15+ Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

I recently got back from a dreamy getaway to South America. I took some time over my holiday vacation to unplug and reconnect with my family, and let me say, it was much needed. It’s crazy how much good can come out of a change in scenery, and it was just the way I had hoped to end one year and start another.

Truthfully, adjusting back to the freezing cold and snowy weather in Indianapolis has been challenging to say the least. I know that as a whole, the temperatures around the U.S. are pretty brutal right now, which has me and many of you guys lusting after a warm-weather trip.

Whether you have a spring vacation planned or you’re simply dreaming of more comfortable days, I thought I’d put together some beach vacation outfit ideas for you. All of these pieces are versatile enough to wear regardless of the destination you’re heading to (even if it’s just your neighborhood pool once summer hits.)

Here’s to sunnier days ahead!

Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

Beach Vacation Outfit #1

If you’ve followed me for a while now, then you have likely caught on to the fact that I am a big neutral girly. I love classic looks that focus on black and white pieces because they have a high-end, elevated feel.

When packing for a beach vacation, it’s important to consider how many ways you can wear each piece of clothing you bring. For example, can you throw your coverup on over your swimsuit but also wear it as a dress to dinner?

By sticking with simple colors, you increase your ability to mix and match things (which, hint, hint, means more room in your luggage for souvenir shopping.)

Beach Vacation Outfit #2

Don’t underestimate the wear you’ll get out of timeless and simple pieces, like this black fringe dress. This pretty dress could easily be worn to a nice dinner or happy hour yet could also be styled in a more relaxed and casual way. Swapping out heels for sandals is one example of how you could dress it down, or opting for a beach tote rather than a dainty clutch.

p.s. A beach vacation is the perfect time to play around with fun prints and patterns, like on this shirtdress.

What I Wore on My Latest Trip

Swimsuits

Obviously no beach trip is complete without a good variety of swimsuits, and because they’re so compact, it’s easy to get away with packing many! I personally love and most often wear swimsuits from the brand Hunza G.

They’re so comfortable and are made with quality that’s hard to beat. Not to mention they are super cute, whether you’re a one-piece gal or you prefer a bikini (I’m totally obsessed with this bubblegum pink find.)

Hunza G Bikini Set

Hunza G Domino One Piece

Hunza G Square Neck One Piece

Sun Hats

Another non-negotiable for me? A cute yet practical sun hat.

If you plan on spending any time on the sand or in the water, then you definitely don’t want to forget bringing a hat (sun protection is an essential part of skincare!)

The two I linked below were on heavy rotation for me throughout my trip, and I plan on wearing them a lot in the spring and summer.

Straw Boater Hat

Straw Bucket Hat

Cover-Ups

Is it just me or does it feel like cover-ups are the ideal choice to lounge around in during a vacation? They’re comfortable, easy to slip into, and they are practical—three major wins in my book.

To get the most bang for your buck, go with a cover-up that’s plain and simple—one you can wear over and over throughout the years.

I love this cream v-neck find and think the front slit adds such a flirty, feminine vibe. Prefer a skirt cover-up? This one will never go out of style.

Down the Line Cover Up

Havaianas Flip Flops

Adrift Midi Dress

Bright Dress

Just like bold, fun patterns are on-trend for beach vacations, so are bright and unexpected colors. During my trip, I got so many questions about this vibrant blue dress that I just had to include it in this post. It works just as well as a cover-up as it does for going out.

This exact dress is currently on sale (snag your size while you can!) but there are plenty of options in other colors if blue isn’t your thing.

Oversized Boyfriend Shirtdress

Matching Set

When you’re in the mood to wear something comfy but you don’t want to lounge around in your cover-up anymore, opt for a matching set. I’m wearing this pinstripe top and these bottoms in the photo below, but there are tons of sets you can choose from—you can even find some good sets on Amazon!

Cropped Linen Shirt

Pleated Linen Pants

Which beach vacation outfit idea is your favorite? Did a specific look stand out? Let me know in the comment section below!