The best way to stay warm when visiting a wintery (or just chilly) beach is to wear lots of layers. This way you can take off or put on clothes to adjust to different temperature levels.
Of course, you still want to look fashionable and cute, so take some fashion inspiration along the way:
If you are reading this article, it is likely that you are already thinking about your beach holiday. You may be worrying about what to wear or how to keep yourself warm during the winter.
Well, don’t worry because here is a list of things that can help you stay warm at the beach even if it is cold out. (If it starts raining, here are some things to do, also!)
15 Best Cold Beach Outfit Ideas & Looks
This article will discuss the top 15 best cold beach outfits you need for your next vacation on a cold beach. They include:
1. Sneakers
Buy the highest quality sneakers you can afford (or some water shoes). Avoid cheap, thin-soled sneakers that offer little protection for your feet. If you have big feet like me, buy a size larger than your standard size.
Also, put a thin layer of duct tape over the tops of your sneakers. That will help insulate your feet from the cold ground and also add a little bit of “cosmetic camouflage.”
2. Socks
Select thick, heavy-duty socks made by a well-known brand such as Merrell. Wear several pairs in various colors. That will provide extra insulation for your feet and help keep them warm.
Thus, lessening the likelihood of developing ‘Erickson’s Syndrome.’ By the way, make sure the socks you wear are ‘compression’ socks. These are the kind with a built-in ‘knee lift.’
They have smallish, triangular rubber or plastic ‘straps’ that go around the top of your leg just above your knee. The idea is to force the top of your leg downward, increasing the circulation and, thus, the body’s overall warmth.
3. Heavy-Duty Shorts
Wear long underwear underneath your shorts. That will provide extra insulation and help keep your skin from drying out. Select heavy-duty shorts with multiple pockets and lots of elastic material on the cuffs.
4. Thick, Heavy-Duty Shirt
Wear a thick, heavy-duty shirt. It should be made of wool, synthetics, or a similar material. A T-shirt is not an excellent cold-weather choice. It is very thin and will allow cold air to flow right through your torso.
5. Hat
Wear a hat. I recommend a wide-brimmed, thick-welted wool hat. It should have a chin strap to hold it in place. Make sure the cap has a tight, comfortable fit. If it doesn’t, wear it backward.
That will force the brim to pull downward, which creates a much more effective ‘cosmetic camouflage’ for your face. Also, make sure the inside of the hat is warm. If it is not, wear it inside out.
That will insulate your head much better than if you were to wear a thin, non-warm hat.
6. Gloves
Wear heavy-duty leather gloves. They should have a lot of “give” when you first put them on. That gives your fingers something to grab onto while walking around or standing in line. Avoid rubber gloves.
7. Heavy-Duty Bag
Wear a heavy-duty, insulated, zippered beach bag over one shoulder. Fill it with the cold weather gear mentioned previously, plus any other supplies you may need.
Your “emergency kit” should consist of at least a first aid kit, a couple of extra pairs of socks and gloves, beach insect repellent, a small flashlight, a paper and pen, a few extra dollars, and possibly a hard-copy map of the town or area where you are going to be spending some time.
You can get all of the above items at any local drug store and stuff it in your waterproof tote.
8. Warm jackets and pants
Wear a pair of warm, thick-welted woolen long johns under your shirt and trousers. They should have a drawstring around the lower part so they can be pulled up over your hips and secured with another drawstring.
That will add an extra layer of warmth to your midsection. Wear several pairs in various colors. If you are freezing, wear a pair over your regular clothes.
If you are just chilly, wear one pair of your everyday clothes. Either way, you will be warmer. (By the way, don’t forget the hat.)
9. Hoodies
Wear a warm, heavy-weight woolen scarf or a thick, soft woolen ‘hoodie’ over one shoulder. That will create an additional barrier against the elements. Use several different colors. Have several different sizes too.
For example, if you are somewhere that gets very cold, wear one large size. If the weather is only somewhat cold, wear medium size. And finally, if you are only a tad bit chilly, wear a small size.
This way, you’ll be able to adjust to whatever conditions you may encounter.
10. Scarves
Wear a second, thin scarf around your neck. Make sure it is a contrasting color. That will help break up the monotony of your outfit. It will also make you more visible if you are running or need to be spotted.
A tip: If you carry a camera, take some snapshots of yourself each day with and without the above gear. Include close-ups of your feet and hands. That will be very helpful if you ever have to create an “after” photo for an insurance claim or some other reason.
Also, it will give you a better idea of what your appearance should look like ‘unpacked.’
11. Waterproof boots
Waterproof boots are another essential item. They should have a non-slip sole and an adequate ‘grip’ to them. Also, make sure they have a tread on the bottom. Finally, wear ‘dry socks’ inside your boots to wick away moisture and prevent odor.
12. Trench coats
Trench coats are great ‘insurance’ items to have. They come in handy for all sorts of unexpected weather conditions and keep you looking ‘sharp’ no matter what the circumstances.
Trench coats should be heavy material with a hood, a zippered closure, and an inside collar. They should also have belt-loops or ‘quick release’ buttons on the inside of the front of the coat.
This way, if you get caught in an unexpected downpour, you can open the front of the coat very quickly to remove your hat, remove your glasses, or use them as an awning to protect you from the rain.
13. Waterproof Jacket
Having a waterproof jacket is essential if you are walking around in the water or on the beach. It should have an adequately high collar that will protect your neck from the wind and rain.
Also, make sure it has a waterproof zippered closure and an internal hood.
14. Wool Beanie
Wool is a natural insulator and keeps your head warm when outside. Wear a second one inside your ski jacket or windbreaker for added comfort. Buy several different colors so you will choose what color to wear.
15. Long Sleeve Cardigan Sweater
Wearing a long-sleeve sweater under your shirt will provide a second layer of insulation against the wind and cold. Make sure it has a hood and is a material that wicks moisture away from your body.
In Summary
Are you planning to go for a vacation on a cold beach? Then it is essential to prepare the best cold beach outfits you will wear throughout the period. You need to protect your body against harsh weather as possible.
Remember to wear boots, gloves, hats, etc. Remember your feet are your body’s ‘paws’ and are just as important as any other part of your anatomy. Without proper care, they too can suffer from various health problems.
Hi, I’m Ryan Nelson! I live in the Hamptons, out on Long Island, near Ponquogue Beach. The beach is a place where I can find peace and serenity. It’s a place where I can sit and clear my head. The waves crashing on the shore somehow helps me to relax, while also reminding me that I am far from the stressors of daily life.
