Spending time on the beach can be incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating – if you have the right gear. Without it, you may soon find yourself sunburnt, annoyingly covered in sand and with a sore back. One of the absolute must-have items for a great day at the beach is a good beach chair.
But how do you go about picking one? There are so many types of beach chairs, so how would you know which one was truly the best beach chair? To figure this out you’ll have to think about, and answer, the following questions.
Who will use the chair?
When looking at beach chair options the very first question you need to answer is: Who will sit in it? The answer to this question will influence your response to all the other questions and considerations you need to think about.
Are you looking to buy a chair for a teenager who spends all their time tanning and would mostly like to lie down, or an elderly person who needs a chair that is easy to get up out of and has a more upright back for added support? Or perhaps you’re looking for a beach chair for your child? When trying to determine what the beast beach chair will be, always keep the intended user front of mind.
What do you like to do at the beach?
When picking a beach chair it’s important to ensure that it meets your unique needs. Do you like tanning? Then you’d probably want a beach lounge chair that allows you to lie flat. Some of these chairs even have a face cut out that allows you to tan while lying on your stomach without your neck getting sore.
Or do you like to go to the beach to read, in which case you will probably prefer a more upright chair, or perhaps even one that can recline a bit. Another thing you have to think about is how close you like to sit to the sand. Some beach chairs are quite low, so you will sit closer to the ground. This might be more relaxing for some, but these chairs are more difficult to get up out of than chairs that sit higher off the ground. So, it all depends on your specific preferences.
How much do you care about portability?
Contrary to popular belief, just because it’s beach chair doesn’t make it easy to get it to the beach. In fact, some chairs are quite difficult to carry around. This is something to think about before buying. If you’ll be carrying the chair around a lot (perhaps there is no parking close to your beach of choice) you’ll likely want a chair that is light and portable. There are chairs that are made specifically with this in mind, like backpack chairs for example.
However, if you won’t really be carrying the chair around portability probably won’t matter as much, and you can easily go for a heavier chair with more additional features.
What material should the chair frame be made of?
Beach chair frames are made out of various different materials, selling at different prices. Picking the right frame material for your needs can be difficult if you don’t really know what the differences are between them.
As explained by SwimOutlet, beach chairs are usually made of aluminium, wood or steel. Each of these materials have their own pros and cons.
Aluminium:
This is a very lightweight material, so you’ll easily be able to carry a chair with an aluminium frame to the beach and back to the car when you’re ready to leave. However, aluminium may dent if handled roughly, so it won’t be the best choice if you’re tough on your chairs.
Wood:
Wooden beach chairs are often more stylish than their metal counterparts, so they’re preferred by people who like chairs with a classic look. Wood also doesn’t conduct heat, so you don’t have to worry about the frame of the chair burning you in high temperatures. Wooden chairs are however significantly heavier than aluminium chairs and thus less portable.
Steel:
Steel beach chairs are very durable, so if you’re looking for a chair that will last many years, this is a good option. However, you will pay for this extra durability – steel chairs are often more expensive than other types of beach chairs. You also need to be aware that steel chairs may rust if not taken proper care of.
What features do you want it to have?
Do you want a chair that is only a chair, or would you like it to do a bit more than offer a comfortable place to sit? Beach chairs these days come with a range of different features to enhance your beach experience.
Features your perfect beach chair could have include:
- A cup holder to ensure you never have to balance a drink on the sand again.
- Padding for a more comfortable seat.
- A footrest so you can put your feet up without having to lie down.
- A headrest for added comfort.
- A canopy or attached umbrella to protect you from the sun.
- Multiple recline positions so you can sit up, lie back or lie down flat without changing chairs.
- A face cut out for tanning.
- Pouches and pockets to keep beach essentials like a book and some snacks.
Now that you have a better idea of your needs you’re ready to start looking at some chair options. Here are the best beach chairs in various categories for you to choose from.
Best beach lounge chairs
A beach lounge chair will allow you to recline or lie down completely – they’re great for total relaxation. Here are three options to consider:
Pacific Breeze Lounger
This beach lounge chair is compact when folded and easy to transport. It’s not a traditional beach lounge chair, as you actually sit flat on the sand on a padded cushion. The chair has an adjustable backrest and a steel frame. You can buy a two-pack of these loungers for around $100.
What we like about it:
- The chair is very lightweight which makes it easy to carry to and from the beach. It even comes with back straps and a handle to make carrying it easier.
- The chair has a storage pocket where you can keep your book or some snacks.
- Sand doesn’t stick to this lounger, so you can simply shake it out when you’re ready to leave.
What we don’t:
- The chair can get uncomfortable is you sit on it for long periods of time because it’s not raised, so you’re sitting on the ground.
- The chair could have better back support. It will be fine for most people, but if you struggle with backache this is not a good option.
- Because the chair isn’t raised it is difficult to get up out of.
Kingcamp 3 Reclining Positions Patio Lounge Chair
This is a heavy-duty chair made of polyester and anodized steel. It has three reclining positions and comes with a triangle locking system to ensure the chair stays put once you’ve picked a position. This chair sells for around $70.
What we like about it:
- This chair is quite easy to fold and carry. It even has a built-in carry strap, so taking it to the beach will be no hassle at all.
- The chair reclines 180 degrees making it comfortable to lie on both your back and stomach.
- This chair is so comfortable you could even sleep on it when camping.
What we don’t:
- The locking mechanism to secure the chair in place once reclined is a bit tricky so you could struggle to make it lock, which could be frustrating.
- When lying flat on your back the position bar can cause some discomfort.
Caravan Sports Infinity Zero Gravity Chair
This chair, selling for around $80 is a zero-gravity chair, which means you’ll feel like you’re floating when sitting in it. It has a smooth recline function, so you can lock it in any position. It also has an adjustable headrest. The chair, that can support up to 300 lbs in weight is only 6.3 inches wide when folded, making it easy to transport and store. The chair’s frame is made of powder coated steel, while the seat is made of a durable textaline fabric suspended by a double bungee system
What we like about it:
- The chair’s fully adjustable back makes it very comfortable to sit in.
- The chair comes fully assembled so all you have to do is take it out of the box and start relaxing.
- When folded up the chair is quite compact making it easy to transport and store.
What we don’t:
- You might struggle to lock the back in place as the clips made for this function are quite tricky. This means the chair might move when you lean back.
- The chair is not 100% durable, if someone on the heavier side sits on it, or if you don’t handle it with care, it could break or bend.
- You can’t kick the footrest out without reclining, which means you can’t sit upright with your feet up.
Best beach backpack chairs
Backpack beach chairs are extremely popular because they come with backpack straps that make them incredibly easy to carry. Here are some of the best ones:
Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair with Storage Pouch and Towel Bar
This chair, selling for around $60 is made of aluminum which makes it incredibly lightweight. It has five reclining positions, one of which allows you to lie completely flat. The chair also has two large storage compartments, one of which is insulated, which means you can use it as a cooler. It has an adjustable pillow and molded arms with a cellphone and cup holder. It also has a towel bar. This chair has a weight capacity of 300 lbs.
What we like about it:
- The chair’s backpack straps are extremely comfortable so you’ll be able to carry it for long distances.
- This chair is easy to set up so you can start relaxing almost as soon as you arrive at your chosen spot. It is also easy to fold when you’re ready to leave.
- The adjustable head pillow is extremely comfortable.
What we don’t
- The dark plastic on the chair’s arms gets really hot if the chair is left in the sun, so it could burn your arms.
- The front cross bar can be a bit uncomfortable as it will press against your legs if you are sitting with your feet up.
Rio Brands Lace Up Aluminum Backpack Chair
This chair is lightweight with padded backpack shoulder straps, making it easy to transport. It also features versatile seating, wider armrests and an adjustable contoured pillow for maximum comfort. It has a storage pouch for personal items or snacks, a drink holder and four adjustable seating positions. This chair sells for around $40.
What we like about it:
- The adjustable headrest makes it very easy to get comfortable in this chair.
- The chair is easy to fold and really light so transporting it to the beach won’t be a hassle.
- The back strap is adjustable so you can find the most comfortable position for carrying it.
- The chair is very sturdy so should last a long time.
What we don’t:
- The cup holder isn’t very sturdy, so you might not want to use it to hold drinks, but will rather end up using it to hold your phone etc.
- Taller people may find the chair too small – your head may be above the top of the chair, which means you can’t use the headrest.
Best beach chairs for kids
Wouldn’t your little ones like to have their own chairs at the beach? Here are some of the best beach chairs for kids.
Copa Beach Kids Backpack Beach Chair
This kids beach chair has a maximum weight capacity of 50lbs and is recommended for kids 2-8 years old. The chair folds flat so you can store and transport it easily. It also has backpack straps and a safety-lock system. This chair sells for around $25.
What we like about it:
- The chair’s backpack straps are perfect to enable kids to carry their own chairs to the beach.
- The safety lock feature allows you to lock the chair in place, so it won’t give way when your child sits on it.
- The chair’s material is good quality and it has a sturdy build, so it won’t break after only one season’s use.
What we don’t:
- Although the chair is advertised as being for ages 2-8, it would be a bit uncomfortable for a child over 5 years in age to sit in.
- The chair doesn’t have a recline function, so your kid will only be able to sit upright.
Kelsyus Kid’s Canopy Chair
A bit more expensive than other beach chairs, selling for around $50, this chair features a built-in canopy to protect your little one from the sun. The adjustable sunshade offers 50+ UPF protection. It also has a cup holder. When folded and closed the canopy becomes a carry case, with backpack straps, making it really easy to transport. It is recommended for kids 3 years and older, up to 75 lbs.
What we like about it:
- The chair is really easy to fold up and carry so your kids would be able to do it by themselves.
- The sunshade is great as you don’t have to worry about your child getting sunburnt.
- The chair is sturdy enough to withstand windy conditions on the beach – no need to worry about it blowing away!
What we don’t:
- Taller children will struggle to fit under the canopy – their heads will touch the top making it uncomfortable.
- While the chair is advertised as being for ages 3 and up, it is more suited to toddlers aged 2-3, older kids will find the chair too small.
- The canopy makes the chair a bit top heavy, so it might tip over if your child wriggles.
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Flex Octopus Folding Beach Chair for Kids
This beach chair has a great octopus artwork in vibrant colours that your kids will love. It has a durable metal frame and comfy seat. It even has a cup holder. The chair folds up easily and comes with a matching pouch to store it in. This kids beach chair sells for around $20.
What we like about it:
- Kids can get in and out of this chair easily by themselves, giving the parents some time to relax too.
- The chair has material covering the metal legs in the front of the chair. This is great because it protects the child’s legs from burning if the chair gets hot.
- The chair is really easy to fold and pack away, so it won’t be a hassle taking it to and from the beach and setting it up.
What we don’t:
- The chair could be a bit more stable. If the toddler climbing into it is a bit rough it could tip over.
- The chair smells a bit like chemicals when you open it for the first time, so you’ll have to air it out before using it.
Best beach chairs for the elderly
As you get older, chairs that were once comfortable might not do the trick anymore. Most importantly you’ll want a chair that’s high off the ground and easy to get out of. Here are some of the best beach chairs for the elderly you can consider.
Caravan Sports Suspension Folding Chair
This chair offers all the comfort of a deluxe deck chair, but in a portable folding chair format. The chair’s fabric is suspended by a double bungee system that allows the chair to cradle your back for extra comfort. It folds easily and is easy to transport. This chair sells for around $50.
What we like about it:
- This chair is very comfortable. It doesn’t have a bar across the front of the seat so no pressure is put on your legs.
- When folded the chairs are really flat so you’ll be able to fit them in the boot of your car easily when you next head to the beach.
- The chair’s material dries quickly, so if you sit down wet after a swim you won’t struggle with a wet chair for long.
What we don’t:
- The chair is quite heavy to carry, so you won’t want to walk far with it, especially if you are a senior citizen.
- Although the chair is designed to hold up to 300 lbs, some people may find the seat a bit too narrow for comfort.
Rio Gear Big Guy Backpack Chair
This chair has a sturdy aluminium frame and comes with lots of extra features. It has a padded head rest, a drink holder and padded backpack straps that make transporting the chair easy. The chair has an extra wide seat for added comfort and it reclines and folds into four different positions. You can buy this chair for around $55.
What we like about it:
- The chair’s wider design makes it very comfortable to sit in, even for people weighing up to 300 lbs.
- The chair has a back pouch that is great for keeping books, snacks or even swim fins.
- The chair is high enough so you can sit down easily and controlled, as opposed to falling into the chair – like you would with a lower chair.
What we don’t:
- The chair can’t recline fully, so if you’re looking for a chair to lie flat in, this is not the right one for you.
- The backpack straps are not as durable as the rest of the chair and may break with extensive use.
Big Jumbo Heavy Duty 500 lbs XL Aluminum Beach Chair for Big & Tall
This chair is specifically made for larger people, which also makes it great for the elderly as it sits high off the ground and is sturdy. The chair adjusts to four positions and has a strong frame supported by steel. It has hardwood arms protected by a weather resistant coating. It also has three storage pouches and can support people weighing up to 500 lbs. This chair sells for around $140.
What we like about it:
- This chair is very roomy which makes it much more comfortable to sit in than traditional narrower beach chairs.
- The chair’s seat is high off the ground so you will have no trouble getting in or out of it.
- The chair is very sturdy so you never have to worry about it collapsing if you sit down a bit harder than intended.
What we don’t:
- The chair is a bit heavy so you might need help carrying it to the beach.
- The headrest is not adjustable, so if you are not tall your head might not quite reach it.
- The storage pockets can’t close so items may fall out if you carry the chair around.
Best inflatable beach chairs
If you’re looking for something a bit different to the usual beach chair, why not go for an inflatable option? Here are some chairs you can consider:
ChillaX Inflatable Lounger with Carry Bag, Securing Stake and Bottle Opener for Travelling, Camping, Hiking, Pool and Beach Parties
This inflatable lounger comes with a carry bag, bottle opener and three stitched pockets to keep your valuables and beach essentials. It has a headrest and can float on water – so you can even use it to relax in the pool as well. Filling the bag with air is easy, you just have to swing it to inflate it – no pump needed. This lounger costs around $90.
What we like about it:
- When deflated the chair folds up really small which makes it easy to store and transport.
- The pack includes a stake to secure the lounger to the ground, so you don’t have to worry about it blowing away when you’re not sitting on it.
- This chair allows you to enjoy the beach without lying on the sand – so no more sand sticking to your legs after a swim.
What we don’t:
- The lounger can be a bit tricky to inflate the first few times you do it, however, the company has a video on their website explaining how it works.
- The seam down the middle of the lounger may start to split after a while which means the lounger will deflate rather quickly.
Inflatable Lounger Chair with portable carry bag for various uses
This inflatable lounger sells for around $80 and will stay inflated for about 4-8 hours. It’s made of high quality polyester and nylon fabric and is durable; and soft. It is lightweight and easy to carry. You don’t need a pump to inflate it, all you have to do is run with it against the wind and it will fill up with air.
What we like about it:
- This lounger is very comfortable to lie and even nap on so you can relax fully while you’re at the beach.
- The material it’s made out of is very durable so you don’t have to worry about it popping every time you sit down.
- When folded up the lounger is extremely portable and lightweight so it’ll be easy for you to transport it to and from the beach.
What we don’t:
- The lounger is a bit difficult to inflate if there is no wind, so if your beach is usually not windy at all, it might not be the best choice.
- The lounger may be a bit too narrow if you’re a larger person, which means your arms may hang off the sides.
Best budget beach chairs
Just because you’re on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t also have a nice chair for the beach. Here are some great budget beach chair options you can consider.
Rio Brands Aloha Sand Chair
This affordable one-position sand chair sells for between $25-$30. It is lightweight and folds almost flat for easy carrying and storage. The seat is made of a durable, long lasting polyester fabric and can support people weighing up to 190 lbs.
What we like about it:
- The chair is quite strong and durable and offers great lower-back support.
- Despite being a budget chair it is very comfortable to sit in.
- Because the chair’s seat is lower, kids can also use this chair quite easily.
- The chair is easy to set up when you get to the beach and to fold again when you’re ready to leave – so it won’t take away any of your precious relaxation time.
What we don’t:
- The chair is a bit heavy to carry long distances.
- The chair’s seat is quite low, so elderly persons might struggle to get up out of it.
- The chair might be a bit narrow for heavier people.
- The chair doesn’t recline at all, so you’ll have to sit completely upright the entire time you’re in the chair.
Kijaro Dual Lock Chair
This dual-lock chair comes with a carry bag and strap. The dual lock system means it locks in position when set-up providing a ‘no sag’ seating experience. When folded it also locks closed for portability. It has an organizer with a zip pocket, a mesh pocket, and a cell phone holder. It also has two cup holders. It’s made of 600 x 300d ripstop polyester
What we like about it:
- While affordable this chair is still good quality and very sturdy, so it will last longer than a $10 chair you can buy at a grocery store.
- The locking mechanism works great and means you don’t have to worry about the chair moving when you sit down or get up.
- There is a shoulder strap attached to the chair itself (as well as the bag) which means you can easily move the chair around without packing it away, if you want to go to a different spot on the beach.
What we don’t:
- While the chair is good quality the storage’s bag’s quality is lacking so it might start to fray after some use.
- Some people might find these chairs too big and heave to be comfortable.
- The chair makes a squeaking noise when you move around in it.
Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair
Selling for only $28 this beach chair will allow you to relax in five different positions and even lie completely flat. The seat is 8 inches off the ground and the frame is made of rust-resistant aluminum. The chair’s fabric is waterproof and fade resistant. The armrests are made of hardwood.
What we like about it:
- This is one of only a few affordable beach chairs that still offer a recline function, so if you like lying back at the beach, it’s a good option.
- Because the armrests are made of wood they won’t get too hot and burn your arms if the chair is left in the sun.
- The chairs come in bright happy colours which make them perfect for a beach holiday.
What we don’t:
- The chair has a shoulder strap to carry it with, as opposed to backpack straps which would be more comfortable.
- You might feel the bar under the seat pressing against your legs when sitting on the chair.
- The recline function doesn’t work that well for tall people as your head will likely hang over the top of the chair.
When deciding on a beach chair there are a number of factors to take into account. The most important consideration is who will use the chair most often. This will help you determine whether you want to get a beach lounge chair for someone who likes tanning, or a more upright chair that sits higher off the ground for an elderly person. Are you buying a chair for a child? Or perhaps for someone on the heavier side? The intended recipient and what they like do to the at beach will absolutely dictate what the best beach chair to buy will be.
Other aspects you need to consider is how portable you want the chair to be, and whether you would like it to have any additional features. If you walk long distances to and from the beach you will want to get a lightweight chair that’s easy to carry – like a backpack chair. Or if you like taking lots of stuff with you to the beach you’ll likely want storage pockets or even a built-in cooler bag.
In our opinion, the best beach chair for the average adult or even teenager, is the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair with Storage Pouch and Towel Bar. While it’s not a lounger it offers five reclining positions and still allows you to lie completely flat. It can support up to 300 lbs and is easy to fold and transport as it has backpack straps. It also comes with great storage compartments, one of which is insulated so it can be used as a cooler bag. This chair costs about $60.
If this is a bit above your budget, we’d recommend the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair. For around $28, this chair will also give you multiple recline positions and is easy enough to transport. While it doesn’t have all the added features of the Tommy bahama chair, it is a great budget option that will still allow you to relax at the beach.
Are you ready to buy? You can get the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair with Storage Pouch and Towel Bar here. You’ll soon be all set for your next beach vacation!