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Best Swimwear Shops In Minnesota

"Fun in the sun" is not the first phrase that comes to mind when thinking about Minnesota, but we locals know that while the summer months sometimes seem long in coming, there is plenty of enjoyment to be had lakeside. Minnesota is, after all, the land of 10,000 lakes. So how does one find the right swimwear for all of that fun? Shopping for new swimwear can be a frustrating and time-consuming experience, so trust us to round up your best bets and spend that extra time in the sun.

Nani Nalu
3922 W 50th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55424
(952) 546-5598
www.naninaluswim.com

Hours: Mon to Sat - 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun - 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

A treasure in the heart of the 50th and France shopping area, Nani Nalu bills itself as a "beachwear boutique" and focuses on offering an experience and selection that's unparalleled. With experts to guide you through every step of the process, it's like shopping with your stylish, but helpful, older sister. Featuring items from  Ondade Mar, Lea Gottlieb and Jets among others, the store accepts walk-ins, but encourages appointments to provide the best possible shopping trip. Getting ready for a special trip? You can also set up a before or after hours "beach party" with three or more of your friends. Be sure to check out Nani Nalu's online style tips (like how to tie a sarong) for a beach diva look in no time.

Everything But Water
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Bloomington, MN 55425
(952) 858-9563
www.everythingbutwater.com

Hours: Mon to Sat - 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Sun - 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Like the name says, this well-known swimwear specialty store has everything a girl could need to be ready for a great day in the sun - from swimwear to cover-ups to the perfect pair of sunglasses. With more than 45 different brands on hand and suits to meet every kind of body-flattering need, this is your once-and-done shopping stop. Shop by color, brand or style of suit. Whether you're looking for a particular trend or the perfect fit to enhance your look, Everything But Water has got you covered. The store is conveniently located in the Mall of America, but if you can't find what you're looking for in store, they also boast a great online shop.

Pure Blue Swim
13810 24th Ave. N, Suite 430
Plymouth, MN 55441
(952) 935-6101
www.pureblueswim.com

Hours: Mon to Thu - 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fri - 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sun - 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

If you are looking for swimwear selections that suit a more active lifestyle for the entire family (or the entire swim team), look no further than Pure Blue Swim. In addition to offering swimwear for guys, gals and kids, the store also has a complete selection of triathlon wear, wet suits, rash guards and board shorts. Pure Blue Swim also stocks plenty of gear for the competition swimmer in your life. From training gear like lap counters and kickboards to the all important goggles and swim caps, this store offers an end-to-end swim experience.  Stop by the retail location in Plymouth or check out the online shop.

Oh Baby
3509 Galleria
Edina, MN 55435
(952) 928-9119
www.ohbabystyle.com

Hours: Mon to Fri - 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun - 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This one is just for the little ones, but Oh Baby is a Minnesota wonder.  The brainchild of Minnesota mother Mary Lauer and featuring local craftsmanship, this is the place to visit if you need to find something for that special little one in your life for the perfect "first day at the lake" moments (and pictures).  The hand-crafted styles are sure to be a hit. Coordinating cover-ups, hats and tiny-sized sunglasses are also available to complete your little one's beachy look. Check out Oh Baby in The Galleria in Edina, or visit the online store or Facebook page for more on Oh Baby's offerings.

Related: Travel Guide To The Best Lakes In Minnesota

Elsmore Swim Shop
5885 149th St. W Suite 101
Apple Valley, MN 55124
(952) 997-6255
www.elsmoreswim.com

Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tues, Thurs - 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sat - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Located just south of the Twin Cities, Elsmore Swim Shop is the perfect spot for competitive swimmers, triathletes and lifeguards. Find top brands from Speedo, Dolfin, Finis and Arena, and great accessories from goggles to gear bags to flip flops. If you're planning a tropical Caribbean vacation this summer, this is also a great place to pick up some fins and masks for snorkeling. Younger athletes can even find swimming caps in fun designs like Speedo's Critter Creeps or Fruit Punch.

Related: A Guide To Indoor Water Parks In The Twin Cities

Sassy professional by day, men's style expert by night, Bethany Rein is a twenty-something living in Minneapolis. She loves baseball, coffee and the well-dressed male. An avid runner, Bethany also plays recreational sports with more enthusiasm than skill. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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