Sand Everywhere? Not With These Stylish Beach Blankets

Yay, we made it to summer, fam! Sunny days, balmy nights, road trips, rooftops, and yes, beach weather for (hopefully) months on end are now ours for the taking. The thing is, with summertime, though the livin’ is easy, the sand is also aplenty — and a beach blanket is oftentimes the last frontier between you and a hot, sticky mess when laying out.

Unlike many beach tents, chairs, or umbrellas, a beach blanket is something that nearly everyone — yes, even those of us in cramped quarters — can easily stow away when not in use. It’s also something that can be naturally repurposed for other activities, like camping, yoga, and even actual towel-drying by the pool, making it a practical must-have purchase that you’ll use year-round.

The Best Beach Blankets

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What to Consider

It may seem like a pretty straightforward purchase, but there are a few details you should keep in mind in order to find the best beach blanket for your needs:

• Material: As the name suggests, a beach blanket is primarily for use on surf and turf, meaning it will get wet and should provide a comfortable surface to sit on when you are, too. Thickness can be a matter of taste — and although not a dealbreaker, a blanket or mat with a water-resistant or sandproof underside can go a long way, especially during windy days or when the sand is scorching hot.

• Size: Generally, bigger is better with blankets and mats, particularly for larger groups or families with kids. Just keep in mind that bigger blankets might require more stability on the corners to prevent them from flapping around or parachuting away.

• Portability: It might seem like a no-brainer, but not all blankets are created equal when it comes to how they roll up. Some options incorporate tote handles in their design for this specific purpose, while some do not and just fold up like your regular everyday mat, towel, or blanket. Whichever you choose is a matter of personal preference and storage capacity.

Our roundup of beach blankets and mats touches on all of the above, while also offering up punchy designs and colors for maximum visibility (and yes, personality). Get ready to be the most complimented sunbather on your next layout session — just don’t forget the SPF!