What I’m Packing for a Week at The Beach: The Ultimate Beach Outfits Guide

Packing for a beach vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with my curated guide to the best beach outfits, you’ll be ready to hit the sand in style and ease.

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Every August, I take a week-long family vacation to the Outer Banks (OBX). It’s hands down one of my favorite times of the year. Not only do I get to relax and soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, but I also get the chance to reconnect with my extended family who live far away. It’s a special time filled with laughter, shared stories, and creating cherished memories. From long days at the beach to family dinners under the stars, these moments are what make our annual trip to the OBX so unforgettable.

If you’re planning your own beach vacation and are feeling unsure about what to pack, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Knowing what to bring can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re lounging by the water, exploring the local attractions, or enjoying a seaside dinner, having the right beach outfits is essential. In this guide, I’m sharing my complete packing list and eight beach outfits that will have you looking stylish all week long.

Prepare to find your perfect beach outfit, making packing for your vacation a breeze!

Best Beach Outfits

Linen Pants & Crochet Top

As you’re packing for your beach vacation, I highly recommend including a pair of linen pants. They are incredibly lightweight and airy, making them perfect for staying cool in the heat. Whether you’re throwing them on over a swimsuit for a trip to the beach or styling them with a cute crochet tank and accessories for a chic, laid-back look that can easily transition to dinner, linen pants are a must-have for any summer wardrobe. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want a pair in every color!

Best Linen Pants

Comfy Sweatshirt

I always include a comfy sweatshirt when packing for my beach vacation. Evenings by the shore can get a bit chilly, and a cozy sweatshirt is perfect for staying warm while watching the sunset or enjoying a beach bonfire. You can’t go wrong with one in a soft yellow—a color that’s very trendy right now. Not only does it keep you comfortable & warm, but it also adds a pop of sunshine to your beach wardrobe.

Best Comfy Sweatshirts

Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are definitely having a moment, and I’m all for it. With fun quotes and a variety of colors to choose from, they add a playful vibe to your beach outfit. I always pack a baseball or trucker hat for the beach—they’re perfect for reading on the beach since they have no back rim to get in the way of your chair. Plus, they provide excellent sun protection while keeping your look effortlessly cool.

Best TRUCKER HATS

Graphic Tee & Crochet Pants

Whenever I’m packing for a beach trip, I always throw in a bunch of graphic tees. They are a great casual item that you can wear while hanging around the beach house, going for a bike ride, or as a bathing suit cover-up. For a week-long trip, three tees is the perfect amount to avoid overpacking. This year, I also purchased a pair of crochet pants for a more fashionable outfit. I love how they compliment whatever fun t-shirt I’m wearing.

Best GRAPHIC TEES

Cute Beach Top

Amazon is a treasure trove of fun and fashionable items, and I went a little crazy shopping for this beach trip. There are so many cute top options that are perfect for a beach vacation. I found this adorable knit open-back tank that is great for a day spent exploring the town or going for a bike ride.

Best BEACH TOPS

Linen Beach Outfit Set

Matching sets are the perfect beach outfit. They are cute enough to wear as your main outfit and casual enough to double as a swim cover-up. Amazon offers a wide range of stylish and affordable sets that make packing for a beach trip a breeze.

I found several adorable sets that can easily transition from day to night, helping you cut down on packing. During the day, you can wear the set over your swimsuit for a relaxed beach vibe. In the evening, swap your slides for a pair of chic sandals, add some statement jewelry, and you’re ready for dinner or a night out.

Best BEACH OUTFITS SETS

Colorful Slip Dress

In the past, I used to pack way too many cute dresses, assuming I’d be getting dressed up for dinner every night. But in reality, we often end up having more casual dinners at home or out. I’ve found that packing 1-3 cute, beachy dresses for a week-long beach trip is the perfect amount.

Right now, I’m loving colorful slip dresses—they are easy to throw on and style, plus they look fantastic with a sun-kissed tan. These dresses are versatile enough for a casual dinner yet stylish enough to make you feel dressed up without much effort.

Best SLIP DRESSES

Striped Boxer Shorts

In my opinion, boxer shorts are the new denim shorts for an easy, casual summer outfit. They are so much more comfortable and affordable, making them a great addition to any beach wardrobe. With a wide range of colors to choose from, boxer shorts can effortlessly elevate your beach outfits and keep you looking stylish all day long.

I found a bunch of affordable and cute options on Amazon that are perfect dupes for pricier brands like Free People. These shorts are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. Pair them with a simple tank top or a cute graphic t-shirt for a relaxed beach look, or throw them over your swimsuit for a quick cover-up. Their comfort and style make them a must-have for any summer trip, allowing you to mix and match with ease and keep your suitcase light.

Best BOXER SHORTS

Interested in More Packing Guides?

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