What to Wear for a Beach Vacation— 6 Cute Outfit Ideas for a Tropical Getaway
Valerie Mekki
A beach vacation is all about soaking up the sun, enjoying ocean breezes, and embracing effortless style. Whether you’re heading to a tropical island, a coastal resort, or a dreamy beach town, packing the right outfits can make all the difference. From breezy daytime looks to glam night-out ensembles, having a curated selection of versatile pieces ensures you’re ready for every sun-drenched adventure and starlit evening.
This guide breaks down the must-have beach vacation outfits, plus #IRL style inspo to help you pack effortlessly and stay stylish throughout your trip.
What to Pack for a Beach Vacation
Packing for a beach getaway is all about lightweight, versatile pieces that keep you looking chic while staying comfortable. Prioritize breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and crochet, and include swimwear that doubles as a layering piece. Think effortless coverups, flowy dresses, comfy sandals, and statement accessories that can be mixed and matched for day-to-night looks.
Packing Tips:
- Choose versatile staples – Opt for pieces that can be worn multiple ways, like a sarong that doubles as a dress or a bikini top that pairs with high-waisted shorts.
- Stick to a color palette – Neutrals, white, and tropical-inspired hues make mixing and matching effortless.
- Don’t forget accessories – Sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and a beach-friendly tote pull your look together.
Swimwear
Swimsuits are the foundation of any beach vacation wardrobe. Since they take up minimal space, packing multiple options is a must. Go for a mix of flirty bikinis and chic one-pieces so you can switch up your look daily.
Sunny Dream Ruffled Off-The-Shoulder Bikini Top and Matching Bottom
Beachside Babe O-Ring Triangle Bikini Top and Matching String Bottom
Sun Seeker Sheer Crochet Kimono
Airy Chic Woven Wide-Leg Pants
Sundresses
A beach-day dress should feel light, breathable, and effortlessly chic. Embrace a strapless sundress that hugs your curves—perfect for grabbing lunch at an outdoor café with an ocean breeze. Or, channel boho vibes halter skater dress, an effortlessly breezy choice for exploring a coastal downtown.
Summer Fling V-Neck Paisley Skater Dress
Casually Sultry Strapless Bodycon Midi Dress
Beach Dresses for Night
Elevate your beachside evening look with sleek, shimmery fabrics that exude effortless elegance. Keep it minimal yet sophisticated with a satin strapless A-line dress, or make a statement in a beaded mini that catches the light with every move. Whether you’re dining under the stars or strolling along the shore, these styles bring just the right touch of glamour to your tropical nights.
Sultry Presence Abstract Floral Mini Dress
Glam Catch Open Back Sequin Fishnet Mini Dress
Shoes and Accessories
A well-curated selection of footwear and accessories ensures you’re prepared for every beach vacation moment
- Flat sandals for the beach and casual daytime excursions.
- Chunky white sneakers for the flight in and exploring new places.
- Strappy heels or wedges for dinners and sunset cocktails.
- A beach tote for daytime essentials and a sleek clutch for the evening.
- Sun essentials like an oversized brimmed hat, silky scarf, and sunglasses to stay sun-protected in style.
6 #IRL Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas
Straight from our social feed, here are real-life outfit inspirations that capture the essence of effortless beach vacation style.
Brown Bikini + Linen Pants + Sandals
A beach-ready brown bikini styled with wide-leg linen pants, chic sandals, and a straw tote—the ultimate effortless beach-to-boardwalk look.
Black Bikni Top + Double-Slit Maxi Skirt
A sleek black bikini top paired with a leg-baring double-slit maxi skirt. The circle-shaped tote and oversized sunglasses add a chic finishing touch to this shoreline-ready ensemble.
Strappy Back One-Piece + Denim Cut-off Shorts
A casual yet cute beach look, featuring high-waisted denim cut-off shorts and a strappy-back swimsuit that doubles as a bodysuit. Perfect for exploring a local beach town or grabbing a seaside smoothie.
Crochet Lace Matching Two-Piece Set
An easy, breezy lace crochet two-piece set with a crisscross halter top and matching wide-leg pants—perfect for a sunset stroll or a casual beachfront dinner.
Coquette-Style White Sundress + Black Sunglasses
A summer coquette-inspired sundress with tiered ruffles, black straps, and delicate bows—a tres chic Cannes-inspired look, perfect for exploring a European beach town.
Sleeveless Cutout Midi Dress + Gold Earrings
This vibrantly hued yellow cutout dress is the epitome of golden hour glam. Perfect for strolling along the beach at sunset, this dress radiates warmth and effortless beauty.
Floral LBD + Strappy Heels
A sexy “LBD” adorned with floral bloom prints—the perfect little number for a romantic outdoor dinner or dancing under the stars.
Packing for a beach vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By curating versatile, stylish pieces, you’ll be ready for every sun-filled outing and post-worthy night out. Whether you opt for breezy sundresses, sleek swimsuits, or glamorous night-out looks, the key is to keep it effortless, chic, and vacation-ready. If you’re inspired to explore more, check out our vacation outfits collection online or grab your bestie and visit a store near you.
Take us along with you! Don’t forget to tag your Windsor outfit with @windsorstore, or use #WindsorStore on Instagram to submit your photo.
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