Stick with a sarong for the best resort look.

I’d skip the kaftan unless you’re sitting at a lounge chair all day. A sheer sarong is more versatile, easier to style, and looks intentional—not like you forgot pants.

The key is length and tie. A long, wide sarong wrapped high at the waist (not the hips) elongates your legs and works over any swimsuit. Knot it on one side or tuck it for a cleaner line. Sheer fabrics look better when they’re loosely draped, not stretched tight. If you’re worried about transparency, choose a dark or printed sarong over a solid light one.

Kaftans are fine for covering up quickly, but they tend to swallow your shape. If you do go that route, pick one with a cinched waist or side slits. Otherwise you’ll look like you’re wearing a tent over your suit. The resort vibe is relaxed, not sloppy.

A sheer sarong gives you the best ratio of effort to payoff. One tie, no fuss.