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When it comes to summer styling, many women choose to prioritize comfort and convenience first and foremost. Can we blame them? The humidity alone is reason enough to choose clothing that won’t cling to your body or, worse, make you sweat, and instead reach for clothing specifically designed to keep you comfortable and cool even on the most humid days. Beach shorts fit that bill.
The best beach shorts are easy to pull on and off, and they’re built from reliable materials that add unmatched comfort and durability. So, whether you’re headed to the beach or simply lounging during a summer with record-breaking heat waves, opting for beach shorts always feels like the right casual-day option as they come in breathable materials like linen, cotton, and gauze. There are also a number of stylish options on the market, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style. From terry cloth shorts to gauzy high-rise styles, there are plenty of options that will allow you to enjoy high-comfort, low-energy styling this summer.
How We Found The Best Beach Shorts
Finding a pair of beach shorts has never been easier thanks to our data-driven algorithm. This proprietary tool factors in best-seller lists, editor recommendations, social media buzz, and more to rank and score the best products on the internet. From linen styles in mood-boosting colors to chic options with matching tops, we’re bringing you the best of the best so you can find a pair that suits your style without having to scroll through dozens of retailers. Read on to find and snag your new favorite pair of beach shorts.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Waterproof Beach Bags.
July 25, 2023
Written By:Naomi Venerable
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
Summersalt The Sea to Shore Swim Shorts
Overall Score
4.2
10
Summersalt The Sea to Shore Swim Shorts
4.4
64 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
1
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 Swim Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Crafted from the same fabric as Summersalt's beloved swimsuits, the brand's Sea to Shore Swim Shorts are a comfy option to wear over your swimsuit on pool or beach days. The high-waisted shorts have a flowy wrap design that offers a roomy fit and features a drawstring to help them stay put, whether you're on land or sea.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Made from recycled polyamide (also known as nylon), these shorts help divert waste from landfills by recycling commercial carpets and fishnets.
More Colors
Inclusive
Gap Crinkle Gauze Shorts
Overall Score
4.35
09
Gap Crinkle Gauze Shorts
4.5
10 User Reviews
2.1
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 Gauze Beach Shorts
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Nothing says summer like a pair of crinkle gauze shorts. The soft crinkly texture and the straight, relaxed silhouette feels polished yet laid-back, a perfect style combination for humid days when you want to feel comfortable and but still put together.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These shorts are made from 100% recycled cotton and come in several colors: Tomato Red, Bedrock Beige, Sage Green, Navy Blue.
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Gap Towel Terry Shorts
Overall Score
4.3
08
Gap Towel Terry Shorts
4.8
32 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
1
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 Relaxed-Fit Beach Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
These beach shorts are a summer classic. Designed with soft terry fabric and an elasticized waist, the comfort these pull-on shorts deliver is unmatched.
STYLE TIP
Wear it with a crisp white button-down shirt or pair it with the matching terry cloth shirt for a coordinated look.
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OFFLINE By Aerie Summer Lights Terry Short
Overall Score
4.3
07
OFFLINE By Aerie Summer Lights Terry Short
4.9
28 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
1
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 Beach Terry Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Here's another beach approved terry cloth shorts option. These ultra-soft, breathable shorts are a breeze to wear alone or over a swimsuit.
PROMISING REVIEW
"Amazing shorts! In style and perfect for wearing on an every day basis, as well as a cover up for the pool! They’re very absorbent, and they’re flexible to easily fit any body’s size and shape! One hundred percent recommend."
More Colors
J.Crew Paddle Short
Overall Score
4.35
06
J.Crew Paddle Short
4.4
8 User Reviews
2.1
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 Paddle Shorts
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Made with a special swim fabric that incorporates recycled nylon and spandex, these easygoing high-rise shorts have flared leg openings that are both super flattering and provide ultimate comfort both in and out of the water.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
J.Crew's Paddle Shorts come in a variety of fun colors, including a colorblocked option.
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Inclusive
Roxy Oceanside Beach Short
Overall Score
4.4
05
Roxy Oceanside Beach Short
4.4
2414 User Reviews
3.3
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 Short-Hem Beach Shorts
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
These beach shorts are made in a linen-viscose blend that allows for lightweight comfort and extreme breathability. They're also accentuated with a smocked waistband, which prevents them from riding up the thighs.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Roxy’s Oceanside Beach shorts are available in 15 colors and prints.
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Athleta Cabo Linen 4" Short
Overall Score
4.55
04
Athleta Cabo Linen 4" Short
4.6
1203 User Reviews
3.1
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 Linen Beach Shorts
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With more than 1,200 five-star reviews, this warm-weather essential is most loved for its versatility and comfort. It has a few deep stash pockets to hold all your essentials, a cuffed hem, and a drawstring that allows for a customized fit.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Reviewers love that these shorts are loose but not baggy and feel extremely light on the skin.
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Inclusive
Quince 100% European Linen Shorts
Overall Score
4.35
03
Quince 100% European Linen Shorts
4.9
243 User Reviews
2.7
Best Seller
0
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 Affordable Beach Shorts
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Made from soft, 100% linen, these relaxed and lightweight shorts are equally perfect for lounging around and spending a day at the beach with friends. With an elastic waistband, a drawstring for a comfortable fit, and two functional front and back pockets, they’re a must-have for the warm weather.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These shorts were ethically sourced and produced in a certified factory under the Business Social Compliance Initiative, which aims to improve conditions for factory workers throughout the supply chain.
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Madewell Lightspun Easy Pull-On Shorts
Overall Score
4.5
02
Madewell Lightspun Easy Pull-On Shorts
4.2
51 User Reviews
2.4
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 Pull-On Beach Shorts
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Madewell’s best-selling gauze gives these pull-on shorts a laid-back vibe that's equal parts comfortable and stylish. The fabric is 100% cotton and comes in three colors: black, lavender, and quartz.
STYLE TIP
Pair these with the matching top for a breezy, effortless look.
More Colors
J.Crew New Seaside Short In Linen Blend
Overall Score
4.6
01
J.Crew New Seaside Short In Linen Blend
4.6
29 User Reviews
2.3
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 Shorts Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Made from a linen-Tencel blend, these relaxed shorts leave plenty of room in the legs for moving about. They also have an elasticized waistband, which makes it easy to adjust them depending on where you like them to sit.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These shorts are available in an inclusive range of sizes and are available in 10 colors including green, pink, and orange.
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