Whether you're hitting purchase on that plane ticket for a spring break getaway or planning for a much-anticipated beach resort vacation, days of poolside relaxation and reveling in the sun are soon to come — and we're here to help you prepare a chic closet for when that time finally rolls around. After all, what's more stylish than sitting by the water with a cocktail in hand while fielding compliments about your newest swimwear cover-up? Absolutely nothing.
These affordable cover-ups will protect your skin from the sun while catching everyone's attention. We know you can never have enough options for yourself, so that's why we found plenty of the hottest cover-ups on the market — including one option that won a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award!
Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award Winners | Short cover-ups | Long cover-ups | Cover-up separates
Shop TODAY Travel Gear Award Winners
L.L. Bean Hooded Tunic Sand Beach Cover-Up
Award: Best Overall Beach Cover-Up | Category: Beach Cover-Up
For commerce photo editor Kara Birnbaum, a trip to the beach often means a sunburned scalp. But thanks to the included hood on this cover-up, that problem is now eliminated. With its with UPF 50+ rated material, the style is designed to protect you from head to knee against harsh sun rays. Plus, it comes in six colors.
"The dress feels very high quality as well and feels like a good length," says Birnbaum. "The zipper length is nice because it allows you to either be modest or show off a little, which most cover ups are normally the extreme of either."
Top-rated short swimwear cover-ups
Misfay Casual Swing Tank Beach Cover-Up
Over 8,000 Amazon reviewers gave this casual cover-up a five-star rating, with many raving about its versatility and flattering fit. Wear it to the beach, poolside or on any warm day. It comes in over 30 colors, sizes up to 4X and even has pockets!
Ekouaer Bathing Suit Beach Dress
Shirt-style cover-ups are extremely versatile, and this lightweight rayon version with 17,000+ verified five-star ratings is no exception. It’s longer in the back — ideal for those who want more coverage — and reviewers love that it dries quickly. It's available in dozens of colors and patterns, from tie-dye to saucy leopard prints to pretty solids, along with sizes up to 3X.
Madewell Lightspun Cover-Up Mini Shirtdress
For a simple beach look, try this white mini shirtdress cover-up from Madewell. After a dip in the pool, you can relax in the dress's soft cotton that is made ethically with the help of the Better Cotton Initiative.
Bleu Rod Beattie Caftan Style Cover-Up
Stay cool (and cute) in this chic knee-length caftan. With a flattering deep V-neck, cinchable tie front and pompom trim, you’ll be all covered up — but sure to get noticed.
Coolibar Navia Cover-Up UPF 50+
UV protection fabrics are slightly more expensive, but worth it for the peace of mind. This breathable, stretchy, kimono-style swim cover-up offers sun protection and is ideal for those who want a little more length. Its empire waist and flattering pleating make this purchase a no-brainer.
J. Crew Fringe Tunic Cover-Up For Women
Nothing says vacation like this fringe tunic cover-up from J. Crew Factory, courtesy of the detailed dashes of color throughout. Lightweight, breezy and stylish, pair with some supportive sandals and a sun hat to complete the look.
Coolibar Women's Shoreside Swim Cover-Up Dress UPF 50+
Coolibar's UPF 50+ beach cover-up dress is a great way to protect your skin and look chic on the beach (not to mention fully embrace the coastal grandmother style). The dress's eye-catching patterns will also make everyone turn their heads.
Seafolly Amnesia Kaftan
Two words we want to hear when it comes to getting dressed for poolside? Easy and flattering. This tassel-trimmed kaftan comes in black, white and indigo, so you can layer it with every type of swimsuit.
Echo Jungle Printed Cover-Up
Become one with nature in this jungle printed cover-up. It's got batwing sleeves, a drawstring waistline to accentuate your curves and summery tassels at the waistband and hem.
Top-rated long swimwear cover-ups
Happy Sailed Stretchy Long Pants Romper
A loose-fitting romper like this Amazon find can double as the perfect swimsuit cover-up. With 3,000+ verified five-star ratings, this piece features a scoop neckline, pockets and stretchy fabric, according to the brand.
Bsubseach Long Beach Cover-Up
Essentially acting as a super-long cardigan, this loose cover-up is made with comfortable rayon fabric, has breathable three-quarter sleeves and comes in 40+ colors and patterns.
Raviya Front-Slit Cover-Up Dress
This deep draped V-neck cover-up dress is giving Greek goddess vibes. It's perfect for a poolside dinner or late picnic at the beach with a cocktail in hand.
Augas Santas Black and White Striped Swim Cover-Up
This chic boho style features a lightweight weave with an empire waist and handkerchief hem, which can be particularly flattering on taller frames. Plus, you’ll want to wear this long after the sun goes down.
L*Space Kenzie Cover-Up
High tides, good vibes and an amazing dress: Show off tan lags with this luxe, high-side maxi, available in black and white.
Elan Deep V-Neck Cover-Up Maxi Dress
Show off a little bit of sun-kissed skin in this Grecian-style cover-up. Gathered shoulders and a drawstring waist add a modern edge to the classic maxi dress.
J. Crew Tiered Tie-Front Cover-Up Dress
This ruffle beach dress from J. Crew is the perfect addition to any cover-up collection. It’s currently 20% off and comes in red, green and navy blue.
Top-rated swimwear cover-up separates
Eicolorte Beach Sarong Pareo
This highly rated wrap is available in both long and short versions and offers quick, easy coverage for your bottom. Even better, there are so many colors to choose from that you can coordinate with just about any swimsuit. To note: It’s a semi-sheer, thin fabric, so don’t expect it to be opaque.
Women's Kimono Cover-Up
For a flattering and budget-friendly option, consider this No. 1 bestseller in Amazon women's swimwear cover-ups. It’s less than $20, comes in 45 different patterns and colors and currently holds nearly 32,000 verified five-star ratings.
Target High-Slit Cover-Up Maxi Skirt
Enhance your vacay closet with this on-trend, tan snakeskin cover-up. The high slit and pleated detail in the waist allow you to dress it up or down.
Women's Smocked Waist Side Slit Cover-Up Pants
Available in black and white, these beach pants from Kona Sol have a wide, split-front hem for ample movement and air flow.
Lands' End Tasseled Sarong Cover-Up Scarf
Pretty in electric blue multi-swirl (or papaya orange ombre and white/black palm foliage)! This stunning sarong can be tied around your waist, worn as a strapless dress or thrown around your shoulders.
Venus Ruffled Flowy Cover-Up Pant
These breezy pants stand out due to its flowy ruffles. The slits make it easy to lounge or get some sun on your legs while you chill poolside.
Has your product been featured?

Shop TODAY is editorially independent and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY. Click here if you're interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.