6 Best Beach Shorts for Camping

There’s nothing quite like that first step out of the tent into the cool morning air of a coastal campsite, coffee in hand. But that idyllic moment can be instantly ruined by the gritty, abrasive reality of sand trapped in your shorts from the day before. Choosing the right pair of shorts for beach camping isn’t just about style; it’s a critical decision for all-day comfort, preventing chafe, and keeping your focus on the adventure, not the irritation.

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Finding Sand-Resistant Shorts for the Coast

The battle against sand begins at the fabric level. The best shorts for the coast feature synthetic materials like nylon or polyester with a very tight weave. This construction presents a smooth, slick surface that sand struggles to cling to, encouraging it to slide right off as you move. A durable water repellent (DWR) finish enhances this effect, as dry fabric sheds sand far more effectively than damp fabric.

But the real sand traps are the pockets. Look for shorts where the entire pocket bag is made of fine mesh. Traditional cotton or solid nylon pockets act like buckets, collecting sand and grit with every step and every time you sit down. Mesh allows sand to fall straight through, keeping your pockets functional and your hips chafe-free. This single feature is arguably the most important detail for a true sand-resistant short.

Finally, consider the liner. Many athletic and water-oriented shorts come with a built-in liner, which can be a source of comfort or a cage of grit. A good liner will be made of a smooth, quick-drying mesh that doesn’t hold moisture or sand. An ill-fitting or poorly designed one will do the opposite. For many, going with an unlined short and choosing your own preferred underwear offers more control and comfort.

Patagonia Baggies: The All-Around Beach Classic

When you need a simple, tough, and reliable short that just works, the Patagonia Baggies are the benchmark. Built from a sturdy, DWR-coated NetPlus nylon, their fabric is slick enough to shed dry sand with a simple shake. They’ve been a staple in outdoor kits for decades for a reason: they are built to last through countless cycles of sun, salt, and sand.

Their design brilliance lies in the details that matter most on the coast. The deep, vertical pockets are fully mesh, draining water and sand instantly whether you’re stepping out of the surf or just standing up from your camp chair. While their fit is more relaxed and classic—some might say "baggy"—this allows for excellent airflow on hot days and provides an unrestricted range of motion for setting up a tent or playing frisbee on the shore. They are the dependable workhorse for the camper who values durability and proven function over technical, athletic styling.

Vuori Kore Short for All-Day Comfort & Style

If your beach camping trip involves a morning run on the sand, a paddle in the afternoon, and a walk into the nearest town for supplies, the Vuori Kore Short is your versatile companion. Its main selling point is its incredibly soft, stretchy fabric and a breathable, boxer-brief style liner. This combination delivers a level of next-to-skin comfort that few other shorts can match, making them feel great from sunrise to sunset.

The tradeoff for that supreme softness is that the fabric isn’t as slick as a pure nylon shell, so it may hold onto fine, damp sand a bit more. However, the comfort of the liner and the modern, athletic cut make them a worthy choice for those who prioritize a do-it-all short that doesn’t scream "technical gear." They dry quickly and look good enough that you won’t feel out of place grabbing a post-hike burger. For the adventurer who blends activity with leisure, the Kore Short is a top contender.

Outerknown Apex Trunks for Peak Water Performance

For the beach camper whose primary activities happen in the water, the Outerknown Apex Trunks are engineered for performance. Developed with input from professional surfers, these shorts prioritize mobility, minimal weight, and the fastest possible dry times. The fabric is an ultralight, four-way stretch polyester that feels nearly weightless and won’t bog you down when wet.

You’ll notice a minimalist approach to features that can trap sand and water. Seams are often bonded or welded rather than stitched to reduce chafing, and the single pocket is typically a small, zippered affair with laser-cut drainage holes. There is no liner to get in the way. These are the shorts for surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming, where an extra ounce or a sand-filled pocket can be a real distraction. The compromise is a higher price tag and less utility for activities far from the water’s edge.

REI Co-op Sahara Amphib for Land-to-Sea Value

Not every piece of gear needs to be the most expensive or specialized, and the REI Co-op Sahara Amphib shorts prove that point beautifully. These are the quintessential value pick, delivering 90% of the performance of top-tier shorts at a fraction of the cost. They offer the key features you need for a comfortable coastal trip: a lightweight, quick-drying nylon fabric with a bit of stretch and a DWR finish to shed spray and sand.

Like their more expensive counterparts, the Sahara Amphib shorts feature all-mesh pockets, ensuring you won’t be carrying half the beach with you after a day of fun. They are a fantastic choice for the weekend warrior, the family car camper, or anyone building out their first set of quality outdoor gear. They may not have the refined fit of a Vuori or the water-specific tech of an Outerknown, but they are a durable, practical, and smart choice for countless beach camping scenarios.

Arc’teryx Incendo for Ultralight, Fast-Dry Feel

Sometimes the best beach short isn’t a beach short at all. Hailing from the world of trail running, the Arc’teryx Incendo is an excellent option for the minimalist who values exceptionally low weight and lightning-fast drying above all else. Made from an incredibly light, air-permeable fabric, these shorts feel like you’re wearing almost nothing and will dry in a coastal breeze in minutes.

This ultralight focus comes with specific tradeoffs. Durability is not its strong suit; this isn’t the short for sitting on abrasive granite boulders or collecting sharp driftwood for the fire. Pockets are also minimal, often just a single small pouch for a key or a gel. But for the camper who is covering miles along the coast, wants a short for a quick dip that will be dry by the time they’re back at camp, and prioritizes a barely-there feel, the Incendo is an outstanding, albeit unconventional, choice.

Prana Stretch Zion II for Rugged Beach Versatility

If your beach camping involves more scrambling on rocky headlands and maintaining the campfire than swimming, the Prana Stretch Zion II is a top-tier option. Made from Prana’s tough and stretchy ReZion fabric, these shorts are built for abrasion resistance and durability first. They can handle the demands of a more rugged, land-based coastal adventure without skipping a beat.

While they are the heaviest and slowest-drying shorts on this list, they possess key features that make them work well near the sand. The DWR finish is robust, and the thoughtful pocket design includes zippered options to secure valuables and mesh components for drainage. They represent a different philosophy: a durable hiking short that is versatile enough for the coast, rather than a water short trying to be a hiking short. For cooler coastal climates or trips where toughness is paramount, the Stretch Zion II is an excellent and reliable choice.

Key Features for Sand-Free Beach Camping Shorts

When you’re evaluating any pair of shorts for your next coastal trip, ignore the marketing and focus on the functional details. A great pair of sand-resistant shorts is a system of features working together to keep you comfortable. Use this as a mental checklist when you’re shopping.

Your decision should be guided by these key elements:

• Fabric: Look for a tight weave of nylon or polyester. A smooth, almost slick hand-feel is a good indicator that sand won’t stick. A DWR finish is a must-have bonus.
• Pockets: This is non-negotiable. Pocket bags must be 100% fine mesh. If they are made of the same solid fabric as the rest of the shorts, they will become permanent sandbags.
• Liner: This is personal preference. If you opt for a lined short, ensure the liner is a soft, non-abrasive, quick-drying material. If you run hot or are prone to chafing, an unlined short offers more versatility.
• Waistband: A simple elastic or flat-front tie system is often better than complex belts and buckles, which can trap sand and become uncomfortable under a backpack hip belt.

Ultimately, the right short depends on your primary activity. If you’re mostly swimming and surfing, prioritize ultralight, fast-drying fabrics (Outerknown, Arc’teryx). If your trip is a mix of lounging, hiking, and town visits, a comfortable and stylish all-rounder is best (Vuori, Patagonia). And if you’re on a budget or focused on rugged, land-based tasks, a durable and value-oriented pair is the smartest move (REI, Prana).

Don’t let gear paralysis keep you indoors. The perfect pair of shorts is the one that gets you out onto the coast, feeling comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings. Focus on what matters for your adventure, make a choice, and get out there to feel the sea breeze and watch the sunset.