12+ Beach Day DIYs to Try Before Your Next Vacation
Scroll down.. and enjoy! I’m already daydreaming about warm sand between my toes, sunshine on my shoulders, and salty breezes. There’s just something about planning for a vacation, even months ahead that makes these dreary days feel more hopeful.
And you know what else helps? Diving into some fun, creative DIYs that get you excited for what’s ahead. I’ve rounded up some of the absolute best beach day DIY projects, each one with a handy tutorial (you’ll find the links at the bottom of this post). Whether you’re headed to a tropical resort, a local lake, or even just your backyard kiddie pool, these ideas are guaranteed to bring a little extra magic to your summer.
So grab a cup of something cozy (or maybe a piña colada just to set the mood, no judgment), and let’s start planning your most stylish beach days yet.
1. DIY Bandage Bikini Top
If you’ve ever drooled over those chic wrap-style bikinis but balked at the $90 price tags, you’re going to love this DIY. This bandage bikini top is not only flattering (the way it criss-crosses your torso is such a confidence booster), but it’s also surprisingly simple to make.
I love that you can customize the fabric to suit your vibe. Go classic black for a sleek look, or maybe a bold tropical print if you’re feeling adventurous. The best part is, because it ties, you can adjust it for the perfect fit. So if you, like me, sometimes find yourself a little bigger or smaller depending on the month (or let’s be honest, the meal), this bikini’s got your back (and front!). CHECK OUT THE EASY TUTORIAL HERE!
Try pairing it with high-waisted bottoms for a bit of vintage glam. Then get ready to turn heads at the pool.
2. Beach Tote Tutorial by Radiant Home Studio
Let’s be real: half the battle of beach days is hauling all your stuff. Sunscreen, snacks, towels, books, oversized hats, random sea shells you decide you simply must keep… it adds up fast. Cue this super cute beach tote tutorial, CLICK HERE.
This DIY beach tote is roomy, sturdy, and pretty enough to double as your summer everyday bag. The tutorial from Radiant Home Studio shows you how to make the perfect bag (with a stronger durable fabric that stands up to sand and salt is a MUST) and you can pick prints that totally suit your personality. Stripes always feel classic to me, but florals or even fun geometric patterns would be stunning. It’s your choice!
Plus, there’s something extra satisfying about telling people, “Oh, thanks, I made it!” when they inevitably compliment your bag. (Happens every time. If you make it, they will compliment it.)
DIY Bandeau Bikini by Creative Fashion Blog
This is your go-to project if you love that strapless, line-free tan. The bandeau bikini tutorial keeps things super simple while still being oh-so-stylish. I actually love making a couple versions in different colors so I can mix and match throughout vacation. Easy to pack, easy to style, everything good all around!
Here’s a little tip: use fabric with a tiny bit of texture or ribbing. It helps the bandeau stay up even when you’re splashing around. And don’t be afraid to add some subtle embellishments like a center tie or little gold rings.
I once made one in a shimmery copper fabric that ended up looking way more expensive than it was. Got endless compliments at the pool bar. Find the super easy step-by-step unendingly customizable DIY here.
Poolside Splash Proof Pouches by Make-It Love-It
Raise your hand if you’ve ever had that heart-dropping moment when you realize your phone might be sitting in a puddle inside your bag. (Yep, me too.) These splash proof pouches are the perfect solution.
Made with laminated or waterproof fabric, they keep your essentials safe from drips, splashes, or that inevitable layer of sand that somehow gets everywhere. The tutorial shows you exactly how to sew in the zipper so your stuff stays secure.
I’ve also used these for makeup when traveling or to hold small wet swimsuits after changing. They’re so versatile! I usually keep a couple in my tote at all times no matter where I’m at in the world! Make these life saving pouches easily by checking out the tutorial from Make It-Love It HERE.
Agate Hair Clip by Creative Fashion Blog
Talk about adding instant glam. These DIY agate hair clips use actual agate slices (You can find them at most craft stores or even online for super cheap) paired with simple clip bases.
I love these because they give you that effortless “Oh this? Just a little natural gemstone in my hair” mermaid vibe. They look gorgeous tucked into loose beach waves or clipped at the side of a messy braid.
One of my favorite vacation photos is from a trip to Tulum where I was wearing one of these, hair up in a bun, big earrings, and a breezy maxi. Sometimes it really is the small details that make you feel your most beautiful. Check out my tutorial for this effortlessly natural glam accessory HERE.
Pom Pom Purse Tutorial
Okay, who doesn’t smile at pom poms? This DIY lets you transform a plain straw bag into a playful, colorful accessory that basically screams summer. I’ve been obsessed with pom poms for a while: if you look at my projects you’ll find my Gladiator Sandal Refashion and the Pom Pom Shorts DIY. Sorry NOT sorry! There will also be more pom poms later..
You can match these purse pom poms to your swimsuit or go wild with a rainbow palette. I once even did an ombré effect, starting with soft blush pink at the top and fading into coral and orange. It looked so dreamy.
The tutorial typically just requires yarn, a pom pom maker (or your fingers if you’re old-school), and some hot glue or stitching. It’s ridiculously easy but makes a big statement impact. You’ll find this super chic pom pom purse DIY right HERE, please make it your own and get back to me.
DIY Lace Pants Swimsuit Coverup
So much better than a standard sarong. These breezy lace pants look like something you’d find in a boutique for $$$, but the tutorial makes them totally doable at home.
They’re perfect for strolling from the hotel to the beach bar.. but dressy enough that you feel put together, but comfy and airy in the heat. I always pack these for trips because they don’t wrinkle, and they instantly elevate even the most basic bikini. You can literally make them with any lacy material in any color! My article to make these stylish airy pants can be found RIGHT HERE!
Pro tip: use a lightweight stretch lace so they move beautifully in the wind too. Pair with big sunnies and a floppy hat for full-on goddess mode.
Pearl Seashell Hair Clips by Domestically Blissful
There’s something so magical about turning a beach walk find into wearable art. These seashell hair clips let you literally bring a piece of the ocean home with you. They can be a literal physical reminder to bring the relaxed vacation of you into the everyday!
Whether you’re using shells you found yourself (more memories attached that way, I recommend it!) or crafting with a little store-bought bag, this is a quick DIY that instantly upgrades your hair game. I’ve even made a few to clip onto purse straps, made into keychains, etc. They look especially cute if you cluster smaller shells together. The pearls really make this DIY next-level, you can make your own by looking HERE!
Graphic Beach Towels by StudioDIY
This is such a fun project, especially if you want to stand out in a sea of boring solid-color towels. StudioDIY’s tutorial uses bleach to put BOLD and FUN statements on your towels.
I once made a towel that said “Salty Hair, Don’t Care” in giant script.. it’s still my favorite. It also makes spotting your spot on a crowded beach a breeze!
If you have kids, let them each design their own. It’s a great pre-vacation activity that gets everyone excited! IT’s extremely fun to personalize your own towel for all the outings! See how you can have all this TOWEL fun with this tutorial!
Large Boho Tassel Bag
If you’re drawn to oversized bags and anything with tassels (guilty), this DIY is for you. The tutorial usually starts with a any bag you love that you then embellish with chunky, colorful tassels. Remember how I felt about pom poms? I feel like tassels are even more of a thing for me and I have a tutorial solely on how to make tassels you can check out too.
I’ve gone with bold boho colors in the DIY, and recently I tried again with warm desert tones. Burnt orange, mustard, deep pink.. and it’s become my go-to market bag even off-season. The bigger the tassels, the more playful and fun the look.
And if you want to get extra fancy, add some little mirrors or bells for that festival-ready vibe. The tassel tutorial of your dreams is right HERE.
Aloe Vera Cubes by The Homespun Hydrangea
Alright, this one isn’t exactly an accessory, but it’s hands down the best beach day hack I’ve ever tried.
Mix aloe vera gel with a touch of coconut oil and freeze in ice cube trays. Pick your shape, you can make it as basic or as unique as you want! After a long day in the sun, rub one over your skin for the most soothing, cooling relief. I swear it works better than any store-bought after-sun lotion. It will soothe your overheated skin in such a great way.
Keep a little baggie of them ready to go in your vacation freezer. Or honestly, just year-round if you live somewhere warm. Here is the amazing DIY recipe!
DIY Chic Beach Wrap by Brit.co
The beauty of a lightweight wrap is how many ways you can wear it, it is incredibly versatile. Halter dress, sarong skirt, shawl.. the options are literally endless.
Brit.co’s tutorial shows how easy it is to cut and hem any piece of pretty fabric into something that looks straight off a boutique rack. Pick a print that makes you smile, and you’ll feel instantly pulled together every time you toss it on.
I’ve even used mine tied around my shoulders on breezier evenings when a full jacket feels like overkill. See how to make your own custom wrap HERE!
Donut Sunglasses by Studio DIY
“I can turn anything round into a donut. ” That’s how this adorably kitsch tutorial starts. Who says grown-ups can’t have silly, playful accessories? These donut sunglasses are a total conversation starter.
Paint sprinkle-frosted “donuts” right on your sunglass frames! The tutorial breaks it down step by step, and suddenly you’re the life of the pool party.
Sure, they’re not exactly your everyday errands glasses, but for a beach trip or a fun party? Absolutely worth it. Plus they make the best vacation photos. HERE are the step by step instructions.
Pom Pom Beach Coverup by Merricks Art
Last but definitely not least, give a simple tunic or oversized tee a cheerful upgrade with tiny pom poms. Yes, more pom poms! You love it as much as I do!
Merricks Art shows how to stitch these along the edges for a playful, boutique feel. It’s such a small detail but makes a huge difference. You can even match them to the pom poms on your purse for a coordinated look. You can have as many pom poms as you want in life! It’s such an easy DIY to make all your beach day outfits match. The ultimate pom pom tutorial you crave, is right HERE.
I promise, you’ll end up wanting to add pom poms to everything by the end of the summer. Like me.
Ready to DIY Your Best Beach Day Ever?
Whether you’re lounging poolside, hitting the waves, or just hanging out in your backyard pretending it’s Cabo, these DIYs add so much joy and personality to your summer. They’re not just projects.. they’re little pieces of anticipation that make the countdown to your vacation even sweeter.
So pick a few, invite a friend over for an afternoon crafting session, and start getting excited. (Pro tip: tropical playlists and sparkling lemonade make everything more fun.)
When the sun finally hits your skin and you’re rocking your own handmade bikini or tote, trust me… you’ll be glad you did. Your wardrobe will be glad to have them too, summer after summer.
