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15 Best Sand Proof Beach Blankets in 2022

Published:

by Angela Magsajo

Couple holding hands and laying down on a colorful beach blanket.
Photo by Robert Daly/Caia on Adobe Stock

A trip to the beach with friends and family is a great way to spend a summer’s day. There’s nothing like hitting the waves, lounging by the coast, and soaking up the sun. And aside from the best beach tent, sunscreen, and sunglasses, a sand proof beach blanket is a must-have for any beach day during the summer months. This way, when you’re laying down on the shore, you won’t have any grains of sand sticking to your skin and clothes.

 

Moreover, the best beach blankets out there are not just for beach days. You can also use them for all sorts of outdoor activities, like camping by the lake or picnicking at the park. We’ve scoured the market looking for the best sand proof beach blankets for virtually any kind of activity. Here are our top picks:

1. Best Overall: WildHorn Outfitters Seaview 180° Sand Free Oversized Beach Blanket

WildHorn Outfitters Seaview Sand Free Oversized Beach Blanket.

Photo from Amazon

The WildHorn Outfitters Seaview Sand Free Oversized Beach Blanket is our overall top choice for various reasons. Among the top is its size. While massive, it’s still compact and portable. Measuring about 63 square feet, this blanket is big enough for an entire family, but can still be folded down into a compact size easy to carry without much weight. It even comes with a pouch for easy storing and traveling.

 

Made from 100% parachute nylon material, it’s not only durable and lightweight but sand proof and water-resistant, as well. Although, it’s worth noting that the material is rather thin and gets hot under the sun. It comes with four sand anchors to hold it in place, even on windy days. What’s more, this outdoor blanket comes with a zipper pocket, which is great for storing valuables while you’re in the water.

 

Pros:

  • Large 63 sq ft size
  • Comes with a zipper pocket
  • Built-in four sand anchor pockets

Cons:

  • No extra padding
  • Not heat-resistant

Get the WildHorn Outfitters Seaview 180° Sand Free Oversized Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

2. Best Sand Proof: CGEAR The Original Sand-Free Outdoor Camping Mat

Folded CGEAR Sand-Free Outdoor Camping Mat in blue-green, the best sand-free beach blanket.

Photo from Amazon

We can’t talk about sand-proof beach blankets without mentioning the original. The sand-free beach mat from CGEAR boasts the only patented sand-free technology in the market. Its two high-density woven layers allow for sand to fall through the fabric, without coming back up. Because it is water-resistant and quick to dry, you can easily shake off any sand that gets on it. The stain-resistant material makes a very convenient feature when you’re traveling a lot where you can just wipe the dirt clean. However, the sturdy, tightly woven material isn’t the softest and you may need to layer a towel to feel more comfortable. 

 

Moreover, it features heavy-duty corner D-Rings, which come in handy for securing the blanket into place. It comes in two reversible colors, blue-green and orange agave. There are four sizes available, with the largest one being able to fit up to 14 people. Aside from the beach, you can also use it as a sleeping mat to provide extra protection between your sleeping bag and the ground when camping. 

 

Pros:

  • Patented sand-free technology
  • Durable
  • Stain-resistant

Cons:

  • Not very soft
  • Not very compact

Get the CGEAR The Original Sand-Free Outdoor Camping Mat on Amazon now.

3. Best for Travel: ECCOSOPHY Sandproof Beach Blanket

The ECCOSOPHY Sandproof Beach Blanket in blue, white, and orange, with colorful carry bags.

Photo from Amazon

The ECCOSOPHY Sand Proof Beach Blanket was designed for traveling to different locations be it to different camping spots, hiking trails, or the beach. Made from breathable parachute nylon, not only is it sand proof, but it’s lightweight and rip-resistant, as well. The beach blanket measures around ten by nine feet when spread out, but it folds into a compact size of nine by six inches that fit perfectly into its travel pouch. You can easily bring it with you or pack it up into your beach bag, suitcase, or car trunk. Additionally, it’s heat resistant, so you don’t have to worry about the material overheating when you’re sunbathing on the beach. And while it may not be waterproof, it dries fast.

 

Pros:

  • Fast-drying
  • Rip resistant 
  • Heat resistant

Cons:

  • Not waterproof 

Get the ECCOSOPHY Sand Proof Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

4. Best Budget-Friendly: Camco Handy Mat with Strap

Colorful Camco Handy Mat with strap.

Photo from Amazon

Looking for cheap beach blankets? For those on a budget, you certainly can’t go wrong with the outdoor blanket from Camco. Despite it costing a fraction of other beach mats on the market, the Camco Handy Mat is still of high quality. Made from polypropylene straws, it’s durable, easy to clean, and UV-stabilized, which protects the bright and vivid design from fading over time. A standout feature of this sand-resistant beach blanket is its built-in handles and pockets.

 

Pros:

  • Affordable 
  • Lightweight

Cons:

  • Straw material isn’t very soft
  • No anchors

Get the Camco Handy Mat with Strap on Amazon now.

5. Best Multipurpose: Benevolence LA Hand Woven Mexican Blanket 

Multicolored hand woven beach blankets from Benevolence LA.

Photo from Amazon

Each Mexican beach blanket from Benevolence LA is hand-woven by local artisans in Tlaxcala. Their brightly vivid designs are hard to miss wherever you go. Made from 100% recycled materials, these cute blankets are soft yet durable, which makes them perfect for different types of activities. 

 

When we say that these beach blankets are versatile, we mean it. You can take it for beach trips whether you want to cover up from the sun or lie on the beach. They’re also great to use in place of yoga mats when doing your stretches. Use it when you’re picnicking by the lake, hiking trails, or camping out. You can also just simply relax at home, and snuggle up with this blanket. 

 

Pros:

  • Super soft
  • Breathable fabric
  • Versatile

Cons:

  • Not water resistant 
  • May shed fiber

Get the Benevolence LA Hand-Woven Mexican Blanket on Amazon now.

6. Most Comfortable: Scuddles Extra Large Picnic & Outdoor Blanket 

Folded up Scuddles beach blanket in blue and white.

Photo from Amazon

The outdoor blanket from Scuddles is made up of three layers: a woven acrylic on top, a foam layer in the middle, and a polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) padding on the bottom. The top layer is soft, while the bottom layer protects you from hard or bumpy surfaces. The multilayer design is effective for keeping sand, dirt, and water away, too. What’s more, it comes with a built-in strap, which comes in handy when bringing it to the beach, park, and campsites. If you’re someone who enjoys going to music festivals or outdoor concerts, this beach blanket is a definite must-have.  

 

Pros:

  • Comes in different sizes
  • Multilayer design with a waterproof PEVA backing

Cons:

  • Top layer snags easily

Get the Scuddles Extra Large Picnic & Outdoor Blanket on Amazon now.

7. Most Durable: Wekapo Sand Free Beach Blanket

Woman in a green swimwear and a hat lying on a large blue Wekapo beach blanket on sand.

Photo from Amazon

Looking for a large beach blanket that will last for years? If that’s the case, look no further than the one from Wekapo. Made from 100% ripstop nylon, this triple-stitched blanket boasts superior strength and durability. Whether you’re using it as a beach blanket, a camping mat, or a picnic blanket, rest assured that it can withstand any activity and environment. The material means the blanket is sand, heat, and moisture resistant. 

 

Moreover, it features six metal stakes and corner pockets you can fill with sand to keep the blanket in place during windy days. The best part? It’s machine washable and quick-drying! Simply throw it in the washing machine and save yourself the trip to the dry cleaner’s. 

 

Pros:

  • Large size
  • Comes with six metal stakes
  • Machine washable 

Cons:

  • No padding
  • Easily stained

Get the Wekapo Sand Free Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

8. Best Value: Three Donkeys Extra Large Picnic & Beach Blanket 

Three Donkeys large outdoor blanket with a red and white gingham pattern.

Photo from Amazon

Another great machine washable option is the extra-large picnic blanket from Three Donkeys. Made from a blend of soft polyester taffeta, cotton padding, and waterproof oxford, it’s heat, water, and dirt resistant. The multilayer construction also makes it extremely durable. This blanket is perfect for lounging on thanks to the combination of a soft-top layer and a cushioned-backing that protects you from the hard surfaces of the ground. It takes little effort to fold and unfold it, plus the carry-on handle means bringing the blanket with you is a breeze. 

 

For less than $30, and with all these features packed in one blanket, you’re surely able to get the best value. You may need to use some weighted items to keep the blanket grounded, though, since it doesn’t come with any anchors or pockets. 

 

Pros:

  • Cushioned-backing
  • Heat resistant 

Cons:

  • No anchors or corner pockets

Get the Three Donkeys Extra Large Picnic & Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

9. Best For Solo Travelers: WETCAT Turkish Beach Blanket

Wetcat striped beach towel in teal. 

Photo from AmazonAlt Text:

Wetcat’s Turkish oversized beach towels are certainly among the must-have beach necessities for solo travelers. Measuring 38 x 71 inches, it’s the ideal size for one person to sprawl out under the sun. Furthermore, since it’s made from premium Turkish cotton, it’s incredibly soft and gets even softer after several washes. In addition to being breathable and lightweight, it is durable thanks to the weaving technique used to make it. 

 

Since the material is prewashed, you won’t have to worry about it shrinking, unlike other cotton towels. Although, it’s still best to pay attention to its care instructions before throwing it into the washing machine. Aside from using it as a beach blanket, you can use it as a picnic blanket, camping towel, shawl, or cover-up. A drawback to the Wetcat beach towel is that it’s a little bit too thin, but that means it dries out quicker.

 

Pros:

  • Soft and comfortable fabric
  • Versatile 
  • Quick-drying

Cons:

  • Thin material

Get the WETCAT Turkish Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

10. Best for Large Groups: OCOOPA Sand Proof Extra Large Beach Blanket

OCOOPA Extra large two-tone blue beach blanket with a blue sea turtle print.

Photo from Amazon

A large beach gathering with friends and family means you need an extra-large no sand beach blanket. Measuring at 120 x 108 inches, OCOOPA’s beach mat provides plenty of space for people, belongings, and gear. Despite being large, it can still be folded into a compact size and fit perfectly into its pouch, making it easy to carry and fit into the best carry-on luggage or beach bag. Moreover, it comes with four corner sand pockets and four stakes to keep it grounded. While the material is soft and comfortable on sand beaches, it doesn’t come with any extra padding. Thus, it may not be the most suitable blanket for hard surfaces.

 

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable

  • Comes in fun designs

  • Dries quickly 

Cons:

  • No padding

Get the OCOOPA Sand Proof Extra Large Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

11. Best for Kids: Little Unicorn Indoor and Outdoor Blanket

Little Unicorn indoor and outdoor blanket in midnight blue with flower design, folded and unfolded versions.

Photo from Amazon

These cute blankets from Little Unicorn are perfect for the little ones thanks to their fun and playful designs. The durable polyester material makes them ideal for spills and messes — you can simply wipe off any snack crumbles or dirt. Additionally, they are machine washable and remain soft after every wash. Little Unicorn’s blankets fold into their own lightweight pouch with built-in handles, shoulder strap, and zipper pocket, making it extremely portable. Moreover, their sizes are just the perfect fit for toddler travel beds!

 

Pros:

  • Cute patterns

  • Water-resistant 

  • Built-in zipper pocket

Cons:

  • Only lightly padded

Get the Little Unicorn Indoor and Outdoor Blanket on Amazon now.

12. Best Compact: MIU COLOR Extra Large Picnic Blanket

MIU COLOR Extra Large Picnic Blanket in navy plaid.

Photo from Amazon

If you’re looking for compact waterproof outdoor blankets, the MIU COLOR Extra Large Picnic Blanket is a strong contender. Measuring 12.5 x7.5 inches when folded, this blanket is incredibly easy to carry. It comes with built-in handles and Velcro, so you don’t need to pack it into another bag or case when bringing it with you on your next outdoor adventure. It’s easy to unfold, though, it may take some extra effort folding it back up since you need to align the Velcro tapes. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to fold it back into its compact size. 

 

Furthermore, not only is it super portable, but since it’s made from durable polyester and PVC materials, this blanket is extremely durable, making it one of the best beach or camping gear out there.

 

Pros:

  • Super portable

  • Easy to clean

Cons:

  • Comes with a chemical smell when new

Get the MIU COLOR Extra Large Picnic Blanket on Amazon now.

13. Best Lightweight: WELLAX Sand Proof Beach Blanket

Three-toned blue WellaX beach blanket with pouch and stakes.

Photo from Amazon

The WellaX sand-proof beach blanket is massive, measuring 118 x 108 inches when spread out. However, it’s one of the most lightweight beach mats out there. It folds up to only four by eight inches, which can fit in your travel bag easily. It comes with a pouch and handles, so you can carry it around. Additionally, since it’s made from parachute nylon, the blanket is not only sand proof but also water repellent, and heat resistant.

 

While the material may stain easily, you can simply throw it into the washing machine and dryer after use. It features six pockets, which you can fill up with sand to keep it in place. Alternatively, you can use the pockets to store and hide any of your valuables. 

 

Pros:

  • Comes with a zipper pouch

  • Six corner sand pockets

  • Machine washable 

Cons:

  • Gets hot on hot sand

  • Stains easily 

Get the WellaX Sand Proof Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

14. Most Stylish: Sunlit Boho Sand Proof Beach Blanket

Sunlit boho pink and blue beach blanket with white detailing on a sandy beach.

Photo from Amazon

Whether you’re at the beach, at the park, or at an outdoor music festival, the bright and colorful design of Sunlit’s boho-inspired sand-free beach mat will surely make you stand out. Both stylish and functional, it’s made from a soft mesh material that allows you to lie down and relax comfortably while under the best beach umbrellas. The material makes brushing off sand and dirt incredibly simple. Just note that, unlike other waterproof outdoor blankets, it doesn’t come with stakes to keep it grounded, but it does feature four corner sand pockets.

 

Pros:

  • Stylish designs
  • Versatile 

Cons:

  • No secure anchors 

Get the Sunlit Boho Sand Proof Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

15. Best Round: Folkuture Round Beach Blanket

Woman doing yoga at the beach on Folkuture circular beach blanket.

Photo from Amazon

The best beach blankets come in different shapes and sizes, even circular ones. Folkulture’s outdoor blanket is certainly among the best, with its fashionable design and versatility. You can use it as a blanket, beach towel, cover-up, table cloth, yoga mat, or even as home decor. Moreover, at 72 inches in diameter, there’s enough room for two people to sit on. Admittedly, the thin cotton material isn’t the most suited for hard surfaces, but it works well enough for areas with sand and soft grass. 

 

Pros:

  • Unique bohemian-inspired designs

  • Versatile

Cons:

  • Colors may bleed if not washed properly

  • Smells like dye when new

Get the Folkuture Round Beach Blanket on Amazon now.

How to Choose the Best Beach Blankets for Your Needs

Material 

The best beach blankets are made from both water and sand-repellent materials. Common materials used include cotton, polyester, and other plastic or synthetic fabrics. Some outdoor blankets also come with insulating properties, so you don’t need to worry about it overheating under the sun. On top of functionality, you need to consider how comfortable these materials are, as well. 

Portability 

No matter how large your blanket is, it should also be able to roll up into a convenient size for carrying and traveling without taking up too much space. If your blanket comes with a strap, it adds to the convenience, especially if your beach bag is already stuffed full. Simply carry your blanket with another hand!

Durability 

The material of your beach blanket should be durable enough to withstand lots of use. Look for parachute nylon or fleece material which are both tear-proof and durable. A well-made sand-resistant beach blanket should last for several years.

Size and Shape 

The size and shape of the best beach blanket depend on your own preferences. You can find blankets in a variety of sizes, from square blankets that accommodate two people up to extra large rectangular beach blankets that can fit groups of ten people. There are also circular beach mats that are perfect for one. 

Choosing the Best Sand Proof Beach Blanket

A great beach blanket is stylish, lightweight, comfortable, and keeps sand away from skin, clothes, and gear. Furthermore, the best ones are not only meant for a trip to the beach. They can also work well beyond the sandy beaches, including at the park, outdoor concerts, campsites, and even at home in your backyard. Whichever outdoor blanket you choose, don’t forget to have fun soaking up the summer sun!