Are you searching for the perfect beach outfit ideas?
As a fashion writer who grew up near the beach, I’ve always enjoyed figuring out what to wear to the beach. Over the years, I’ve curated countless cute and practical beach outfits that work for laid-back vacations, beach weddings, dates, and more.
From breezy coverups that protect your skin to strappy sandals that transition seamlessly from the beach to evening cocktails, I’ll share all my tips for packing and dressing stylishly for a day at the beach.
Casual Cute Beach Looks
When it comes to beach outfits, casual and cute is the way to go. Here are some of my favorite looks:
Distressed denim shorts with tanks/tees
I love pairing distressed denim shorts with simple tanks or tees for a casual beach look. The denim shorts are much more comfortable for sitting on the sand than a tight skirt.
The distressed details add a nice relaxed vibe perfect for the beach. I personally own a few pairs of frayed denim shorts in different washes that I wear to the beach all summer.
Flowy sundresses, rompers for laid-back style
Nothing beats a flowy sundress or a romper when figuring out what to wear at the beach for a comfortable, yet cute look.
I recommend picking lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that won’t cling too much when wet.
Sundresses and rompers are my go-to beach outfits for keeping cool and still looking stylish by the shore.
Caftans, kimonos as chic cover-ups
I love rocking a breezy caftan or kimono as a swimsuit coverup when I hit the beach. They’re airy, lightweight, and so easy to throw on for a quick trip to the snack bar or bathroom.
Caftans and kimonos come in vibrant patterns and prints that just feel beachy. I own a few colorful floral kimonos that double as cute beach outfit coverups.
Sandals, espadrille flats as footwear
No beach outfit is complete without the perfect footwear like strappy sandals or espadrille flats.
I prefer sandals with some cushioning as they’re more comfortable to walk in on the sand.
Pack a pair that goes well with your bathing suits and casual dresses so you have something beach-ready.
I love all kinds of strappy sandals, but I own a favorite pair of braided leather sandals that are perfect for the beach since they won’t get ruined if they get wet or sandy.
Beach Bag Essentials
Packing the right essentials can make your beach day more enjoyable and stylish. Here’s what I always bring:
Wide-brim sun hat
A wide-brim sun hat is my number one beach bag essential for keeping my face and shoulders shaded. I always pack one whether I’m wearing a cute beach outfit or a swimsuit.
The brim keeps the harsh sun off while looking stylish. I love woven raffia styles, but a classic straw hat works too.
Oversized sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses are another must-have beach accessory that I never leave home without.
I look for polarized lenses to reduce glare. But I also love options with UV protection and fun reflective lenses or mirrored coating since they just scream beach vibes.
I own a few vintage-inspired cat eye sunglasses with mirrored lenses that look so chic with all my favorite beach outfits.
Beach towel
Don’t forget to throw in a beach towel or two! I prefer Turkish cotton towels or velour blankets as they’re more comfortable to lay on. And they dry faster after a dip in the ocean.
I personally own a huge striped beach towel that fits perfectly in my beach tote – and gives me lots of room to lounge on the sand.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is non-negotiable for me when figuring out what to bring to the beach. I always pack a high SPF formula designed for face and body. I recommend mineral sunscreens over chemical ones since they’re better for your skin and the environment.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is so critical when lounging on the sand and in the sun. So I always throw my reusable water bottle in my beach bag.
I love insulated stainless-steel bottles that keep drinks icy cold – perfect after taking a dip in the ocean!
Beach Vacation Packing List
Prepping for a beach vacation requires careful planning. Here are my must-haves for a stylish and comfortable trip:
Printed swimsuits – florals, animal prints
When prepping a beach vacation packing list, cute printed swimsuits are an absolute must! I love rocking florals, tropical motifs, or even animal prints for statement-making beach style.
Mixing and matching prints and solids for multiple bikini tops and bottoms is smart too.
Versatile shorts – linen, terry cloth
For bottoms, I recommend packing versatile shorts in lightweight fabrics like linen and terry cloth rather than just swimsuits.
They transition seamlessly from the water to lunch at a beach cafe. I love breezy linen shorts, but quick-dry terry cloth styles work well too.
Beach pants – wide legs, cropped lengths
If you prefer more coverage, beach pants with wide legs or cropped lengths make excellent coverups too. I love wearing them over swimsuits for beach walks and trips to grab snacks.
They’re also easy to dress up with accessories for evenings. I personally own several floral maxi skirts and cropped palazzo pants in crinkle rayon that work beautifully as swimsuit coverups and can be dressed up for dinners out.
Coverups like kaftans, embroidered tunics
In addition to versatile shorts and beach pants, I recommend packing lightweight coverups like breezy kaftans or embroidered tunics.
They layer perfectly over your favorite bikinis for quick jaunts around the beach. And the boho vibe matches most tropical destinations.
Evening dresses, rompers, sandals for going out
Don’t forget to pack an evening outfit or two like dresses, rompers and dressy sandals! Even on beach vacations, I still like to dress up for dinners out – whether at a seaside cafe or fun beach club.
I recommend lightweight fabrics that won’t feel too heavy in the heat. And make sure shoes transition well from sand to dance floor.
Beach-to-Night Outfit Tips
Accessories with statement jewelry
Accessorize daytime beach looks for night by layering on statement jewelry pieces. Chunky bead necklaces or dangling earrings can instantly dress up bare swimsuits and sundresses.
Large cuff bracelets help take an outfit from sand to supper club vibes. I personally own bright, beaded bib necklaces I like to layer over my coverup tops when transitioning to evening beach outfits.
Layer a jacket or shawl over dresses
For cooler nights, pack a light jacket, kimono, or shawl to layer over your beachy dresses and rompers.
A breezy crochet shawl adds texture and warmth without weighing you down. Or drape a patterned kimono for an effortlessly stylish look.
Swap sandals for low wedges or espadrilles
Switch up your sandals for low wedges, strappy heels, or espadrilles at night. They instantly make beach dresses and rompers feel more polished for dining and dancing the night away.
Flirty espadrilles look great with floral frocks, and low wedges add just enough height while still feeling beach-chic.
Beach Outfit Color Palettes
Choosing the right color palette can enhance your beach style:
Bright Prints, Tropical Patterns
You simply can’t go wrong embracing bright, tropical prints and patterns for the ultimate beach goddess vibe. Vibrant hibiscus blooms, Hawaiian shirts, and colorful batik prints just scream vacation style.
Neutrals with Pops of Color
Keep things more muted with neutral linen pieces featuring fun pops of color. Creamy ivories and taupes feel almost organic against the sand and surf. Additions of cherry red, seafoam green, or cobalt blue can add eye-catching style.
I love owning neutral-colored beach dresses, jumpsuits, kaftans, and tunics that I can accent with bright scarves, jewelry, bags, and other accessories.
Classic Blue and White
You can never go wrong with classic navy and white – the quintessential nautical palette. Crisp sailor-striped tops with white denim shorts or skirts feel so fresh and beachy.
I love rocking a simple white eyelet sundress dotted with tiny navy polka dots for the perfect nod to seaside cottage core style.
Special Occasion Beach Outfits
Stylish Beach Date Outfits
Breezy sundresses with special details
Few things feel more romantic than a beach date night! For an outfit that’s cute and flirty, I recommend picking a breezy sundress with special details like lace trim, off-the-shoulder necklines or open backs.
Light and airy fabrics like cotton or chiffon move beautifully in the ocean breeze for an ethereal goddess vibe.
Off-the-shoulder tops with skirts
Off-the-shoulder blouses paired with flowy maxi skirts make another dreamy beach date outfit. The peekaboo shoulder baring feels flirty and feminine.
And the skirt billows romantically as you walk hand in hand along the shoreline together under the stars.
Linen jumpsuits or matching sets
Don’t overlook a chic linen jumpsuit or matching top and pants set either. The crisp linen fabric feels luxe and hugs your shape in all the right places.
The muted neutral color palettes seem almost illuminated under the glow of moonlight.
I personally own an effortlessly elegant off-white linen jumpsuit that’s perfect for a beach dinner date or evening cocktails by the water.
Strappy sandals, wedges for height
Dress up your feet for date night with strappy stiletto sandals or flirty wedges. Metallic leather or rhinestone-encrusted straps shine brightly under the stars for statement-making style. Low wedges give you just enough lift while still feeling beach appropriate.
Crossbody bags, clutches
Don’t forget to bring a cute bag to stow date night essentials like lipstick, mints and your phone! I recommend crossbody bags or clutches that keep your hands free for holding hands and snapping photos.
Look for summery details like beaded straps, floral embroidery, or seashell appliques to complement your beachy style.
Beach Wedding/Formal Attire
Midi and maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics
For more formal beach events like weddings, chic midi or maxi dresses are the way to go. Look for lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon that move beautifully in the sea breeze.
I love wearing flowy maxi dresses with boho details like floral prints, lace insets, or billowy sleeves. They feel elegant yet relaxed for a beachfront wedding.
Jumpsuits, rompers as an alternative
A stylish jumpsuit or romper makes a great alternative to dresses. Opt for luxe fabrics like satin or silk. Look for special details like wide legs, tailored bodices, or ruffle accents that feel dressy.
I’ve worn a chic black satin jumpsuit to a beachside wedding before, and it felt effortlessly elegant and unique compared to traditional dresses.
Dressy sandals – lace-ups, embellished
Dress up your feet with lace-up gladiator sandals, sparkly embellished slides, or strappy stilettos. Look for summery details like braided straps, beadwork, or metallic leather for shoes that shine in the sun.
I love my strappy gold sandals with rhinestone accents – they’re perfect for dancing in the sand.
Fascinators, headpieces as accessories
Elevate your beach wedding look with fascinators or headpieces like floral crowns or bejeweled hair combs. They add whimsical flair and make you feel like a beach goddess.
Clutches, tote bags
Remember to bring a bag too! Structured clutches or beaded handbags add elegance for short beach jaunts. While sturdy straw totes easily hold extra shoes, coverups and touch up supplies for longer events.
Boho Beach Goddess Looks
Embrace your inner bohemian goddess with these fun, free-spirited outfits:
Floral maxi dresses with kimonos
Channel your inner boho beach goddess vibes with a flowy floral maxi dress topped with a breezy kimono in coordinating colors or prints.
The long, loose silhouette seems to float around you like a goddess gown. And the kimono layer on top adds flirty movement with every ocean breeze.
Crochet crop tops, shorts
Or rock a crochet two-piece set of a cropped halter top with matching shorts for a seriously trendy beach look.
The peekaboo crochet knit shows just enough skin. While the flirty crop top and high-waisted shorts keep things classy.
I personally own a couple of crochet crop top and short sets, one in classic black and another in a fun hot pink shade. I love how they look dressed up with loads of long, layered necklaces for boho beach goddess vibes.
Fringed accessories – bags, vests
No boho outfit is complete without the perfect accessories like fringed crossbody bags, ponchos and serape vests. The playful fringe trim seems to come alive fluttering in the seaside breeze.
Fringed bags are my personal favorite for holding beach essentials in style. But patterned serape vests make excellent lightweight layering pieces too.
Layered jewelry – anklets, arm cuffs
Layer on loads of jewelry for an authentic global traveler vibe. Stacked bangle bracelets jingle playfully with your every move. While arm cuffs add an almost regal touch.
And delicate anklets peeking out from beachy espadrilles scream jet-setting style.
I personally own various mixed metal bangles, beaded bracelets and cuffs that I mix and match to create signature boho stackable beach looks.
Woven fedora hats
Shield your face from the sun while topping off your boho beach outfit with a woven fedora hat. Natural raffia and seagrass styles seem almost indigenous to tropical locales.
While classic Panama hats add a hint of Hemingway-esque adventure.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – all my tips and outfit ideas for women. Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, attending a seaside wedding, or just enjoying a casual day by the water, these outfit tips will have you looking stylish and feeling comfortable.
Don’t forget to pack your beach bag essentials, choose the right color palettes, and accessorize to transition from day to night seamlessly.
Feel free to share your favorite beach outfits or ask any questions in the comments below. Happy beach day!