Meet The “Facekini” The Beach Accessory of Your Nightmares

This is the literal definition of stumbling upon something. I was searching Getty Images as I do daily, this time for a photo of a jellyfish. Well in searching for the perfect image I somehow ran across some terrifying photos. It was of individuals wearing colorful masks while swimming in the ocean. I did as one does, and clicked on the image to read the caption. Apparently, the masks are called the Facekini and were incredibly popular in China back in 2014.

The caption goes on to detail that they are designed to protect against the sun and jellyfish stings. Hence why they showed up in my search. Still startled and confused by this discovery, I proceeded to text a friend of mine who actually spent some time working in the area around that time. Her response? She had heard of this garment but had never actually seen one. Well, she has now! Listen I'm all about sun protection and don't spend enough time in the ocean to be overly concerned about jellyfish stings. So I think I will stick with some tinted face sunscreen and a hat. I would be absolutely terrified if I came across someone wearing a Facekini on the beach. Thankfully this trend seems to have skipped over the United States.

The masks look essentially like spandex ski masks with seemingly smaller eye, nose, and mouth openings. They are also bright colors. I think that's what makes them look so creepy. I understand it's a different culture and I mean no disrespect in any way. That being said, as someone not immersed in this culture, it comes off as startling. I'm not sure what I would think if I unknowingly saw someone wearing one on a beach. There really is no describing this in a way that you can truly understand. So therefore I present to you images of the Facekini.

With beaches up and down both coasts, the United States is full of wonderful beaches. The extensive coastlines give us beaches with a wide variety of landscapes, scenery, culture, and climate each unique in its own way. And while it can be easy to think of that dream beach vacation as somewhere in a far-off land, it may be a lot closer than you think. While there are stunning beaches in the Caribbean, Europe, and (my dream vacation) the South Pacific there are some incredible places to explore in the US. So before you finish your beach bucket list you may want to rethink it.

The United States' 95,471 miles of coastline is brimming with sun, sand, and sea. This coastline offers breathtaking beaches for relaxation, adventure, or both. From quaint seaside towns to beaches bustling with shopping, dining, and entertaining attractions, and oceanfront parks that will leave you immersed in nature. The following list of the top US beaches features both coasts, north and south, and one island state. Yeah, you know the one. But the coolest part? It includes a North Carolina spot as well. Pretty awesome to see our state shouted out on a national stage for its beaches! Is that one on your beach bucket list? Glad our country has somewhere special for every kind of beach bum.

This list comes from TheTravel.com  and is titled "11 Top Beaches In The U.S. To Add To Your Bucket List". And now I will be planning a trip for next weekend!

Cannon Beach is easily recognizable by the Haystack Rock. This section of the Oregon Coast will simply take your breath away. And it's just 90 minutes from Portland!

The sandy shores of Provincetown are magical and a must on your bucket list. Provincetown is at the edge of the continent, 60 miles out to sea. This unique town brings together people from all around the world. 

There are no cities on the Outer Banks which makes the 100+ miles of wide-open shoreline feel remote. These barrier islands have it all from charming seaside villages, to quaint towns each with its own personality and rich in our nation’s history.

This beach is unique as it's almost at the most northern point of Washington state and part of Mt. Olympic State Parks. This beach is all about adventure. Visitors enjoy a mix of rainforest hiking and beach walking.

Blame it on Gossip Girl but I've always dreamt of "summering in The Hamptons". These beaches and all of their glamour aren't far from downtown Manhattan. You'll find The Hamptons about 100 miles east of New York City on the eastern end of Long Island. They are made up of 20 seaside villages that are the epitome of luxury.

Alabama's Gulf Shores is the perfect southern beach town. Visit Gulf State Park with its golf course and a zip line, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Fort Morgan and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

A short drive from Savannah Georiga is Tybee Island. This adorable island town features the Historic Tybee Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski National Monument, and dolphin tours.

Gorgeous blue water can be found at the southernmost point of the US- Key West. This island paradise is famous for watersports, lively nightlife, beaches, historic sites, and its pastel, conch-style architecture.

Just north of San Diego you'll find La Jolla. This picturesque village of a beach town exemplifies a casual, relaxed luxury.

Kaanapali was Hawaii’s first planned resort area. This breathtaking beach features three miles of white sand and crystal clear water.What once was a retreat exclusive enough for royalty is now one of the best and most popular beaches in the world.

Magnificent views can be found in every direction at Hanalei Bay from the turquoise blue waters to the mountains behind. Hanalei Bay is the largest on Kauai- nearly two miles long and up to 125 feet wide.