What to Wear to the Beach: A Guide to Men’s Beachwear
Planning a beach adventure? In this guide to beach attire for men, we’ll help you find the right swimwear, clothing and accessories for the perfect seaside experience.
Whether you’re planning a fun family outing or a beach day with friends, Myer’s fashion experts have you covered. Keep reading to discover what to wear at the beach to stay comfortable and stylish.
Swimwear
No trip to the beach would be complete without a swim (or at least a paddle) in the ocean! Here, we’ll look at the different types of men’s swimwear available at Myer, ranging from swim briefs and boardshorts through to rash vests.
Swim Shorts
Highly versatile, swim shorts and boardshorts balance comfort with coverage. Swim shorts sit higher on the thigh, while boardshorts offer coverage that extends down to the knee. A staple of beach fashion for men, shorts offer a relaxed fit.
Design and fabrication: Made from quick drying fabrics with an elasticated waistband. Many styles include mesh lining for added support.
Style considerations: Available in block colours, subtle patterns and statement prints.
Best for: Swimming, beach games and laid-back seaside days.
Swim Briefs
Swimming briefs are often referred to as ‘Speedos’ which reflects the fact that this style of men’s swimwear was originally introduced by the Speedo brand. These days many different brands offer their own version of this swim brief, made from a stretchy fabric with a sculpted fit.
Design and fabrication: Typically crafted from fabrics that are quick drying and lightweight. A close cut reduces drag in the water.
Style considerations: Available in classic block colours and bold prints. A higher cut on the leg creates a sportier silhouette.
Best for: Lap swimming, surf sessions and active beach days.
Rash Vests
Designed to protect the skin chafing and irritation while in the water, rash vests are a practical addition to your beach bag. Originally popular with surfers, they’ve become a staple for anyone spending long hours at the beach thanks to their lightweight feel and built-in sun protection.
- Design and fabrication: Typically made from lightweight stretch fabrics such as polyester or nylon blends that are quick drying and breathable.
- Style considerations: Available in short-sleeve and long-sleeve designs, with options ranging from minimalist block colours to bold surf-inspired graphics.
- Best for: Surfing, snorkelling, paddleboarding and extended time in the sun.
Tops and Shirts
The right top can take you seamlessly from shoreline to street. In this section, we’ll explore the latest looks for lazy summer days by the beach. Whether you want a causal t-shirt or a refined polo, we’ve got everything you need to survive summer in style.
Casual Shirts
Smart yet relaxed, casual shirts are a timeless classic – offering sophisticated beach style for men. Linen shirts are especially great for coastal dining thanks for their structured look and lightweight feel.
Design and fabrication: Crafted from natural fibres that allow air to circulate.
Style considerations: Available in neutral tones and seasonal shades. Long sleeves can be rolled up for a laid-back feel.
Best for: Beach lunches and occasions where you want to look polished without feeling overdressed.
T-Shirts
A reliable staple for any beach day, t-shirts are easy to wear and style. They pair seamlessly with swim shorts, boardshorts or lightweight trousers for a relaxed coastal look.
Design and fabrication: Usually made from breathable cotton or cotton blends that feel soft against the skin.
Style considerations: Available in classic neutrals, seasonal colours and graphic prints. A regular fit offers comfort, while a slim fit creates a sharper silhouette.
Best for: Throwing on after a swim, beach walks and casual days by the water.
Polo Shirts
Polo shirts strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Slightly smarter than a standard t-shirt, polos offer sophisticated beach fashion for guys.
Design and fabrication: Commonly made from cotton or cotton pique for breathable comfort. A soft collar and button placket add structure and flair.
Style considerations: Available in timeless block colours and subtle patterns.
Best for: Beachside lunches, holiday evenings and occasions that call for smart casual style.
Bottoms
The right pair of shorts or trousers can anchor your entire outfit. Comfortable and easy to style, shorts are a warm weather essential for any beach wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for something light and airy or a style that can take you from day to night, the right pair will keep your summer look effortless.
Shorts
A staple of any warm-weather wardrobe, shorts offer a relaxed and versatile option for days spent by the beach. From classic denim shorts to casual styles, they’re easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
Design and fabrication: Choosing lightweight fabrics will help promote airflow and allow ease of movement.
Style considerations: Shorts are available in tailored and relaxed fits, with neutral tones and seasonal colours to suit your look.
Best for: Shoreline strolls, beachside cafés and bars.
Chinos
For a more polished take on beachwear, chinos offer a smart yet relaxed alternative to shorts. Lightweight and versatile, they strike the perfect balance between comfort and refinement, making them ideal for occasions that call for a slightly elevated look.
Design and fabrication: Typically made from breathable cotton or cotton blends that provide comfort and help keep you cool in warmer weather.
Style considerations: Rolled cuffs can add a more casual, beach-ready feel.
Best for: Casual dinner and drinks at beachside restaurants and occasions where you want a more refined summer look.
Footwear
The finishing touch for any men’s beach outfit is relaxed yet stylish footwear. In this section we’ll take a look at the best shoes for summer – from thongs through to loafers.
Sandals and Slides
Practical and easy to wear, sandals and thongs are a beach day essential. They slip on and off with ease, making them perfect for moving between the sand and the street.
Design and fabrication: Designed with lightweight materials and comfortable footbeds for all-day wear. Open styles allow airflow.
Style considerations: Available in sporty slides and classic sandal designs in versatile neutral shades.
Best for: Poolside lounging, quick beach trips and relaxed outings.
Loafers
Effortlessly refined, loafers are an easy way to elevate your beachside look. They offer more structure than sandals while still feeling appropriate for warm weather.
Design and fabrication: Usually crafted from soft leather or suede for a lightweight, flexible feel. Slip on designs make them convenient for all day wear.
Style considerations: Available in classic neutral tones that pair effortlessly with linen shirts and tailored shorts.
Best for: Coastal dining and sunset drinks.
Boat Shoes
Classic and coastal inspired, boat shoes are a timeless choice for beachside dressing. They offer a smart casual finish while remaining practical for warm weather.
Design and fabrication: Typically crafted from soft leather with flexible soles for comfort and grip. Lightweight construction helps keep the feel easy and breathable.
Style considerations: Available in versatile neutral shades that pair well with shorts, chinos and linen shirts.
Best for: Marina strolls, seaside lunches and polished holiday looks.
Beachwear Accessories
In the world of men’s beach style, the right accessories are everything. Not only do they offer practical protection from the sun, but they can provide the key finishing touch to an outfit that looks great in any summer setting.
Hats
A reliable hat is an absolute must in Australia’s sunny climate. The right choice can elevate your look while helping shield your face from harsh rays.
Design and fabrication: Most hats are crafted from lightweight materials that keep you cool in warm weather. Wide brims and structured crowns provide added coverage.
Style considerations: Available in casual caps and classic wide brim styles in versatile neutral shades.
Best for: Long days on the sand, coastal walks and outdoor summer events.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a warm weather essential, combining style with vital eye protection. The right pair can sharpen your look while reducing glare on bright beach days.
Design: Designed with lightweight frames and tinted lenses to help protect against UV rays. Comfortable nose bridges and secure arms support all day wear.
Style considerations: Available in classic aviator, square and round frames.
Best for: Sunny beach days, coastal drives and outdoor gatherings by the water.
What else should you pack for a beach day?
For the perfect beach day, clothing is only part of the equation. Here are a few essentials worth bringing along:
- Sunscreen: A high SPF sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV exposure during long days in the sun.
- Beach tent or beach umbrella: These beach accessories provide welcome shade and a place to retreat when the heat peaks.
- Beach towels: A quality beach towel is essential for drying off after a swim.
- Beach bag: Keep your essentials organised with a spacious bag.
- Beach toys for kids: Buckets, spades and beach toys help keep little ones entertained.
- Cool bags: A picnic cool bag can keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I put together a stylish outfit for the beach?
The perfect beach outfit for men starts with well-fitting swimwear or boardshorts. From there, layer with a breathable top such as a linen shirt, polo shirt or t-shirt. Finish with practical yet polished footwear like slides or loafers. Then you can add considered accessories such as sunglasses and a hat to complete the look while providing sun protection.
Are linen shirts good for the beach?
Yes, linen shirts are an excellent choice for the beach. Men’s fashion during summer should be lightweight and breathable – linen ticks both these boxes, plus it adds an extra level of sophisticated style.
What fabrics are best for beach clothing?
Lightweight, natural fabrics are best for your summer wardrobe. The best beach clothing for guys should allow air to circulate so you can stay comfortable in the heat.
For swimwear, look for quick drying synthetic fabrics with added stretch. These materials are designed to handle saltwater and chlorine while offering flexibility and support.
What colours and patterns work best for beachwear?
Light tones such as white, beige and soft blue create a fresh, relaxed look. Navy and earthy shades also work well for a timeless coastal feel. If you prefer something bolder, tropical prints, stripes and bright seasonal colours can add personality to your outfit.
What should men wear to a beach bar or beach restaurant?
For a beach bar or restaurant, aim for smart casual pieces that feel relaxed yet considered. Tailored shorts or lightweight chinos paired with a linen shirt or polo shirt create an effortless balance between comfort and polish. Finish with loafers or minimal sandals and add simple accessories such as sunglasses or a woven belt.
Whether you’re going out for dinner or enjoying a walk along the shoreline, Myer offers stylish beach outfits for men from leading brands.
How can men style a beach outfit for day and night?
Beach men’s attire can be styled for both day and night if you choose versatile pieces such as tailored shorts and a quality linen shirt. A fitted t-shirt paired with slides or sandals is another great option for transitioning from a picnic lunch to drinks at a beachside bar.
As the temperature drops, swap in a polo shirt, change into loafers and add a lightweight overshirt if needed. Simple adjustments in footwear and layering can take your look from sun soaked afternoons to relaxed evenings.