The 18 Best Beach Bags for Summer 2024, According to Fashion Insiders

A beach bag can do much more than serve as an accessory for your trips to the shore. It can offer a practical carry-all for multiple scenarios, including a roomy work bag, thanks to long shoulder straps (usually a beach bag signature) and various compartments for essentials like your wallet, phone, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats. Their crush-resistant structure and functional design meant to ward off sand and water means they're just as practical for other unforeseen circumstances—like dirt, spillage, and downpours.

The Spring 2024 handbag trends were big on woven, raffia, wicker, and straw fabrics—from Fendi to Loewe—but designer and contemporary options are ready to encapsulate the summer spirit. Grab them for picnics in the park and backyard gatherings, and keep them handy for trips to your local farmers' market.

While contemporary brands like DeMellier, Little Liffner, and Dragon Diffusion have long championed woven designs, the ease of a classic canvas bag from designers like L.L. Bean (famous for their Boat and Tote), Marc Jacobs, and Clare V. continues to persevere.

Ahead, discover the best everyday beach bags and totes that balance function and style with picks from styling duo Danielle and Alix, who spend their summers on the coastlines, and fashion content creator Nana Yaa Ansah, who relies on her extensive beach bag collection—for the beach and otherwise— throughout the warm weather season.

The Best Beach Bags

L.L Bean Boat and Tote

Live out your coastal grandmother fantasies with this classic canvas tote from L.L. Bean. Leave it plain, or get it embroidered with a monogram for a personalized touch. For reference, this large bag can hold a change of clothes, multiple water bottles, a book, and sunscreen with room to spare.

Banana Republic Paper Straw Shopper Tote

Banana Republic's woven straw bag is under $100, yet it rivals its pricier counterparts. This tote has a vegan leather handle for extra durability, so you'll easily carry around your shoreside necessities. With its neutral hue and simple silhouette, you can make this bag your go-to accessory.

Altuzarra Watermill Bag Small

Altuzarra's Watermill bag is worth noting mainly because of its versatility. This tote, crafted from natural palm leaf and hand-stitched leather detailing, is large enough for your beach towel, SPFs, sunglasses, and a summer read but works perfectly as a work or weekend bag for non-beach days.

Celine Classic Panier in Raffia and Calfskin

Are you heading to an upscale dinner after a day of lounging at the beach? Look no further than Celine's Panier bag to add an elevated feel to your look. "I love the contrast between the calfskin leather and the hand-braided palm leaves—I also love how spacious this is. It’s ideal for storing beach essentials," says Ansah.

Marc Jacobs The Jacquard Tote Bag

This bag has infiltrated the fashion crowd for the past few years, and it's back for another trend cycle spin. It's the tote that needs no introduction. Marc Jacobs' iconic tote bag comes in many shapes and fabrications, including this jacquard canvas version that's a top summer pick.

More Beach Bags That We Love

Naghedi St Barths Large Tote

"We love the Naghedi St. Barths Large Tote," says styling duo Danielle and Alix. Aside from the bag's intricate woven construction, the duo tells Marie Claire that they're especially partial toward the style's zip pouch, which is ideal for keeping smaller belongings separate from oversized items.

Clare V Beach Tote W/ Flat Clutch

This sturdy striped tote bag, made from nylon canvas, will be your no-fuss summer accessory hero. Ansah loves canvas for its durability and convenience—it's easy to wash and carry.

Marni Large Logo Raffia Basket

In need of a large carryall? Marni’s spacious raffia bag is 18 inches around, making it a perfect choice for toting around all your bulkier pieces—like a beach towel or a laptop. Plus, it’s crafted with two wide straps that will help evenly distribute the weight of the bag across your shoulders.

Rothy’s The Lightweight Mega Tote

Rothy's lightweight mega tote is ideal for summer, especially in this bright camel and cream color-blocked design. It's light as a feather—crafted from sustainable marine plastic—yet spacious enough for towels, picnic blankets, books, and your water bottle.

Jacquemus Le Panier Soli Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote

Danielle and Alix share that classic designer beach bags offer "the perfect way to elevate a summer outfit." Their favorite? Jacquemus' Le Panier Soli tote, handwoven with refined raffia and trimmed with sleek leather. The fashion mavens love to style this designer piece coordinated with Jacquemus' Le Bob Gadjo bucket hat.

DeMellier Santorini Raffia Basket Bag

Sustainable manufacturing is a core value for British brand DeMellier, and their Santorini style is also ethically and responsibly designed—a huge plus for me," says Ansah. It's woven by artisans in Morocco, which makes this bag special." DeMellier also prioritizes quality craftsmanship, ensuring this bag will last you through the years.

Casablanca Pebble Handle Crochet Tote

Casablanca’s cotton tote flaunts a captivating crotchet design that blends vibrant shades. The artisanal beaded top handles also add a whimsical touch that gives the design character.

AllSaints Ebro Straw Crossbody

For a hands-free experience, sling the All Saints' Ebro crossbody over your shoulder and go about your day without having to lug around a heavy bag. An interior slot will help keep all your cards organized, so feel free to carry one less thing and leave your wallet at home.

Tory Burch Ella Printed Polyester Tote Bag

If your beach bag collection feels dull, try livening things up with this artful Tory Burch printed tote bag. Cut from recycled polyester, this design is covered in an eye-catching green print and Tory's signature logo. The leather handles and feet make this bag a great option for carrying around a work laptop, too.

Little Liffner Sprout Mini Linen & Leather Tote Bag

Scandinavian brand Little Liffner is known for its suede and leather handbags, but its linen tote bags are just as unique. Their Sprout bag is finished with white leather trim for a polished appeal, making it suitable for upscale occasions. It also boasts the brand's signature hardware, which enhances its high-end appearance.

A.L.C Gia Raffia Bag

A.L.C's Gia bag has a flexible shape with a slouchy effect— a popular silhouette on the Spring 2024 runways. Since this piece falls more towards the relaxed side of the spectrum, consider carrying it for casual outings—like a laid-back lunch with friends or a trip to your local farmer's market.

Dragon Diffusion Mini Inside-Out Tote

We've got you covered if you're searching for a neutral beach bag that will pair well with practically any outfit. Dragon Diffusion's woven tote is offered in a flattering shade of pearl that will effortlessly complement your summer wardrobe. Style it with a white button-down and gauzy linen pants for a breezy outfit.

Dagne Dover Vida Cotton Tote Bag

This bag fits everything at 18.5 inches long, 6.25 inches wide, and 14 inches high. Dagne Dover's cotton tote can even serve as a laptop bag if you plan to work remotely this summer. There are galore pockets—one interior zip, three interior slips, one bottle holder, four exterior slips, and one phone pouch.

Meet the Fashion Experts

Danielle and Alix

Celebrity styling duo Danielle and Alix specialize in styling red carpet and special events, street style looks, editorial shoots, and brand campaigns. They're based in Los Angeles and New York.

Nana Yaa Ansah

Nana Yaa Ansah is a first-generation Ghanaian-American fashion and lifestyle content creator who helps her followers to elevate their personal style.

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