October 02, 2024 — Charlotte Pennington

Beaches in winter carry a unique charm you simply shouldn’t miss out on, especially if you live by the West Coast. Picture strolling along the quiet shores, catching richer sunsets, spotting migrating shorebirds, or enjoying a cozy bonfire with friends. You can’t deny that there’s something incredibly refreshing about the crisp air at a winter beach. 

However, the colder weather means you’ll need to put in a bit more thought while dressing up. If you want to feel comfortable without sacrificing style, layering right is key. Keep reading for our best tips on dressing for the beach in wintertime, along with some casual winter outfit ideas that will make your seaside escapades all the more memorable.

How to Nail Winter Beach Outfits

A woman holding a stack of folded knitwear

There are three things to consider while dressing for the beach in winter—fabric types, layering, and accessories. These will have a significant impact on your comfort as well as the final look. Let’s go through them one by one.

Choosing the Right Fabrics

It’s easy to catch a cold if you’re not dressed appropriately for the beach in winter, which is why your outfit needs to be insulating enough to keep you warm through the fiercest of winds. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to completely swap out your lightweight cotton and linen beach clothes from your winter beach outfits, but you will need to add cozier layers made of fleece, wool, or cashmere to give you adequate warmth. 

Layering Like a Pro

Cold weather and layering go hand in hand when it comes to casual winter outfit ideas. When you’re at the beach, you wouldn’t want to be weighed down with heavy clothes that restrict your movement. You’ll want to dress warm but also light. The best way to achieve this is through two layers—a thin base layer followed by a thicker outer layer to trap body heat. You can also add a middle layer to your winter beach outfits for even more warmth.

Adding Practical Accessories

Winter accessories such as a wool scarf, gloves, and a beanie are essential pieces for completing your outfit and keeping you protected from the elements. You’ll also need the right shoes. Opt for waterproof ankle-length footwear to keep your feet warm and dry. If you’re expecting dramatic temperature fluctuations, don’t forget a beach bag to carry your layers.

The Dreamy Cali Beach Look

A woman in a dress walking at the beach barefoot

The dreamy Cali beach look is all about flowy fabrics and movement. Think beach-to-bar coastal outfits such as maxi dresses and maxi skirts paired with cropped tops. To transform this iconic look into a cozy winter beach outfit, layer outerwear such as a knitted cardigan or Sherpa-lined denim jacket on top. Slip on a pair of fleece-lined tights and some ankle-length boots to complete this casual winter outfit idea. 

The Sporty Coastal Chic Outfit

A woman wearing a brown hoodie

For a look that’s more athletic and “cool girl” coded, reach for a pair of comfy cargo pants or cozy fleece sweatpants. Cargo pants are the perfect blend of style and functionality, and you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the spacious pocket when expanding your collection of seashells on your beachside stroll. Pair your bottoms with an oversized, cozy hoodie or boyfriend sweatshirt and waterproof sneakers for a winter beach outfit that’s equal parts cozy and chic.

The Casual Beach-to-Street Getup

A woman at the beach in winter wearing a brown jacket, blue skinny jeans, and black boots

Planning a post-beach stop in the city? Then you need an outfit that can effortlessly transition from the beach. Start with a pair of women’s classic jeans in a relaxed, straight-leg fit or stretchy skinny jeans for a sleek fit. Add a fitted tee and layer a warm women’s fashionable jacket on top. A lightweight puffer jacket or a shearling jacket is a great option. However, if you want something with a street-style edge, opt for a bomber jacket instead. This casual winter outfit idea is warm and practical enough for the beach while being stylish enough for a café stop in the city afterward.

Shop Winter Beach Outfits at Cali1850

The beach is just as enchanting in the winter as it is in the summer. However, you need the right outfit to enjoy it to the fullest. At Cali1850, you’ll find a variety of cozy beach staples, from tops and bottoms to outerwear, for layering up in style. Shop our women’s comfy clothes now and get them shipped free in the USA.

Author Bio

With a strong belief in using fashion as a means for self-expression, Charlotte Pennington helps individuals embrace their unique personal style and showcase it through their clothing choices. From her early days flipping through fashion magazines to her adventures scouring thrift shops for hidden gems, fashion has always been her muse. Shaped by California’s iconic and relaxed fashion influences and armed with a pen and a keen eye for trends, Charlotte now shares her love for fashion through her writing.