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Best beach cover-ups: find comfort, support, coverage and breathability

It’s not just the search for the perfect bikini or swimsuit that can be a nightmare. Finding stylish yet practical cover-up clothing can feel like an impossible task, so we’ve rounded up our pick of the best beach cover-ups for you.

By Kat Romero | Last updated Dec 20, 2023

Best beach cover-ups

There’s nothing like the feeling of sand between our toes and the sun warming our face on a beach holiday. But finding stylish cover-up clothing to wear when walking to and from the beach or even during a spot of lunch can be tricky.

You want something lightweight and breathable for the summer heat but also comfortable and stylish to fit in with your holiday wardrobe.

And whilst none of us want to spend the earth on a seasonal wardrobe, it’s good to find high-quality pieces that we can dig out for summers to come.

Here at Mumsnet, we're so lucky to have a community of users who can offer us their unbiased and honest reviews of products on the market. So we dug deep into our Talk boards to find out what users felt were the ultimate cover-up items needed in your suitcase.

In need of other wardrobe essentials? Don’t miss our guides to the best leggings, best strapless bras and best lingerie, best socks for women, the best underwear for women and even the best boob tape!

Best beach cover-ups 2024: at a glance

1. Best overall beach cover-up: Pure Cotton Collarless Beach Cover Up Shirt

Pure Cotton Collarless Beach Cover Up Shirt

Price on writing: £25 | Buy now from Marks and Spencer

Key specs

Size range: S - XL | Material: 100% cotton

What we like

  • Pure cotton

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Good choice of colours

What we don't like

  • Sizing runs small

What Mumsnet users say

“They are perfect. They look more expensive, are light and pure cotton. and you can contrast the colours with your swimwear” - as recommended by Mumsnet user DSGR

“M&S have a really good selection in their swimsuit section. Lovely shape, variety of colours. Light cotton” - as recommended by Mumsnet user YellowAndGreenToBeSeen 

Our verdict

As one of the most trusted retailers on the British high street, it’s no surprise that M&S and their products are always recommended on our Talk boards. In terms of beach cover-ups, so many of our Mumsnet users recommended the brand’s collarless cotton beach shirt.

It’s made of 100% cotton, which means it’s so soft on the skin but also lightweight and breathable for hot temperatures. There’s a great choice of bold colours to suit your swimwear but also black and white options for a more neutral look.

As many reviews say, the shirts look far more expensive than their cost and are a versatile piece. Wear loose over your bikini or tuck into denim shorts or linen trousers for a simple holiday look.

The one downside is some customers feel the sizing runs small and in the larger sizes, the arms felt a little short.

2. Best beach robe: Tampa Robe by Ann Summers

Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from Ann Summers

Key specs

Colour: Leopard print pattern | Length: Ankle length and full sleeves | Sizes: XS/S, M/L, XL/XXL

What we like

  • Full length sleeves for extra coverage

  • Chain belt to cinch your waist in

  • Great for a beach party or evening trip

What we don't like

  • Only in three sizes

Our verdict

If you're searching for a beach cover-up that brings a bit more glamour to your beachwear, this Ann Summers Tampa Robe is a great choice. With a sensual leopard print pattern, open slits, low cut front and a chain belt to cinch you in, this would be a great cover-up for a beach party or to take you straight from the beach to dinner. The only downside is that it's available in just three sizes, but that's unsurprising given that it's beachwear - plus, it'll allow a little extra room for extra comfort in each size.

3. Best luxury beach cover up: Aspiga Mykonos Maxi Dress

Aspiga Mykonos Maxi Dress

Price on writing: £110 | Buy now from Aspiga

Key specs

Size range: XXS - XXL | Material: 100% GOTS certified

What we like

  • Gorgeous designs

  • Attractive plunge neck

  • Good size range

What we don't like

  • Expensive price

What Mumsnet users say

“Aspiga maxi sundresses are beautiful wafty cotton and lovely to wear in the heat. You can wear them to the beach, for sightseeing, or dress them up for dinner” - as recommended by Mumsnet user VenusClapTrap

Our verdict

Whilst Apiga’s designs may be at a higher price point, there’s no denying the beautiful prints and intricate detailing that goes into their dresses.

The brand’s designs are ethically made from sustainable materials and are breathable and lightweight in feel. Plus, as our Mumsnet users noted, the dresses can be dressed down for the beach or elevated for an elegant evening look.

The big downside is the price. At over £100, it’s not within everyone’s budgets. But the designs are so stunning, they’ll become a wardrobe staple for years and years.

4. Best linen beach shirt: J.Crew Linen-cotton blend beach shirt

J.Crew Linen-cotton blend beach shirt

Price on writing: From £100 | Buy now from J.Crew

Key specs

Size range: XXS - XXXL | Material: Linen/cotton blend

What we like

  • Lightweight and breathable

  • Good choice of sizes

  • Nice colour range

  • Machine-washable

What we don't like

  • Expensive price

Our verdict

J.Crew pride themselves on creating clothing that is both sustainable, yet stylish. Their cotton blend beach shirt was recommended by our Mumsnet users and also has rave reviews online.

One of the things fans of the shirt love is how versatile the style is. The button opening means you can make it as conservative or daring as you feel and the quality fabric offers sun protection. The range of colours is good too, from subtle neutrals to even a bold pop of blue. Plus, it’s machine-washable which is music to anyone’s ears after coming home from holiday with a huge pile of dirty washing.

The one downside is the price. It’s not the most budget choice for beachwear but the high quality fabric and durable design means this is one holiday staple that will last and last.

5. Best beach trousers: Pure Cotton Wide Leg Trousers

Pure Cotton Wide Leg Trousers

Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from Marks and Spencer

Key specs

Size range: 8 - 24 | Material: 100% cotton

What we like

  • 100% cotton fabric

  • Good range of sizing and colours

  • Elasticated waistband

What we don't like

  • Can run long in the leg

Our verdict

We love how effortlessly stylish a pair of beach trousers are. Just pull on over your swimsuit or a loose fitting t-shirt for a comfortable yet cool look.

This pair from M&S are 100% cotton, so they’ll be comfortable and breathable no matter how hot it gets. Plus, the elasticated waistband is a huge plus for comfort. Particularly if you like to spend your holiday indulging!

The one downside customers flagged is that the trousers can run long in the leg.  And unlike some of M&S’ other pieces, these trousers aren’t available in petite. However, there is a cropped design which could work if you’re on the shorter side.

6. Best beach jumpsuit: San Antonio Jumpsuit by Ann Summers

San Antonio Jumpsuit

Price on writing: £36 | Buy now from Ann Summers

Key specs

Sizes: XS to XL available | Materials: Polyamide, metallised fibre, elastane

What we like

  • Wide leg with splits

  • Plunging neckline design

  • Elasticated waistline for a better fit

What we don't like

  • A little transparent, so best to wear over a swimsuit or shorts

Our verdict

Go straight from the beach to the bar in this sparkly jumpsuit from Ann Summers. Made from a gorgeous mesh, with a plunging neckline and a keyhole at the front and V-neck back, this jumpsuit is a great cover-up if you're wanting a bit of extra coverage on your legs. The elasticated waistline hugs your figure, but the wide legs means there's enough breathability when it's warm on the beach. Throw on a pair of heels at the end of a day at the beach and be ready for the night instantly!

It's worth nothing though, that buyers on Ann Summers have mentioned that it's a little transparent so make sure to wear a swimsuit or some shorts underneath.

5. Best beach sarong: CHAINUPON Womens Beach Pareos Sarong

CHAINUPON Womens Beach Pareos Sarong

Price on writing: £14 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size range: One size | Material: 100% viscose

What we like

  • Good price point

  • Stylish design

What we don't like

  • Lack of sizing options

What Mumsnet users say

“Lovely and big (I'm a size 18) and not see through at all.” - as recommended by Mumsnet user ButtOutBobsMum

Our verdict

Amazon is a fantastic place to find a great variety of swim and beachwear options at a range of price points. And this sarong wrap skirt has received glowing reviews. Not only was it recommended in our forums but it also has a ton of five-star reviews on Amazon.

The wrap design has a generous amount of material to fit a range of body types and can be tied to suit your waist or desired fit. Plus, there’s a nice choice of bright colours and patterns.

The viscose fabric drapes beautifully and has a silky feel but the skirt is a fantastic price for any budget. The one downside would be the one size fits all concept. Whilst plus sizes say it’s a versatile fit, it may run a little big for petite frames.

6. Best beach dress: Pure Cotton Square Neck Midaxi Beach Dress

Pure Cotton Square Neck Midaxi Beach Dress

Price on writing £40 | Buy now from Marks and Spencer

Key specs

Size range: 8 - 24 | Material: 100% cotton

What we like

  • 100% cotton

  • Flowy style for flattering fit

  • Good size range

  • Adjustable straps

What we don’t like

  • Lack of colour options

Our verdict

It’s not often a summer dress ticks all the boxes but this design from M&S has set the bar very high. The flowy style is so flattering on a range of body types and the adjustable straps mean you can tailor it to fit your bust size.

The cotton fabric is so lightweight and ideal for days out in the summer heat. Plus, the bright orange shade is so gorgeous.

The one small downside is the lack of colour options. It’s available in orange and black but for such a stunning dress, we’d love to see some more shades.

7. Best beach co-ord: ASOS DESIGN Oversized Textured Beach Co-ord

ASOS DESIGN Oversized Textured Beach Co-ord

Price on writing: £41 (for shorts and shirt) | Buy now from ASOS

Key specs

Size range: 4 - 18 | Material: 100% cotton

What we like

  • 100% cotton

  • Shirt and short sold separate for ideal fits

  • Good size range

  • Choice of colours

What we don’t like

  • Sizing runs big

Our verdict

We can always rely on ASOS to have a great range of beachwear at a variety of price points. And this co-ord design is ideal for a modern take on traditional cover ups.

The shorts and shirt are sold as separates, which is ideal if you are top or bottom heavy. And it means you can buy a variety of options and mix and match.

Plus, the pure cotton fabric is such a breathable choice. The one downside is some customers said the design was baggier than they expected. So if you’d like something more fitted, it may be worth sizing down.

8. Best kaftan for the beach: John Lewis Mirage Kaftan

John Lewis Mirage Kaftan

Price on writing £35 | Buy now from John Lewis

Key specs

Size range: S - L | Material: 100% Ecovero viscose

What we like

  • Comfortable fit

  • Tie waist design

  • Matching swimwear items

What we don’t like

  • Lack of sizing

Our verdict

The viscose fabric of this kaftan means it drapes so effortlessly against your frame and the tie-waist design allows you to accentuate your waist. The kaftan can also be paired with a matching swimsuit in two different designs, which is ideal for your beach style aesthetic.

However, there is a lack of sizing options, with only small to large available.

9. Best beach shorts: SMENG Womens Solid Colour Drawstring Shorts

SMENG Womens Solid Colour Drawstring Shorts

Price on writing: £25 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Size range: S - XL | Material: 90% cotton, 10% linen

What we like

  • Elasticated waistband for comfort

  • Good choice of colours

  • Lightweight materials

What we don’t like

  • Lack of plus size options

Our verdict

A good pair of beach shorts should be a staple of your summer wardrobe. This design from Smeng is available on Amazon and has received a lot of five-star reviews.

The elasticated waistband offers a comfortable fit and there’s over 30 colour and pattern options to choose from.The design also features pockets on the back, which is such a practical addition and the cotton and linen fabric means it’s so cool in the heat.

Sadly, the shorts only go up to an XL so, this may not be the best design for plus size figures.

10. Best lightweight beach cover-up: Tu Yellow Broderie Midi Dress

Tu Yellow Broderie Midi Dress

Price on writing: £32 | Buy now from Tu

Key specs

Size range: 8 - 22 | Material: 100% cotton

What we like

  • Pure cotton

  • Breathable broderie design

  • Machine washable

What we don’t like

  • Could run long

Our verdict

Sainsbury’s Tu clothing range is fantastic for flattering and stylish summer pieces on a budget. And this summer dress is such a great find. The gorgeous yellow colour adds a pop of sunshine to the look and the cotton fabric and broderie design will keep you comfortable and cool no matter what the weather.

The one downside is the lack of petite options. The model on the website is 5”8 so it may be more of a maxi style on shorter builds.

What’s the best material for a beach cover up?

In the hot weather, you want something breathable. Cotton or linen are the ideal fabrics or a blend of both. Viscose is also a breathable fabric and offers a silk-like drape for a flattering fit and polyester is very fast-drying. Try to avoid silk as this can shrink when wet.

What’s the most flattering style of beach cover up?

Most of our users loved an oversized cotton shirt, which is so flattering and also versatile. It's the perfect piece that you can make work even when you're back home. Bright colours or a neutral white can make a tan really pop.

What’s the best beach cover up to buy?

M&S had so many highly-rated options but their collarless shirt proved most popular. It's a flattering fit that's available in a good choice of colours.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

Mumsnetters have certainly put beachwear brands through their paces, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the beach cover-ups they own and have personally tried and tested.

First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite beach cover-ups, as well as the brands that they have tried, rated, and would recommend to their friends.

We also looked out for any negative reviews, where Mumsetters highlighted products that they felt were poor quality, ineffective, didn't fit or simply failed to be comfortable.

Expert opinions

We then cross-checked our recommendations with the best beach cover-ups praised by top stylists, fashion industry experts, and tastemakers, to ensure we were bringing you the best products that are rated across the board.

Authentic consumer reviews

Finally, to bring you our definitive list of the best women's beach cover-ups, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Amazon, John Lewis, Next and independent sites to get broader consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

About the author

Kat is a writer and journalist hailing from London. Here at Mumsnet she writes our Swears By content which is designed to offer mums a round-up of the best products on the market. Whilst she has always been a lover of writing, Kat feels becoming a mother has made her more passionate delivering quality content for parents that is helpful and relatable. So, you know you can trust her product roundups.

When she's not at her desk, Kat loves to soak up the sights of London with her fiancé and son - exploring museum exhibitions and the many open spaces and parks. Or you'll find her consuming far too much caffeine from some of her beloved coffee shops in her local area of South East London.