Abstract: A convertible beach mat is provided that is lightweight, easy to fold up for transport, and bacteria-resistant. An inflatable head is connected to a body portion, and straps are associated with the corners of the head and body portions to releasably hold a towel covering the body portion alone, or both the body and head portions. The mat also is formed in combination with a carrying bag, one of the walls of the carrying bag being formed by a portion of the mat adjacent one corner of the mat. A pocket outside of the volume of the bag that contains the mat is formed with one wall of the mat for transporting accessory items.