The best beach towels [2025]

The best beach towels are designed to offer both comfort and functionality for a day by the water. Made from high-quality, absorbent materials like cotton or a cotton-blend, these towels should be soft to the touch yet durable enough to withstand sand, saltwater, and frequent use. Larger than typical bath towels, beach towels provide plenty of space to lie on, dry off, or wrap around your body after a swim. Towels with quick-dry capabilities and lightweight properties are particularly beneficial, ensuring they stay dry and fresh after exposure to moisture.

Beach towels are essential for both practical and leisure purposes. They help dry the body quickly after swimming and provide a comfortable surface for sunbathing or resting. Their large size and absorbency are crucial for effectively handling the dampness from saltwater or pool water. Moreover, with vibrant colors and fun patterns, they are a staple accessory that can elevate the beach experience, offering both utility and a touch of style. A good beach towel should be both functional and easy to carry, making it a must-have item for any trip to the shore.

our criteria

When selecting the best beach towels, key criteria include material, size, absorbency, drying speed, and portability. High-quality beach towels are typically made from cotton or microfiber, with cotton offering a soft, plush feel and microfiber providing lightweight, quick-dry properties. The size is important; larger towels provide more space for lounging or wrapping up, while compact towels are easier to carry. Absorbency is crucial for drying off quickly after swimming, and towels with a higher GSM (grams per square meter) tend to be more absorbent and plush. Quick-drying fabrics help prevent the towel from staying damp for too long, while lightweight and compact designs ensure the towel is easy to pack and carry. Durability and ease of maintenance are also important, as beach towels should withstand frequent use and washing without losing softness or performance.

Our Recommendations

We recommend products carefully selected based on various factors, including user reviews, popularity, and overall effectiveness. Explore our top picks below!