Aside from your swimsuit and stylish pair of sunnies, a quality cover up is next on the list of must-have summer accessories. Our favorite affordable beach cover ups offer a little extra coverage and complete your swim look — not to mention, this layer can help protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays.
In this guide, you'll find flowy sundresses such as the Quince Tencel Jersey Mini Swing Dress, made of a soft, light material that's become a mainstay in associate style editor Gabrielle Chase's beach bag. You'll also find trendy separates like Windsor's Boho Cutie Crochet Wide-Leg Pants and a classic breezy white button-down like the Calvin Klein Beach Shirt. In each case, you won't have to drain your vacation fund to add these versatile pieces to your wardrobe because there are tons of cute, budget-friendly options to wear this season.
Best short beach cover ups
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Most color optionsThis lightweight, comfy tank dress has convenient pockets and comes in over 50 colors and patterns.
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Best fitted romperThis stretchy singlet offers UPF 50+ protection and can be cinched at the waist.
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Most lightweightThis breezy, breathable minidress rolls into a tidy bundle, making it the perfect travel companion.
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Best kaftan-styleA super affordable V-neck tunic features open sides for a breezy fit.
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Best shirt dressWith a flowy cut that’s longer in the back, this shirt dress offers the perfect amount of coverage.
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Best minidressThis fit-and-flare cap sleeve knit minidress accentuates your waist, available in seven classic colors.
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Best shorts setThis comfy cotton set, which comes in 23 colors, is versatile enough to take you from the beach to brunch.
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Best flowy romperA waist-defining drawstring and ruffles galore make this off-the-shoulder romper super flattering.
Best long beach cover ups
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Best robeThis pretty lace robe— which boasts thousands of five-star reviews — is bound to draw compliments.
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Most trendyThis highly affordable maxi dress lets you show off your swimsuit even after you've dried off.
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Best convertibleYou can choose to wear this two-in-one cover-up as either a midi dress or a maxi skirt.
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Best jumpsuitPop on this wide-leg jumpsuit over a bikini and move easily from the beach to evening wear.
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Best plus-size dressThe wrap-around design on this backless maxi dress gives you a customizable fit.
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Best stripedThis flowy coral striped dress can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.
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Best hoodedFor even more sun protection, pull up the hood on this absorbent, oversized towel dress.
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Best coord setPair this string-tie top with its coordinating midi skirt at just $30 for the matching set.
Best beach cover up separates
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Best with UPFThis lightweight midi wraparound skirt offers 50+ UPF and matches a collection of long-sleeved swim tops.
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Best mini sarongChoose from a dozen tropical colors and prints of this flirty mesh number.
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Best crochet pantsTheir high waist and flared legs make these woven pants both comfortable and flattering.
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Best maxi sarongChoose from 18 vibrant colors with this sophisticated sarong, which doubles as a dress.
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Most versatileWear this tassel-adorned pareo — available in multiple lengths and tons of colors — eight different ways.
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Best crochet shrugAccessorize your bikini with this long-sleeved crochet crop and tie it all together with a bow.
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Most softThis comfortable A-line skirt effortlessly pulls on over a one-piece for an easy poolside outfit.
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Best basic button upThis classic white button up is made from quality cotton poplin and matches any swimsuit.
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Best linen pantsThese drawstring pants offer ample airflow thanks to sky-high slits and breathable linen blend fabric.
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Best cargo pantsCarry home all your cool rocks and seashells in the extra pockets of these drawstring cargo pants.
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Best sweaterMade with 100% organic cotton, this open-knit crewneck can be worn over a swimsuit or tank top.
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Best crochet shortsThese shorts have doily-inspired scalloped hems and easily pull on over bikini bottoms.