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Fashion and function are vital in choosing the right bathing suit accessories. Not only should your chosen pieces look great with your swimsuit, but they should also perform well and help you enjoy your time in the water even more.
As an avid fan of beaches, lakes, pools, and rivers, here’s an extensive list of my top-rated bathing suit accessories for both men and women.
FYI, thanks to AI imagery software, we’re able to create very specific fashion and hairstyle examples to illustrate the points being made. In some cases, imagery is exaggerated to hammer home the point.
Women
As a woman, I know that finding the perfect bathing suit is hard enough, but then you have to find the right accessories to go along with it.
Women have a few more options to choose from when it comes to bathing suit accessories. Besides the standard swimsuit tops and bottoms, there are also a variety of cover-ups, sarongs, and wraps available.
And don’t forget about all the fabulous jewelry options that can really make your swimsuit pop!
1. Pads
Women have a special need for swimwear. There are a variety of different pads available that can be inserted into your swimsuit top to give you the coverage and support you need.
Most women wear some pads in their regular bras, so it only makes sense that they would want the same help in their swimsuits.
2. Sarong
I prefer a little modesty when walking from the beach to the pool deck or getting in and out of my chair, so I always bring along a cute sarong.
They come in a million different colors, prints, and fabrics, so you’re sure to find one that goes great with your swimsuit. I like to keep my sarong simple and classic, in a solid color that goes with everything.
3. Wrap
A wrap is an excellent option if you’re looking for something more substantial than a sarong. They provide more coverage than a sarong but are still light and airy enough not to be too hot.
I like to bring a wrap when I know I’ll be sitting in the sun for a while, as it provides a little extra protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
4. Full Cover-Up
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A full cover-up is a way to go if you want to stay covered up. They come in various styles, from long, flowing dresses to cute shorts and tops.
I prefer a cover-up that hits the knee or below, providing the most coverage. I also like to look for cover-ups with sleeves, which help keep my arms from getting too much sun.
5. Cover-Up Skirt
A cover-up skirt is a versatile option that can be worn in various ways. They’re perfect for covering up your swimsuit when you get in and out of the pool or walk around the beach. I like to wear my cover-up skirt over a bathing suit bottom with a tank top or bikini top.
6. Beach Robe
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A beach robe is a must-have for any woman who loves staying at the beach. They provide the perfect amount of coverage and can be easily slipped on and off when you need it. I like to find a beach robe that’s lightweight and made from quick-drying fabric.
7. Beach Poncho
A beach poncho is another great option for coverage on the beach. They provide more coverage than a beach robe and can be easily slipped on and off when you need it.
I like to find a beach Pancho that’s made from quick-drying fabric and has a hood for extra protection from the sun.
8. Belts
Yes, you read that correctly. The latest fashion trend in swimwear is belts! You can find them in various colors and styles, from skinny to wide, and everything in between. I like to pair my belt with a solid color bikini top and bottom, as it makes the colors pop.
9. Hat
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A hat is a must-have accessory for any woman spending time in the sun. It not only looks great, but it also provides much-needed protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
I like to bring a wide-brimmed straw hat as an extra shield and a cute visor or baseball cap to wear when I’m not in the mood for a big hat. Another alternative to the enormous hat is a bucket hat; these are becoming increasingly popular and look great with any swimsuit.
10. Headband
Sometimes I don’t want to wear a hat, but I still need to keep my hair out of my face. That’s when a headband comes in handy. I like to bring a few different headbands in solid colors and fun prints. Headbands are also great for keeping your hair off your neck when it’s hot.
11. Hair Ties
Hair ties are a must-have for any woman with long hair. These don’t pull on your hair and don’t leave a crease. I always keep a few in my bag, so I can put my hair up when it’s hot or when I’m in the water. My go-to choice is ouchless.
12. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are another essential for any woman spending time in the sun. They help protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and can also help reduce the risk of wrinkles and dark circles around your eyes.
I wear contacts, so you’ll never catch me without my sunglasses! My preference is oversized styles. But you can find sunglasses in every shape and size, so take your pick!
13. Jewelry
My swimsuit has some cute jewelry on it. I like to keep it simple, with a few delicate necklaces and dainty bracelets.
But my most prized jewelry for hitting the beach or pool is my ankle bracelets and toe rings—they scream summertime! I also love to wear my favorite pair of earrings, even if they’re not specifically made for the beach.
14. Body Chain
A body chain adds a touch of glamour to any swimsuit. I like to wear mine over my bikini top. Choose a beaded or jeweled style for a touch of sparkle. There are several body chain types, including ones that cover the chest like a halter and multi-layer thigh chains.
15. Beach Bag
Of course, you can’t forget your beach bag! I like to bring a big tote bag to the beach to fit all my beach essentials.
My pack usually includes sunscreen, a towel, a book, and my phone. And if I’m heading to the pool for laps, I’ll also throw in my one-piece swimsuit, goggles, and a swim cap.
16. Swim Cap
I don’t want my hair to get in the way when I’m doing laps. That’s when a swim cap comes in handy. I like to find one that’s made from silicone or latex and fits snugly on my head. And if I can find one that’s fun and colorful, even better!
17. Goggles
I love to swim laps, but chlorine can really irritate my eyes. That’s why I always bring goggles to the pool. I like to find a pair that’s comfortable and doesn’t leak. And if I can find a pair that comes in a fun color or pattern that matches my swimsuit, even better!
18. Personal Pocket Hand Sanitizer
I’ve recently added a clip-on hand sanitizer to my beach bag essentials. It’s great for after using the restroom or touching any shared surfaces. It’s small, not bulky, and cute, so what’s not to love?
19. Waterproof Wristlet/Pouch
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I used to throw my phone and car keys in my beach bag, but now I’ve started using a waterproof wristlet or pouch. This way, I don’t have to worry about them getting wet or sandy.
And it’s much easier to keep track of them this way. Plus, most of them come with a strap, so I can throw it over my shoulder and go.
20. Body Glitter
I like to put body glitter on my shoulders, chest, and legs. This is a must-have for any woman who loves to sparkle. It’s a great way to add a little extra something to your swimwear. And it catches the light beautifully when you’re in the sun.
21. Nail Polish
You can’t have your body glitter and cute beach-style jewelry without matching nail polish. But you can choose any color or style you want! I like to keep my nails short and painted in a light color for the summer.
22. Sandals
Speaking of feet, I always wear sandals to the beach or pool. They easily slip on and off and protect your feet from hot sand and concrete. I like to bring a pair of flip-flops and a pair of dressier sandals, so I have options. I also keep a sporty pair for walking along rocky shorelines.
23. Face Mask
Some areas along the beach or crowded water parks may require you to wear a face mask. So, it’s always good to have one with you. I like to bring a couple of different style masks. I like to match my mask to my swimsuit or beach outfit.
24. Belt Bag
A belt bag is a must-have for any woman on the go. It’s perfect for carrying essentials like your phone, keys, and wallet. And you can wear it around your waist or as a crossbody bag.
I like to bring a belt bag when traveling or going to the beach. That way, I don’t have to worry about my things getting lost or stolen.
Men’s
While men don’t need as much when it comes to beach accessories, there are still a few things worth mentioning.
1. Hat
A hat is a great way to keep the sun out of your eyes. My son likes to wear a trucker hat or a baseball cap. But there are also many styles of sun hats to choose from. My husband, for example, prefers a wide-brimmed Panama hat.
2. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are another essential for keeping the sun out of your eyes. And they can also help you avoid squinting, leading to wrinkles. Polarized sunglasses are a great option because they reduce glare and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
3. Beach Backpack or Tote
You’ll need something to carry all your beach essentials in. A backpack or tote is perfect for carrying everything you need. But make sure it’s big enough to fit everything, including your towel, sunscreen, and snacks.
4. Swim Cap and Goggles
Like me, my husband and son enjoy doing laps in the pool. My son has wavy hair, and chlorine isn’t good for it.
So, he wears a swim cap to protect his hair. And my husband has sensitive eyes, so he always wears goggles. He also uses ear plugs to keep water out of his ears.
5. Waist Pack
When running on the beach or walking along crowded areas, it’s good to have your hands free. That’s where a waist pack comes in handy.
You can wear it around your waist or as a crossbody bag. It’s perfect for carrying your phone, keys, and other small items.
6. Waterproof Snorkeling Pack
A waterproof snorkeling pack is perfect for keeping your phone dry underwater. It’s also great for swimming or surfing. Everyone in my family has one, and we use them all the time.
7. Towel Clips
Towel clips are great for holding your towel in place. They’re also perfect for clipping your wet bathing suit to your towel so it can dry. Although my kid doesn’t like to admit it, he’s used them a time or two.
8. Waterproof Headphones
If you’re someone who likes to listen to music or podcasts while swimming, then waterproof headphones are a must-have. There are many styles and brands to choose from. I love floating around the pool listening to my favorite tunes.
9. Swim Shoes
I’m a big fan of swim shoes. These are perfect for protecting your feet from the rocky river and lake bottoms. Everyone in my family has a pair for when we go river rafting or tubing.
10. Sunglass Lanyard
A sunglass lanyard is a great way to keep your sunglasses from getting lost. I like to wear mine around my neck to find them when I need them easily. For my husband, I found a sunglass float, which saves his glasses from sinking if they fall in the water.
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