Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site.
Warm drinks are a thing of the past.
After spending a handful of months cooped up inside and away from the cold, few things compare to that long-anticipated first day at the beach. Maybe you're so excited, you're ready to break down the door with your swimsuit, hop in your car, and head to the nearest oceanfront. Before you go, you'll likely want to make sure you have all your regular beach staples—including a beach cooler.
Nothing can ruin a hot day in the sun quite like a warm beverage, right? Right. Naturally, when you're aiming to keep your waters, seltzers, beers, and, food, on the cool and refreshing side, you'll want one of the best beach coolers you can get. Of course, what you define as the best beach cooler will depend on your specific needs. Are you looking for a large one with wheels to pull as you make your way across the seemingly endless stretch of sand towards the perfect spot? Maybe you're looking for a beach cooler bag or backpack to throw over your shoulder. Of course, you can't forget the small beach coolers for when you're taking a solo day al fresco. But, when all is said and done, you may just be looking for a cooler with the best ice retention—because who knows how long you'll be outside (just don't forget to bring your sunscreen!).
No matter what type of cooler you're looking for to be your beach companion for the season, we found the best beach coolers for the occasion. Check them all out below.
Read More: Best Coolers for Camping
There's no doubt that you're well-aware of the insulating power of a Yeti cooler—whether it's one of the iconic hard-sided coolers or a soft option, like this tote. This tough cooler has an extra-wide magnetic opening for easy access and has a capacity perfect for bigger groups, holding up to 26 cans with ice.
Anyone who's spent time searching for the perfect spot on the beach knows the pain of lugging a heavy cooler across a soft stretch of sand. No more, thanks to Igloo's beach cooler, which has oversized wheels that'll work with sand and other tricky surfaces. Plus, if you're the type who likes to entertain as well, it comes with a butler tray.
If you've built up a collection of Hydro Flask water bottles, why not round it out with a cooler from the brand, as well? This large—but lightweight—backpack cooler will fit up to 36 cans (without ice), which means you can stay fully stocked for your beach day. It also has a watertight zipper, so you won't be worrying about any leaks should things move around when you're en route.
Read More: Best Water Bottles for Men
Keep your hands free and ready for other things, like beach towels or other accessories, with this top-rated (and unbelievably affordable) cooler backpack. It holds up to 30 cans and features a waterproof liner. And, thanks to the insulation, your food and drinks will stay cold for up to 16 hours.
Those of you who plan to take some solo days to the beach, pool, or park may want to have a smaller cooler. In which case, you can't go wrong with this option from the popular workwear brand Carhartt. It's especially great as a lunch bag, with the capacity to hold a standard six-pack.
RTIC's 20 Qt hard cooler is the perfect size for a small gathering—and it comes with a carrying handle that'll make it easy to transport to and from your car. The 3-inch foam-insulated walls will allow everything inside to stay cold for up to 10 days, and the hard exterior will also make it double as an extra seat.
Wanna throw it back this season? Look no further than Igloo's Playmate 50th Anniversary cooler, which is sure to bring up nostalgic feelings. It's just the right size for a small meal, and the tent top makes it easy to carry along with your other things.
If you can keep from packing your entire home for a day at the beach, why wouldn't you? This Smart cooler,w which features 20-watt Bluetooth speakers that'll last for 8 hours. In other words, you can leave that portable or waterproof speaker at home, so you have one less thing to worry about. The cooler itself will hold 12 cans or bottles with ice, too.
When it comes to outdoor coolers, it doesn't get more classic than this wheeled cooler from Coleman. Wheel this over to that prime spot and set up for the day, using the cup holders on the top to keep your cans or bottles from spilling.
If you're looking for something that isn't too big or too small, consider this 16 qt option from Stanley, which will hold up to 21 cans. Between the easy-to-use top handle and the bungee system on the lid, this option is essential for any outdoor occasion.
Read More: Best Camping Essentials
Add a pop of color to your beach day, camp haul, or other outdoor adventures with this roller cooler from RovR. It'll retain ice for up to 10 days, holds 60 cans and 10 lbs of ice, and comes with deep freeze and wagon bins. Suffice to say, this cooler has it all.