paradise, or catching wild waves, you’ll need some basic beach essentials to take with you. But before you head for the shore, try these Made in the USA options to make your trip a great one!
Flip-Flops and Sandals: Okabashi
Barefoot may be okay on the sand, but the right footwear is critical for enjoying long walks on the boardwalk. For a casual, high quality flip-flop that also provides support for your feet, try Okabashi. Based in Buford, Georgia, this company makes all its shoes in the United States from recycled material. With plenty of styles and colors to choose from, the whole family will be able to find something that suits them. Plus, Okabashi shoes are designed with comfort in mind, with arch and heel support and a slip-resistant sole, making them perfect for the beach and beyond. To learn more about Okabashi, check our two podcast episodes with CEO Sara Irvani and our blog post.
Beach Chairs and Umbrellas: Sunrise Chair Co.
There’s nothing quite like lounging on the beach in a comfortable chair. Whether you’re taking a nap, reading a book, or just enjoying the view, kick back and relax in a Sunrise Chair Co. beach chair. All of Sunrise Chair Co.’s products are handmade in Destin, Florida, using only USA-based materials. Sunrise Chair Co. is a trusted supplier for many Florida resorts for their durable, high quality products. So, when you buy a beach chair, umbrella, or table for your family, you can trust that you’re buying a product that’s made to last.
Beach Bags: Sea Bags
When you’re going to the beach, you’ll need a bag that can hold all the essentials. If you want a stylish option that’s also sustainable, Sea Bags is your go-to. Made in Maine from recycled sails, Sea Bags have a unique look that screams summer. There are plenty of styles and sizes to choose from, so whatever your need is, Sea Bags has something for you. Plus, Sea Bags makes more than just beach bags: their other bags, like their cosmetics and toiletry bags, are great options as well.
Beach Toys: American Plastic Toys
If you’ve got little ones with you who are dying to play in the sand, American Plastic Toys has you covered. This company has manufactured its colorful assortment of high-quality toys in Michigan since 1962, including a large selection of toys made especially for the beach. Your kids will love digging through the sand with them, making sandcastles and more. The fun doesn’t have to stop when you get home, either, since American Plastic Toys has options for year-round fun as well. Just note that a small percentage of toys are made with imported materials.
Towels: Faribault Mill Co.
A comfortable towel may be the most essential of essentials for a trip to the beach. And they don’t get more comfortable than the towels made by Faribault Mill. It’s been making high quality woven goods in Minnesota since 1865 (!!) and they show no signs of slowing down. Beyond towels, you’ll also find products like blankets, sheets, and scarves, among others. Faribault Mill’s goods have even been featured on shows like Yellowstone spin-off 1923. Next time you’re in the market for anything woven, turn to Faribault Mill.
Water-Proof Bags: Loksak
A day at the beach can quickly turn sour when water or sand gets in your phone. To avoid your dream vacation turning into a nightmare, use a Loksak bag. These airtight bags were invented in Naples, Florida, where they are still manufactured today. Not only do they protect your items from incidental damage, they also allow you to completely submerge your phone underwater, so you can get that cool shot that was impossible before. Loksak’s high-quality products are even trusted by the military—so you won’t have to worry that these bags will stop working when it matters most.
Sunglasses: American Optical
Don’t let the sun blind you on the beach! Protect your eyes in style with American Optical sunglasses. Worn by notable people such as Robert DeNiro, Jim Thorpe, and even presidents like Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy, these glasses have been an American-made icon since 1833, making them the oldest optical company in the U.S. At a time when 80% of glasses frames are made overseas, American Optical is committed to making their frames at their headquarters in Illinois. To learn more about American Optical’s story, click here. (As a note, while all of AO’s frames are made in the U.S., they are made with imported materials, and their lenses are manufactured abroad).