Blake Lively – The Shallows, 2016
Blake Lively’s beach scene in "The Shallows" is the kind of moment that sticks with you long after the credits roll. Rocking an orange bikini top and gripping her surfboard, she’s more than just a pretty face in a survival thriller—she’s the definition of grit and grace.
As her character, Nancy, fights for survival against a relentless shark, Blake manages to look effortlessly cool and completely fierce. It’s one of those scenes that’s as memorable for the strength it shows as for how stunning she looks, balancing beauty with serious determination. Fast forward to today, and Blake’s keeping it all together—mother of four, career powerhouse, and still turning heads.
Brooke Shields – The Blue Lagoon, 1980
In this unforgettable scene from "The Blue Lagoon," Brooke Shields as Emmeline stands out as a vision of beauty and innocence. Bathed in sunlight with the ocean with her co-actor, Christopher Atkins, she exudes a serene, almost ethereal quality that perfectly captures the film’s essence.
As Emmeline, stranded on a remote island, Brooke’s portrayal of a young woman discovering both the island’s mysteries and her own identity has stayed with audiences. This scene, in particular, is stuck with us because it symbolizes her character’s purity and connection to the natural world, with Brooke’s effortless elegance making it one of the most iconic moments in film history.
Cameron Diaz – Knight And Day, 2010
Cameron Diaz’s bikini moment in "Knight and Day" is a total showstopper. As June Havens, she’s dragged into a wild adventure with Tom Cruise, but the real highlight? This scene where she's walking out of the water, effortlessly looking like a total knockout. It’s the perfect blend of movie magic—glamor mixed with action.
Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to be her at that moment? Off-screen, Cameron’s been busy building an empire, launching the organic wine brand Avaline, and diving deep into wellness. Oh, and she’s all about aging gracefully, with her book The Longevity Book offering tips on staying vibrant as the years roll by.
Demi Moore – Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, 2003
Demi Moore proves that she can be both hardcore and a bombshell in "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle." In one unforgettable scene, she rocks a swimsuit that makes you wonder if she’s secretly an angel sent to make us all feel inadequate in the best way.
As Madison Lee, a rogue Angel with a mission, she’s got that perfect blend of danger and appeal. This scene’s iconic for its mix of action and, well, Demi being stunning. Apart from slaying as a tough action star, Demi’s also made waves in "Disclosure" and "A Few Good Men," plus she’s the proud author of a memoir that dives into her life off-screen.
Angelina Jolie – Tomb Raider, 2001
When "Tomb Raider" hit the screen, Angelina Jolie redefined action stars. As Lara Croft, she was fierce, fearless, and undeniably stunning, especially in that unforgettable swimsuit scene. It’s a moment where Lara is scaling cliffs, showing off her athleticism, and looking like she just stepped out of a video game—and let’s face it, we were all watching for more than just the action.
The scene lives on because it perfectly blends her beauty with the character’s toughness. Angelina has also wowed in "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" and "Maleficent," earning multiple awards and recognition for her humanitarian work, showing she’s got brains and heart, too.
Denise Richards – Wild Things, 1998
Anyone who was a teenager in the late 1990s knows exactly what we're talking about when it comes to Denise Richards in "Wild Things." Amid the film’s wild twists and unpredictable moments, her unforgettable swimsuit scene became nothing short of iconic.
As Kelly Van Ryan, she isn’t just playing the part of a sultry, privileged teen—she oozes danger, seduction, and mystery with every look and every move. Denise doesn’t just steal the scene; she owns it. While "Wild Things" shot her to fame, her sizzling performance in "The World Is Not Enough" and later stints in reality TV kept fans hooked, constantly mesmerized by her magnetic, complex charm.
Jessica Alba – Into The Blue, 2005
Jessica Alba shines in "Into the Blue," where she takes center stage as a fearless diver in pursuit of underwater treasures. It’s not just her beauty that steals the show—she brings a perfect blend of grace and toughness that turns an ocean adventure into a thrilling ride. With the sparkling blue sea as her backdrop, Jessica's confidence and poise make this moment unforgettable.
But she didn't stop at acting. Jessica has also made waves in films like "Fantastic Four" and "Sin City" while building her eco-friendly brand, Honest Company. Her ability to juggle a thriving business with her stunning on-screen presence shows she's as sharp as she is beautiful.
Halle Berry – Die Another Day, 2002
Halle Berry’s beach moment in "Die Another Day" in 2002 is legendary—seriously, who could forget that jaw-dropping entrance? Emerging from the ocean in a revealing orange bikini, she redefined the “Bond girl” role with her fierce confidence and stunning beauty.
The scene isn’t just memorable for its visual impact but also for how effortlessly Halle owns the screen, adding depth to her character, Jinx. While this scene became iconic, Halle’s career speaks for itself. From winning an Oscar for "Monster’s Ball" to delivering knockout performances in "X-Men" and "Swordfish," she’s built a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile stars.
Elizabeth Taylor – Suddenly, Last Summer, 1960
When Elizabeth Taylor stepped into that bikini in "Suddenly, Last Summer," she didn’t just steal the scene—she owned it. Playing Catherine Holly, a woman caught in a whirlwind of family drama and dark secrets, Liz looked like she walked straight off a vintage Hollywood poster.
It’s not just her jaw-dropping beauty that makes this scene unforgettable, but the raw emotion she brings, making it as haunting as it is mesmerizing. Aside from "Suddenly, Last Summer," Elizabeth dazzled in "Cleopatra" and won two Oscars for "Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" A true icon, she also led groundbreaking charity efforts for HIV/AIDS, leaving a legacy that goes far beyond her on-screen moments.
Pamela Anderson – Baywatch, 1995
Pamela Anderson will forever be linked to "Baywatch," the iconic 1990s TV show that took place on California’s sunny beaches. This picture comes from the series where she played lifeguard C.J. Parker, a role that skyrocketed her to fame. The show, which ran from 1989 to 2001, was a mix of drama, action, and plenty of slow-motion rescues.
This swimsuit scene is unforgettable—Pamela, with her golden hair and toned figure, quickly became the face of "Baywatch." Beyond the show, she’s ventured into activism, modeling, and even acting in films like "Barb Wire." Whether you remember her for the red swimsuit or her ever-present charisma, Pamela's impact is undeniable.
Farrah Fawcett – Sunburn, 1979
Farrah Fawcett’s scene from "Sunburn" is the stuff of legend. In this lighthearted comedy, Farrah plays a vacationing woman caught up in a messy plot involving sunken treasure and mistaken identities. But let’s be honest—her appearance in that flattering bikini by the pool is what truly stands out.
With her signature blonde locks and radiant smile, she practically redefined the image of beach glamour. That swimsuit scene, captured in the sun, is burned into everyone’s memory. While Farrah’s role in "Charlie’s Angels" made her a household name, her work in "The Burning Bed" earned her critical acclaim. What a star!
Raquel Welch – One Million Years B.c, 1966
Raquel Welch’s iconic "One Million Years B.C." scene is one for the history books—and not just because it’s set in the prehistoric past. This swimsuit moment, featuring her in a fur bikini, instantly made her a global feminine symbol. As she strides through a world of cavemen and dinosaurs, she becomes the epitome of beauty and strength, proving that you don’t need modern fashion to make a major impact.
Raquel’s career didn’t stop with this unforgettable role. She starred in "Fantastic Voyage" and "The Three Musketeers," earning multiple accolades. She also launched a successful line of wigs, giving everyone a piece of her signature look.
Sophia Loren – Madame Sans Gene, 1961
Sophia Loren was already a legend by the time "Madame Sans Gene" hit screens in 1954. The film, set in Napoleon’s time, follows her as a witty and determined seamstress. But let’s be real—no one remembers the plot, just this astounding scene!
Sophia rocks the swimwear like no one else, exuding both class and raw allure without even trying. It’s that effortless beauty and confidence that made her unforgettable. Beyond this film, she went on to collect accolades like an Oscar for "Two Women" and cemented her place as one of cinema’s greatest. Still, this particular scene tops it for us.
Bo Derek – 10, 1979
Bo Derek didn’t "just" make a splash in "10"—she became an entire cultural moment. That unforgettable slow-motion run in a nude swimsuit, beaded braids flying, has lived on in our minds since 1979. In the film, she plays Jenny, the free-spirited beauty who drives Dudley Moore’s character wild while he navigates his mid-life crisis. That scene, drenched in sunlight and pure appeal, is the stuff of movie history.
Before becoming an iconic pin-up, Bo appeared in "Tarzan, the Ape Man" and "Bolero," cementing her status as the '80s blonde bombshell. It’s safe to say that she left her mark both on the screen—and in pop culture.
Kate Bosworth – Blue Crush, 2002
Before Kate Bosworth caught our attention in "Blue Crush" in 2002, she had already started carving out a name for herself with roles in "Remember the Titans" and "The Horse Whisperer." But it was her role as Anne Marie in "Blue Crush" that really made waves.
The film, set in Hawaii, follows her character as she balances her dreams of becoming a professional surfer with the challenges of relationships and life. The iconic swimsuit scene—where she surfs with grace and confidence—became a defining moment in her career. With her stunning presence and athleticism, it’s no wonder that scene still stands out today.
Rachel Mcadams – The Notebook, 2004
Rachel McAdams had us all swooning in "The Notebook" as Allie Hamilton, a young woman torn between her past and her future. In this iconic scene, she’s seen in a swimsuit, and it's more than just the water—it's the palpable chemistry between her and Ryan Gosling that makes it unforgettable.
The visual is pure romance, with Rachel’s beauty perfectly paired with the film's heartfelt intensity. Beyond the steamy moments in "The Notebook," Rachel is a standout in "Mean Girls" and "Spotlight," where her range and depth as an actress truly shine. She’s also quietly been carving a name for herself as an environmental advocate.
Izabella Scorupco – Goldeneye, 1995
Izabella Scorupco had everyone’s attention in "GoldenEye" in 1995, playing the resourceful and stunning Natalya Simonova. In one of the most memorable scenes, she steps out in a swimsuit, looking absolutely breathtaking as she navigates the dangerous world of espionage alongside Pierce Brosnan’s 007.
This moment, charged with beauty and suspense, cemented her status as a Bond girl to remember. Izabella’s ability to balance grace with action was key to her breakout role, but she’s also found success in other films like "Reign of Fire." She's continued to impress, with fans rediscovering her talents through her work in European television and her ever-growing influence in music and acting.
Angela Bassett – How Stella Got Her Groove Back, 1998
Angela Bassett’s swimsuit scene in "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" is a moment that lives rent-free in our memory. Released in 1998, the film follows Stella, a successful woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and romance while on vacation.
Angela steals the show here—her confidence, strength, and undeniable beauty shine through as she embraces her newfound sense of freedom. It’s a scene that perfectly captures her character’s transformation. Off-screen, Angela has racked up major accolades, from her fierce portrayal of Tina Turner in "What’s Love Got to Do with It" to her iconic role in "Black Panther." A true Hollywood legend.
Ursula Andress – Dr. No, 1962
Ursula Andress made waves (literally) in "Dr. No" when she stepped out of the ocean in that white bikini. It's one of those scenes that’s practically become a pop culture milestone. As Honey Ryder, she wasn't just playing a Bond girl—she "was" the Bond girl, exuding confidence, beauty, and a touch of mystery.
The plot? Bond’s sent to Jamaica to investigate some shady business, but let’s face it, everyone remembers her entrance more than any espionage twist. Ursula’s career didn’t stop there; she graced screens in "Casino Royale" and "The Blue Max"—but nothing quite matched her beachy debut. Let’s just say she set the bar for Bond girls.
Phoebe Cates – Fast Times At Ridgemont High, 1982
That unforgettable moment in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" is a scene that has stuck with everyone who’s seen it—Phoebe Cates in a red bikini, emerging from the pool like a dream. While Sean Penn’s character can’t help but stare, the audience is left equally captivated by her mix of innocence and attraction.
The swimsuit scene? Pure 1980s magic. But Phoebe wasn’t just a flash of summer beauty. She showed serious range in "Gremlins" and "Drop Dead Fred," proving she could hold her own in both horror and comedy. Today, her legacy lives on in all the best ways, but let’s be real: that bikini moment is legendary.
Sally Field – Gidget, 1965
Before she was winning Oscars, Sally Field was everyone’s favorite beach girl in "Gidget." With her sun-kissed look and infectious energy, Sally brought the iconic character to life, and the swimsuit scene from the film is still a classic. In it, she exudes that carefree California vibe, effortlessly combining beauty with a sense of fun and adventure.
It’s this charm that made the moment unforgettable. While "Gidget" put her on the map, Sally’s career went on to include standout roles in "Norma Rae" and "Forrest Gump," earning her multiple accolades. Off-screen, she’s become known for her activism and down-to-earth nature, continuing to inspire fans everywhere.
Esther Williams – Easy To Love, 1953
Esther Williams was Hollywood’s queen of the water, and "Easy to Love, a 1953 movie, is proof of why she ruled. In one of the scenes that’s still iconic, she’s not just swimming—she’s practically gliding, turning the pool into her personal stage.
A former Olympic swimmer turned actress, Esther made aquatic choreography look like pure magic, and in this film, she combines beauty with athleticism, leaving everyone in awe. It’s the effortless way she made swimming look like the most glamorous thing in the world. Beyond "Easy to Love," her roles in "Bathing Beauty" and "Million Dollar Mermaid" made her a star.
Elizabeth Hurley – Bedazzled, 2000
Elizabeth Hurley has always had a knack for stealing the spotlight, and in "Bedazzled," she does it effortlessly as the devil herself. Here, she is in a fiery red swimsuit, turning the heat up on the film’s comedic premise. Elizabeth plays the devil granting wishes, but her devilish charm is what truly steals the show.
This iconic moment stays in people's minds not just for her appealing looks but for how she brings a fun, bold twist to the role. Outside "Bedazzled," she’s left her mark in "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery," proving she’s much more than a pretty face—she's a fashion and business force to be reckoned with.
Jane Russell – The French Line, 1953
Jane Russell made waves in "The French Line" in 1953, and it’s easy to see why. She exudes a mix of glamor, confidence, and effortless charm that perfectly captures her Hollywood pull. The film itself is a musical comedy about a wealthy Texan who sets out to find the perfect man while on a French vacation.
Still, it’s Jane’s performance—striking in every frame—that really steals the show. Known for her bold on-screen presence, she was also an advocate for curvier women, challenging the norms of her time. Aside from "The French Line," Jane also lit up the screen in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "Outlaw."
Virginie Ledoyen – The Beach, 2000
Virginie Ledoyen turned heads in "The Beach," not just because of the stunning Thai backdrop but because of how effortlessly she owned every frame. In this iconic swimsuit scene, she isn’t just lounging by the water; she’s personifying the carefree, intoxicating allure of paradise—until it all starts unraveling.
As Françoise, she’s the ultimate enigma: beautiful, mysterious, and just a little bit dangerous. While this moment has stuck in people's minds, it’s no surprise that Virginie’s career has stayed just as captivating. A French film icon, she also starred in "The Dreamers" and "8 Women," proving she’s as versatile as she is striking.
Sharon Tate – Don’t Make Waves, 1967
Sharon Tate’s entrance into Hollywood was as effortless as her poolside charm in "Don’t Make Waves." In this cult classic, she plays the free-spirited Malibu girl who steals our hearts. The movie is a playful mix of sun, surf, and romance as she captures the eye of a hapless tourist, turning their world upside down.
Sharon’s effortless beauty and relaxed vibe in this scene left a permanent mark, making it one of the most memorable moments of 1960s cinema. Apart from "Don’t Make Waves," she starred in "Valley of the Dolls" and "The Wrecking Crew," further solidifying her place in Hollywood history.
Jacqueline Bisset – The Sweet Ride, 1968
This scene of Jacqueline Bisset’s walking on the beach in "The Sweet Ride" is one that’s hard to forget. Set against the backdrop of a California beach, the movie revolves around a young surfer caught up in a complicated love triangle. Jacqueline, as the effortlessly glamorous love interest, steals the spotlight in one of the most unforgettable moments ever.
With her attractive looks and graceful presence, she makes that swimsuit look like a fashion accessory. Beyond "The Sweet Ride," Jacqueline’s career boasts standout roles in "Bullitt" and "The Deep," showcasing her talent and charisma. Whether it’s her looks or her acting chops, Jacqueline has certainly left her mark on Hollywood.
Ludivine Sagnier – Swimming Pool, 2003
If there’s one scene from "Swimming Pool" that no one forgets, it’s Ludivine Sagnier in that swimsuit. The film, a thriller about a British author finding more than she bargained for during her French getaway, uses Ludivine’s sultry presence to add a touch of mystery and intrigue.
With the camera lingering just long enough, her confident, effortless beauty turns the heat up on screen. As much as her role in "Swimming Pool" left an impression, Ludivine has done a lot more, like shining in "The Bridesmaid" and "The Art of Love." But let’s be real, nothing beats this iconic moment.
Sue Lyon – Lolita, 1962
Sue Lyon’s portrayal of Lolita in the 1962 film "Lolita" is another one of those roles that instantly comes to mind when you think of iconic moments in cinema. Playing the young, mysterious temptress, Sue effortlessly combined innocence with a touch of something darker.
Based on Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial novel, the film explores the unsettling obsession of an older man with his stepdaughter, a story that only becomes more haunting with Sue’s compelling performance. Outside of "Lolita," Sue graced the screen in films like "The Night of the Iguana" and "The Flim-Flam Man" and made appearances on "Dr. Kildare."
Joan Blackman – Blue Hawaii, 1961
Joan Blackman was all sunshine and smiles in "Blue Hawaii," playing Ellie Corwin opposite Elvis Presley. Set against the stunning Hawaiian backdrop, the movie follows Chad (Elvis) returning home after military service and finding himself in a love triangle with Joan’s character. This scene shows off her grace and charm as she shares the screen with Elvis.
This wasn't her first rodeo—she’d already appeared in "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" and "The Deep Six" before stealing the spotlight in "Blue Hawaii." Known for playing strong yet lovable characters, she was also part of the TV series "Perry Mason." Her versatile roles made her an unforgettable classic star.
Marilyn Monroe – How To Marry A Millionaire, 1953
Marilyn Monroe made an unforgettable impression in How to Marry a Millionaire, where she played the glamorous yet charmingly naïve Pola Debevoise. In this iconic shot, she is poised in a figure-hugging swimsuit, showing off her beauty and effortless elegance.
It is not just her stunning looks that make this moment unforgettable—Marilyn's infectious charm and witty delivery turn the scene into pure magic. She masterfully blended innocence with allure, captivating everyone in her orbit. In addition to this role, her performances in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "The Seven Year Itch" solidified her as one of Hollywood's most timeless icons.
Nicollette Sheridan – The Sure Thing, 1985
Nicollette Sheridan may be best known for her fiery role in "Desperate Housewives," but back in 1985, she was already turning heads in "The Sure Thing." In this teen rom-com, she plays the effortlessly cool and beautiful Vivian, the "sure thing" of the film’s title. But it’s her memorable swimsuit scene that really sticks with us.
As stands here, her natural charm and, let’s face it, stunning looks become the highlight of the movie. Nicollette’s career has since been full of memorable TV and film roles, from "Knots Landing" to "Dynasty," proving she’s much more than just a pretty face.
Jayne Mansfield – Panic Button, 1964
Jayne Mansfield knew how to keep fans talking, and "Panic Button" was no exception. In this comedy, a luxury cruise turns into a chaotic adventure, but it’s Jayne’s amazing swimsuit moment that steals the show. With her blonde bombshell looks and effortless charm, she captures the attention of everyone on screen—and all of us watching at home.
This memorable scene became a symbol of her status as a 1960s feminine symbol, but Jayne was more than that. Famous for roles in "The Girl Can't Help It" and "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" she also made her mark as a philanthropist, showing there was much more to her than just the spotlight.
Salma Hayek – From Dusk To Dawn, 1996
When Salma Hayek took the stage in "From Dusk Till Dawn," she basically set the bar for unforgettable movie moments. As Santanico Pandemonium, she redefined sultry with that unforgettable dance scene, wearing a bikini and a dangerously confident smirk. The movie, a wild mix of crime, horror, and pure chaos, owes a lot to Salma’s fiery performance.
But this isn’t her only iconic role—she also earned an Oscar nod for her portrayal of Frida Kahlo in "Frida." Famous for her fierce advocacy for women’s rights, Salma has proven time and again that her beauty is just the surface. We can't help but stan this legend!
Beyoncé – Austin Powers In Goldmember, 2002
Before Beyoncé was running the world, she was making her big-screen debut in "Austin Powers in Goldmember" in 2002. Playing Foxxy Cleopatra, she brought the sass and style, effortlessly matching Mike Myers’ goofy charm. Here, Bey oozes confidence, rocking a gold bikini and a look that screams both "action star" and "total goddess."
No wonder this scene lives on in everyone’s memory. Beyond the comedy, Beyoncé's always been a force of nature—whether in music, movies, or fashion. We’ve seen her shine in "Dreamgirls," "The Lion King," and "Lemonade." You could say she’s been killing it in every department—swimsuit scene or not!
Deborah Kerr – From Here To Eternity, 1953
Deborah Kerr was already a Hollywood heartthrob before "From Here to Eternity" cemented her iconic status. Known for her roles in "The King and I" and "Black Narcissus," she earned six Oscar nominations over her career. But it’s this scene with Burt Lancaster that etched her into pop culture forever.
The scene—steamy yet classy—captures the electric chemistry between her character, a lonely wife, and her passionate affair. The stunning backdrop and her effortless beauty only add to the allure. Deborah's career spanned over 30 years, earning her accolades like the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in "The Sundowners."
Brigitte Bardot – Manina, The Girl In The Bikini, 1958
Brigitte Bardot’s iconic moment in "Manina, the Girl in the Bikini" in 1952 set the stage for a career that would forever change the way the world viewed beauty. In this French drama, she plays a free-spirited woman who lures a man into her world with irresistible charm and, of course, a barely-there bikini.
That moment—when she steps out of the water, radiating effortless beauty—became an enduring symbol of undeniable charm. It was this role that launched her into superstardom, paving the way for later masterpieces like "And God Created Woman" and "Le Mépris." Beyond her acting, Brigitte’s impact on fashion and pop culture is still felt today.
Raquel Welch – Bedazzled, 1967
Raquel Welch absolutely owned the screen in "Bedazzled." In this comedy, she plays a dreamlike goddess who grants a man’s every wish—including a seductive, unforgettable scene where she emerges from the water in a figure-hugging swimsuit. It’s one of those moments that’s forever etched in pop culture, and let’s be real, it’s not hard to see why. With that stunning, timeless beauty and impeccable style, Raquel was a "total" vision.
Before becoming the ultimate feminine symbol, she nailed roles in films like "One Million Years B.C." and "Fantastic Voyage." She even bagged a Golden Globe. Truly, this actress’ appeal goes far beyond the screen.
Pam Grier – Coffy, 1973
Pam Grier’s performance in "Coffy" is a game-changer for female action stars, and this swimsuit scene is a big reason why. As Coffy, a nurse on a mission to take down drug dealers, Pam delivers one of her most memorable moments. Her intense gaze and the way she owns the bikini are as bold and powerful as her character’s quest for justice.
The scene lives on because Pam blends vulnerability with pure strength, making her both stunning and unforgettable. After "Coffy," Pam solidified her place in pop culture with roles in "Foxy Brown" and "Jackie Brown," earning praise as a pioneering figure in blaxploitation films and beyond.