Now that Memorial Day is behind us, summer is officially here, which means there’s no time like the present to double-check your warm-weather wardrobe. Sundresses? Check. Sandals? Check. Swimsuits? Check. But what about upgrading your beach towels? While some people definitely do head to the beach with a plain bath towel, there’s something to be said about opting for a beach towel — which, among other benefits, will help keep you and your belongings sand-free. 

For starters, beach towels are notably bigger. Where a typical bath towel ranges from 20 to 30 inches in width and 40 to 58 inches in length, beach towels generally measure at least 35 inches wide and go all the way up to 72 inches in length. In short, beach towels are a lot more spacious — and that matters when it comes time to lounge on the beach, by the pool, on the deck at the lake, or in the open bow of a boat. 

Beyond their size, beach towels are known for being bolder and brighter than their bathroom counterparts. Although it’s not confirmed why this is, it’s safe to assume that beach towel manufacturers know that many beachgoers (and other outdoor adventurers) are going to step away from their towels at some point, so it helps to have a bold focal point to look back on. And what better way to make a beach photo pop than with a vivid towel in the background?

As you can tell, there are many reasons why beach towels are superior in summer for sunbathing and beyond. Keep reading to discover 13 of the best beach towels of 2022. Be sure to toss some sunscreen and a good read, and you’re ready to hit the oceanfront.