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10 Best Beach Towels 2025 in the UK

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dock & Bay Beach Towel - Quick Dry, Sand Free - Compact, Lightweight - 100% Recycled - Includes Bag - Cabana Light - Goa Grey - Large (160x90cm, 63x35)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,184
Size
Material
Absorbency
Size
Not one of those horrible-feeling microfiber towels, and it's a really decent size.
Material
Not one of those horrible-feeling microfiber towels, and it's a really decent size.
Absorbency
Dried out completely in the sun within 10 minutes, perfect for travel.
Weight
Fantastic for travel and pool days, super compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into a bag.
Design
Worth every penny. Gorgeous, soft, and quick-drying, with a small compact travel bag.

The Dock & Bay Beach Towel stands out in the beach towel category with its notable features. Measuring 160x90 cm, it's generously sized for a comfortable beach experience, whether drying off or lounging in the sun. Made from microfiber, the towel is lightweight at just 390 grams, making it easy to carry in the included bag, which is perfect for travel or day trips to the beach. The material is a combination of 83% polyester and 17% polyamide, ensuring a soft feel while being eco-friendly, as it's crafted from 100% recycled materials.

When it comes to absorbency, this towel performs well, quickly soaking up moisture and drying up to three times faster than regular cotton towels, which helps avoid unpleasant damp smells. Its sand-free feature also makes it a practical choice for beachgoers, allowing sand to easily shake off, keeping your belongings and car clean after a day at the beach. However, the microfiber material, while efficient for quick drying, might not appeal to those who prefer the plush feel of thicker cotton towels.

The design options are stylish, with choices between a two-toned cabana or a multicolored summer design, catering to different aesthetic preferences. The towel's compactness adds to its convenience, but some might find it thinner compared to traditional beach towels, which can be a downside for those who value cushioning on hard surfaces. With a high customer rating and ranking as a bestseller, this towel seems to excel in meeting the needs of most beach enthusiasts who prioritize function and portability over classic thickness.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,184
Size
Material
Absorbency
Size
Not one of those horrible-feeling microfiber towels, and it's a really decent size.
Material
Not one of those horrible-feeling microfiber towels, and it's a really decent size.
Absorbency
Dried out completely in the sun within 10 minutes, perfect for travel.
Weight
Fantastic for travel and pool days, super compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into a bag.
Design
Worth every penny. Gorgeous, soft, and quick-drying, with a small compact travel bag.
#2

Utopia Towels Cabana Stripe Beach Towels (76 x 152 cm) - 100% Ring Spun Cotton Large Pool Towels, Soft and Quick Dry Swim Towels (Pack of 4) (Blue, Green, Orange & Yellow)

Rating
9.6
Material
Absorbency
Design
Material
Soft and gentle on the skin, ideal for comfort.
Absorbency
Highly absorbent, quickly soaking up water.
Design
Minor threads may come loose but can be easily trimmed without affecting the towel's appearance.

The Utopia Towels Cabana Stripe Beach Towels come in a handy pack of four, each measuring 76 x 152 cm. This size is ideal for stretching out comfortably on the beach or at the pool. Made from 100% ring-spun cotton, these towels are designed to be soft and gentle on the skin, which is a big plus for comfort. The use of organic material also adds to their appeal, making them safe and eco-friendly.

They come in vibrant colors (blue, green, orange, and yellow) with classic cabana stripes, making them stylish and easy to spot on a crowded beach. In terms of absorbency, these towels are crafted for high precision, ensuring they quickly soak up water, which is great when you need to dry off fast. They are also designed to dry quickly, which helps prevent that damp smell and allows for repeated use throughout the day.

However, the weight of 454 grams per towel might seem a bit heavy for some, especially if you need to carry multiple towels. Despite this, their durability and long-lasting quality make them a reliable choice for various activities, from the beach to the gym.

Rating
9.6
Material
Absorbency
Design
Material
Soft and gentle on the skin, ideal for comfort.
Absorbency
Highly absorbent, quickly soaking up water.
Design
Minor threads may come loose but can be easily trimmed without affecting the towel's appearance.
#3

Brentfords Beach Towel with Pockets, Microfibre Beach Towel in a Bag Beach Bed Towels Lounger Accessories Swimming Pool Quick Dry Travel Towel Summer Holiday Essentials, Charcoal Grey 215x75cm

Rating
9.3
Size
Material
Weight
Size
The towel's large size perfectly covers the entire sun lounger, solving a common beach towel frustration.
Material
Quick-drying microfiber fabric keeps the towel ready for use without the bulk or slow drying of traditional cotton.
Weight
Its lightweight design and included carrying bag make it an effortless addition to any beach bag, adding minimal weight.

The Brentfords Beach Towel with Pockets stands out for its smart design tailored to beach and poolside use. It’s quite large at 215 x 75 cm, providing ample space for relaxing on a sun lounger, and the towel’s size fits well on most loungers. Made from 100% microfiber polyester, it’s soft, lightweight (weighing just over half a kilogram), and quick-drying—ideal for summer holidays when you want to stay comfortable and avoid heavy, slow-drying fabrics.

A key feature is its two built-in pockets, which are handy for keeping essentials like your phone, sunscreen, or a book close by but protected from sand and moisture. The towel also has a clever folding flap that hooks over sun loungers, so it stays in place without needing pegs. The charcoal grey color is neutral and versatile, matching many outdoor settings. The towel comes with a matching microfiber bag for easy transport and storage, which is a nice bonus for travel.

While microfiber is excellent for drying quickly, it may not absorb water as deeply as cotton towels, which might be a consideration if you prefer a very plush, highly absorbent towel. Additionally, microfiber towels can feel less fluffy compared to traditional cotton ones. With a high customer rating (4.4 out of 5), this towel suits beachgoers or pool users who value convenience, fast drying, and practical features like pockets and secure fitting on loungers.

Rating
9.3
Size
Material
Weight
Size
The towel's large size perfectly covers the entire sun lounger, solving a common beach towel frustration.
Material
Quick-drying microfiber fabric keeps the towel ready for use without the bulk or slow drying of traditional cotton.
Weight
Its lightweight design and included carrying bag make it an effortless addition to any beach bag, adding minimal weight.

Buying Guide for the Best Beach Towels

Choosing the right beach towel can significantly enhance your beach experience. A good beach towel should be comfortable, absorbent, and durable. When selecting a beach towel, consider factors such as size, material, absorbency, weight, and design. Understanding these key specifications will help you find the perfect towel that meets your needs and preferences.
SizeThe size of a beach towel is important because it determines how much space you have to lie on and how well it can wrap around you. Beach towels typically come in various sizes, ranging from small (around 30x60 inches) to extra-large (40x70 inches or more). If you prefer more space to stretch out or need a towel that can double as a blanket, opt for a larger size. For children or those who prefer a more compact towel, a smaller size may be sufficient.
MaterialThe material of a beach towel affects its comfort, absorbency, and durability. Common materials include cotton, microfiber, and terry cloth. Cotton towels are soft and highly absorbent, making them a popular choice. Microfiber towels are lightweight, quick-drying, and compact, ideal for travelers. Terry cloth towels are thick and plush, offering maximum comfort and absorbency. Choose a material based on your preference for softness, drying time, and ease of packing.
AbsorbencyAbsorbency refers to how well a towel can soak up water. This is crucial for drying off quickly after a swim. Towels with higher absorbency are typically made from materials like cotton or terry cloth. Microfiber towels, while quick-drying, may not be as absorbent as cotton. If you prioritize quick drying and high absorbency, look for towels with a high GSM (grams per square meter) rating, which indicates a denser and more absorbent fabric.
WeightThe weight of a beach towel can impact its portability and ease of use. Heavier towels, often made from thicker materials like terry cloth, provide more comfort and absorbency but can be bulky to carry. Lighter towels, such as those made from microfiber, are easier to pack and transport but may offer less comfort. Consider how you plan to use the towel and whether you need something lightweight for travel or a heavier option for maximum comfort.
DesignThe design of a beach towel is a matter of personal preference but can also serve practical purposes. Bright, colorful designs can make it easier to spot your towel on a crowded beach. Some towels come with features like pockets or loops for hanging. Choose a design that reflects your style and consider any additional features that might enhance your beach experience.