Nylon and polyester are the move for beachwear.

Nylon or polyester. That’s it. Cotton holds water like a sponge and stays wet forever. You’ll be shivering in the wind or sitting in a puddle on your towel.

Synthetics dry fast because they don’t absorb water — moisture slides off and evaporates. Nylon is slightly softer and more comfortable. Polyester holds up better in sun and chlorine. Both are fine. A nylon-spandex blend is my go-to: stretchy, quick-dry, and doesn’t get baggy when wet.

One more thing: avoid anything labeled “quick-dry cotton.” That’s mostly marketing. Still cotton. Still slow.