It might seem ironic that someone who can’t swim would have a borderline unhealthy obsession with pool and beach towels, but here we are. Despite my inability to navigate waters deeper than my height, I find myself drawn to the patterns, textures, and practical versatility of a good towel. There’s something undeniably comforting about wrapping yourself in a high-quality towel after a day spent lounging beside (rather than in) the water, letting the sun dry your skin as you flip through a summer read.

My fascination began innocently enough with a gifted Turkish cotton towel that changed my perspective on what beach accessories could be. Unlike the thin, scratchy towels of my childhood, this one was simultaneously lightweight and absorbent, quick-drying yet soft against the skin. Before I knew it, I was researching towel materials and creating Pinterest boards dedicated to beach setups I’d never actually use for swimming purposes.

What started as appreciation has evolved into a full-blown collection that my friends tease me about relentlessly. My linen closet now houses everything from classic cabana stripes to artistic prints, oversized circular designs to compact travel options. While I may never experience the joy of emerging from ocean waves onto a waiting towel, I’ve discovered there’s plenty to love about these versatile textiles beyond their post-swim functionality. And today, I’m sharing the cream of my non-swimmer’s crop—the towels that have earned permanent spots in my beach bag, regardless of whether I’ll ever venture past the shoreline.

The Best Beach/Pool Towels 2025:

• Brooklinen Boardwalk Beach Towel
• Loon & Lake Luxury Beach Towel
• L.L. Bean Lobster Beach Towel
• Sand Cloud Turkish Beach Towel
• Zig Zag Zurich “Legs” Beach Towel

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