The 24 most stylish beach bags to buy, according to a fashion editor

Everything you need to know

Best beach bags
(Image credit: @keziacook, @ritamontezuma, @thandimaq)

There's nothing like shopping for a new beach bags to signal that holiday season is finally here. That said, while they're undoubtedly the most practical thing you'll pack, a beach bag can also be a great everyday bag for running errands and fitting all your essentials in, so, it's worth investing even if you're not heading away just yet.

Beach bags, whether made of raffia, basket or fabric, are a big summer trend for Spring/Summer 2024 as well, and needless to say, go hand in hand with a pretty summer dress and your favourite pair of sandals as a warm weather essential. So, get shopping for one and you'll be well equipped to swan off to the beach in style.

Bettina Looney carrying Loewe striped raffia basket bag

(Image credit: @bettinalooney)

If you aren't sure which style to invest in, then a classic, timeless option is the basket bag. It's no surprise it's been a bestseller with brands such as Loewe and Jacquemus for the past few seasons and we they're still huge for 2024. When it comes to Spring/Summer 2024, the bigger the better. This year, it's all about having fun with proportions which is great news if you're prone to carrying everything but the kitchen sink in your handbag.

There are more fashion-forward beach bags in the line-up too, and I'm especially loving logo totes (see Prada or Chloe), printed fabric bags, and brightly coloured crocheted arm candy.

And, while designer styles always draw the eye, so do the high street ones this season. The usual suspects - think Zara, Mango and Arket - are all offering fun, trendy beach bags that you'll keep for years without breaking the bank.

How to style a beach bag: 

In terms of styling poolside, use your bag to accessorise a chic swimsuit and sarong combo, and in the evening, pair your bag alongside a floaty floral dress. This way, you're covered from beach to bar.

If you're on dry land, then your beach bag will be the perfect companion to a linen suit or a t-shirt and denim jorts. For more inspiration to round off your summer look, do take the time to scroll through my other edits, including the best sunglasses, summer sandals and swimwear.

Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best beach bags available to buy right now. I've handpicked each one from brands that I love, and taken everything into account from the size to the style and the material.

The best raffia beach bags

Thandi Maq wearing a denim dress and carrying a beach bag

(Image credit: @thandimaq)

The best canvas beach bags

@ritamontezuma carrying a canvas beach bag

(Image credit: @ritamontezuma)

The best leather beach bags

@theindiaedit wearing pink dress with leather woven beach bag

(Image credit: @theindiaedit)

The best crochet beach bags

@keziacook carrying a crochet beach bag

(Image credit: @keziacook)
Penny Goldstone

Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.

She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.

With contributions from