What to Wear at the Beach in Winter (in Hawaii)

Winter in Hawaii is relatively different than other winters in other states and countries with four seasons. For one, it doesn’t really get “cold” here. During our first winter here, we were out in shorts and tank tops. I remember my co-workers at the resort would be wearing sweaters and cardigans, and I’d be wearing a sleeveless top and still sweating.

Fast forward to our second winter here in Hawaii and we found ourselves pulling out some sweaters we brought from Canada – well at least I did, my husband occasionally would wear a jumper. Over time, we acclimatized to the weather here but we loved it still because we did not have to wear coats over the sweaters at least.

This January has not been very cold and there had been days where the sun was out that it felt like summertime. On one fine day that we had gone to Waimanalo Beach, we ended up not going to the ocean because it was a bit cold for us. But here’s what I wore at the beach and what I would probably wear again if the weather feels too chilly.

  • White wide legged pants from Mahina (purchased from Mahina Ko Olina)
  • Bikini top and lightweight lose cardigan from H&M
  • Lifeguard hat gifted

Just 3 pieces (plus a hat) and you’ll be cozy at the beach when it’s chilly!

1. Loose and Light Colored Pants

I opted to wear a white wide legged pants because the material was not too thin but not too thick either. I liked that it’s fitted around my waist so I can hide my mama pouch.

2. Crop Knit Top

A crop knit top is perfect, the material feels cozy on the skin giving you a bit of warmth but you won’t get sticky hot because it’s cropped. I didn’t have one but I had a bikini top that hit just above my belly button. This was both functional and fashionable for me because I could easily access the goods to breastfeed my baby.

3. Light Sweater or Cardigan

Just to add that extra coziness, a light and loose sweater or cardigan is the perfect addition to your cozy beach outfit. You can opt to remove it if the day does get warmer and a sweater or cardigan is just a perfect piece in your closet to layer for any season really!

Bonus: A Hat!

This type of hat I’m wearing is called a lifeguard straw hat. I didn’t know that until I went to a swap meet here in Hawaii. Anyway, I love this hat! The rim is perfect, I use it a lot when I carry my daughter and it gives her shade too! I got this one as a gift but it’s available on Amazon as well. If you happen to be in Hawaii, visit a swap meet or a farmer’s market and you’ll find one there too!

Here are some of my recommendations:

Mahina crop pants | H&M knit top and sweater | Target ribbed tank top and cardigan | Amazon linen pants

Side note and a reminder to mamas and ladies: while I’m back to my pre-pregnancy weight, as you can see, there are definitely areassss that I’m working on which I would share with you separately of course. But mamas and ladies, be kind to yourself and to your bodies. Always listen to your body, push your limits from time to time but never forget to connect with your body. After all, your body is a temple.

You got this, mama!

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I’m Loren

I’m a mama to a wild toddler and the creator of Mama She Styles, where you’ll find inspiration on how to navigate motherhood in style and more, while living in Hawai’i. Aloha, e komo mai! I am so glad to have you here!

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