The 11 Best Beach Towels, Evaluated and Reviewed

Top Pick Overall

We tested this beach towel at a sandy beach for lounging and drying off, and it provided just the right weight for comfort without being too bulky to carry. We were particularly impressed with how soft and plush it felt, maintaining its softness throughout our two-week testing period. At over six feet long and three feet wide, it offers plenty of space to stretch out or rest your head without touching the sand. One tester who wore a plus-size fit noted that they could wrap the towel fully around their body with extra fabric left to tuck in comfortably.

The towel effectively draws moisture away from the skin and dries quickly. While it did pick up some sand, a few shakes were enough to get rid of it. Stains were easily removed during washing, though there was slight pilling after the first wash—this did not affect its absorbency. The towel features short cotton loops that are designed to resist snags, and its flatweave edges help prevent unraveling. It has a UPF +50 rating for UV protection when wrapped around your body. Available in five nautical striped patterns, the towel also offers the option to add a monogram or logo for an extra charge. Despite all these great features, it’s priced lower than the average of the beach towels we tested.

Material: Cotton | GSM: 420 | Size: 30 x 72 inches

Best Value Option

Priced just under $14, this Cabana Striped Beach Towel is our top choice for budget-conscious shoppers. We appreciated the towel’s generous length, though it was a bit tricky to fit into a beach bag compared to shorter towels. The fabric quickly absorbed moisture and dried in about 10 to 15 minutes, making it ready for use again in no time.

The cotton-polyester blend provided a soft, plush feel that we really enjoyed. It offered just the right amount of softness without resembling a bath towel, nor did it make us feel too warm when wrapped in it. Overall, it felt like the quality you’d expect from a towel at a poolside resort.

Even after multiple washes, the towel’s quality remained impressive. While we noticed a few loose threads, it didn’t shrink, and dirt was easily washed out. We also loved its bright, cheerful colors and the light, breathable feel. The quality we got for the price felt like an incredible deal, especially since it’s a great option for buying multiple towels to create a complete set.

Material: Cotton and polyester | GSM: 400 | Size: 38 x 72 inches

Best Oversized Option

We were impressed by the sheer size of this towel, which stretches nearly five feet wide and almost seven feet long, offering ample space for two people to relax side by side. Made from ultra-thin microfiber, it quickly absorbs moisture and dirt. It's also quick to dry and packs easily into a mesh carrying bag (though fitting the towel back into the bag can be tricky). We found it perfect for lounging and drying off at the beach, but it may be a bit too large if you're only looking to dry off (for that, consider purchasing a smaller size).

It didn’t retain much sand, and cleaning it was a breeze. However, its thinness might not be ideal for use on rocky beaches, but it excels as a spacious option for sharing with a friend or loved one on the sand.

Material: 80% polyester, 20% polyamide | GSM: Not listed | Size: 57 x 80 inches

Best Sand-Free Option

This towel is more akin to a beach blanket than the usual terry cloth style, but it still serves its purpose for drying off. We tested it at a Florida beach, where sand slid right off the microfiber material. With a spacious 35 by 71-inch size, it offers plenty of space for lounging or wrapping up after a swim.

Its thin design makes it versatile, doubling as a sarong or a wrap for wet hair. Most importantly, it absorbs moisture from your skin efficiently. While it dries quickly in direct sunlight, we would have preferred it to dry even faster given its thinness. The towel features a reversible pattern, a hook for easy hanging, and comes with a mesh carrying bag that fits the towel perfectly.

Material: Microfiber | GSM: 200 | Size: 35 by 71 inches

Best Quick Drying

The NovForth beach towel is priced at less than half of the average cost of the other beach towels we tested, yet it performed exceptionally well. We found this microfiber towel to be highly absorbent before and after washing: It dried our hands quickly and soaked up an entire bowl of water in under a minute. The sand-resistant microfiber is easy to clean and dries faster than traditional cotton towels, making it perfect for multiple uses after each swim. After washing and drying once, we didn't notice any shrinkage, loose threads, or color fading.

This towel is available in three sizes, including 41 by 73 inches, which is large enough to cover a pool chair entirely. It also comes in a range of vibrant patterns and designs, though we wish the design was printed on both sides. Compared to a cotton towel, this microfiber towel from Novforth is thinner, so if you’re looking for a thicker, more luxurious beach towel, this might not be for you. However, the towel’s light weight and quick-drying fabric make it an ideal option for easy transport to the pool, beach, or park.

Material: Microfiber | GSM: Not listed | Size: 30 by 61, 36 by 71, and 41 by 73 inches

Best for Thickness

This towel is as eye-catching in its design as it is soft to the touch. Crafted from velvety cotton velour, the Out To Sea Towel features a captivating sun and ocean wave design that draws immediate attention. The sun portion and the back of the towel have a gentler feel, while the ocean waves section offers a slightly coarser texture. Both parts of the towel proved highly efficient at drying our hands and absorbing a full ¼ cup of water, retaining their absorbency even after washing.

Though not as oversized as some of the other towels on this list, it still exceeds the size of a typical beach towel, measuring 68 inches in length. Sand easily slid off its surface, and it washed without showing any signs of damage or loose threads. Additionally, the towel holds an Oeko-Tex certification, confirming it has been tested for harmful chemicals. It is priced slightly above the median of the towels we reviewed, but considering its luxurious texture and sturdy construction, we believe it will offer many years of use. Just keep in mind that its thickness means it takes up more room in a beach bag.

Material: Cotton | GSM: 500 | Size: 35 by 68 inches

Best Lightweight

We took this compact and lightweight towel for lakeside relaxation, where it offered a comfortable barrier between us and the ground. It features a smooth, moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly, especially when exposed to the sun. Additionally, the texture helps to resist sand and other debris. Measuring six feet in length, it's large enough for most people to lie on comfortably without having to worry about their head or feet sticking off the edge. While not the largest towel we tested, it comes with a zippered corner pocket to store small items like sunglasses or a phone, as well as a convenient reusable bag for easy transport.

We believe this towel is perfect for family beach outings, as multiple towels can easily fit in a single beach bag, and the affordable price makes it simple to buy several. While it might not be the most plush option for drying off after a swim, it serves as an excellent choice for lounging or light drying. Plus, it comes in six vibrant, reversible patterns. (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Mytour’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.)

Material: 88% polyester, 12% polyamide | GSM: 450-550 | Size: 38 by 72 inches

Softest

Towels are frequently treated with a softening finish that dissolves in water, meaning the initial soft feel typically fades after washing. However, the Brooklinen Beach Towel defies this, continuing to become softer with each wash. We used it for drying off after pool swims and at the beach, and it proved highly absorbent—multiple people could dry off with just one towel.

While not sand-repellent, this towel easily shakes off most of the sand. Its soft cotton velour front makes it perfect for lounging, and its thick material enhances its absorbency. Measuring 70 inches in length, it provides ample space, though we wish it were a few inches wider for added comfort. After washing, there was some dye bleeding and slight edge shrinkage, but no pilling or loose threads. The retro ‘70s-inspired design is available in four color variations, and while it’s a bit pricey, purchasing a bundle of two or three towels offers savings.

Material: Cotton | GSM: 600 | Size: 34 by 70 inches

Best Organic

While an organic certification doesn't directly enhance the fabric's quality, Young emphasizes its significance for both sustainability and health. The Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Beach Towel is made from 100% Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified Turkish cotton, which becomes increasingly soft and flexible with every wash. It can even double as a spacious bath towel.

Though it has a premium look, we used the towel for lounging on a sandy beach, rocky riverbank, and grassy area by the pool. Despite its elegant appearance, it performed well in all conditions, and any dirt or grass stains washed out easily. Its large size comfortably fit three people seated together, though it did retain a bit of moisture when laid out on the ground. As typical of Turkish towels, it's lightweight and dries quickly when hung. The organic cotton is naturally absorbent, and the waffle texture not only looks great but also aids in moisture absorption.

The towel comes in five earthy shades, including Rust and Deep Pewter. It features a fringe trim, which may not appeal to everyone and can be difficult to care for. Additionally, it's priced higher than the average towel we tested, but it could be a worthwhile investment for those seeking high-quality organic textiles.

Material: Organic Turkish cotton | GSM: 320 | Size: 39 x 71 inches

Best Option for Travel

Although it was too large for drying off or lounging, this beach towel comfortably accommodates two people lying down or four sitting up. Its compactness and lightness make it perfect for travel, fitting easily into a carry-on suitcase, with the included drawstring bag offering convenient portability.

While it wasn’t the most absorbent for drying off, the towel did have water-repellent properties, staying dry and resisting stains. We appreciated that it didn’t cause other items to get wet when added to our pool day bag.

We also appreciated the light foam layer that added a bit of plushness, making it comfortable for lounging on the ground. It didn’t get too hot under the sun, and it was easy to clean by simply shaking or dusting it off. After washing, it didn’t shrink or snag, the colors stayed vibrant, and the pleating was maintained.

Material: Made from durable polyester | GSM: Not provided | Size: 69 x 55 inches

Top Luxury

This towel is so soft and plush that drying off with it felt like using a blanket. In fact, it’s one of the softest beach towels we've ever tried. It absorbed moisture effectively without feeling overly damp, and its large size made it perfect for wrapping around ourselves or a toddler while lounging. However, we did notice some shrinkage after drying on low, though it still kept its softness and color after multiple washes. While we didn’t see any snags or loose threads, there was some shedding in the dryer. Still, no fuzz reappeared after the initial wash.

We even thought this towel was cozy enough to keep in our car for emergencies. It’s a bit pricey for a beach towel, but its quality makes it a worthwhile investment. Thanks to its luxurious feel and appearance, we’d happily add it to a registry or give it as a gift.

Material: Cotton and bamboo viscose | GSM: Not specified | Size: 40 x 70 inches

Final Thoughts

The Lands’ End School Uniform Rugby Stripe Beach Towel stands out as our top pick due to its perfect balance of medium weight, offering both comfort and absorbency without being too bulky to carry. Additionally, it’s larger than the average beach towel and features a UPF +50 rating. For a more affordable alternative, the Decomen Microfiber Beach Towel is crafted from highly absorbent microfiber that resists sand and conveniently packs into the included carrying pouch.

Our Evaluation Process

To create this list, we tested 57 beach towels using a variety of methods. We began with a visual inspection of each towel to assess its design, build, size, and comfort level. Before any use, we washed each towel following the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, we folded the towel and took it to a pool or beach to test its portability.

Once at our destination, each towel was put to use for drying off after swimming and relaxing by the beach or pool. While using the towels, we evaluated them based on texture, absorbency, drying speed, coverage, and how well they resisted sand. Over the course of two weeks, we continued to use and wash the towels, noting any signs of wear. Finally, we evaluated the value of each towel by comparing its retail price with its overall performance. We’ll keep testing the towels and provide updates as new insights emerge.

How to Shop for Beach Towels Like a Pro

Materials

Beach towels are typically made from cotton and microfiber, both known for their excellent absorbency. However, these two materials differ significantly in other aspects.

Cotton: Cotton is the gold standard for beach towels, prized for its absorbency and softness. Some towels combine cotton with materials like polyester or bamboo for added softness and to reduce shrinkage, though this often makes them less absorbent than pure cotton towels.

Turkish Cotton: Turkish cotton is highly sought after for premium towels due to its superior absorbency and quick drying time. These towels often feature a flatweave made from long cotton fibers, which makes them lighter and thinner compared to traditional loop-weave cotton towels. For instance, the Coyuchi Mediterranean Organic Beach Towel is an excellent example of this type.

Microfiber (Polyester): Microfiber towels are gaining popularity as a modern, unconventional choice. Often marketed as 'sand-free,' they are made from synthetic materials, typically a blend of polyamide and polyester. Microfiber towels tend to dry faster than cotton ones and are lightweight, highly absorbent, and compact when folded, making them perfect for travel. However, they aren’t as soft or plush as cotton towels and can vary in thickness.

Weight

Remember, beach towels are different from bath towels. The thickest, fluffiest towel isn't always the best choice for your beach outing—it can take a long time to dry and trap sand and other debris. Lighter, thinner towels are much easier to carry and dry quickly for your next swim, but they often lack the plushness and absorbency of thicker towels. A balanced towel, somewhere in the middle, is often the best option.

Towel weight is typically measured in grams per square meter (GSM). The higher the GSM, the heavier the towel. Standard cotton beach towels usually range between 400 and 650 GSM, while microfiber and Turkish towels typically fall within the 200 to 400 GSM range.

For a luxurious, fluffy beach towel, go for a higher GSM. If you're looking for something that dries quickly and doesn't hold onto sand, choose a towel with a GSM of 400 or lower.

Portability

Remember, a plush terry cotton towel can take up a lot of space in your carry-on or beach bag, whereas a microfiber towel with a lower GSM will be much more compact and easily foldable in your luggage. Turkish beach towels and other flat-weave towels are also excellent for portability due to their ultra-thin construction.

Size

A standard beach towel typically measures around 31 by 63 inches. Oversized towels—usually around 40 by 70 inches—are growing in popularity because they can cover an entire pool chair and offer more room to stretch out. Our top pick for an oversized towel, the Ocoopa Microfiber Beach Towel, is a generous 57 by 80 inches. Just keep in mind, the larger the towel, the more space it will require for storage and transport.

More Beach Towels to Consider

Vera Bradley Beach Towel: Featuring vibrant colors and fun patterns, this towel is made from soft and absorbent cotton, making it an excellent choice for anyone in search of a high-quality beach towel. We were pleased with how the colors remained vivid after multiple washes, and the material maintained its softness. It dried within 15 to 20 minutes, which was a great advantage. However, we did wish it was a bit thicker, and a larger size would have made it more comfortable for lounging or sitting on. Though not uncomfortable, the back side wasn't quite as soft as the printed side.

Clowood Bamboo-Cotton Beach Towel: Crafted from a blend of cotton and bamboo fibers, this thick, luxurious beach towel from Clowood gives off resort-quality vibes—and it scored high in all our tests. We were particularly impressed with its absorbency, both before and after washing, and found it offered plenty of cushioning when lying directly on the sand. The main drawback is that it isn't very compact when folded, making it a bit bulky to carry in a beach bag.

Questions You Might Ask

What's the difference between a beach towel and a bath towel?

Beach towels are typically much longer than bath towels, designed to fully cover your body while lounging and acting as a barrier between you and the sand. They are thinner and less plush than bath towels, which allows them to dry more quickly and retain less sand. According to Kasouf, beach towels need to be comfortable for lying on, lightweight for carrying, and absorbent. Additionally, they should be more durable since they are exposed to harsher elements. For these reasons, we advise against taking a bath towel to the pool or beach.

How do you wash beach towels?

Before washing your beach towels, give them a good shake to remove any sand, then wash them on a cold cycle to help maintain their color and prevent shrinking. After cleaning, you can either hang them up to dry or tumble dry on low heat. Kasouf advises avoiding bleach, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets as these can damage the cotton fibers and reduce the towels' absorbency over time. Always check the tag for the manufacturer's specific care instructions.

Since beach towels are exposed to sand, water, sweat, and sunscreen, it's best to wash them after every use. If washing isn’t feasible (like when you're on vacation without access to laundry facilities), shake out the sand and hang the towel to dry in the sun. To prevent colors from fading, rinse your towel after pool use to remove chlorine residue.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate editor at Mytour, with nearly four years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. For this guide, we tested 57 beach towels, evaluating them on quality, texture, absorbency, durability, and overall value. For expert advice on selecting beach towels, we consulted Kelly Kasouf, Chief Marketing Officer at Kassatex, and Deborah Young, a textile specialist.