There’s nothing quite like a day by the water. Sunshine, cool breeze, picturesque views—what’s not to love? Your upcoming trip to the beach calls for one thing: a new, cute swim cover-up. 

With so many great choices for covering up by the beach, it can be hard to narrow it down to the perfect swim cover-up. Good news: we’re here to help. Read on to learn all about our favorite styles of trendy beach cover-ups and how to choose the perfect one for every occasion. 

1. Classic Caftan

2. Pareos

3. Flowy Wide-Leg Pants

4. Rompers

5. Breezy Jumpsuits

6. Tie-Front Cover-Ups

7. Dresses

8. Loungewear Sets

Classic Caftan

Known for its loose, flowing fit, the classic caftan is among the best beach cover-up outfits for a reason. The caftan offers style and sophistication without sacrificing comfort. 

Caftan bathing suit cover-ups are typically made from breezy, lightweight fabrics that allow for plenty of airflow while still offering coverage. Lengths can range from mid-thigh to mid-calf and longer. 

For a look that’s totally boho, style an ankle-length caftan with a floppy, wide-brim hat and a pair of sandals. Wear your hair down with beachy waves or a pair of loose braids to keep it off the back of your neck while still hat-friendly. Not only will you look effortlessly stylish, but you’ll get ample protection from the sun, too. It’s a win-win! 

Pareos

A pareo is a wrap-around beach skirt originating from Tahiti. These easy-on, easy-off skirts are a simple way to add a bit of coverage at the beach—and make some of the cutest swim cover-ups. 

Shop pareos in colorful, printed fabrics to add some interest to basic swimwear, or opt for a sheer pareo in a solid color to let your favorite bathing suit stand out. 

The best thing about pareos is their versatility. Tie it around your chest to transform it into a top, or use it as a head scarf to protect your sensitive scalp from sunburn. During cold months, you can even wear a pareo around your shoulders for added warmth. 

Flowy Wide-Leg Pants

Another bottoms-only, trendy beach cover-up, flowy, wide-leg pants are an endlessly practical addition to your wardrobe. You can find wide-leg pants for the summer season in a range of fabrics, from stretchy jersey to lightweight cotton, flowing chiffon, or silky statin. 

They’re a great option for wearing over your bathing suit as you walk along on the beach or attend a summertime pool party. These pants can also be worn in your day-to-day life. A pair of flowy, wide-leg pants with a cute graphic tee make a great summer outfit for just about any casual occasion! 

Rompers

Summer is all about ease—and nothing is quite as easy as a romper. A one-and-done solution, a romper is great for packing on your next vacation or keeping on hand in your beach bag. 

Look for rompers that allow you to get in and out without the need for zippers, buttons, or hassle. A soft and stretchy romper lets you simply slide in at home and slide out once you’re ready for the water. 

For the best possible fit, look for a romper with adjustable features like a drawstring waist and adjustable straps. These can help you ensure your romper fits well while still offering plenty of comfortable stretch. Shop our Vacation Ready Collection for a selection of the cutest rompers. 

Breezy Jumpsuits

Like a romper, a jumpsuit makes for a cute swim cover-up that’s nice and easy but with a touch more sophistication. Jumpsuits have full pants on bottom rather than just shorts. Not only does this add a bit more coverage, but it’s also endlessly chic. 

With a few simple swaps, a jumpsuit can transform from poolside beach cover-up outfit to dinner party wear. 

Next time you’ve got a busy day planned, reach for your jumpsuit. Wear it over your favorite bathing suit with a comfortable sandal during the day, then swap out the sandals for a slinky heel for night. Layer on a few necklaces, and you’ll be ready for any nighttime occasion. 

Tie-Front Cover-Ups

For adjustable coverage, shop tie-front cover-ups. These trendy beach cover-ups allow you to show as much or as little skin as you’d like. Cinch tightly for full coverage, or wear open and loose for coverage in the back only. No matter how you style a tie-front cover-up, it makes a cute swim cover-up outfit. 

Dresses

Don’t limit yourself to designated swim cover-ups only. Any lightweight dresses can make cute beach cover-ups when styled correctly. Wear a jersey t-shirt dress over your swimsuit and pair it with a baseball cap for a sporty look, or don a maxi dress and an oversized pair of sunglasses for a beach cover-up outfit that’s totally chic.

Loungewear Sets

Loungewear sets also make great beach cover-ups for those who prefer sporty style over boho chic. A sweatshirt and matching sweatpants are a cute cover-up outfit for when an afternoon at the beach turns into a chilly evening. Or, opt for a terry loungewear set to keep you nice and dry post-swim. 

No matter which set you choose, one of the best things about loungewear is its endless practicality. When you’re not beachside, wear it to run errands or simply relax at home. 

How to Choose the Perfect Cover-Up for Your Outing

Selecting a cute swim cover-up doesn’t have to be hard. Consider the following factors to find the perfect cover-up for any occasion: 

• Coverage level: How much skin do you want to show? A midday swim may require a beach cover-up outfit with more coverage to offer protection from the midday sun, while a shady cabana calls for less. 

• Weather: What’s the forecast looking like for the day? Loungewear sets are a great choice if there’s some breezy weather on the horizon. 

• Plans: Do you need a cover-up that can carry you through other plans, too? If so, look for something that can easily transition to daily life. Sheer fabrics are best avoided, while a dress or jumpsuit works great. 

• Functionality: Planning on carrying a lot of stuff? You’re going to want pockets! Flowy, wide-leg pants make a functional choice with plenty of room for hands-free carrying. 

Shop the Cutest Cover-Ups in Our Latest Collection

For the best selection of trendy swim cover-ups, shop what’s new in swimwear from Soma. Whether you’re looking for something boho, elegant and chic, or sporty, you’re sure to find a swim cover-up that will become your go-to.