IP67 or nothing for sand and saltwater.

Just look for IP67 rated speakers — that’s the standard that means they can handle both submersion and dust, including sand. IPX7 is water-only, and sand will wreck the seals over time if it gets into charging ports or grilles.

Saltwater is the real killer. Even with an IP67 speaker, you need to rinse it with fresh water after every beach trip. Stuff a JBL Flip 6 or Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 in a bag, hose it off later, and it’ll be fine. Avoid speakers with silicone flaps that trap grit — fabric-covered bodies are easier to clean. And don’t expect great speakerphone performance in wind; that’s a separate problem.

Rinse it with fresh water after every beach trip, and it’ll outlast your beach towel.