This season's designs range from timeless nautical stripes and plush hotel-worthy cotton to playful graphic prints and sustainable recycled fabrics. Understated Scandinavian minimalism your thing? Perhaps you prefer to lean into the more joyful Mediterranean colour spectrum? Any which way, these are the beach towels we'll be merrily making room for in our suitcase.
Life’s A Beach: 21 Stylish Beach Towels Worth Packing This Summer
From classic cabana stripes to contemporary colourways, these are the beach towels that deserve as much attention as your swimwear. Whether you're heading for Cornwall, Capri or the local lido, these beauties will elevate every seaside outing.
Few things signal that summer is in swing like unfurling a beach towel onto warm sand. They are, after all, amongst the most hardworking of all summer purchases, doubling as picnic blankets, sun lounger covers, impromptu wraps and the backdrop to countless holiday photographs.
This season's designs range from timeless nautical stripes and plush hotel-worthy cotton to playful graphic prints and sustainable recycled fabrics. Understated Scandinavian minimalism your thing? Perhaps you prefer to lean into the more joyful Mediterranean colour spectrum? Any which way, these are the beach towels we'll be merrily making room for in our suitcase.
This season's designs range from timeless nautical stripes and plush hotel-worthy cotton to playful graphic prints and sustainable recycled fabrics. Understated Scandinavian minimalism your thing? Perhaps you prefer to lean into the more joyful Mediterranean colour spectrum? Any which way, these are the beach towels we'll be merrily making room for in our suitcase.
FAQs: Beach Towels
What material is best for a beach towel?
Cotton remains the gold standard, particularly long-staple or combed cotton, thanks to its softness and absorbency. Turkish cotton and kikoy towels are lighter, dry more quickly and take up less room in your beach bag.
How big should a beach towel be?
A standard beach towel measures around 90 x 170cm, offering enough room to stretch out comfortably. Oversized designs are ideal if you like extra space or want something that doubles as a picnic blanket.
What's the difference between a beach towel and a bath towel?
Beach towels are generally larger and often feature velour on one side, creating a softer surface for lounging while remaining absorbent underneath. They also tend to feature brighter colours and more fade-resistant dyes.
How do you keep beach towels soft?
Wash them at a moderate temperature with a gentle detergent and avoid using too much fabric conditioner, which can reduce absorbency. Drying outdoors keeps them fresh, while an occasional tumble dry helps restore their fluffiness.
Are Turkish towels better than traditional beach towels?
It depends on how you use them. Turkish towels are lightweight, quick-drying and easy to pack, making them excellent for travel. Traditional terry cotton towels feel plusher underfoot and are generally more absorbent after swimming.
How many beach towels should you own?
If you spend a lot of time by the water, two or three is ideal: one in use, one drying and perhaps a lighter travel towel for weekends away. With so many beautiful designs available, it's one summer essential where having options rarely feels excessive.
By
Nancy Alsop
·
Published July 2026
Nancy is a magpie for the best in design and culture.
