The idea of a gorgeous day spent on the beach with family, friends, music and fabulous snacks can sometimes be better than the reality.
While al fresco dining among the peaceful ocean waves sounds great on paper, beachgoers who arrive on the scene woefully unprepared run the risk of an uncomfortably sandy, itchy and sunburned experience. Thankfully, we’re here to help guide you into curating an idyllic beach day worthy of a double-page magazine spread.
First and foremost, you’ll want to pack oodles of easy-application sunscreen. There’s nothing worse than sandy hands accidentally exfoliating the skin within an inch of its life while trying to re-apply UV protection. Go for a high SPF all-over body spray for all-day protection, a handy scalp SPF powder and some soothing skin-sensitive face cream.
Next, beach enthusiasts should consider investing in all-day comfort. This means having an extra-large cooler to hand (preferably on wheels) to provide ice-cold beverages from sun-up to sundown, a parasol for much-needed shade breaks and a heavy-duty yet stylish beach blanket or mat.
Rather than paying a fortune for luxurious beach clubs that require a hefty deposit for a sub-par and often creaky sunbed next to obnoxiously loud partiers, create your very own beach haven away from the chaos.
We’ve curated a selection of the best beach blankets and mats to elevate your seaside experience. Keep scrolling for your best beach day yet.
Sunnylife Reclining Beach Chair
- Dimensions: 58 x 49 x 9.5 cm
Padded for extra comfort, Sunnlife’s portable reclining beach chair features a handy storage pocket on the backrest, a practical carry strap and a storage bag for when you’re on the move. We’re also big fans of the oh-so French Riviera ivory and mustard striped pattern.
Buy now £95.00, Amara
Dock & Bay Picnic Blanket - Sand to Sea
- Dimensions: Large (170x170cm, 3-5 people) and XL (240x170cm 5-7 people)
Available in a selection of bright and beautiful colourways that’ll make finding friends on crowded beaches a breeze, Dock & Bay’s beach picnic blanket is an extra-large, lightweight and waterproof must-have. It even comes with a hole for a parasol or umbrella to keep little ones protected from UV. The innovative quick-dry composition is made from 100 per cent recycled material and is machine-washable.
Buy now £60.00, John Lewis
Cofete Rattan and Polyester Folding Beach Backrest
- Dimensions: 46 x 5 x 88.5cm
This ingenious, stylish contraption is one of the most practical beach accessories we’ve ever come across. The foldable, woven rattan piece of kit has a comfortable backrest which is adjustable to three different positions. Whether you’re peacefully enjoying some much-needed vitamin D, reading a book or taking a nap, this weather-resistant and UV-protected chair is your new beach bestie.
Buy now £82.50, La Redoute
Navigate Three Rivers XL Striped Picnic Rug, Navy
- Dimensions: 140 x 200cm
This extra-large picnic blanket has been designed with large families in mind. The classic navy and white striped rug is crafted from hard-wearing polyester with a waterproof backing. For endless fun in the sun, scoop up Navigate’s matching two-bottle picnic cooler bag.
Buy now £35.00, John Lewis
Striped Inflatable Beach Mat
- Dimensions: 22 x 90 x 160cm
Bring hotel luxury to your local beach spot with the help of Zara’s striped inflatable beach mat. It comes with a cotton canvas cover and a matching inflatable pillow that attaches with the help of a zip closure.
Buy now £299.99, Zara
Dickies Duck Canvas Picnic Blanket
- Dimensions: 138 x 150cm
For supreme utility, look no further than Dickies’ duck canvas picnic blanket. It’s made from the brand’s classic heavy-duty brushed cotton and features a large bib pocket with tool inserts. Thanks to the heavy-duty seams and reinforced eyelets in all four corners, it can also double up as a windshield or tarpaulin.
Buy now £58.50, Dickies
Ferm Living Strand Quilted Mattress
- Dimensions: 72 x 180 x 5cm
Made from organic cotton with a recycled polyester filling, this neutral-toned quilted floor mattress from Ferm Living is an outdoorsy delight. It can be rolled up for when you’re on the move, and machine washed at 30°C on a gentle cycle.
Buy now £78.98, Mohd
Larutan Waterproof Picnic Blanket
- Dimensions: 200 x 200cm
A stylish and value-for-money option for avid beachgoers and al fresco diners, this waterproof picnic blanket by Larutan is a brilliant choice. It measures an impressive 200 x 200cm, making it a great option for large outdoor get-togethers during the warmer months.
Buy now £22.09, Amazon
Voited Picnic & Beach Compact Blanket
- Dimensions: 137 x 203 cm, 38 x 26cm packed
Solo beach lovers will rejoice for this brilliant, multi-use compact beach blanket by Voited. Offered in a selection of beautiful colours and patterns, the packable, lightweight and water-repellent mat is equipped with dual-sided micro-fleece for quick-dry cosiness after cold plunges in the sea. It also has hidden valuables pockets and can snap together with other Voited blankets for a dreamy patchwork quilt effect.
Buy now £75.00, Wetsuit Outlet
Buzzy Bee Blue Picnic Blanket
- Dimensions: 145 x 250cm
This blue blanket is covered in a sweet strawberry and is an XL size (145cm x 250cm) with enough space to seat up to six people. It’s made from 100 per cent cotton and is incredibly lightweight. You’ll hardly notice it slung over your shoulder which is a good job as we’re sure your hands will be full carrying far more precious cargo. Comes with carry handles and adjustable straps.
Buy now £31.50, The Rug Seller
