As sun-drenched days beckon and the call of the ocean grows stronger, there’s a unique charm in handmade pieces that truly capture the spirit of summer. For generations, textile artistry has graced leisurely moments by the water, evolving from simple wraps to intricate garments. These beautiful creations, sometimes known simply as swimsuit covers or beach tunics, first saw a surge in popularity during the free-spirited 1970s, embodying a relaxed, bohemian vibe.
Today, they continue to be a beloved staple for any waterside escape, blending comfort with undeniable style. We’ve gathered a stunning collection of patterns for crochet beach cover-ups, perfect for adding that personal touch to your warm-weather wardrobe. Whether you’re a beginner just starting your crochet journey or an experienced crocheter looking for a new challenge, you’ll discover plenty of exciting projects here.
Free Crochet Beach Cover Up Patterns – Top Picks
1. Free Crochet Pattern: Beach Girl Cover Up

Designer: Heather Lodinsky for Yarnspirations
Crochet a sweet and breezy layer with the Beach Girl Cover Up Crochet Pattern by Heather Lodinsky for Yarnspirations. Designed for kids ages 2 to 8, this project is worked in one piece from side to side, then folded and seamed for easy construction. The Red Heart It’s a Wrap Rainbow yarn creates gentle color transitions that feel perfect for summer.
A U.S. G/6 (4 mm) hook makes it accessible for beginners ready to try their first garment. It’s soft, light, and comfortable after a swim or during playtime at the beach. This pattern combines practicality with a cheerful, handmade charm.
2. Free Crochet Pattern: Beach Cover Up

Designer: Lion Brand
Slip into summer with the Beach Cover Up Crochet Pattern from Lion Brand, a relaxed yet polished piece for intermediate crocheters. Cotton-Ease yarn and a U.S. I-9 hook work together to create a fabric that’s both soft and breathable. The medium weight adds just enough structure for everyday wear, not just beach days.
Classic lines and simple shaping make it endlessly wearable with shorts, swimsuits, or tanks. It offers comfort without sacrificing style, fitting effortlessly into your warm-weather rotation. This is the kind of handmade staple that keeps showing up in your wardrobe.
3. Free Crochet Pattern: Easy, Breezy Swim Cover

Designer: Megan Shaimes of Megmade with Love
Crafted from a single large rectangle with one clever neck opening, this is the Easy, Breezy Swim Cover. Designed by Megmade with Love, this beginner-friendly pattern calls for worsted weight cotton yarn and a 5.5 mm hook. The construction requires no shaping and includes three roomy sizes from Small to Plus, making it ideal for relaxed summer comfort.
While the process is simple, the result is an effortlessly stylish piece. Toss it over a suit or style it like a tunic on casual days. It’s a rewarding make that beautifully proves that less can be more.
4. Free Crochet Pattern: South Beach Cover Up
Whether you’re heading out in leggings or lounging poolside, the South Beach Cover Up by Ann Regis delivers effortless summer style. Worked with Stitch Nation Bamboo Ewe yarn, the fabric feels smooth and breathable against the skin. The pattern calls for two hook sizes—J-10 (6 mm) and K-10½ (6.5 mm)—to help create soft shaping with a relaxed drape.
It’s designed for intermediate crocheters who want a wearable project with versatility. Loose, airy stitches offer movement and ventilation while keeping things stylish. This layer transitions well from beach days to casual evenings out.
5. Free Crochet Pattern: Summer Beach Cover Up Dress

Designer: Raffaella of Raffamusa Designs
The standout charm of the Summer Beach Cover Up Dress Crochet Pattern by Raffaella of Raffamusa Designs comes from its geometric lace and thoughtful shaping. Offered in sizes XS to 5XL, the pattern is designed for easy customization in both overall fit and length. Using a lightweight yarn allows the fabric to breathe, keeping you cool without sacrificing its elegant drape.
This versatile piece slips easily over a swimsuit but also works layered with a tank top or leggings. Its skill level is approachable for advanced beginners while remaining satisfying for experienced makers. It is the kind of stunning dress that turns heads while feeling completely effortless to wear.
6. Free Crochet Pattern: Beachy Keen Cover Up

Designer: Yarnspirations
Chunky, quick, and easy to wear, the Beachy Keen Cover Up from Yarnspirations is a go-to for beginner garment makers. Using Bernat Maker Fashion yarn and a large L/11 (8 mm) hook, it creates a fabric that’s both structured and breathable. The silhouette is simple but flattering, giving you coverage without excess bulk.
You can work it up fast and still enjoy a polished finish that pairs beautifully with your favorite swimwear. Its casual shape makes it great for relaxed days, whether you’re on vacation or just running errands. If you’re looking for comfort without complication, this one delivers.
7. Free Crochet Pattern: Trippy Tunic
Two big circles, one standout design—the Trippy Tunic by Double Stitch Twins is anything but ordinary. Constructed from center-out motifs joined at the shoulders and sides, it’s playful in both shape and styling. The Stitch Nation Bamboo Ewe yarn works up soft and drapey with a K-10½ (6.5 mm) hook, adding to the flowy feel.
Wear it over jeans, a sundress, or your favorite bikini. Its easy skill level makes it accessible, yet the result feels fashion-forward and fun. Whether you’re packing for a festival or spending the weekend at the beach, this tunic fits right in.
8. Free Crochet Pattern: Tunic Beach Cover Up

Designer: Lion Brand
With tunic-inspired shaping and a breathable drape, Lion Brand’s Tunic Beach Cover Up brings comfort to every summer outfit. Made with medium weight yarn, it offers enough warmth for breezy mornings but stays light enough for sunny afternoons. Intermediate crocheters will appreciate its balance of ease and shape.
Layer it over a bathing suit or pair it with jeans for a beach-to-boardwalk look. The openwork keeps things cool while giving just enough coverage. Your color choices will bring this simple silhouette to life.
9. Free Crochet Pattern: Summer Days Beach Cover Up

Designer: Louise Bollanos of Handy Little Me
A laid-back feel meets timeless appeal in the Summer Days Beach Cover Up, designed by Louise Bollanos of Handy Little Me. The pattern is written for a wide range of sizes from XS to 5XL and uses a 5 mm hook to create its light, airy stitches. Approachable for advanced beginners, it features a relaxed fit that flatters the figure without clinging.
This versatile piece is equally at home on the sand or for a casual stroll through town. It delivers the perfect blend of coverage, comfort, and breezy flair. You’ll find yourself reaching for this essential garment summer after summer.
10. Free Crochet Pattern: Sea Breeze Cover Up Dress

Designer: Katerina
The Sea Breeze Cover Up Dress Crochet Pattern by Katerina stands out with its elegant details and streamlined fit. This design is worked top-down with a 3.5 mm hook, using V-stitches and armhole shaping to create a close, flattering silhouette. Offered in sizes XS through 5XL, it is constructed in the round for a seamless finish.
The sleek style transitions beautifully beyond the beach, bringing sophistication to any casual summer day. Lightweight yarn keeps the garment cool, while its expert tailoring provides structure without stiffness. It is the perfect choice for everything from sunset walks to seaside dinners.
11. Free Crochet Pattern: Beach Time Cover-Up

Designer: Quayln Stark for Yarnspirations
Transform your summer outfit with the Beach Time Cover-Up Crochet Pattern by Quayln Stark for Yarnspirations. This easy-level design features Aunt Lydia’s Fashion Crochet size 3 thread, offering a light and airy feel. You’ll get two length options, so you can go short and playful or longer and more flowing.
A 4 mm (US G-6) hook creates a soft, open texture that works well over swimsuits or tanks. Style it for a stroll on the boardwalk or brunch by the sea. Its versatility makes it a staple for beach days and beyond.
12. Free Crochet Pattern: Shore Thing Dress

Designer: Rohn Strong for Yarnspirations
Glide from sand to city with the Shore Thing Dress by Rohn Strong for Yarnspirations. Made with Red Heart It’s a Wrap yarn and a D-3 (3.25 mm) hook, this sleeveless design offers an elegant drape in sizes from XS to 4XL. It’s written for intermediate crocheters and features lightweight stitches that flatter your shape.
Wear it over a swimsuit during the day, then add a slip and accessories to dress it up for the evening. The construction balances simplicity with sophistication. This dress is perfect for travel, beach getaways, or casual dinner dates.
Bringing your own handmade crochet beach cover-up to life is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering both practical use and a unique expression of your creativity. From their breezy beginnings in the 70s to their current status as a chic essential, these versatile pieces, often called sarongs or beach dresses, continue to embody effortless summer style.
We hope this curated selection, catering to both novices and seasoned crocheters, has sparked your imagination and provided the perfect pattern for your next project. Imagine yourself strolling along the shore, a gentle breeze catching the delicate stitches of your very own creation. So grab your hook and yarn, and let the rhythmic art of crochet prepare you for a season of sun, sand, and handmade beauty.
