Are you staring at your open suitcase, wondering what to pack for a beach vacation, woman? I gotchu, sis! This guide pulls from my own beach trips to some of the most beautiful destinations, including Mexico, Hawaii, and to the Caribbean Islands. Use it to build a practical, stylish, and stress-free beach day packing list that actually works.
And if you enjoy this post, you'll love my beauty product packing tips, too!
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The Ultimate Women's Beach Packing List
Your women's beach packing list will depend a bit on whether you're going for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a full-on tropical vacation. But the beach bag essentials list stays the same. Here's a breakdown of what to pick and choose from:
- One Swimsuit per beach day (bikinis, one-pieces, or mix-and-match sets)
- Cover-up (Think a breezy kaftan, sarong, oversized button-down, or romper.)
- Hat (I like this wide-brim visor for maximum coverage, or straw boater hat for style.)
- Sunglasses + straps to keep them from falling to the bottom of the ocean
- Sunscreen (I like this mineral sunscreen for non-toxic protection and this sheer spray sunscreen for the ultimate beach glow!)
- Beachy Beauty like lip balm with SPF, waterproof mascara, hair ties, and hand sanitizer
- Swim Turban if you don't want to get your hair wet
- Beach Towel or quick-dry travel towel
- A Book, magazine, journal, or Kindle for your beach reading or reflecting
- Reusable Water Bottle to keep you hydrated and respect the environment
- Rechargeable Fan to keep cool no matter how hot it is!
- Portable Charger (So you have juice to snap your Instagram footages) and a waterproof phone pouch to keep your device functioning
- Water Shoes are essential for rocky pebble beaches--these aqua shoes are affordable but good quality, and have held up for me over several trips!
Read my tips for how to take stunning solo pictures while you travel!
Pro Travel Tip
Also take a big drawstring or Ziploc bag for any beach gear that gets sandy to keep the rest of your beach bag clean and free of grit!
Extras
- Beach Chair if you want to be elevated out of the sand
- Beach Umbrella if you aren't going to an area that provides them [for free or at cost].
- Giant Towel or cloth for a romantic picnic lunch
- Mini Cooler or cold pack for your snacks
- Snorkel Gear for exploring the coral reefs
Easy to Pack Beach Bag Options
This straw bag is my go-to because it's big enough to hold everything, and has a zipper-top so I feel secure using it as my personal item when flying to a beach destination.
The Bogg Bag is super popular for beach trips, especially with families with kids. It's waterproof, durable, and customizable.
A mesh backpack allows you to be organized and hands-free so you can grab a fresh coconut full of cold coconut water from a beach vendor on the way to your sandy lounging spot.
Beach Clubs vs. Public Beaches
Whereas public beaches are more laid-back, so an oversized beach shirt and flip flops will do, beach clubs often have dress codes, so double-check before showing up in just a bikini!
If you're headed to a beach club, you can elevate your look with chic sandals and a linen set or dress that doubles as a cover-up! And make your beach accessories stylish with a woven tote as your beach bag and oversized luxury sunglasses.
What Not to Bring to the Beach
Not all items belong on your checklist. Skip these things to save space and your sanity!
- Glass Bottles, because broken glass is dangerous, which is why many beaches don't allow them.
- Heavy Jewelry
- Makeup Bag--just bring a few must-haves that won't melt.
- Anything you'd be devastated to lose in the sand or saltwater
Read my guide to packing a carry-on so you can travel light!
Outfit Ideas for a Beach Vacation
Whether you're lounging at a luxury beach club in Tulum, heading on a Caribbean girls' trip, or public beach hopping in Thailand, your women's beach packing list doesn't have to be complicated. Here's some outfit inspo from my favorite beach trips!
Here are my favorite beaches to visit in Oahu, Hawaii!
Read the best things to do in the Cayman Islands, including which beaches to hit up!
Need destination inspiration? Here are the best beaches to visit in San Juan, Puerto Rico!
Check out my Tulum solo trip itinerary for your travel bucket list!
Use my Destin vacation lookbook to plan your Florida getaway in style!
Need more outfit ideas? Here are over 30 women's vacation outfits for Mexico and 25 women's Caribbean vacation outfits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Think stylish yet functional: linen pants, flowy dresses, or a coordinated set over your swimsuit with chic accessories.
My minimalist one-day beach trip packing list is simple: swimsuit, cover-up, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, a beach read, reusable water bottle, and snacks.
Favorite Beach Destinations
Now that you know what to take to the beach, I hope you enjoy the sand and shore to the fullest. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Ask me a question!