Almost one year ago to the day, David and I pushed back a beach vacation. Thankfully, we’re finally able to safely escape to the sun and sand. Whether you’re dreaming of a getaway or have something planned, I thought it’d be fun to share what to pack on a beach vacation.
This packing list covers everything I bring on a beach destination, from casual resort wear to poolside essentials (swimsuits, cover-ups), beach bags, vacation dinner outfits, and must-have toiletries (sunscreen, I’m looking at you!).
Swimsuits
When it comes to bathing suits, I’m all about options that are comfortable and cute. I splurge on a few special suits that I already love and rounded out the collection with affordable swimwear.
Agua Bendita Bikini Top and Bottom
Beach Cover-Ups & Beachwear
When we’re by the pool I like to wear a lightweight sundress, classic white dress, or caftan. For active days, like biking around the island and boat rides, I opt for jean shorts with a tee, overalls (love these), and casual rompers.
Aerie Short Jumpsuit (so cute!)
Beach Bag Essentials
I bought this XL beach tote (also love this one) to fit clothing, sun protection, and accessories, like beach towels, water bottles, a cute beach outfit, sunscreen, sunburn aloe, and more. Here’s what I plan to keep in it:
SPF 30 Reef-Safe Sunscreen (waterproof for snorkel trips)
Sun Hat (also love this straw hat)
Shoes
I always pack a pair of flip flops I don’t mind getting dirty on the beach, flat sandals for casual outfits, and a few pairs of heels for dinner.
Beauty Favorites & Toiletries
I really try to edit down the beauty essentials that I pack on beach vacations, but I always pack my detangling spray and wet brush as my hair gets very tangled swimming.
Oribe Shampoo and Conditioner
Oribe Detangling Spray (also love this one)
Tops
My go-to look no matter where I am is a statement top and jeans or shorts, so I always bring a handful of beachy tops that I can combine with shorts for cute outfits throughout the week.
Bottoms
I recommend packing a pair of casual jean cutoffs (these are my favorite—just the right length and flattering) and a dressier pair for dinner.
Dresses
After a long day spent in the sun, I have limited energy to expend getting ready. To make the process simple and still feel my best at dinner, I’ll do a simple dress and sandal combo.
Rhode Ella Dress (similar, less expensive here)
Ulla Johnson Midi Dress (similar, less expensive here)
Reformation Hyland Dress (similar, less expensive here)
Accessories
I plan on using the Anine Bing bag mentioned above as my carry-on and beach bag; I’ll use the clutch in the evening and the bucket bag on daytime outings.
Amazon Sunglasses (Celine dupes)
Catbird Rings (here, here and here)
Shop Swimwear & Poolside Looks
Shop Casual Beach Outfits
Shop Evening Resort Outfits
Shop Shoes & Accessories
Shop Beauty
That’s my full woman’s packing list of what to pack on a beach vacation! I’m so looking forward to unplugging, snorkeling, getting a tan, and doing all the beach things. Aside from brief weekend visits to Florida and a road trip to the NC beaches, we haven’t been somewhere tropical since our honeymoon to Hawaii, so this family beach vacation is long overdue!
Follow along on Instagram and in the LIKEtoKNOW.it app to see more of my beach vacation outfit ideas and what we get into on our beach trip this week.
PS—I use these packing cubes to keep my carry-on and checked bags as compact as possible. For more travel tips and packing tips, visit this page.
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