Stylish and Practical Summer Outfits for Visiting Florida in the Summer
Planning a trip to Tampa Bay this summer? Knowing what to wear can be tough. You need outfits for beach days and having fun in the sun, outfits for sight seeing and getting very sweaty, and then outfits for a night out on the town and dining at a nice restaurant. Luckily, I have been to Tampa Bay many times, this guide will help you pack the perfect outfits for visiting Tampa so you can stay cool, comfortable, and photo-ready.
If you’re visiting Tampa in the summer, you know it’s going to be very hot and humid. During the day, you’ll want breathable, lightweight fabric that is also sun and sweat resistant. At night, you will have more options to let loose and spice it up.
1. Breezy Sundresses for Beach Days & Brunches
A flowy sundress is a Tampa Bay essential. Perfect for beachside brunches or exploring outdoor markets, sundresses made from cotton or linen keep you cool while looking effortlessly chic.
Style Tip: Pair your dress with strappy sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, and a crossbody bag for an easy, put-together look. This is one of the best outfits for visiting Tampa if you want to stay stylish in the heat.
2. Lightweight Shorts and Tank Tops for Sightseeing
Whether you’re walking along the board walk, the strip or having lunch at some beach bars, above-the-knee shorts and a tank top will make you feel like a local and you’ll be super comfortable. Opt for fun tropical prints to match the Florida vibe.
3. Swimsuit + Cover-Up Combo for Beach & Pool Days
No trip to Tampa Bay is complete without time by the water. Clearwater Beach is less than an hour away and one of the most popular sports in all of Florida! See my guide on that here.
A stylish swimsuit paired with a lightweight cover-up makes for one of the most practical outfits for visiting Tampa, especially if you plan to go from the beach to a beachside cafe.
4. Boat Shirt + shorts Combo for water activities
Getting a boat shirt when you’re in Florida is on the best investments you can make. If you’re going to be kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing or just walking around on the beach, getting a light, long-sleeve boat shirt is a life saver. It will prevent sun-burn, absorb sweat, keep you cool, stylish and make it so you don’t have to put sun screen on yourself, other than your face of course.
Pair that with some thigh-high shorts and you have yourself a great Florida outfit. One of my personal favorites.
5. Evening Outfits: Maxi Dresses and button up shirts
When the sun sets in Tampa Bay, the temperatures drop just enough to make evenings the perfect time for outdoor dining, sunset cruises, or exploring nightlife in places like Hyde Park Village, Sparkman Wharf, or the Riverwalk. That’s when you’ll want outfits for visiting Tampa that feel a little dressier, without sacrificing comfort in the lingering humidity.
A flowy maxi dress in a breathable fabric like rayon or lightweight cotton is ideal. Look for options with floral prints, tropical patterns, or bold solid colors that reflect the Florida vibe. Maxi dresses not only offer elegance and ease but also help protect your legs from evening mosquito bites.
Sleeveless Tank Dresses are another fantastic choice for evening outings. They’re effortlessly chic and provide a more modern, tailored look that’s perfect for Florida nightlife. Opt for sleeveless or off-the-shoulder styles to stay cool while looking put-together.
For the guys and gals, I love my Hawaiian shirts. They fit the fun Florida vibe, are lightweight material and look great. Of course you can opt for a long-sleeve shirt and roll the sleeves up, just make sure the shorts match and are above-the-knee.
Don’t feel any shame going to a Tampa Beach Bar in flip flops, that’s encouraged in Florida! Throw on a baseball cap and you are ready for a fun night in Tampa Bay!
Bonus Packing Tips for Tampa Summer Travel
Click here for my full Florida Packing Essentials guide
- Don’t forget sun protection: Sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat are essentials.
- Choose breathable shoes: Avoid heavy sneakers and opt for sandals with arch support or lightweight walking shoes.
- Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle, heat exhaustion is no joke in Florida summers.
- Bug Spray: Mosquitos are a B*tch in Florida, make sure you’re not isn’t ruined by the mosquitos and use a generous amount of bug spray on your ankles before going out.
Conclusion: Outfits for visiting Florida
Packing the right outfits for visiting Tampa in the summer means balancing comfort, sun protection, and style. Choose lightweight, sweat-resistant clothes during the day while you’re at the beach.
Opt for fun, stylish and tropical clothes at night!
Whatever the occasion, you’ll be cool, comfortable and stylish
Going out to the Beach Bars? Check out my list for the Top 6 Best beach bars in Tampa Bay / St. Pete on the water