
Beach towels come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own use—whether you're laying out solo, sharing with a friend, or drying off a little one. The most common size is the standard 30" x 60", but round towels can stretch up to a huge 70" in diameter. Understanding these sizes helps you find the towel that truly fits your beach life.
Let’s break it down so you’ll never have to wrestle your towel for space again.
Standard Beach Towel Sizes
This is the beach towel you probably grew up with—nothing fancy, but it works.
Standard towels usually measure around 30" x 60"—big enough to lie on comfortably and dry off with ease. They’re easy to pack, dry quickly, and work well for most adults. If you're after a reliable all-rounder, this is your pick.

The Sweet Spot Between Comfort and Portability
There’s a reason standard sizes are so popular. They're long enough to stretch out fully and compact enough to stash in your beach tote.
Perfect for walking to the beach or when luggage space is tight. And because they’re not bulky, they dry way quicker than oversized towels.
Feature | Standard (30" x 60") |
---|---|
Adult use? | ✅ |
Packable? | ✅ |
Dries fast? | ✅ |
Extra space? | ❌ |
Oversized Beach Towels
Ever dreamed of a beach towel that feels like a cozy blanket? That’s what these are for.
Oversized beach towels range from 35" x 70" to 40" x 80", giving you generous space to sprawl or share. Ideal for taller people or anyone who loves some extra room.

More Space, More Bliss
Using an oversized towel feels like treating yourself. No sand creeping in from the sides, just you, fully stretched and comfortable.
Sure, they’re bulkier and take longer to dry, but totally worth it for a full beach day. I never go without one when I’m out from sunrise to sunset.
Feature | Oversized (35" x 70"+) |
---|---|
Adult use? | ✅ |
Packable? | ❌ |
Dries fast? | ❌ |
Extra space? | ✅ |
Round Beach Towels
Want to watch the sunset or picnic with friends? This one’s for you.
Round towels typically measure 60" to 70" in diameter and add a fun twist to the usual beach setup. Perfect for lounging with two or turning into a beach picnic mat, although they're not the easiest to fold up.
Style and Space in One
Round towels look stunning in photos, offer full 360° lounging space, and feel like a real upgrade.
I use mine not only on the beach but also for yoga, sunbathing in the backyard, or casual picnics. Not the most portable, but oh-so-worth it.
Feature | Round (60"–70") |
---|---|
Adult use? | ✅ |
Packable? | ❌ |
Dries fast? | ❌ |
Extra space? | ✅ |
Kids’ Beach Towels
Little beachgoers need towels too.
Kids’ beach towels are usually 24" x 48" or 27" x 54", lightweight and easy for small hands to carry. Many come with cute designs or even hooded styles that kids absolutely love.
Just Right for Little Ones
Whenever I shop for my niece, I go for those adorable hooded styles—they double as a wrap after swimming and keep her warm.
Too small for adults, but perfect for kids who need comfort and mobility without dragging half the beach home.
Feature | Kids (24" x 48") |
---|---|
Adult use? | ❌ |
Packable? | ✅ |
Dries fast? | ✅ |
Extra space? | ❌ |
Travel & Quick-Dry Beach Towels
Made for backpackers, campers, and minimalist travelers.
Travel beach towels are usually microfiber, sized from 30" x 60" to 40" x 72", and are super light, quick-drying, and compact. Not the fluffiest, but definitely practical.
Ultra-Packable and Ready to Go
These can fold down to the size of a water bottle, perfect for travel.
Don’t expect that spa-like plushness—it’s all about utility. For island hopping or chasing hidden coves, these are lifesavers.
Feature | Travel Towels |
---|---|
Adult use? | ✅ |
Packable? | ✅ |
Dries fast? | ✅ |
Extra space? | ❌ |
How to Choose the Right Size? Quick Guide
Still confused? Here’s your cheat sheet.
Daily use: go standard. Love stretching out or sharing? Oversized or round is best. Traveling light? Choose microfiber. Got kids? Go with child-size or hooded versions.
Think About Your “Beach Style”
Everyone has their beach personality. Some bask solo, others picnic as a family, some cuddle through sunsets.
Once you figure out who you are, the towel practically picks itself.
And whatever you choose, remember the golden word: comfort. Because that’s what the beach is really about.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all beach towel—only the one that’s just right for you.