Looking for the best JBL beach speakers? If you plan on jamming out on the beach, you will likely need a JBL speaker to play music. JBL speakers are widely admired for their power-packed audio performance, durability, and long-lasting battery. On top of that, most JBL speakers are splash-proof and ultra-portable, perfect for wet environments.
Even compact JBL speakers pack enough power to shake a large room. Still, JBL’s diverse lineup makes it difficult for novices to choose the best speaker for the beach. I have rounded a few best JBL speakers for the beach for you to consider.
1. JBL Boombox 2 – Portable Bluetooth Speaker
While I had to save money each week for a month to get this premium Bluetooth speaker, it was totally worth it. The moment I received the speaker, I planned a beach party with my friends the next day.
Although I have used other speakers before for pool parties, this powerhouse delivers unparalleled audio performance. Simply turn it up and get the party going.
Sound – Like me, if you prioritize volume and bass, this Bluetooth speaker is for you. The party I organized for my friends became more memorable with its top-notch sound, monstrous bass, and powerful performance.
Moreover, a long battery life of 24 hours keeps the party going all day and all night. Interestingly enough, a user can pair it with other JBL PartyBoost-compatible speakers to get a more powerful sound.
Waterproof – I suggest you invest in a waterproof speaker if you host too many pool or beach parties. IPX7’s waterproof design will survive a bash on the beach or a little rain.
Design – The manufacturer has packed a powerful sound in a nostalgic package. I like the carrying handle that makes it easy to transport.
Pros
- Supports wireless streaming
- In-built power bank
- Longer playtime
- Louder volume and bass
- Partyboost compatibility
Cons
- Not travel-friendly
2. JBL FLIP 5 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
I own multiple JBL speakers and JBL Flip 5 is one of them. While I have yet to take it to a beach party, I have hosted many pool parties with this and it never disappoints.
I am pretty sure that it will do a good job when employed as a sound system for an outdoor party. Users are raving about how it packs a powerful sound in a compact body.
Sound – I was skeptical about the sound quality of this JBL speaker. However, it has a surprisingly loud audio output considering its size and price. It is an upgraded version of the JBL Flip 4 with louder volume and deep bass.
Further, the Partyboost function allows multiple compatible JBL speakers to connect and create a wider soundstage.
Portable Design – Unlike Boombox 2, it is travel-friendly, ultra-portable, and lightweight. It can fit into a backpack to allow you to party anywhere. Sturdy rubber housing and fabric material enable it to survive easily outdoors.
Waterproof – Thanks to its IPX7 waterproof design, I have used this speaker at many poolside, beach, and outdoor parties. One time, It was left in the open for a few minutes when it was drizzling. Thankfully, it survived and continued to rock.
Pros
- Comes in 11 unique colors
- Allows wireless connection with Bluetooth-enabled devices
- Partyboost function
- 12 hours of battery run time
Cons
- Old Bluetooth 4.2 technology
3. JBL Flip 6 – Portable Bluetooth Speaker
I got to know about this waterproof, big-sounding speaker when I attended a beach party hosted by my dear friend.
I was impressed by how this lightweight, compact Bluetooth speaker set the mood for the party in the great outdoors.
It left a mark on me and I recommended it to another friend who was looking for a powerful portable speaker.
Sound – When I read a review that said ‘it is loud enough to play on a basketball field’. I thought it was a paid review and there is no way it could be this good.
To my surprise, it delivers a bold sound and deep bass thanks to a racetrack-shaped driver and tweeter and two passive bass radiators.
If you are hosting a party for a larger crowd, Partyboost technology comes in handy. It allows the user to connect multiple compatible speakers to pump up the sound.
Waterproof – Take it to the beach without worrying about any damage due to splashes. IP67 rating means it is waterproof and dustproof, hence, safer to use in wet environments.
Eco-Friendly Design – It has a more modern and bold design and comes packed in durable rubber housing. My friend told me it came in an eco-friendly, recyclable paper-based box and plastic hang tag.
Pros
- Bluetooth technology 5.1
- Available in 11 colors
- Wider soundstage with woofer and tweeter
- 12 hours of battery runtime
- Partyboost function to link up other speakers
Cons
- It takes quite some time to recharge
4. JBL Xtreme 3 – Portable Bluetooth Speaker
While I was researching JBL speakers I had to make a tough choice between JBL Boombox 2 and JBL Xtreme 3.
Although I went with JBL Boombox 2, it does not mean that this speaker lacks superior audio quality.
It is equally good and pricey as the JBL Boombox 2. It delivers a powerful performance wherever you go. On top of that, a little drizzle or splash would not hurt the speaker at all.
Sound – I find this speaker to be an interesting middle ground between JBL’s high-end speakers and portable models.
Surprisingly, it packs similar power and audio quality as the brand’s expensive speaker. It is a little pricier, however, it compensates for it with top-notch sound performance.
It features two bass radiators and four drivers to produce immersive, well-defined sound. Moreover, it delivers crystal-clear music performance for large rooms.
Waterproof – The IP67 design is waterproof and dustproof to deliver superior music performance in the great outdoors.
Take it anywhere, to the beach or pool to party all day.
Wireless Streaming – It features updated Bluetooth technology to let you connect to Bluetooth-enabled devices effortlessly.
Like aforesaid speakers, it also has a Partyboost function. This function allows you to connect with multiple Partyboost-compatible speakers to make a big splash.
Pros
- Ultra-portable design with carrying strap
- In-built bottle opener
- Superior audio quality
- 15 hours of battery time
- Waterproof and dustproof
Cons
- Not enough bass
5. JBL Pulse 4 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
My sister who is into aesthetically pleasing speakers invested in this beauty, and trust me, it is as appealing as it looks.
She believes this design will go well with party decor and poolside parties and I agree its 360° light show cranks up the fun.
Regardless of when you are hosting the party, it is ready to deliver, be it day or night. Besides the looks, it produces the loudest sound to make the audience go crazy.
Sound – I found it hard to believe at first that this tiny speaker could produce enough sound to get the party going.
While I had doubts about the sound quality, they were all cleared when my sister played music. The 360° speaker delivers a clear sound with plenty of details in all directions.
For a more pumping sound, it can be paired with two Partyboost-compatible speakers. Pairing it with other speakers will take things to a whole new level.
Light Show – Believe me it’s high-res, 360° light show is to die for. Your beach parties will definitely be more fun with dazzling LED lights.
App Control – Another feature that makes it stand out the most is the App control. There is no need to get up and change the settings and music through buttons. Simply use the JBL Connect app to play your favorite music or change the light show theme.
Pros
- Bluetooth technology with a 40ft wireless range
- Party for 12 hours on a single charge
- IPX7 waterproof design
- Beautiful 360° light show
Cons
- Low bass
6. JBL Partybox 310 – Portable Party Speaker
Unlike the aforementioned speaker, it is large and not very travel-friendly. This party speaker is specifically designed to deliver a richer, booming sound for large parties.
I have tested this party speaker and found it to be a perfect match for party animals and karaoke lovers. Dazzling LED lights and throbbing sound makes the crowd go crazy.
Sound – Even before testing the speaker, I was convinced that this speaker was capable of producing a booming sound.
I believe it may have something to do with its huge build. When I tested the speaker, it exceeded my expectations.
It produces 240 watts of sound which can be heard across the beach. Boomy sound profile and deep bass crank up the fun.
Even at max volume, the sound remains clear and well-defined. It has the highest playtime of all the aforementioned speakers, nearly 18 hours.
Light Show – To add to the fun, it has a dynamic light show with cool strobing effects. LED lights change colors in response to the audio beats being played. A user can customize RGB light settings that match the mood of the party.
Design – While it is heavy, it comes with a telescopic handle and in-built wheels for easy transportation.
It weighs around 40 pounds and the smooth-glide wheels make it easy to transport from home to the beach.
IPX4 splash-proof protection keeps the party going even if it is drizzling. This party speaker is capable of withstanding splashes and spills.
Pros
- Powerful audio performance with a dynamic light show
- IPX4 splashproof protection
- Control the functions with the Partybox app
- Customizable settings
Cons
- Bulky
How to Buy the Right JBL Speakers For Beach?
Since there are dozens of JBL speakers available in the market, it is hard to know which would be the right fit for the beach. Here’s what you should consider when buying a JBL speaker
Purpose
The brand boasts many speakers that are specifically designed for beaches, pools, and wet environments.
There are plenty of designs that make it convenient for the user to organize beach and poolside parties. Some JBL beach speakers are ultra-portable while others are bulky and huge.
Sound Quality
Most buyers prefer speakers with a booming sound that is heard across the beach. A dull sound with low bass would not mesmerize the crowd to get up and dance.
Make sure the speaker is equipped with powerful drivers and bass radiators for a blasting sound.
Choose a speaker that is admired for its loud sound and rich bass to set the mood for outdoor parties.
Waterproof
Beachgoers should buy a waterproof JBL speaker. With that said, not all speakers are fully waterproof, however, some are more sturdy than others.
Check IP ratings to determine their resistance to water and dust. Do not settle for anything less than IPX4 and IPX7 as these speakers can withstand different degrees of submersion.
Design
Whether you want to go for an ultra-portable design or a bulky one, it depends on your personal preferences and requirements.
While JBL portable speakers offer impressive sound quality, bulky party speakers have a more powerful sound performance.
Conclusion
Hopefully, it will be easier for you to decide which JBL speaker would be perfect for you to take to the beach. No matter what speaker you choose, one thing is for sure, you will get an impressive sound performance.
Cian has 7 years of experience in the musical instruments industry. His press and research articles are published in many well-known journals. Cian is part of our product testing team so he knows the criteria for the best products. Here at sound keen cian covers how to set up instruments and selection criteria for new products.