Women's Summer Gear Guide

Surely, one of the best times to be a surfer is here. Summer means sunny beaches, warmer temps with tepid waters, fun waves and pool days. Wetsuits are dried and retired from their long, hard winter run. Surf suits and bikinis fill the lineups. The all-day Saturday beach-day returns. In short, it’s hard to beat.

But – a day at the beach or that dreamy summer session is only made good with the right beach and surf gear. Comfortable swimwear, reliable surf suits, soft surf tees and all the gear needed to get it there. Luckily, our ultimate summer gear guide is here to make it easy. Explore our best-selling summer products from swimwear to accessories to apparel and plenty more - it’s your one-stop-shop for that perfect summer session!

Summer Wetsuits for Women

Warm water doesn’t always mean going suit-free. Whether you’re chasing waves at home or heading abroad, women’s wetsuits for summer surf are designed for comfort, movement, and just the right amount of warmth. Summer suits are lightweight, breathable, and built to handle anything from breezy dawn patrols to tropical reef breaks.

Choosing a Wetsuit for Summer

The right wetsuit depends on your destination, session time, and sensitivity to cold.

Fullsuits

For water temperatures between 60–68°F, a 2/2mm fullsuit is your go-to. It’s perfect for overcast mornings, windier beach breaks, or those early and late season sessions. These suits give you head-to-toe coverage with just enough insulation to keep the chill off. If you're in consistently cool or wind-prone areas, a 3/2mm can still be a solid call.

Springsuits

Once summer hits and water temps push past 68°F, it’s springsuit season. These short-legged wetsuits offer a great mix of sun protection, rash prevention, and mobility. Long-sleeve springsuits are popular for reef breaks or long sessions for more upper-body protection, while short-sleeve styles are perfect for quick dips and hot days.

Rash Guards

When the ocean feels like a bath (75°F and above), you can leave the neoprene at home. Instead, pack a few rash guards. These keep your skin protected from sunburn, wax irritation, and reef rash, all while staying light in the water. They’re quick-drying, travel-friendly, and versatile to use both in and out of the surf.

Destination-Specific Tips

Traveling to surf this summer? Destination matters. If you're heading somewhere like Bali, Costa Rica, or the Maldives, a combo of rash guards, a springsuit, and a sun hat will do the job. But if you’re sticking closer to home in California, Portugal, or the southern coasts of Australia, a lightweight fullsuit is still a summer staple—especially for early sessions or foggy mornings.

Which Surf Accessories Do You Need in Summer?

Don’t forget your accessories. Even in summer, a few smart accessories can make all the difference without weighing you down.

• Reef Booties: Essential if you’re surfing coral or rocky reefs. They provide grip and protect your feet without sacrificing board feel.

• Neoprene Jackets or Vests: Ideal for boat trips or breezy days. They’re lightweight and pack flat.

• Surf Caps: For sun-drenched sessions. Keep the rays off your face without interfering with your paddle.

• Ear Protection: Surfer’s ear isn’t just a winter thing. Use plugs if you’re in the water daily.

Women’s Summer Swimwear

Women’s swimwear for summer isn’t just about style - it’s your second skin in the surf. Whether you’re chasing sets or chilling beachside, the best women’s bikinis, surf suits, and one-pieces deliver on performance, comfort, and confidence. You want gear that won’t budge during duck dives, feels good when paddling out, and still looks great for those post-surf hangs.

At Rip Curl, every piece is designed with real surfers in mind. That means smart construction, flattering cuts, and fabrics that move with you - without sacrificing support or surf-readiness. From surf missions to poolside lounging, here’s how to dial in your summer swimwear lineup:

Bikini Tops

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to bikini tops, but surf-focused features make all the difference.

Coverage & Support

Surfers typically opt for medium to full coverage tops that hold tight during movement. Look for thick underbust bands, double-lined fabrics, and supportive cup design if you're spending hours in the water. Styles like cross-backs and racerbacks help distribute pressure across the shoulders, while still offering freedom to paddle.

Adjustability is Key

Adjustable straps, tie backs, and hook closures let you fine-tune the fit to your body and preferences. Make sure everything feels locked in before you hit the lineup.

Best Styles for Surfing

• Crop Tops: Great for fuller coverage and compression with a sporty look. Ideal for high-impact surf.

• Fixed Triangles or Bralettes: Perfect for small-to-medium busts looking for a snug, flattering fit.

• Underwire or Molded Cups: Offer added shape and support, especially for larger busts.

Bikini Bottoms

The right bikini bottoms should move with you, not against you, and stay put when the surf picks up.

Function-Forward Fit

Look for double lining, wide waistbands, and secure elastic edges that grip without digging in. Seam placement can also reduce chafing and irritation during long sessions.

Coverage Options

• Cheeky: Minimalist cut for maximum tan lines and less drag in the water.

• Moderate to Full: Offers more hold and security during long paddle outs and big wipeouts.

• High-Waisted: Popular for both coverage and core comfort with compression around the waist.

One-Pieces

A longtime favorite for female surfers, one-piece swimsuits offer the perfect balance of functionality, support, and clean style.

Compression & Coverage

One-pieces provide built-in compression around the core and upper body, which helps with muscle support and endurance. Plus, they stay firmly in place - no tugging required.

Performance Features

Many include shelf bras, removable padding, or zipper fronts for a blend of performance and ease of use. High-cut legs or open backs let you move freely while still delivering support where it counts.

From Surf to Lifestyle

A sleek one-piece transitions easily from lineup to lunch. Pair it with shorts or a wrap skirt and you’re good to go.

Surf Suits

If you surf often, a surf suit should be in your regular rotation. These are long-sleeve one-pieces crafted from swim or light neoprene materials.

Surf suits offer maximum sun protection, reduce board rash, and provide full upper-body coverage while still feeling light and flexible. They’re especially ideal for longer sessions or when surfing reef breaks where abrasion is a concern.

Functional Design Elements

• Front zip or back zip entry for easy on-and-off

• High necklines for sun protection and to reduce water flush

• Seamless or flatlock seams to avoid chafing

• Silicone grippers or full coverage cuts to prevent riding up

Summer Beachwear for Women

Off the board and into the sun, women’s beachwear should flow with you from surf checks to sunsets. Designed for beachside living, these staples blend comfort with a laid-back coastal vibe.

Hats

Whether you’re paddling out in a surf cap or lounging under a straw hat, keeping your face shaded with a summer hat is key. Sun protection never goes out of style, so don’t leave it behind.

Shirts & Tanks

Loose tanks, breezy tees, and lightweight button-ups are summer staples. Easy to throw on over a bikini or wear solo, they’re perfect for beach days, road trips, and sunset hangs.

Dresses & Cover Ups

A flowy beach dress or simple cover up is your best friend post-surf. Lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly chic, they’re made to take you from towel to taco truck without missing a beat.

Hoodies & Sweaters

Even in summer, wind and salt air can bring a chill. A cozy pullover or soft knit sweater is clutch for morning surf checks, breezy boat rides, or evening bonfires.

Shorts & Pants

Whether it’s high-performance boardshorts for the lineup or comfy pants for the afternoon cruise, your bottom-half wardrobe should be equal parts surf-ready and sunset-session stylish.

Sandals

After peeling off your suit and rinsing the salt off, nothing beats sliding into a pair of comfy sandals. Stick with water-friendly styles that can handle sand, sea, and slow walks.

Women’s Beach & Surf Accessories for Summer

Dialing in your gear doesn’t stop at suits and swimwear. The right summer surf accessories add major convenience, comfort, and performance - whether you’re chasing dawn patrol or planning a surf trip abroad.

Surf Watches

Today’s surf watches do more than tell time - they track tides, sessions, and even GPS data. Built tough for salt and sun, they’re like your surf coach, tide chart, and diary in one.

Beach Towels

A solid beach towel goes a long way. Quick-dry styles are perfect between sessions, while plush cotton towels feel like luxury post-surf. Go oversized, you’ll want something to sprawl out on at sunset.

Travel Bags

Whether it’s a short mission or a week-long trip, your beach bag matters. Wet/dry compartments, padded straps, and weatherproof fabrics help keep your gear organized, protected, and ready for whatever’s next.

Surfboard Care Items

Broken leash? Dinged nose? It happens. Keep surfboard hardware like backup fins, repair kits, and a board cover in your kit. A little prep goes a long way in keeping you surfing.

Women’s Summer Surf Gear FAQ

What wetsuit should women wear for surfing in summer?

For cooler spots (60–68°F), a 2/2mm fullsuit offers the perfect mix of warmth and flexibility. In warmer waters (68–75°F), most surfers go for a springsuit - short legs, long sleeves, or both. If you’re headed somewhere tropical (75°F+), a UPF rash guard or surf suit will give you sun protection without weighing you down.

What’s the difference between a rash guard and a surf suit?

A rash guard is like your favorite long-sleeve tee - only stretchier, sun-protective, and built for the water. A surf suit is a one-piece that offers full upper-body coverage (often with long sleeves), combining rash protection, sun defense, and a bit of compression. Think of it as a hybrid between a wetsuit and a one-piece swimsuit.

Can you surf in bikinis?

Absolutely - if you choose the right style. Surf-specific bikinis are designed to stay put during wipeouts, duck dives, and long paddle-outs. Look for secure straps, thicker bands, cross-back tops, and snug fits. Bonus points for double lining and quick-dry fabrics.

What makes swimwear surf-ready vs. just for lounging?

Surf-ready swimwear is designed to move with you—not against you. You want secure closures (think tie-backs or lock-in straps), thicker fabrics that won’t stretch out in the water, and cuts that stay put through a full set. Lounge pieces are more about aesthetics and can shift or bunch when you’re paddling.

What should women wear to the beach beyond swimwear?

Lightweight cover-ups, loose dresses, breathable tanks, and wide-brim hats are go-to beach essentials. Throw on some high-waisted shorts or a flowy button-up shirt, and you’ve got a look that works from the beach to the beach bar. And always pack a hoodie or knit pullover for breezy evenings.

What are must-have beach accessories this summer?

A wide-brim hat, UV rash guard, towel, and a sturdy beach bag are non-negotiables. Add a surf watch and you're set for any session.

Do I need UPF gear if I’m wearing sunscreen?

Yes - especially if you're in the water for hours. Sunscreen wears off, rubs off, and washes away. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rash guards and surf suits provide consistent, long-lasting protection that won’t fade mid-session. Think of them as your sun armor in and out of the water.

Surf, Sand, and Staying Stoked

Summer is the season of sun-fueled sessions, spontaneous surf trips, and long days spent beachside. With the right setup, from women’s wetsuits and bikinis to sandals, surf watches, and boardshorts, you’re ready for whatever the season throws your way.

This guide is your one-stop reference for building your summer surf kit. Don’t forget to check out our men’s summer gear guide and kids’ summer gear guide if you're shopping for the whole crew.