Let's talk about the one piece of gear that's just as important as your surfboard: the perfect bikini.
As a surf swimwear designer with 16 years of experience, I've seen it all. I created this guide to help you find the bikini that not only stays on but also makes you feel incredible in the water.
bikini vs. one-piece
👙 At Dkoko, we know it's all about what feels right for you. I personally love a bikini for those sun-kissed, barely-there tan lines and the playful, flirty feel it gives me. But on days when I'm looking for a more streamlined, sporty vibe, a one-piece is my go-to. For those high-noon sessions when the sun is blazing, a long-sleeve surf suit is a must-have for extra sun protection. ☀️
These days I’m more of an early morning or late afternoon surfer but if I do find myself in a midday surf session when the sun is at its hottest, I wear a full piece surf suit with long sleeves to protect my skin.
Popular One Piece, bikini tops and bottoms
Surf Bikini Tops
Now, let's talk about the most crucial piece: the bikini top. When you're out there catching waves, you need a top that moves with you, not against you.
The most important thing to consider is your body type. If you have a bigger bust, you'll want a top that gives you serious support. Look for a wide, strong band under the bust and enough coverage to keep everything secure. As a fellow curvy girl, I swear by our sports-inspired tops—they're designed with a wide, supportive band that won't ride up when you're paddling out or dropping in.
For my small-busted sisters, you've got so many options! Almost any Dkoko surf top, even a cute little triangle top, will work beautifully. 🏄♀️
Popular surf tops for small busts
My favorite surf tops for larger busts
Surf Bikini Bottoms
When it comes to bottoms, let's talk about what makes them surf-ready and what makes them feel amazing. First, a tie is a must-have. You don’t want to be the one on a crowded wave losing your bottoms on the first duck dive! 😅
Next, let's talk about coverage and fit. This is all about what makes you feel like your best self. Do you want to feel sporty, flirty, or elegant? What looks best on your body? I personally love a cheeky, skimpy bottom for my short boarding sessions since I'm mostly submerged. But when I’m lounging on my longboard (which is much wider!), I prefer more coverage. It just feels more comfortable and discreet. And if you're looking for that go-to, do-it-all bottom, our mid-rise sporty fits are perfect for everything from a mellow surf to playing on the beach.
High waist bottoms will make your legs look longer and are more flattering if you have a bigger bum. They also give the appearance of a flatter stomach for those times you are feeling a little self-conscious after eating too many burritos.
Popular High Waisted bottoms
Low rise bottoms are more flattering for those of us that have a smaller bum. They are also great for minimising tan lines.
Best Selling Low Rise Bottoms
Mid-rise bottoms are a great compromise for any body shape. If you have a sporty body shape, I recommend going for these.
I personally love these Mid Rise bottoms
One-Piece surf suits
For those days you want a different look, an ultra-comfy feel, or just more sun protection, a one-piece suit is your new best friend. At Dkoko, we've designed our one-pieces to be fun, flattering, and elegantly powerful, all while being rigorously surf-tested to make sure they stay perfectly in place.
One of my favorite features is the built-in bust support. You don't have to worry about wearing a bikini top underneath—which means no awkward lines! And because they're lined with a super-soft, sustainable fabric, you can skip the bikini bottom underneath as well. No one should have to deal with panty lines or bikini bottom lines under a one-piece!
Popular One Piece Surf suits
Some Other considerations...
How big are the waves?
The size and power of the waves can definitely change your bikini choice. For those fun, mellow days, you might feel great in a smaller bikini top or a bottom with no adjustable straps. But if a big, powerful swell is rolling in, you need to be able to focus on the wave—not on whether your bikini is going to stay put. So, on those days, don't risk it! Always choose swimwear that's specifically designed for surfing.
What’s your skill level?
You might see pro surfers shredding in tiny bikinis, but that doesn't always mean it's the best idea, especially if you’re still learning. When you're new to surfing, you're going to spend more time wiping out than riding. And trust me, you want to be focused on learning, not on adjusting your swimwear. So for those learning days, opt for a suit that gives you full confidence and lets you concentrate on catching that next wave.
Sun protection
This is all about your skin and the time of day you're in the water. If you love those midday sessions when the sun is at its peak, you need to think about protective surfwear. A long-sleeve one-piece suit is a great choice as it covers your chest, back, and arms. For those longer sessions, a rashguard paired with surf leggings offers full protection. A bonus? Wearing leggings means you don't have to apply sunscreen to the back of your legs, which can make your board super slippery.
If you're only worried about your upper body, our rashguards are perfect. We even have high-neck styles to protect that delicate skin around your neck that we often forget about. Plus, all Dkoko fabrics have UPF protection, so you've got an extra layer of defense against the sun's rays.
Popular Sun protective surfwear
Protection against the elements
You might not think about this one, but a long-sleeve one-piece or a rashguard is also a great idea when it’s windy or rainy. If you get cold easily like I do, even in tropical places like Costa Rica, this will keep you warmer and more comfortable in the water.
As women, we have the beautiful power to feel different and unique every single day, and surfing is an incredible way to express those inner feelings. Your swimwear should be a part of that expression.
Experiment, mix colors, prints, fits, and coverages depending on your mood. Choose your sexy bikini, your elegant one, your goddess suit, your powerful bikini, or your sporty and comfy suit. Just remember that surfing is about having fun and feeling good in your skin.
I truly hope this guide has helped you navigate the ocean of swimwear possibilities.
What are your favorite tips for choosing the best surf bikini? Share your thoughts and comments below!
