One thing my girlfriends and I always say is that planning and looking forward to a trip can be almost as fun as the trip itself. That’s because one of my favorite parts of planning a vacation isn’t the actual packing—it’s the dreaming of beach vacation outfits. I need to have at least one look I’m genuinely excited to wear. While the rest of my suitcase is filled with the proven basics, a vacation deserves something more daring and fun!
Full disclosure: I live in Southern California, so being beach-ready is kind of second nature. But when it comes to vacation looks, I like to lean a little more tropical. I think we all like to have a little more fun with our vacay wardrobe, while still leaning on good basics. It starts with swimsuits I can truly trust, ones that work just as well at the adult pool as they do chasing kids down the resort slides. Ahead, I’ve rounded up seven fun and easy beach vacation outfits that feel polished but practical—perfect for your next beach getaway.
You May Also Like:
These seven beach vacation outfits are built around some of the same core pieces I always pack for a beach vacation—easy swimsuits, lightweight layers, comfortable sandals, and one or two great totes that work for everything. Instead of overpacking, I focus on a small edit of reliable items that can be mixed and matched throughout the trip. If you don’t have these good basics yet, I highly recommend making those investments so that your future vacation packing is easier. For example, this woven straw tote has been my summer tote for the last two seasons and at least two different vacations.
However, would it even be a vacation if we didn’t add a fun new dress into the mix, or at least a pair of earrings we’d only wear on a tropical island?
Each outfit is styled a little differently, but every piece earns its place in your suitcase. The result is a lineup of looks that feel pulled together without trying too hard, and that work seamlessly from pool time to resort dinners, sightseeing, and everything in between. Bonus: we even included our favorite beach reads.
This crochet cover-up set is one of my favorite pieces because it can easily double as an outfit in itself. The crochet top works with denim shorts. Add a cute tote and play with navy as a new neutral for a stylish, comfortable pool outfit.
Shop this look:
cover-up | swim top | swim bottom | tote | sandals | sunglasses | hat | sunscreen | book
This swimsuit comes back in stock every season for a reason. It’s universally flattering and comfortable for moms. Add these cute shorts and a lightweight button-down for a sightseeing or beach-day look.
Shop this look:
swimsuit | button-down | shorts | tote | sandals | hat | sunglasses | necklace | sunscreen | book
It would be impossible not to have the most wonderful beach dinner in this outfit. Add raffia details for effortless and chic resort style.
Shop this look:
dress | clutch | necklace | earrings | wedges | sunglasses | perfume
An easy vacation outfit for the beach, shopping, and lunch in town, styled with a lightweight bathing suit cover-up that works perfectly as a cute little vacation dress.
Shop this look:
cover-up | hat | swim top | swim bottom | tote | sandals | sunglasses | book
Here’s hoping you’ll have some time on your getaway to lounge and read a good book. This swimsuit is one of the most comfortable pieces you can own. Add a cozy cover-up for a monochromatic beach moment.
Shop this look:
swimsuit | cover-up | scarf | tote | sandals | sunglasses | earrings | book
Another vacation outfit that can double as a beach cover-up or a day-out outfit. Paired here with a cute suit and great accessories.
Shop this look:
swim top | swim bottom | top | shorts (similar) | tote | sandals | hat | necklace | sunglasses | book
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier, and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience as well as snippets of her real life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
Feature graphic images credited to Elvia Galdamez | Dupe, Katie McAleer | Dupe, and Lauren Morgan| Dupe.
Like The Everymom content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on The Everymom
2026-01-12T22:47:58Z