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Southern Living / Marcus Millan
Anyone who regularly hits the beach for rest and relaxation can tell you you won’t find any rest or relaxation if you don’t have the right gear. And topping the list of must-haves is the right beach chair. The best beach chairs are a combination of comfortable support, portability, and “nice to have” extras.
To find the best beach chairs, we evaluated dozens of options on material, ergonomics, ease of use, features, and more.
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Comes with a strap for easy transport
Comes with a cooler and cup holder
Five different seating positions
Very low to the ground
When it’s time for a little fun in the sun (and sand), a comfy chair that’s easy to carry and has storage for beach day necessities is good. Finding all of the above at a reasonable price point is great. Ultimately, we found that this Tommy Bahama chair checks all those boxes and then some.
The body of this chair is made from a combination of materials, including aluminum, steel, and polyester, while sleek wooden armrests add a rich touch. Taken altogether, this chair is sturdy yet lightweight. Pair all of the above with functional design elements like a lay-flat towel bar, a storage pouch for dry items like sunscreen and phones, an insulated cooler pouch, and a detachable headrest, and you’re almost guaranteed a better day at the beach.
This chair adjusts to five different seating positions, including completely flat for naps or laying out. The cup holder accommodates a standard 12-ounce can, and when it’s time to pack up and go home, the padded backpack straps make your trip back to the parking lot easier. It also comes in a blue and green stripe version, as well as a patriotic red, white, and blue. Just keep in mind that this chair sits just 8.6 inches from the ground, which may make getting out of it difficult for some.
Size: 32 x 25 x 23 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: Aluminum, steel, polyester, wood | Extras: Towel bar, storage pouch, cooler, cup holder, adjustable headrest
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Has a variety of extra features, like a towel bar
Extra padding on the side
Has a higher seat
It’s a bit difficult to open and close
If a backpack beach chair at a reasonable price is high on your list of summer must-haves, Homevative’s Folding Backpack Beach Chair is certainly short-list worthy.
This chair is chock full of beach vacation favorites like a rear towel bar, a rear insulated cooler and storage pouches, and a side cup and cell phone holder. The lace-up seat and extra side padding will keep you comfy while you’re soaking up the sun.
This chair is easily adjustable to any of five positions, including a lay-flat position for that beach day nap. And as a bonus within a bonus, the towel bar doubles as head support when you’re reclined all the way back.
When the sun goes down and it’s time to head home, this beach chair is easy to carry, courtesy of its lightweight design (it weighs just 7 pounds) and the padded backpack straps. Plus, it sits slighter higher than the Tommy Bahama chair, with a 10-inch seat height. Just note that it can be a little stiff to open and close, but this is a small concession to make given the price and numerous features.
Size: 33 x 25 x 17 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Capacity: 240 pounds | Materials: Aluminum, polyester | Extras: Cooler pouch, storage pouch, cup/cell phone holder, towel bar, headrest
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Has built-in lumbar support
Doesn’t sink into the sand
Lacks storage pouches
While good posture and proper spinal alignment aren’t top of mind for most people on beach day, you’ll probably find that back support matters as you roll into hour four.
With its sleek, ergonomic design and lumbar support, the Low G Recliner eliminates tension so you can focus on your tan. Not only does this chair have a generous 20-inch wide seat, but it’s also specially designed to align your hips and eliminate leg pinches. This chair features a compact design and sits just 4 inches from the ground. And the extra-wide feet elegantly handle uneven surfaces (like sand) and resist sinking.
While this chair skips storage pouches and insulated coolers, it does feature durable padded armrests with easy-to-clean, removable covers and a built-in cup holder. In this chair, beachgoers will find a black powder-coated steel frame that’s durable and sleek paired with heavy-duty, wear-resistant polyester. And when the day is done, this chair folds up compactly for an easy return to its carry bag with backpack-style carry straps so your hands are free to tote other items.
Size: 24 x 20 x 23.5 inches | Weight: 8.5 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds | Materials: Polyester, steel | Extras: Built-in cup holder, carry bag
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Extra-wide armrests
Offers more legroom than other options
Lacks a headrest
Sitting 17 inches off the ground and featuring a higher backrest, this Rio Beach chair is perfect for those looking for a little more legroom. Made with a rust-proof, heavy-duty aluminum frame, and durable polyester, this beach chair weighs only eight pounds, but it can accommodate up to 250 pounds.
This chair reclines to four different positions and uses Safe-Adjust technology to minimize finger pinches while you’re making needed adjustments. It’s equipped with extra-wide armrests for plenty of elbow room, a built-in cup holder, a cell phone slot, and a bottle opener. Beachgoers will also find an insulated storage pouch with a mesh pocket on the armrest for stashing cell phones and other necessities when it’s time to hit the water.
This chair features a compact folding design that doesn’t eat up a lot of trunk space and adjustable padded shoulder straps that help you carry the load. Keep in mind, though, that this chair doesn’t have a headrest.
Size: 39.5 x 28 x 27.8 inches | Weight: 8 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: Aluminum, polyester | Extras: Molded cellphone holder, bottle opener, molded drink holder, insulated pouch
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Still has back support despite being low to the ground
Comes with a travel pouch with shoulder strap for easy carrying
Doesn’t recline
Lacks additional storage compartments
For those who prefer to sit closer to the sand, KingCamp offers an excellent low-sling option. While this chair has a low seat that sits just 8.6 inches off the ground, rest assured it’s not short on anything. It features a high back and a generously sized 23-inch wide seat for maximum comfort, and while it weighs just 6.6 pounds, it can accommodate up to 300 pounds.
This chair has a rust-resistant steel tube construction, durable Oxford fabric, and wide, sturdy feet that handle sand well. You’ll also find a comfy, breathable mesh with plenty of back support, as well as soft foam armrests and a cup holder.
This chair folds down compactly for easy storage and transport, and you’ll certainly appreciate the shoulder strap on the walk back to the car. Overall, this chair is a nice option for beach day, but without storage pouches, you’ll have to bring a beach bag.
Size: 25.2 x 23.2 x 24.8 inches | Weight: 6.6 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds | Materials: Oxford fabric, steel | Extras: Cup holder, carry bag
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Weighs just over 3 pounds
Has ventilated mesh panels for increased airflow
Doesn’t have a lot of extra features
Doesn’t recline
Walking in sand isn’t easy. Walking in sand with an extra 10 pounds is even harder. All of this to say, weight matters when you’re looking for beach chairs. At just over 3 pounds, this chair by Helinox is a great lightweight option.
Made from a high-tech aluminum alloy, this chair is both durable and lightweight—and can accommodate up to 320 pounds. It sits low to the ground and features a taller seat that cradles you as you sit back, while its mesh design boosts breathability and the splayed legs prevent sinking—all of which add up to exceptional comfort. And at the end of the day, it’s easy to pack up and carry.
While this chair checks the boxes for comfort and ease of use, it may not be budget-friendly for most, and in the absence of beach day extras like storage pouches and cup holders, it might be a hard sell for some.
Size: 31 x 23 x 28.5 inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Capacity: 320 pounds | Materials: Polyester mesh, aluminum | Extras: Side pockets
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Has a retractable canopy
Versatile; can be used as a camping chair or yard chair
Heavy compared to other chairs
Vitamin D by way of the sun is good for you, but a day at the beach can amount to too much of a good thing. To get your share of sun rays when you want them and a bit of shade when you need them, GCI’s Outdoor Pod Rocker is a nice option. For sun protection, the Pod Rocker has a generously sized retractable canopy (it can rotate front to back and can collapse flat), complete with UPF 50 shade.
Made from sturdy powder-coated steel, this full-size collapsible rocker is a little heavy at just over 13 pounds, but it’s robust enough to accommodate up to 250 pounds.
Other nice-to-haves include a rocking sling-style seat, breathable mesh panels to keep you cool, a side phone pocket, and a cup holder. And when beach day is over, this chair collapses easily and folds up compactly for storage, and the storage bag has a large opening that offers an easy assist.
Size: 34.7 x 30 x 28.2 inches (not including shade) | Weight: 13.2 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: Alloy steel, fabric not specified | Extras: Retractable canopy, combo beverage/phone pocket, carry bag
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Comes with both a detachable footrest and umbrella
Has lots of storage and extra features
Reclining feature is finicky
Sport-Brella’s Recliner Chair is jam-packed with a lot of beach day needfuls, including a footrest, and while you might think that means premium pricing, that’s not the case here—this beach chair comes with a very reasonable price tag.
Standout comfort features include three reclining options (including a lay-flat option), a UPF 50+ umbrella with a three-way swivel for easy adjustments throughout the day, and a detachable footrest. For convenience, it includes an insulated pocket, a cup holder, and a zippered storage pocket with a built-in bottle opener.
This chair features a durable steel construction, so while it’s not the lightest on our list, it can hold up to 250 pounds, and we expect it to be sturdy and good for at least a couple of years. A durable mesh panel for breathability and air circulation, foam padding in the armrests, and a carry bag for easy transport round out a nice list of features.
Size: 54 x 34 x 34 inches | Weight: 12.1 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: Steel, polyester/polypropylene/nylon | Extras: Detachable footrest, UPF 50+ umbrella, cup holder, storage pouches
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You don’t need a pump to inflate it
Provides plenty of support
Comes with two large pockets
Hard to get in and out of
If you’re looking for something to make your next trip to the beach a little more fun, Wekapo’s Inflatable Lounger is a great choice. Designed with fun in the sun in mind, this air sofa provides seating (and a bed when naptime calls) without the structure, weight, or hard lines. Even better, you don’t need any bulky equipment to get it up and running. Just whisk the lounger through the air to inflate it. Parents, if you ever wished the kids would help with the setup, this is your answer.
Made with an outer layer of Ripstop polyester, this lounger weighs less than 3 pounds, but it can hold up to 550–650 pounds. This inflatable lounger has a pillow-shaped headrest that gives your upper back and neck plenty of comfortable support. Plus, it’s outfitted with all the things you’d find with a standard beach chair, including two large pockets for your favorite beach reads and an elastic bottle holder. This air couch can stay inflated for up to six hours, and when the day is done, the carry bag helps with storage and transport.
Size: 82 x 27 x 35 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Capacity: 550–650 pounds | Materials: Polyester | Extras: Carry bag, bottle opener, stake, storage pockets, bottle holder
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Accommodates toddlers and older kids
Removable snack tray
Comes with locks for additional safety
You can’t adjust the sun canopy
When the little ones are in tow on the family beach vacation, parents can rest easy with Baby Delight’s Go With Me Chair. This kids’ beach chair features a five-point removable harness, a removable snack tray and sun canopy with UPF 50+ sun protection, and a flared leg design with locks for added safety.
Parents will be happy to know that this adjustable kids’ beach chair grows with them, accommodating toddlers through big kids up to 75 pounds. This chair is made with indoor/outdoor polyester, so it resists stains, fading, and mold, and a carry bag helps parents get the chair from point A to point B with ease. Parents should know that while the canopy can be removed, it’s not adjustable, which limits its functionality.
Size: 24.5 x 23 x 22.8 inches | Weight: 4.9 pounds | Capacity: 75 pounds | Materials: Metal not specified, polyester | Extras: Removable harness, removable snack tray, removable sun canopy
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Comes with four different seating positions
Face cavity can be opened or closed
Lacks storage compartments
While it’s nice to enjoy a little fun in the sun, a day at the beach is also the perfect opportunity to take a nap or read a book. With the Ostrich Chaise Lounge, you can lie on your back or your stomach comfortably thanks to the face cavity, which can be opened or closed.
Just open it when you’re on your stomach so you can keep reading that page-turner, then close it when you’re ready to flip over to your back. It also comes with arm holes so your arms don’t have to be at an awkward angle while you’re your stomach.
This chair has an easy setup and four reclining positions, plus comes in a range of fun colors. When it’s time to leave, simply fold the chair up and use the strap to carry it back to your car. Even though this chair lacks storage compartments, it’s still a must-have for any beach day, especially if you’re a reader.
Size: 22 x 72 x 12 inches | Weight: 9.8 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: Polyester, alloy steel | Extras: Carry strap, face hole, arm holes
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Five reclining positions
Removable pillow and side pocket
Easy to carry
Heaviest option on our list
Take your beach day experience to the next level with the KingCamp Folding Chaise Lounge. Thanks to the ergonomic design and double bungee system, you’ll stay comfortable for hours on end. Whether you choose to recline, lay flat, or sit up in the chair, the five-position locking system keeps the chair in the preferred position. Plus, the removable pillow offers the right amount of support to your neck and head, eliminating any tension.
Instead of storing your belongings in a separate bag, you can keep them in the removable side pocket, and access them whenever you need to. For beach-goers who like to frequently move around, this lounge chair comes with a securing strap for easy transport, as well as a carry strap and shoulder strap.
Size: 23.2 x 13.5 x 74.8 inches | Weight: 14 pounds | Capacity: 264 pounds | Materials: 600 D Oxford fabric, alloy steel | Extras: 5-position locking system, removable pillow, removable side pocket, securing strap
The Bottom Line
Our pick for the best beach chair is the Tommy Bahama Classic Lay Flat Backpack Beach Chair. This chair is lightweight, sturdy, and finished with elegant touches like wooden armrests. Functional design elements like storage pouches, a detachable headrest, and backpack straps make this one a win on beach day. The Homevative Folding Backpack Beach Chair is a close second, with many of the same features of the Tommy Bahama but at a slightly lower price point.
Tips for Choosing the Right Beach Chair
Materials
Beach chairs are available in a wide variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, wood, and plastic frames, often with polyester fabric. When shopping for beach chairs and ultimately choosing one type of material over another, keep in mind that the materials have implications for their use and performance.
While wooden beach chairs are durable, they are not as durable as ones made with aluminum or steel. Plus, wooden beach chairs also require more maintenance and care. Similar to how rust can ruin a steel beach chair, moisture, sand, and the sun can ruin your wooden beach chair. Therefore, after each use, you will have to remove sand and wipe off moisture. Furthermore, it’s also recommended that you apply wood oil to the chair every so often to preserve its natural color.
When it comes to aluminum and steel beach chairs, they are much more durable than wood. Plus, they require less maintenance and care than wooden beach chairs. Once you’re done using an aluminum or steel beach chair, all you have to do is wipe off any excess water. While these chairs are durable, they are still susceptible to rust and corrosion. To further protect steel and aluminum beach chairs, it’s also recommended to apply a special coating to them.
Beach chairs typically come with a polyester seat. This type of material is popular among beach chairs because it’s durable, lightweight, and retains its natural color for a long time. Polyester is also moisture-resistant, which helps to keep the beach chair dry. Look for polyester that comes with UV protection to extend the lifespan of your chair.
Portability
The right beach chair will be easy to carry and store, especially if you have to walk a long way to and from your car or have limited storage space.
Some beach chairs come with a shoulder strap, while others have backpack-style straps. It’s better to purchase ones with backpack straps because they make carrying your beach supplies much easier.
It’s also good to find a beach chair with a foldable design. Not only do they take up less space, but these types of chairs are easy to set up and break down. Plus, once the summer season is over, you can easily store them in your garage for safekeeping.
We also recommend selecting beach chairs that come with a storage bag. Rather than carrying your beach chair by hand, the storage bag helps you to easily transport the chair.
Support
Support is key when you’re sitting at the beach for hours on end. So when shopping for your next beach chair, choose one that offers plenty of back support (bonus points for chairs with lumbar support, such as the Strongback Low G Recliner Beach Chair). It’s probably not a bad idea to look for a chair with multiple reclining positions and a lay-flat option for beach day naps.
You could also consider purchasing a chair with a headrest, footrest, or a face hole. A headrest will offer the proper support to your neck and head, which is good if you plan on sitting for long hours at the beach. With a footrest, you can prop your feet up, and also reduce the strain on your lower body.
Another supportive feature for beach chairs to have is a face hole. For those who like to lie on their stomachs, a face hole is an essential feature because it reduces strain on your neck.
Extra Features
The best beach chairs come with nice-to-haves that make your outing better. These may include cup holders, storage pockets, sunshades, and multiple recline positions.
Some chairs on our list also feature headrests, towel bars, cooler bags, built-in openers, built-in umbrellas, armholes, and removable pillows. There are also beach chairs that can transform into a cart, which makes transporting your beach supplies to and from your car much easier.
Questions and Answers
How much do beach chairs cost?
Beach chairs are available for every budget. While compiling this list, we found that beach chairs ranged in price from a budget-friendly $40 to splurges at $180. Our best overall pick, the Tommy Bahama Classic Lay Flat Backpack Beach Chair, falls right in the middle of this range, proving you don’t have to splurge to get a quality beach chair.
Can I use my camping chairs at the beach?
While camping chairs can be used at the beach, beachgoers should manage their expectations. Camping chairs are light and portable, but that’s often where their utility ends as far as the beach is concerned.
More often than not, these chairs lack beach-friendly features like rust-resistant frames, water-resistant fabrics, storage options, and sun protection. Beach chairs, on the other hand, are built with all of the above and therefore tend to offer beachgoers a better experience.
How do you keep beach chairs from rusting?
While beach chairs that have aluminum and steel in them are durable, they are also prone to rust or corrode. If you have an aluminum beach chair, it’s recommended that you dry it off completely after each use. Any moisture that is left on the chair can cause it to corrode. We also recommend purchasing an umbrella for your beach chair, because this will protect it from the sun’s UV rays. On the other hand, if you have a steel beach chair, we recommend coating it with an anti-rust oil.
Why Trust Southern Living
This article was written by Sharon Brandwein, Certified Sleep Science Coach and freelance commerce writer. Over the last five years, Sharon has written product reviews and roundups for a variety of online publishers.
To compile this list, Sharon researched dozens of beach chairs to find the very best in each category. Moriah Mason, a commerce writer for Southern Living, also contributed to this article.
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