Memorial Day is right around the corner, and we all know what that means: Summer is coming in hot. Nothing gets us more excited for the season than prepping our beach bag with the essentials. We can't start the fun in the sun without filling a summer-ready tote with sunscreen, a new beach read, our sunnies, snacks we picked up at the farmers' market, a floppy hat, and more sunscreen. But toting all these goodies to the shore is only enjoyable if we have a secure and stylish beach bag to pack them in.
If you're in the market for said beach bag, look no further. We've rounded up the best options for summer below, and there's one to fit every Southern woman hitting the coast. Whether you need a spacious bag that will fit everything from kids' toys to spare towels, a bag with bonus features like a built-in bottle opener, or a fuss-free, timeless, and durable find, we've got you covered. We even found cute and compact bags for solo trips to the beach.
Head to your next beach, pool, or lake day toting one of these 12 trendy beach bags from Amazon, Target, Walmart, and more. You'll want to use them well after the day is over.
This adorable find comes in 12 stunning colors—from plain tan to bright yellow, pink, and coral. It measures 15 inches from top to bottom so has plenty of room for all the essentials (towel, sunglasses, book, etc.) and is lightweight so it's ready to be packed full for a long beach day.
Function doesn't need to forgo style: This practical bag has bright pom-pom accents and nautical striped detailing. The lightweight bag is lined with fabric (so your towel won't snag on the straw) and has built-in pockets to organize your belongings. The spacious straw tote size (approximately 18 inches long by 6 inches wide by 12 inches high) comes in seven circular designs, and you can even buy the pom-pom keychain tassel on its own and add it to other bags you already have.
The neoprene fabric of this tote bag makes it a no-brainer for a beach day. It's inherently resistant to rips, tears, and water, and this gingham print couldn't be any cuter. The bag is designed to expand as you stuff it so don't worry about how much it will find inside. Plus, it's a fun buy for a long beach trip because it's reversible—meaning you get two bags (or looks) in one.
Basic beach bags risk getting misplaced—especially if you're heading on a big trip with friends. This striped canvas tote bag can be branded with initials for a personalized touch that won't be overlooked. At 17 inches wide, 13 inches high, and 5 inches deep, this is a good option for quick trips down to the pool, where all you need are sunglasses and sunscreen. Choose your favorite color, font, and print to make it yours.
Described by the brand as the "perfect catch-all for days at the beach or even just hauls at the farmer's market," the Lilly Pulitzer Mercato Tote is a do-it-all bag. The canvas bag comes in two bright and poppy signature patterns and has a zip closure for added security. Don't forget to complete your look with a swimsuit!
Designed in collaboration with Steele Canvas, this waterproof picnic tote will become your new best friend for shore trips. The lightweight beach bag has long, sturdy straps and can hold all your stuff, like towels, beach books, and a change of clothes. It's available in nine colors and three sizes, so choose the one that best fits your summer aesthetic. Our favorite part? It's tear and water-resistant.
Big family trips call for big tote bags. This mesh beach bag has eight pockets for stashing water toys, sunscreen, towels, snacks, and more. The spacious design can hold up to 150 pounds, so it's super sturdy. Customers love that the mesh design helps leave sand at the beach where it belongs. Grab it while it's currently on sale for less than $20.
You can't go wrong with a classic and chic raffia tote. This five-star-rated straw beach bag is flexible and soft, and it has sturdy leather handles for added support. It also has two interior pockets to keep your wallet, keys, and phone safe from the sun and saltwater. It would look just as at home with a summer dress as it would with a new bathing suit.
A cooler is a must-have for the beach, and this one is as cute as they come. Lean into the summer aesthetic with a seasonal watermelon design that can be packed full of cans for the beach, and then double as a statement tote.
This bag gives you more than your money's worth. It's waterproof and durable, and it has cool accents like a clear phone bag inside, a bottle opener, and a built-in key holder. Best part? It can easily hold a blanket, two large beach towels, sunscreen, and snacks.
This all-in-one beach bag can be re-adjusted and styled three ways to fit your needs. The large tote has a removable inner board, two large water-resistant bags, and a detachable shoulder pad for added carrying comfort. It's also made of machine-washable and quick-dry neoprene, so it should last for years to come.
Arguably the most classic canvas tote, the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bag will last you a lifetime. The super sturdy canvas material is reinforced with double-stitched seams and has a double layer at its base, making it a great option for grocery trips and beach trips alike. It's so strong, in fact, it can hold up to 500 pounds. Monogram options are also available.