Your Go-To Guide for the Best Beach Outfit Ideas + Free Packing List

If you’re anything like me, packing for the beach means trying on countless outfits, overthinking sandals, and somehow forgetting a cover-up.

That’s exactly why I put together this list of beach outfit ideas—so you can skip the stress and actually enjoy getting dressed.

Whether you’re heading to a beach bar, lounging by the pool, or just walking along the shore, I’ve got a look that works.

I also included a downloadable packing list to make life easier because we all know how easy it is to overpack… or underpack (guilty).

These outfits are comfy, cute, and vacation-ready without being too fussy. Let’s get into all the beach outfit ideas you’ll actually want to wear.

Beach Outfit Packing List: Everything You Should Bring

Whenever I’m heading to the beach, I like to pack outfits that make me feel good but don’t take up much space.

Here’s what I usually throw in my bag to keep it light but still have options:

Swimwear:

• 2–3 bikinis or one-piece swimsuits (I like to mix and match tops and bottoms)
• 1 showstopper bikini for beach clubs or photo days

Cover-Ups & Layers:

• Sarong or wrap skirt
• Button-down shirt or oversized linen shirt
• Flowy kaftan or long crochet dress
• Lightweight matching set

Bottoms:

• Linen shorts or breezy wide-leg pants
• High-waisted shorts or a crochet skirt

Tops:

• Cute crop tops or bandeau tops to layer over swimwear
• One cute top that works for dinner

Shoes:

• Slides or flat sandals
• Flip-flops for the sand
• One pair of comfy wedges or platform sandals (optional)

Accessories:

• Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap
• Oversized sunglasses
• Straw beach tote
• Small crossbody or clutch for evenings
• Statement earrings or beachy necklaces

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26 Classy Beach Outfit Ideas

Bikini and Breezy Wrap

I always bring a sarong like this when I hit the beach—it makes a bikini feel a little more put-together without adding bulk.

The white-on-white combo feels clean and easy, and that starfish necklace gives the whole look a vacation vibe.

Add a straw tote and some slides, and you’re ready for lounging or grabbing a drink seaside.

Market Stroll Ready

This outfit feels like something I’d wear on a beach town day trip in Italy—super casual but still cute.

A white tank and skort are a no-brainer when it’s hot out, and that scarf in her hair ties it all together.

I really like the big crochet bag. It’s light, roomy, and fits all the random things I always end up picking up while exploring.

This is a perfect look to go from exploring a new city to lounging on the beach.

Sunset Lounge Look

There’s something about a beach sunset that makes oversized loungewear hit different.

You can throw on a striped pajama set like this over your bikini after a swim—it’s relaxed but still cute.

The matching top and shorts feel intentional, and you can’t go wrong with a glass of wine in hand.

Honestly, this is my kind of beach night vibe.

Crochet Cruise Vibes

A crochet set is a go-to when I want to feel dressed up without actually trying.

The texture makes it look fancy, but it’s still super breathable and easy to wear over a bikini. I like how the big straw tote balances it out and keeps the whole outfit casual.

It’s perfect for walking around the boardwalk or hopping off a boat for lunch.

Laid-Back Linen

I always feel a little cooler when I throw on an oversized linen shirt—especially with a bikini underneath and high-waisted shorts.

The brown sandals and structured straw bag pull the whole outfit together without trying too hard.

It’s the kind of look I’d wear straight from the beach to a patio lunch, no outfit change needed.

Dramatic by the Shore

This beach outfit is giving movie-scene energy, and I’m into it.

The oversized black hat is such a power move, especially paired with the sheer mesh dress and subtle flower detail. It’s dramatic without being over the top.

I’d wear this when I want to make an entrance—even if it’s just to my beach towel.

Striped Set & Statement Red

This combo is such a power move for beach days when you still want to feel styled.

The red bikini underneath the striped matching set really pops. It’s bold but not too much.

I love the relaxed fit of the pants and shirt too, especially for walking around or grabbing lunch.

And that oversized black tote is practical but still makes a statement.

Beach Cowgirl Moment

This outfit is giving coastal cowgirl in the best way.

I love how the knit set keeps it soft and breathable while the cowboy hat totally steals the show.

The bandeau top underneath is super flattering, and the hoop earrings add just enough drama.

I’d definitely wear something like this cowgirl outfit when I want to feel comfy but still styled for the beach.

Sandy Neutrals & Sporty Slides

I love how simple this look is—just a taupe bikini, a matching wrap, and sporty sandals that work for walking on hot sand.

The neutral tones feel put-together without trying too hard, and that high ponytail is a perfect choice for spending a day at the beach.

I’d throw this on when I want to tan, swim, and still look good grabbing an iced drink after.

Two-Piece Cover-Up

I’d wear this exact outfit for a beach boardwalk day.

The white cover-up two-piece makes it more interesting than a basic cover-up, and the bikini peeking through keeps it summery.

Slides and a straw tote finish the look with little effort. It’s giving casual beach chic without trying too hard.

Bold Prints & Beach Texture

I’m all about mixing patterns and textures for beach outfits, and this outfit nails it.

The striped shirt tied up over a bikini gives it that cool, undone feel, while the crochet maxi skirt brings in that summery texture I always look for.

Add some retro sunglasses and a mini straw bag, and it’s basically a vacation photo waiting to happen.

Amalfi Coast Knit Glam

This look is vacation goals. The long knit cover-up dress with bell sleeves feels elegant but still beach-appropriate. That subtle peek of bikini underneath makes it beach appropriate.

I’d wear this to lounge by the water and then head to lunch without changing a thing.

The straw bag and white slides keep it relaxed but styled—exactly what I want on a beach trip.

Soft Pink & Flowy White

This outfit is light, breezy, and just feminine enough.

The baby pink bikini with flower straps is sweet, and those sheer white pants are perfect for poolside lounging.

I love how the matching long cover-up makes it feel like a full look.

It’s simple, but honestly, I’d wear this every single beach day.

All-Red Resort Vibe

This red-on-red look is pure power.

I love it when someone goes monochrome at the beach. The flowy pants and open button-down make it comfy, but the color and gold jewelry take it up a notch.

This is the kind of outfit I’d wear when I want to feel a little dramatic in the best way.

Neutral Set, Beach Chic

This is one of those outfits that just makes you feel effortlessly put together.

The soft texture, light color, and tie-front details give off that beach energy without looking too plain.

I’d wear this for a beachside brunch—it’s comfy enough for the heat but cute enough for a round of photos before the food even arrives.

Modern Neutrals with a Twist

This look feels elevated but still beach-friendly.

I love how the black bikini top stands out under the white linen shirt, and the printed pants keep things interesting without being loud.

I’d wear this when I want to feel stylish and super chill at the same time.

Beach Bar Cool

I love how easy this beach outfit feels—white drawstring shorts, a textured blue bikini top, and a striped button-down thrown on top.

It’s the kind of look I’d wear when I’m heading from the beach straight into a beach bar or café.

The chunky platform sandals give a little height, and the vibe overall just says chill but confident.

Shimmer by the Pool

This is a total vacation glam moment.

The shimmer in that cover-up catches the light in such a pretty way, and that open back adds drama to the whole look.

I’d save something like this for a pool day where I want to feel a little more dressed up.

It’s sparkly and totally unforgettable.

Bar-Side Crochet Cool

This is exactly the kind of outfit I’d wear when I want to stay beach-ready but still grab a drink or snack without looking too casual.

The bandeau top with the flower detail is super cute, and the long crochet skirt balances it out perfectly.

Add a wide-brimmed hat and a textured straw tote, and you’ve nailed that effortlessly stylish beach bar look.

Sunset Blues & Sandy Hues

This is such a dreamy beach look.

The blue crochet dress with the open back feels coastal, especially during golden hour.

I love how the yellow headscarf adds a pop of contrast—it’s unexpected but works so well.

I’d wear this to watch the sunset barefoot on the sand with something cold in hand.

Lime by the Sea

This green set is such a vibe and is the perfect choice if you want to stand out at the beach.

I love the combo of the triangle bikini, high-waisted shorts, and that flowy long cover-up. It’s giving vacation energy without being overdone.

The texture makes it even better in the sun, and those little details like the flower necklace and gold hoops pull it all together.

I’d wear this the second I step off the plane.

Stripes by the Pool

This black-and-white striped set instantly makes a statement.

The loose fit keeps it breathable, while the black bikini underneath adds that effortless contrast.

I’d throw this on for a chic poolside look that still feels comfy enough to lounge around or head out for an iced coffee.

Soft Blue for the Beach

This outfit is such a chic way to do beachwear.

The light blue set feels relaxed but still stylish, and I like how the cream bikini peeks through without overpowering anything.

That wide-brimmed hat and straw bag complete the vibe—it’s giving quiet luxury, but still so wearable.

I’d wear this walking into a beachside café like I own the place.

All Black, All Beach

This is such a powerful look. The black bikini and sheer crochet skirt feel bold, and an oversized hat just ties it all together.

I love how it’s super minimal but still dramatic.

I’d save this for a beach club or a day where I really want to show up and own it.

Fringe & Sunshine

I love how light and carefree this outfit feels.

The white bikini top and netted fringe skirt are beachy but with a little twist, and the gold slides give it just enough shine.

The oversized woven tote is a smart choice, too—it fits everything and still looks cute.

I’d wear this for beach exploring or a cute lunch by the shore.

Retro Poolside Prep

This look feels like something I’d wear when I want to feel comfy and classic at a resort.

The printed one-piece doubles as a cute top, and pairing it with high-waisted denim shorts and a white button-down makes it feel more styled.

I love the little pearl necklace too—it adds just enough charm without overdoing it.

This post showed you cute beach outfit ideas.

Check out more summer outfit inspirations:

• Top 27 Must-Have Summer Outfits to Stay Stylish in the Heat
• 18 Stylish 80 Degree Weather Outfits That’ll Keep You Looking Cool