A hoodie and joggers beat a beach cover-up.

Yes, but ditch the flimsy sarong. On cooler days or evening walks, a swimsuit cover-up is useless—it’s designed to hide a wet suit, not keep you warm. You want actual clothes that pack small and dry fast.

A thin hoodie or zip-up jacket over your swimsuit works way better than anything sold as “beachwear.” Pair it with dry joggers or leggings. Denim is fine if you’re not walking into the wind, but it’s heavy when wet. Stick to synthetics or cotton blends you don’t mind getting sandy.

If you’re walking at dusk, throw on a windbreaker. That’s the real MVP for cooler beach air. Sand will get everywhere regardless, so don’t overthink it.

Future you on that evening walk will be happy you wore real layers, not a gauze cover-up.