Patagonia Baggies are the answer.

Yes, they’re technically unisex, but they fit women great and hit all three: comfort, length options (5.5 or 7 inch), and real pockets (two side, one zip back). You can surf, swim, walk the boardwalk, or stash your phone without losing it.

Most women’s board shorts either skimp on pockets or go too short. The Baggies give you functional pockets that actually hold things, a drawstring waist that doesn’t dig in, and fabric that dries fast without feeling like sandpaper. They also come in enough colors to not look like you raided your brother’s closet.

If you want something more fitted, look at O’Neill or Roxy’s “hybrid” shorts, but you’ll lose some pocket depth. For the combo of comfort, length, and pockets, Baggies win every time.

Buy them in your usual waist size and tie the drawstring snug.