15 ’80s Beach Vacation Trends That Have Faded Away
These iconic ’80s beach vacation fads once defined summer getaways but have since vanished from the shoreline.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
In the 1980s, going to the beach was always fun. From beach devices to fashion statements, these trends gave the impression that summers were full of fun. Let’s revisit the sandy, sun-drenched recollections of fifteen beach fads that have faded from popularity.
1. Zinc Oxide Nose Strips
Sam Lion on Pexels
Thick white lines of zinc across noses were both protection and a badge of beach honor. Lifeguards and sun lovers wore it like war paint.
2. Boombox Battles
Emilio Labrador on Flickr
Toting massive boomboxes to the beach was essential for setting the vibe. Competing playlists blasted from towels and coolers, creating an impromptu sound war.
3. Jelly Sandals
le Liz on Flickr
Bright, plastic, and full of blisters — jellies were the go-to beach footwear. Kids and adults alike stomped around in neon colors.
4. Mesh Crop Tops
Jimmy Elizarraras on Pexels
Often paired with short shorts or bikinis, mesh shirts let in the breeze and showed off tan lines. They were equal parts sporty and flashy.
5. Hawaiian Print Everything
Fred Gonzales on Pexels
From swim trunks to headbands, loud floral prints were the beach uniform of the ’80s. You couldn’t walk 10 feet without spotting a hibiscus.
6. Inflatable Rafts With Built-in Radios
Pixabay
Floating around with a radio blaring pop hits was peak ’80s fun. These inflatable loungers were both entertainment and relaxation stations.
7. Tanning Oils Without SPF
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
Sun protection wasn’t a big concern back then — people slathered on oil to bake under the rays. It gave an intense tan (or sunburn), but dermatologists have since issued serious warnings.
8. Frisbee Trick Circles
Polesie Toys on Pexels
Groups would gather for Frisbee tosses, sometimes trying tricks or freestyle spins. It was a low-key sport that got the whole beach involved.
9. Puka Shell Necklaces
Shan Patel on Pexels
These shell strands were practically a beach ID badge. Worn by surfers and tourists alike, they screamed tropical vacation.
10. Disposable Film Cameras
Joshua Tsu on Unsplash
Every beach bag had one, ready to capture sunlit memories in grainy glory. Developing photos days later added to the charm.
11. Metal Detectors on the Sand
Tomás Del Coro on Wikimedia Commons
Scanning the beach for buried treasure was a favorite beach pastime for hobbyists. Beeps from bulky devices could be heard throughout the day.
12. Beach Umbrellas with Fringe
Thamires Costa on Pexels
Bright umbrellas edged with fringe were a retro-chic way to shade your spot. They flapped dramatically in the breeze and stood out on the sand.
13. Shoulder Pads in Cover-Ups
Ashlyn Ciara on Unsplash
Even at the beach, fashion ruled — and that meant padded shoulders on tunics and dresses. It was boardroom-meets-boardwalk styling.
14. Cooler Radios
Joe Haupt on Wikimedia Commons
Some coolers came with built-in radios, turning your drinks and snacks into a music station. It was a genius combo that’s now more novelty than necessity.
15. Instant Noodle Cups as Beach Snacks
bigbirdz on Flickr
Yes, people brought ramen to the beach, usually with a thermos of hot water. Quick, salty, and easy, it was a strange but beloved choice.