23 of the best beach towels to take on holiday in 2025
Towels designed for beach or pool lounging aren’t always the most glamorous of summer buys — but they quietly do the heavy lifting. The best beach towels manage to hit that sweet spot between practical and well-designed: soft enough to sprawl out on, absorbent enough to actually dry you off, and importantly, lightweight and slim enough to roll into your suitcase without taking up your entire packing allowance.
And they’ve come a long way from stiff bath towel stand-ins. Now, it’s all about Turkish cotton weaves that only get softer with time; microfibre blends that are properly quick-drying; and sand-resistant styles that ensure you won't bring the beach home with you. And while there's always a time and a place for a retro cabana stripe in our eyes, this season's best options span everything from plush, oversized snugglers to cheeky statement finds, to slimline travel towels designed to fold up into practically nothing, leaving room in your stylish beach bag for all your other vaycay essentials.
Whether thrown over a sun lounger, doubled as a sarong, or layered with an XL pool towel for extra comfort, this is a multifunctional, versatile piece we can't live without. And we've sifted through the lot — velour, terry cloth, organic cotton, high GSM, low-fuss microfibre — to find the best beach towels that get it right on both form and function.
So, where to buy? The White Company does a reliably elevated take on the cotton beach towel, crisp and classic with that hotel-at-home feel. As you'd expect, Anthropologie leans more playful — think bold prints, cabana stripes, and texture-rich finishes that stand out against the sand. And for something beautifully made with sustainability in mind, Rise & Fall’s organic towels are as good-looking as they are practical. So whether you’re claiming your corner of a sandy cove in the Algarve, or just stretching out in the garden with an Aperol spritz, these are our top picks worth having on hand.
SKIP TO: What’s the difference between a beach towel and a bath towel? | Is cotton or microfiber better for beach towels? | How many beach towels should I own?
What’s the difference between a beach towel and a bath towel?
In short: size, weight and purpose. A beach towel is longer, lighter and made for drying off and lounging — whether that’s on the sand, grass or poolside lounger. It’s often quick-drying, more resistant to wear (and the odd spill of sun cream), and usually comes in brighter colours or patterns designed to stand out. A bath towel, on the other hand, is all about plushness and absorbency — great post-shower, less so when you’re trying to shake off the sand.
Is cotton or microfiber better for beach towels?
It depends on what you’re after. Cotton beach towels — especially Turkish cotton — are known for their softness, absorbent finish and that satisfying bit of weight when you wrap up after a swim. They feel classic and only get better with age. Microfibre beach towels, on the other hand, are all about quick-drying, lightweight ease. They fold down small, repel sand better, and are ideal for travel or gym bags. In short, think cotton for comfort, microfibre for convenience.
How many beach towels should I own?
Two per person is a solid rule — one to use, one to rotate. That said, if you’re travelling light, one quick-drying microfibre beach towel will do the job. But if you're planning regular beach days, pool hangs or park picnics, having a mix — think one super soft cotton beach towel for lounging and one that's sand-resistant and built for speed — will make summer feel a whole lot easier.
After more outdoor essentials? See our collection of the best picnic blankets, picnic baskets, melamine plates and picnic sets.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.
Scroll for our full edit of the best beach towels to take on holiday for in 2025.
Awesome Bronze The Deluxe Cotton Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% long staple cotton.
- Size - 180cm x 100cm.
If you’re after a beach towel that actually feels good against your skin, this one’s got you covered. Made from 100% long-staple cotton, it’s soft in a proper plush way — not too fluffy, not too thin. It’s oversized enough for full-body lounging, with a velvety finish that still manages to dry surprisingly fast, so you’re not left carting around a damp heap.
The bold yellow-and-white stripe adds a bit of summer polish, but it’s the quality that stands out — it washes well, doesn’t fade, and folds down smaller than you’d think for its size. Easy, practical, nicely done.
Pros & ConsPros- Plush yet quick-drying
- Folds down small
- Washes well
Cons- Higher price point for a single towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 180cm x 100cm.
This one doesn’t just save your spot — it shouts about it. Dunelm’s XL ‘Reserved’ towel is big, bold and has absolutely no time for passive-aggressive sunbed politics. At 180cm long, it gives you plenty of room to stretch out, and the cotton’s got that light, quick-drying feel that’s ideal for back-to-back dips.
No, it’s not the plushest towel going — but it’s fun, functional, and makes a point (literally). Easy to chuck in the wash, hard to miss on the sand. If you're after a no-nonsense towel with main character energy, this one's got your name all over it.
Pros & ConsPros- Bold and fun
- Quick to dry
- Budget-friendly
Cons- Not the plushest option
Beach Vibe Text Cotton Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 178cm x 102cm.
Anthropologie’s Beach Vibe Text Cotton Beach Towel is a playful nod to French Riviera chic, minus the airfare. With its bold “SUR LA PLAGE” lettering and candy-striped colour palette, it’s more statement piece than standard poolside fare. Crafted from 100% cotton, it offers a soft, velvety feel that’s gentle on the skin and dries quickly — ideal for spontaneous sea dips.
At 180cm long, it’s generously sized for lounging, yet folds down neatly to fit in your beach tote. Plus, it's OEKO-TEX® certified, ensuring it's free from harmful substances. Whether you're sunbathing in Brighton or picnicking in the park, this towel brings a touch of continental flair to your summer essentials.
Pros & ConsPros- Eye-catching design
- Soft feel
- OEKO-TEX® certified
Cons- More style-focused than plush
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 180cm.
Rise & Fall is known and loved for their luxe bedding offering — but don’t sleep on the beach towels. (Until you've bought one, that is). Their Hammam version is a lightweight wonder: flat-woven on one side, soft terry on the other, and just the thing for sun-drenched lounging without the bulk.
It’s big, breathable, and folds down nice and slim — so it’s suitcase-friendly even if you’re a chronic overpacker. The summery colours feel considered, and the whole thing has that low-key luxury vibe Rise & Fall nails so well. Chic, practical, and quick to dry. Your beach bag just got an upgrade.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight and breathable
- Folds down slim
- Dual texture
Cons- Less plush than classic terry towels
Palavas Velour Towelling Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 175cm.
La Redoute’s Palavas towel is a bold, graphic burst of colour that brings instant energy to your beach setup — an instant mood-lifter whether you’re poolside in Puglia or sunbathing on your local patch of grass. The velour finish awards it a soft, brushed feel on one side, while the reverse is proper cotton towelling that dries you off fast and feels satisfyingly absorbent.
At 90 x 175cm, it’s got the space to stretch out without veering into oversized territory, and the bold stripes make it easy to spot after a lunchtime spritz. It’s machine washable, OEKO-TEX certified, and just the right mix of practical and playful. The ultimate beach blanket.
Pros & ConsPros- Vibrant design
- Soft velour finish
- Great value
Cons- Slightly shorter than other options
Luxe Towel The Vacay Olive Stripe
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% Cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 180cm.
Sunnylife’s cabana stripe beach towel feels properly premium — thicker and more substantial than your average summer offering, with a soft, weighty terry that’s comfortable to lie on and quick to get you dry.
The olive and cream stripes are understated but stylish, and the full-length size gives you plenty of space to sprawl. There’s even a hanging loop, which sounds minor but definitely comes in handy. This is solid, well-made pick if you want something that looks good and holds up to repeated swims and sunbathing sessions. (Sunscreen essential).
Pros & ConsPros- Thicker and more luxurious
- Classic design
- Durable
Cons- Takes up more space in a bag
Scénario Vague 100% Cotton Velour Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 175cm.
La Redoute’s Scénario Vague towel doesn’t do quiet. The bold blue and green wave print brings serious seaside energy — graphic, punchy and perfect for making your mark on the sand. It’s got a velour finish on one side (smooth and soft) and classic towelling on the other, so you get the best of both textures.
At 90 x 175cm, it’s roomy enough to lounge on, with a bit of extra weight that makes it feel more substantial than a standard beach throw. Easy to wash, easy to spot, and guaranteed to add a splash of colour to your beach kit.
Pros & ConsPros- Bold graphic print
- Soft and absorbent
- Low maintenance
Cons- Nothing of note
Specifications:
- Fabric - Recycled polyester and polyamide.
- Size - 160cm x 190cm (large)
Dock & Bay’s towel in Lombok Lilac keeps things light — literally. Made from a mix of recycled microfibres, it’s slim, super quick to dry, and folds down to a neat little bundle (complete with matching draw-string bag) making it a dream for chucking in a beach bag or carry-on when space is tight.
The classic candy stripe boasts that clean, graphic look that's never not chic, and while the towel is neither thick or fluffy, it’s surprisingly absorbent and completely unbothered by sand. We're calling it a game-changer.
Pros & ConsPros- Quick-drying
- Ultra-packable
- Sand-resistant
Cons- Not thick or fluffy
VILEBREQUIN Santah Turtle Cotton Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 96cm x 184cm.
Vilebrequin’s Santah Turtle towel in Marrakech is pure Riviera energy — rich, saturated blue with that signature jacquard turtle motif. It’s made from 100% organic cotton, and the finish is plush but not overly bulky — substantial enough to feel luxurious, but still easy to roll up and toss in your bag.
It’s generously sized for lounging, and the fringed edges give it a laid-back finish. Machine washable at 30°C, it’s as practical as it is polished. If your beach aesthetic leans more chic retreat than poolside chaos, this towel's got you covered.
Pros & ConsPros- Plush organic cotton
- Elegant design
- Durable
Cons- Luxury price tag
Specifications:
- Fabric - Pure cotton (with 40% recycled cotton).
- Size - 100cm x 180cm.
This one's minimalist’s dream — crisp, clean, and quietly luxurious. Crafted from a blend of pure and recycled cotton, it features a silky-smooth velour front for lounging and a plush terry reverse for drying off. Lightweight yet absorbent, it’s designed to dry quickly and pack easily, making it a practical choice whether you're beach- or poolside.
The understated white and natural stripes offer a timeless aesthetic that complements any summer setting. So if you appreciate subtle elegance and functionality in your beach essentials, this towel delivers on both fronts.
Pros & ConsPros- Understated style
- Soft and absorbent
- Quick-drying
Cons- No notes from us
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% organic cotton.
- Size - 100cm x 180cm.
Dryrobe’s beach towel isn’t messing around — bold branding, soft organic cotton, and that signature surfy edge the brand does so well. The yellow and charcoal combo is punchy without being loud, and the thick terry finish gives it that satisfyingly weighty feel when you throw it over your shoulders.
This one's made to last, washes well, and feels properly cosy after a dip. One to keep in your beach bag all summer long. Oh — and keep an eye out for the new black and pink colourway, coming soon. It’s giving retro pool club, in the best way.
Pros & ConsPros- Heavyweight terry
- Soft organic cotton
- Bold colours
Cons- Nothing to see here
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 100cm x 180cm.
Dunelm’s cherry print towel brings full-on '80s fruit salad vibes — bright, punchy and unapologetically fun. It’s soft, sunny, and the kind of towel that makes even a local lido visit feel like a mini holiday.
Made from 100% cotton, it’s light enough to chuck in your bag but still absorbent enough to handle post-dip drying duties. Ideal if you like your beach kit with a bit of personality (and you're not afraid of a bold print). Just add SPF and an oversized pair of sunnies. And, at just £10, this one offers serious bang for your buck.
Pros & ConsPros- Bright and fun
- Lightweight
- Great value
Cons- Not as thick as premium options
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% organic cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 170cm.
The Baina Busby Beach Towel in Cloud & Ranch Red is a bold, graphic statement piece that brings a touch of design cred to your beach setup. With its striking checkerboard pattern, it stands out effortlessly, offering both style and substance.
Crafted from 100% organic cotton, this towel delivers a plush, soft luxurious feel that's perfect for lounging. Its generous size ensures ample space for relaxation, while the high-quality material provides excellent absorbency. Whether you're poolside or beach-bound, the Busby towel combines functionality with a contemporary aesthetic, making it a standout choice.
Pros & ConsPros- Design-led
- Plush organic cotton
- Standout pattern
Cons- Pricey for a single towel
Pure Cotton Sand Resistant Striped Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - Cotton.
- Size - 160 x 90cm.
M&S’s striped beach towel is a solid all-rounder — classic design, soft feel, and a few clever features that make it more than just a pretty stripe. Made from pure cotton, it’s woven to resist sand cling (a small miracle), and the StayNew™ finish keeps the colours looking sharp even after repeat washes.
It’s not the fluffiest towel in the pile, but it’s quick to dry, easy to pack, and ideal for beach days, pool trips, or just stretching out in the garden. A no-fuss, good-looking option that does exactly what you need it to.
Pros & ConsPros- Sand-resistant weave
- Colour stays fresh
- Good value
Cons- Not the fluffiest towel available
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% polyester.
- Size - 180cm x 66cm.
Designed originally for use in a sweaty yoga studio, this microfibre beach towel (or microfiber beach towel, for our US readers) requires minimal drying time after use, given that its primary purpose is to be a travel towel, capable of being packed up back into a bag along with your gym leggings et. al, soon after you've finished using it.
Crafted from 100% polyester microfibre, the towel is designed to be ultra-absorbent and quick-drying — as ideal for hot yoga, gym sessions, as it is for post-swim use. Its clean-cut edges prevent fraying, and it’s machine washable, making it a practical choice for active lifestyles.
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Pros & ConsPros- Ultra-absorbent
- Very quick-drying
- Compact for travel
Cons- Narrower than standard beach towels
BulutyShop Cotton Turkish Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% Turkish cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 180cm.
Handmade in the UK using Turkish cotton yarn, this lightweight, sand-free towel is sumptuously soft, super absorbent and eco friendly. Plus, if you're one for a hammam at the gym or pool after a hard day at work, then this Turkish beach towel needs to go straight on your wishlist.
This quick dry towel packs down small, making it ideal for travel or chucking in your gym bag. The flat weave means it dries fast and doesn’t cling to sand — so it’s just as handy on the beach as it is in the spa. A practical, good-looking all-rounder.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Handmade in the UK
Cons- Flat weave may not suit those who prefer plush towels
17/23Best Soho Home beach towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - Turkish cotton.
- Size - 100 x 180cm.
As summer approaches, purchasing this absorbent towel is a must buy for beachgoers. Made from plush Turkish cotton, it's specifically crafted to resist fading in sunlight, ensuring a durable investment for numerous beach getaways ahead.
It's the exact same one used poolside at Shoreditch House, so it’s got that members-only vibe without the actual membership. The towel feels satisfyingly plush, and the bold cabana stripes are a timeless classic. You can even personalise it with your initials for that extra touch of luxe.
Pros & ConsPros- Plush Turkish cotton
- Fade-resistant
- Personalisable
Cons- Premium pricing
Catherine Lansfield Beach Huts Absorbent Beach Towel Coral
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 180cm.
Catherine Lansfield’s Beach Huts towel is pure British seaside nostalgia — think candy-coloured huts, striped deckchairs, and a 99 Flake in hand. The playful beach hut motif adds a cheerful touch, making it a standout accessory for sunny days. Made from pure cotton, it offers a soft, absorbent surface perfect for lounging by the waves or drying off after a swim.
It’s lightweight enough to roll up into your beach bag but still feels substantial when you’re stretched out on the sand. Machine washable and tumble-dry friendly, it’s a practical, affordable choice that doesn’t skimp on style.
Pros & ConsPros- Fun, nostalgic print
- Soft cotton
- Good value
Cons- More playful than luxe
Sand Shell Pembroke Stripe Cotton Towels
Specifications:
- Fabric - Cotton.
- Size - 100 x 150cm.
Taking its design cue from the classic deck chair, this stunning beach towel evokes memories of sunny days by the British coast. Available in four sizes – bath sheets, bath towels, hand towels, and face cloths – you can complete your bath towel collection and bring the largest size with you for a day at the beach.
The yarn-dyed stripe in warm sand and soft shell tones gives it that effortlessly timeless feel, while the 100% cotton pile is thick, fluffy and absorbent without feeling heavy. It’s a lovely blend of comfort and function, whether you’re drying off post-sea swim or stretching out in the sun.
Pros & ConsPros- Thick cotton
- Timeless design
- Fringe detailing
Cons- Shorter than some traditional beach towels
Specifications:
- Fabric - Cotton.
- Size - 178cm x 102cm.
Crafted against a cobalt background adorned with tonal blue serpents, this eye-catching beach towel is a masterpiece in its own right. Made from super-soft cotton, it’s made from a high absorbency 520-GSM weave that will dry you in an instant.
It’s bold and unapologetically glamorous — exactly what you’d expect from Jonathan Adler. The thick pile feels luxe to the touch, while the rich colours hold up beautifully after multiple washes. Whether you’re poolside or beach-bound, it makes the rest of your setup feel instantly elevated.
Catherine Lansfield Rainbow Pink and Orange Beach Towel
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 75cm x 150cm.
The perfect accessory for your beach day, these two cotton beach towels in contrasting shades of pink and orange are ideal for drying off after a relaxing swim in the ocean.
The feel is soft and lightweight — easy to shake out, quick to dry, and simple to throw in your beach bag without taking up too much space, and the colours bring full summer energy. Whether you're spreading them out for lounging or sharing with a friend, this set is a handy, good-value option with proper holiday mood.
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Catherine Lansfield Anchors Absorbent Beach Towel Blue
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 90cm x 180cm.
Catherine Lansfield’s Anchors towel leans into the nautical vibes with its deep blue base and bold anchor print — a classic look that wouldn’t feel out of place draped over a deckchair or spread out on a sun-drenched pier. It’s made from soft cotton, so it’s comfy to lie on and does a solid job of drying you off without feeling too heavy.
It’s got that no-fuss, throw-it-in-the-bag energy — washes well, wears well, and keeps its colour even after a few sandy trips to the beach. A reliable pick if you like your towels with a bit of seaside charm.
Joules Botanical Bee Cotton Beach Towel Blue
Specifications:
- Fabric - 100% cotton.
- Size - 160cm x 90cm.
Joules beach towels are oh-so-cute and this baby blue bee iteration is going straight in our baskets and off to the checkout. It's washing machine friendly, extra large compared to similar products on the market and unisex, too.
Crafted from cotton velour, this towel offers a soft, plush feel that's perfect for lounging. The hand-drawn bee design set against a fine blue and white stripe adds a charming touch. As a member of the Better Cotton Initiative, Joules ensures that this towel is made using sustainably sourced cotton, making it both stylish and eco-friendly.
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