11 Beach Bags That Aren’t Your Usual Cotton Tote

For when your cotton tote just isn’t cutting it anymore

Collage by Fashionably Late. Original image via Vogue. Product images via Garmentory, Etsy, and Anthropologie.

Growing up close to the beach, you quickly learn the value of a good beach bag: it should be able to hold all your essentials, be easy to clean out, and sturdy enough to survive sun, salt water, and sand. If you don’t love the look of a thin cotton tote tossed in the sand, and think your beach bag could use a rebrand, here are 11 recommendations that might help upgrade beach look this summer:

La Sirena Loteria Market Bag ($15.07)

Let’s start with a fun one! This is one of the iconic Mexican mesh bags inspired by the card game La Lotería, which has been played in Mexico for hundreds of years. There are lots of versions out there, but I think the colors on this one make it extra special.

Moroccan Straw Bag ($112.87 $29.35)

Moroccan straw bags are often referred to as French market bags, but they’re actually a traditional Moroccan design. They’re made of locally sourced materials like palm leaves, rattan, and straw, and are handwoven by local Moroccan artisans using techniques passed down through generations. I bought one six years ago and have used it almost every summer since.

POOLSIDE Comporta Straw Tote ($245)

I’m OBSESSED with this bag. The black rattan and beaded straps make it look so, so chic. It comes with a small zippered pouch to keep your tiny essentials from slipping through the cracks.

Handwoven Bag in Recycled Plastic ($46.88)

I love the color combination on this one. It’s a handwoven bag from Mexico made using recycled plastic. Like Moroccan straw bags, it’s part of a cultural tradition in Mexico that has been passed down through generations.

Black Handwoven Bag in Recycled Plastic ($38.13)

Same as the one above, but with a different woven pattern! This one’s a bit smaller and more discreet.

Cordera Galicia Embroidered Bag ($210)

Cordera is a brand I absolutely adore. This mesh bag features an embroidered map of Galicia, the region in northwest Spain where the brand is based. It’s a subtle, personal touch that makes the bag feel quite special.

Sisal Woven Tote Bag ($81.25 $56.87)

I have to include a vintage sisal bag in this post. I bought one in a vintage shop in Berlin years ago, and have used it so much that I’ve had to repair it twice. These bags originated in Kenya and were very trendy in the ‘70s. Overall, it’s a great bag that works both on and off the beach.

Vintage Plastic Basket ($18.75)

This is a nostalgic pick for me. I had one just like it when I was a child where I kept all my Barbies. It’s a great option if you have kids and need something to carry wet, sand-covered beach toys. Since it’s vintage, no new plastic was produced for this bag. (Plus, you’re keeping it out of the landfill.)

Handmade Striped Canvas Bag ($40.50)

Okay, I know this is technically a cotton tote, but it’s made of sturdy canvas. I love the bold red stripes which give it such a retro nautical vibe. How chic would this look with a red bikini?

HEREU Calella Raffia Tote ($513 $570)

Hereu is another one of my favorite brands. I have been eyeing this bag for a while now. It’s chic, understated, and versatile. I would use this as a vacation bag in a heart beat.

Rachel Comey Sines Bag ($295 $159)

Lastly, I think this Rachel Comey bag deserves a mention. It is on the smaller side, so it would be good to keep book and your phone inside for days when you’re going straight from the hotel room to the pool.

Be sure to send me picture if you get anything! And if you’re in the mood for more beach inspiration, I wrote a post on ‘90s inspired beach looks last year. You can read it right here:

---

📌 Fashionably Late may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of the links above. Thank you for trusting me with your shopping!