Sand Dollars

Ah, summer. When the mercury hits 100 degrees and the traffic gets worse than you ever thought possible, it’s time to head for the beach. Here’s what a pre-beach trip to the kingdom of stuff -- a 99 Cents Only store -- and a $20 bill netted for some fun in the sun. (all items were 99 cents):

* A vat of Funky Style Hair gel will ensure your hair stays in place far into the future.

* Jordache’s Tropic Fruite eau de toilette is sure to overpower unpleasant smells that pop up after a swim in the Santa Monica Bay.

* Banana Boat suntan lotion is a must-have in these ozone-lite days.

* Natural Ice lip balm whe the first tube becomes sand-encrusted, move on to the next one (three for 99 cents).

* A Fruit of the Loom T-shirt in oh-so-out hot pink.

* Two pairs of Hot Wheels sunglasses for those who can’t quite keep track of their shades.

* A straw mat is better than a towel you never have to wash it.

* Free Willy invitations to invite some friends to come along. (two packages for 99 cents).

* A photo album for pictures of said friends diving for volleyballs and squirting one another with the plastic Play Zone Tricky Squirting Camera.

* Brown plastic loafers perfect for negotiating firey-hot sand.

* Big Foot strap-on sandals to keep your feet safe from broken glass and bottle caps.

* Icy Brainslush and Ice Breakers Frosty New Orleans Hurricane concoctions eliminate the need for cooler.

* A Water Works Perky Frog Mask to help you see through murky ocean water a little more clearly.

* Lincoln Snacks’ Screaming Yellow Zonkers and Mission baked whie corn tortilla chips can be served with Cocula hot sauce on a festive Starplast purple plastic fish tray.

* And last but not least: A For Rent sign to lease your car instead of wasting time trying to a parking space.