Shorts get all the credit when it comes to warm-weather bottoms, but we’re here to sing the praises of another option: beach pants. When it comes to having something to throw on top of a swimsuit, beach pants are an unmatched choice. They’re typically made out of linen or cotton, which makes them breathable and incredibly comfortable, but even beyond that, beach pants are almost exclusively designed with stretchy waistbands and relaxed silhouettes (which is exactly what you want when it’s over 90° and the thought of tightly-fitting fabric makes you want to pass out).
Not to mention, beach pants can easily go from day to night with the help of a cute top (see: Blake Lively’s seaside style). Plus, whether you’re into bright patterns, leg slits, or high-rise waistlines, there’s bound to be a pair of beach pants out there that speak to your personal style. And sure, a chic cover-up is still worth throwing in your beach bag, but pants come in handy when the weather unexpectedly cools down, when clothes are required at the nearest bathroom, or when the day transitions to, say, a restaurant or barbecue.
How We Found The Best Beach Pants
With the help of our proprietary algorithm, we’ve found the 10 best pairs of beach pants on the internet. This Top 10 list is the result of a tried-and-true point system process where each product is selected, scored, and ranked according to data that shoppers trust, such as social media buzz, reviews, and notable mentions from top publications. So, if you’re ready to sport a look worthy of the cover of Coastal Living, look no further than the 10 top-rated pairs of women's beach pants below.
June 25, 2024
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Shade & Shore Smocked Waist Side Slit Cover Up Pants
Overall Score
4.3
10
Shade & Shore Smocked Waist Side Slit Cover Up Pants
4.2
159 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
Ringing up at $25, these beach cover-up pants are the budget buy you've been looking for. Designed with a high-rise, smocked waistband, and side slits, the breathable design offers comfort with sacrificing style.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These beach pants have an opaque lining, so you can feel comfortable wearing them on or off the beach.
More Colors
Inclusive
Free-est Quinn Pants
Overall Score
4.45
09
Free-est Quinn Pants
4.6
656 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Oversized Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
The oversized fit, dropped side pockets, and billowy silhouette infuse effortless style into the Quinn Pants. In addition to common neutral shades (think beige, white, and navy), you can also snag these beachy pants in bright hues like Miami Beet, Gold Fusion, and Yacht Ride.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The free-flowing pants also feature an elastic waistband with a drawstring tie so you can customize the fit to your liking.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Gauzy Beach Coverup Pant
Overall Score
4.45
08
Abercrombie & Fitch Gauzy Beach Coverup Pant
4.4
48 User Reviews
2.4
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Gauze Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
With a high-rise fit, an allover embroidered eyelet pattern, and a smocked waistband, what's not to love about Abercrombie & Fitch Gauzy Beach Coverup Pants? Designed in an airy, lightweight gauze fabric, these beach pants are both extremely flattering and comfortable.
RAVE REVIEW
"These cover up pants are soooo cute! I bought them for my bachelorette party and they were perfect for the beach. They are quite see through but as a cover up that didn’t bother me. Definitely recommend!"
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Anrabess Linen Palazzo Pants
Overall Score
4.45
07
Anrabess Linen Palazzo Pants
4
295 User Reviews
2.7
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Beach Pants On Amazon
WHAT TO LOVE
Beach days are best spent in lightweight and breathable fabrics, and that's exactly what these pants from Amazon offer. Made from a linen blend, these palazzo-style pants provide maximum comfort in a stylish, flowy silhouette. We wouldn't be surprised if you wore these on repeat all summer.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Available in 16 different colors and sizes ranging from XS to 2X, you have plenty of options to choose from.
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Vansha High Waisted Cotton Linen Blend Palazzo Pants
Overall Score
4.6
06
Vansha High Waisted Cotton Linen Blend Palazzo Pants
3.7
4555 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Smocked Beach Pant
WHAT TO LOVE
When you think of summertime fabrics, cotton and linen likely come to mind. Well, that combo is exactly what's behind these top-rated beach pants, which have a smocked waist and a pleated front for the most flattering fit possible.
GOOD TO KNOW
These are the fourth best-selling product on Amazon in the category of women's casual pants.
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J.Crew Crochet Beach Pant
Overall Score
4.7
05
J.Crew Crochet Beach Pant
5
2 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Crochet Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
We've found your next pair of vacation pants. J.Crew's Crochet Beach Pants are designed in an airy, open-stitch fabric that shows off your swimwear and skin. Crafted from 100% cotton, they're also easy to wear and pack.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Not a fan of white? They come in a black version, too.
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Athleta Retreat Linen Mid Rise Wide Leg Pant
Overall Score
4.7
04
Athleta Retreat Linen Mid Rise Wide Leg Pant
4.5
4076 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Linen Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
If you're looking for a pair of pants that look equally as good whether you're sitting poolside or in the office, your search ends here. The Retreat Linen Mid Rise Wide Leg Pants are crafted from 100% linen and feature a drawstring waist, side slits, and polished yet relaxed wide-leg silhouette.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These pants come in a wide range of sizes from XXS to 3X and in six different colors including Iceplant Pink, Raining Violet, and Calla Lily.
More Colors
Inclusive
Summersalt The Palazzo Pant With Ties
Overall Score
4.7
03
Summersalt The Palazzo Pant With Ties
4.7
141 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Palazzo Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
If you're a fan of flowy silhouettes, then you'll love The Palazzo Pant from Summersalt. Made from a lightweight fabric with a satin weave, these wide-leg pants sit just above your waistline and hang loosely, making them the perfect cover-up bottoms to throw on over your swimsuit. Bonus: they have pockets!
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Summersalt crafted these pull-on pants from plastic bottles and other post-consumer materials to help keep waste out of landfills. That's a win-win for you and the environment.
More Colors
Old Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants
Overall Score
4.75
02
Old Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants
4.6
8865 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best High-Rise Beach Pants
WHAT TO LOVE
Light, airy, and comfortable, it's no wonder these pants from Old Navy have nearly 10,000 reviews. The beloved high-waisted beach pants are made from breathable linen fabric and feature an elasticized waistband for additional comfort. From soft neutrals to bright hues, these pants come in nine different colors. Plus, they are available in regular, tall, and petite options and in sizes ranging from XS to 4X.
RAVE REVIEW
"These pants are incredible! I have them in 3 colors and the fit is off-the-charts. I'm 5'3" with curvy hips and a smaller waist - pants can be a nightmare. But these are a great length (no floor dragging AND no weird just above the ankle length), they fit great in the waist, and lay beautifully on the curves. I am normally a 10-12 in pants and a Medium was perfect."
More Colors
Inclusive
J.Crew Relaxed Beach Pant In Airy Gauze
Overall Score
4.75
01
J.Crew Relaxed Beach Pant In Airy Gauze
4.6
88 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Beach Pants Overall
WHAT TO LOVE
Crafted from an airy gauze fabric, J. Crew's Relaxed Beach Pant brings comfort and ease to your summer outfits. The soft, breathable, crinkled texture has a laid-back feel that is perfect for beach vacations or weekends spent by the pool.
GOOD TO KNOW
According to reviewers, these 100% cotton pull-on pants fit slightly large, so we recommend sizing down for the best fit.
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