Men's Sexy Bikinis
What Should a Guy Wear to the Beach?
A modern guide that goes way beyond baggy board shorts.
Beach style for men has exploded in variety. Yes, surf shorts still rule in lots of places—but they’re no longer the only option. From sleek briefs to proudly minimal thongs, from retro “Euro” cuts to super-small spandex shorts, guys are experimenting more than ever. Here’s a complete guide to choosing your suit (and everything around it) so you look great, feel comfortable, and match the vibe—whether it’s a family beach, a resort pool, or a party cove.
1) Start With the Vibe: Where Are You Going?
Family beaches & community pools: Mid-thigh trunks, tailored volley shorts, square-cuts, and classic briefs are safest. Thongs are usually a no unless it’s explicitly allowed.
Resort pools & adults-only hotels: Square-cuts, briefs, bikinis, and fitted micro-shorts are common. Thongs accepted at some European/Latin resorts and party pools; check house rules.
Party beaches & festivals: Anything goes at some destinations—micro-briefs, thongs, and ultra-short spandex styles show up often.
Lap swim or training: Briefs and jammers are purpose-built and never out of place.
2) The Main Swimwear Options (Pros, Cons, and Fit Tips)
A) Tailored Volley Shorts (5"–7" inseam)
Why they work: Polished, versatile, and flattering on most bodies.
Look for: Stretch fabric, a mesh liner you can remove (or go liner-free), and side pockets with drain eyelets.
Fit tip: Hem should hit mid-thigh; avoid overly baggy legs.
B) Board Shorts / Surf Shorts (7"–9"+ inseam)
Why they work: Sporty, surf vibe, great for active days.
Look for: Lightweight, quick-dry fabric and a secure waist closure for waves.
Fit tip: Size to your true waist; too loose will sag when wet.
C) Square-Cuts / Boxer-Brief Trunks
Why they work: A sleek middle ground—more fitted than volley shorts, more coverage than briefs.
Look for: 4-way stretch, lined pouch, and a snug leg opening to prevent ride-up.
Fit tip: If the hem flares, size down; if you see deep waistband dents, size up.
D) Swim Briefs (a.k.a. “Speedo” style)
Why they’re trending: Clean lines, athletic, confident. They dry fast and feel great in the water.
Look for: 2"–3" side seam for a classic look; lined front for comfort and modesty.
Fit tip: It should hug without digging. Do a squat—if the waistband rolls, try a size up.
E) Bikinis / Micro-Briefs
Why they’re hot: Retro-meets-modern minimalism; big style payoff with tiny lines.
Look for: Strong elastic, double-lined pouch, and a cut that follows your hip bones.
Fit tip: Minimal cuts are unforgiving—go for high-quality fabric and stitching so everything stays put.
F) Thongs
Why some guys choose them: Maximum tan, bold aesthetic, surprisingly comfy once you try them.
Look for: A soft, flat back strap and a supportive front.
Fit tip: Sizing matters—too small will dig, too large may shift when swimming. Always check local rules and norms.
G) Super-Small Spandex Swim Shorts (micro shorts)
Why they’re rising: Sporty, sexy, and versatile—great for the beach and beach workouts.
Look for: 2"–3" inseam, compressive spandex/nylon blend, and a lined front.
Fit tip: They should feel like supportive gym shorts—snug but breathable.
H) Jammers (knee-length compression)
Why they work: Performance swimming, training, or modest coverage with a streamlined fit.
Look for: Chlorine-resistant fabrics, an internal drawcord, and a firm—but not cutting—waistband.
3) Fabric, Color, and Print—How to Choose
Fabric:
Nylon/spandex blends feel smooth and stretchy (great for briefs, square-cuts, micro shorts).
Polyester blends resist chlorine and fading (good for lap swimmers and frequent pool use).
Color strategy: Dark solids are slimming and discreet; bright colors and neons read sporty and fun; white is bold but can turn sheer—buy quality with double lining.
Prints: Stripes elongate, micro-prints feel designer, tropical prints telegraph vacation mode.
4) Support, Lining, and “Profile” Management
Lining: Double front linings in briefs/bikinis prevent show-through and add structure.
Drawcords: Essential for serious swimming or waves; hidden cords keep the front clean.
Pouch shaping: Modern suits often have subtle contouring; it improves comfort and reduces constant adjusting.
Compression shorts/liners: If you prefer trunks but want support, choose unlined shorts and add a separate compression brief underneath.
5) Grooming & Comfort (Practical, Not Fussy)
Body hair: Trim if you want cleaner lines around minimal suits; no rules beyond your comfort.
Chafe control: Rinse off sand often; a tiny bit of body-glide on inner thighs can save the day.
Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on hips, upper butt, and the small of the back—easy to miss with skimpier cuts.
6) Etiquette & Local Norms
Know the rules: Thongs and micro-briefs are common in parts of Europe, Latin America, and party resorts; they may be frowned upon at family beaches or municipal pools.
Bring a cover-up: A lightweight camp shirt or short pull-on shorts makes moving from beach to café effortless.
Confidence ≠ disrespect: Wear what you love, but read the room. If families dominate the shoreline, consider briefs, square-cuts, or tailored shorts.
7) Beyond the Suit: Simple Style Upgrades
Top layers: Open-weave knit shirts, linen camp shirts, or a cropped athletic tee over briefs or micro-shorts.
Footwear: Minimal slides or espadrilles for chill days; grippy water shoes for rocky coves.
Accessories: Polarized sunglasses, a bucket or baseball cap, and a compact tote or mesh bag.
Jewelry: A slim chain or silicone bracelet adds personality without fuss.
8) Quick Picks by Body & Use Case
Athletic/swimmer build: Briefs, bikinis, or square-cuts highlight shape; jammers for training.
Broad or bigger guys: 5"–7" volley shorts or square-cuts balance proportions; dark solids or vertical stripes flatter.
Tall & lean: Micro-briefs, bikinis, or super-small spandex shorts emphasize legs; bold color works well.
Lap swimming / surfing: Jammers or briefs under board shorts for performance and security.
Tan lines minimalists: Thongs or micro-briefs—pack a cover-up.
9) Fit Checklist (30-Second Try-On Test)
Waistband: Sits flat without digging or rolling.
Seat: No sagging; fabric rebounds after a squat.
Front: Lined and supportive, no constant adjusting.
Leg openings: Stay put when you walk; no harsh pinch.
In the water: Do a quick dip—does it stay secure and opaque?
10) Pack This, Win the Day
Primary suit + backup (a more modest or more daring option depending on the venue)
Lightweight cover-up shorts or a camp shirt
Sunscreen stick (easy reapply)
Microfiber towel and a dry bag for phone/keys
Slides and a spare pair of underwear for the ride home
Bottom Line
You’ve got more choices than ever: from classic surf shorts to confidence-forward bikinis, thongs, briefs, and super-small spandex swim shorts that are quickly becoming mainstream at the right beaches and resorts. Pick the cut that fits your vibe, make sure the fabric and lining have your back (and front), respect local norms, and you’ll look—and feel—like you belong on any shoreline.