Long hot days spent by the water, salt and sand in our hair and a bikini that makes us feel like that girl – summer is certainly here.
As our swimwear collection continues to expand, those who have their swimwear essentials sorted might consider a new addition to their wardrobe – a chic beach cover-up to perfect their coastal allure.
No need to worry that a cover up might ruin your carefully curated seaside style because luckily for us, our favourite swimwear brands have thought to create plenty of chic options to offer some coverage.
What is the purpose of a beach cover up?
Not only are cover ups the perfect thing to wear to and from your trip to the beach, but the right ones can provide some much-needed sun protection from sitting in the sun for hours on end (don’t forget SPF though!) as well as general coverage from cooler winds.
From lightweight kaftans and oversized tops to easy-breezy linen pants, check out our top picks for beach cover ups.
The best beach cover ups for summer 2023

Beach cover up in Manda Bay, $169, Mister Zimi
An eye-catching wrap is the perfect beach cover up and this stylish silhouette from Mister Zimi is so chic you’ll catch us wearing this all summer long.

Babylon dress, $139, Arms of Eve
Australian jewellery label have just launched their Casa Palma collection which is full of covetable beach cover ups, the Babylon Dress in particular caught our eye as it truly captures the essence of hot summer nights. We’ve also got our eye on the effortlessly chic Ferrara Set in Pistachio.

Open mesh beach pant, $59.99, Cotton On
Sometimes you may just be after a light breezy pant to throw over your swimmers, and if so this is the perfect pair. Made from 100 per cent organic cotton, these pants are a mesh style for some airflow on hot days yet still offer the right amount of coverage.

Catch A Wave sarong & head scarf bundle, $108.80 (was $128), Hendeer
A sarong is the quintessential beach cover up that can be styled in a myriad of ways, wear it long or short, style it as a dress or a top – the options are endless. This bundle even comes with a matching headscarf for the ultimate boho babe look.

Mesh effect cover up, $169.95, Seafolly
A simple mini dress that is lightweight and just the right amount of sheer makes a foolproof beach cover up. In fact this mesh mini from Seafolly is so cute that you can style it with a pair of chunky sandals and a fresh face to wear from beach to bar.

Roxy Blue Riptide beach cover up dress, $79.99, The Iconic
A button-up dress is the perfect piece to throw over swimmers to add some coverage. This also makes a great sun safe option as the thicker material and long sleeves keep skin under wraps

Hallie crochet top, $99 and crochet maxi skirt, $99, Meshki
For something more sartorial this set of sheer crochet will surely catch your eye. It’s super flattering on the body and pairs well with any bikini for that effortlessly seductive seaside glam.

Sarong in Fruta, $29, Bydee
Live your Mediterranean summer dreams no matter the location with this bold mini sarong that is adorned in a vintage-style artwork that takes us back to Euro summer.

Topanga Sheldon beach cover, $49.99, City Beach
For something you can throw on without a second thought, this airy loose jumpsuit is the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

Glitter Beach high neck maxi dress, $59.99, Cotton On
Who says the beach can’t be glam? We recommend glitter for any occasion which is why this sparkling beach maxi is at the top of our summer shopping list.

Capri sarong, $99, The Beach People
You will find us wearing this elegant wrap as we sip cocktails poolside and stroll along sandy beaches. Made from 100 per cent organic voile cotton, this is a luxurious cover-up from a home grown label.