Sunscreen is dandy, but a day of rigorous basking and lounging calls for more than just lotion. Unbearable heat and humidity have just two worthy foes: chilled beverages and ice cream. Plan to have plenty of both on hand over the next few months.

For a backyard BBQ, you'll want to stock up on PEELS($4-$6 per 4-pack). The latest twist in alco-pop, these concoctions (in Cranberry Peach, Blueberry Pomegranate, Strawberry Passion Fruit, and--the lightest taste of the bunch--Pear Lemon) are made with real fruit juice. Some palates found them too sweet, but most enjoyed at least a few swigs. "I just couldn't drink a whole bottle," one tester said.

A container of Breyers Ice Cream Poppers ($4) was another story. The chocolate-covered dessert dollops in Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, Oreo, Heath, and Hershey's flavors (close cousins to Edy's candy-coated Dibs) kept disappearing, because there's no need for a spoon or a cone. "It feels so guilt free," noted one tester, who probably should have looked at the label. One serving--a generous 26 poppers--is roughly 400 calories.

That's about the same caloric wallop as Starbucks's new Bananas and Creme Frappuccino($3 and up), as long as you're sticking with just the tall size. But it's worth the weight: The concoction feels lighter than a milkshake, which is key on a sweltering afternoon. One tester likened it to a melted banana popsicle. (That's a good thing.) Tasters felt similarly cool after downing the Banana Coconut Frappuccino ($3 and up).

When night rolls around, make a beeline for the bar and order a cocktail with Absolut Ruby Red ($27). The latest of the flavored vodkas proves fruity doesn't have to be girlie. The tart grapefruit taste is refreshing even when served on the rocks, yet it's strong enough to make its presence known when mixed into a martini.

If the day of reading poolside has sapped your energy, you might prefer a potable made with p.i.n.k. ($40), another new vodka. This one's claim to fame is that it's got caffeine and guarana to help you stay awake to enjoy a few more hours of a lovely summer night.

And the best way to end a hot, sweltering evening? Haagen-Dazs Mayan Chocolate ice cream ($4 a pint). It's much too dense to refresh you midday, but the thick, cold, cinnamon-y substance is so dreamy you won't care.