It's summer once again and you know that it is the perfect time for you to show off your new buff body. After looking at your body in front of the mirror, you feel pleased that the long hours you spent working out in the gym and the countless weight loss programs you endured have finally paid off. Your slim arms, flat tummy and gorgeous legs are really something that you can be proud to parade on the beach this summer.

Although a well-sculpted body is really a factor in making you a dazzling beach babe, you also need to think about your overall look, including your accessories and makeup. If you want to be the star of the beach, read on and follow these tips:

Find A Perfect Bikini

Even if you have a body that is to die for, you still have to take time choosing a bikini or swimsuit that will suit your size, body shape and activities. If you plan to simply laze around on the beach, then a string bikini will be all right. A high leg bikini is also more appropriate for people who have short legs. However, if you plan to play beach volleyball, swim your heart out on the sea and do other beach activities, you must ensure that the straps on your top are firm and secure. You don’t want your precious ones to peak out or loll out of your top while playing volleyball or swimming with the dolphins.

Don't Be Afraid To Accessorize

Many think that beach outfit should be minimal. Although this is all right, there are actually a number of tasteful accessories you can bring to the beach. A pair of cute sunglasses and some shell necklaces or wooden bangles can add a little spunk to your otherwise boring beach outfit. Finding the right flip-flops could also make or break your look.

Have A Tan

For some people, going to the beach is a chance to get that most coveted tan. But this may not be a very safe thing to do, especially because of the ill-effects of overexposure to the sun. What you can do to keep away from overexposure to the sun yet avoid looking pasty and pale on the beach is to use tan spray. Do not overdo it though because you don’t want to look like a cooked crustacean.

Keep Your Nails Clean

A manicure set is a must when you are going to the beach. When you are walking on the sand, playing beach volleyball, or parasailing with your friends, your nails can surely get dirty or, worse, chipped. Thus, you should always be ready to trim your nails and repair your polish. It would be better if you stick to clear nail polish for a cleaner and fresher looking nails and toes on the beach.

Makeup Essentials

Your beach vacation does not mean you have to build sandcastles or stay on the beach 24/7. Since you will surely go to restaurants or hang out in bars while you are there, better be prepared with your makeup essentials. Waterproof foundation and concealer are a must, so are water resistant mascara and eyeliner. For more color, cheek and lip stains are also a good choice. By the way, you can also find lip-gloss that has sunscreen to protect your lips from being chapped and dry under the heat of the sun.

Don't Forget Your Eyes

You probably know that sun protection for your face and body is necessary to keep your skin from getting burned by harsh sunrays. A sun protection factor of over 50 that shields you from both UVB and UVA rays is ideal.

However, for your eyes, you also need to look for a sun block that is gentle enough on the area surrounding the eyes. Also, do not forget to bring an eye cream that helps get rid of puffy eyes and dark circles after nights of drinking and having fun with friends. One eye product that you can use is Eyevive. Simply visit http://www.eyevive.com/ for more information.

About the Author

Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premier online news magazine The Article Insiders