The Best Beach Towels for Days by the Water
When it comes to the best beach towels, everyone has different priorities: Some travelers need towels that roll up into next to nothing, others want one that will keep them sand-free, while families might prioritize size over everything else. Regardless of what kind of trip you're packing for (or if you're only venturing as far as your own pool), there are some parameters every good towel should meet. You want it to be soft, comfortable, and spacious enough to lay out on and wrap around yourself after toweling off. Beyond that, though, there's plenty of variation, so we tested some of the top towels on the market to find out which ones are worth spending your money on—and adding to your suitcase.
Read on for 16 of the best beach towels you can buy right now, including an oversized towel, quick-drying options, and one that's begging to be the star of your vacation photos. And for more beach-friendly gear, check out our recommendations for top-notch beach bags, women's bathing suits, and face sunscreens.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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