Imagine this: you’ve got your toes in the sand, sun on the skin, a cold one in hand, and you’re effortlessly reclining on the perfect beach chair.
Summertime means endless beach trips to pepper our weeks with sun-soaked bliss. So, a quality beach chair is worth picking up ASAP.
Beach chairs are something you likely don’t give a second thought to (after all, it’s a chair), but think again — if you’re a frequenter to the sand in your sunnies and sunscreen, you’ll want an easy-to-carry, quality seater to listen your latest audiobook and enjoy the views of ocean waves.
Luckily, we curated a list of the best beach chairs, including loungers, backpacks, canopies and more. Read below for our top options, varying in size, style and price point.
We want you to have the full beach experience, truly, so all you have to do is sit back and relax.
- Best overall: Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair
- Best mesh: Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Chair with Cooler
- Best backpack chair: Rio Brands Beach Chair
- Best splurge: The Tommy Chair
- Best recliner: L.L.Bean Camp Comfort II Recliner
Best overall: Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair
Pros:
- The chair comes with a towel and cooler bag with coverage
- Compact, lightweight design and backpack-carrying option
- Five reclining positions
Cons:
- Only four color options
There’s no brand quite like Tommy Bahama for providing a low-to-the-sand beach chair that’s comfortable and snazzy. You’ve got a headrest cushion, cup holder, and phone pocket, 5 position options complete with the ability to lay back with support, and a larger sealable storage pouch. To top it all off, the backpack straps make it a breeze to carry on and off the beach. But most importantly, the seats are actually very comfortable for a full day of keeping your toes in the sand, and the seat is wide enough to sprawl out as you relax.
Material: Wood, aluminum
Weight: 7 pounds
Editor’s Note: “Anytime I’ve been to the beach in the last few years, it seems like suddenly Tommy Bahama has taken off with a beach chair monopoly — everyone has this chair,” shared Post Wanted’s SEO Manager, Meaghan Roche. “Curious to see what all the hype was about, I finally invested in my own set of the 5-position chairs this spring and have tested them out on some hot early-summer beach days. The chairs were once described to me as the ‘Cadillac of beach chair,’ and I would have to agree… I love how easy it is to recline and then sit upright while eating lunch, all while keeping your drink within reach and out of the sand. Although this is my first summer testing these chairs, I can tell they were built to last and I look forward to years of beach outings with them.”
Best mesh: Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Chair with Cooler
Pros:
- Zippered storage for phones, keys, and other things you don’t want to misplace
- Cushioned head
- Available in more than 12 colors
- Carry bag included
Cons:
- A bit on the taller side (per some reviews)
Material: Polyester, steel
Weight: 10 pounds
What’s not to love about these versatile mesh-backed beach chairs? The chairs lock in place for better stability and can hold up to 300 pounds (more weight than most on the market). They’re decked out with storage and also happen to be available in just about every shade under the sun, so you should have no problem finding the perfect fit.
Editor’s Note: “I haven’t been to the beach in ages but these are the chairs I’d take,” said Post Wanted Updated Editor, Holly Coley. “The Kijaro chairs are fantastic! They have a mesh back, so they’re breathable. They’re also surprisingly sturdy for something so lightweight. I’ve used them for Fourth of July fireworks, outdoor hangouts, and probably some concerts I had too much “fun” at that I no longer remember. The cup holders are what I used to hold my phone, although there is an actual spot for that.”
Simplest design: SUNFLOW The Original Chair
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Sleek design
- Holds up over time and consecutive use
Cons:
- The low seat and absent armrests could challenge those requiring accessibility
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 15 pounds
Sunflow doesn’t make ordinary beach chairs, these nautical seats are statement-makers. The premium brand won over Shark Tank investor Kevin “Mr. Wonderful” O’Leary — so you know they have to be the best. Between the durable construction and elevated style, you’ll have trouble finding anything wrong with these chairs. head to our full review to find out what all the hype is about.
Editor’s Note: The Original Chair is low to the ground, sturdy, and it tells you straight off it’s not here to play games,” shared Barret Werts, Commerce Editorial Director at Post Wanted. “It’s a low-slung, minimalist masterpiece available in 18 stylish solids, stripes, and designs with surprising comfort. It features a unique telescoping frame, which made the initial setup feel a bit like learning to tie shoelaces — tricky at first but satisfying once mastered. The low seat and missing armrests may turn some off to the inaugural style, but at 40-ish years old with occasional lower back issues, I haven’t had any issues yet.”
Most accessible: Parkit Movement Voyager chair
Pros:
- A bit taller (more accessible for some people)
- Below the seat is a detachable, welded cooler
- Multiple colors and patterns
Cons:
- None to speak of
Material: Polyester, aluminum
Weight: N/A
Voyager Chairs are known for their attractive criss-cross webbing design and taller build — making them much more accessible for some people to get in and out of. The detachable cooler is certainly a plus. Some reviewers have even mentioned that they prefer sitting in these chairs to their ergonomic desk chairs at work.
Editor’s Note: “This one sits you a bit higher. It’s good for taller people or people with bad knees or a bad back,” shared Commerce Partnerships Manager, Ryan Murphy, who pointed out that the chair is 16 inches off the ground. “My wife got it when she was pregnant, so it was easier to get in and out of.”
Best backpack chair: Rio Brands Beach Chair
Pros:
- Combination of unique colors (easy to spot from the water)
- Side pouch for essentials
- Four recline levels
- Back straps for easy carrying
Cons:
- It might be shorter/closer to the ground than some other options
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 8 pounds
As one of Amazon’s most popular, Rio Brands’ Beach Chair is just under $65 and is adorned in this beautiful blue, white, green, and white striped batter. It’s a backpack style — so it’s easy to carry — and has four reclining adjustments and a side pouch for your phone or sunscreen.
Customers are saying: “They are lightweight but sturdy, are very comfortable, and fold/unfold easily. The backpack straps are essential because we are always carrying several other things to and from the beach. The cup holders are great, and the zipper on the side allows the cup holder size to grow or shrink to accommodate almost any can, cup, or bottle.”
Best with cooler: Coleman Camping Chair with Built-In Cooler
Pros:
- The chair comes with a built-in cooler
- Mesh storage pocket so you can see your belongings
- Sturdy build, per reviews
Cons:
- Some mixed reviews on the level of insulation provided by the cooler
Material: Polyester, steel
Weight: 8.2 pounds
If you’re looking for an affordable option, Coleman’s Camping Chair is as good as it gets. Not only does it come with a built-in cooler but it comes in three other colors and is just as fabulous for the sand as it is for the campgrounds.
Customers are saying: “I do like the mini arm cooler, just enough space to put a little bit of ice and a couple of cans of cold beer. The storage bag attached to the seat is perfect… Overall these chairs are perfect and I would recommend them.”
Best lay-flat: Rio Beach Portable Folding Backpack Beach Lounge Chair
Pros:
- Unlimited reclining positioners
- Includes large pouch
- Adjustable back straps for easy carrying
- No assembly required
Cons:
- Some reviewers mention it’s tricky to fold the chair
- Lightweight material may be less sturdy (but easy to carry!)
Material: Polyester, steel
Weight: 9 pounds
For those who love to lay, pick up Rio Beach’s Portable Folding Backpack Beach Lounge Chair. It’s like your outdoor patio furniture, but portable, and can fully recline from the headrest and the legs for optimal comfort and an all-day tan. Plus, it comes in a variety of colorways.
Customers are saying: “Didn’t know this was a backpack chair until it arrived. Very convenient and would definitely ride to the beach on my bike with this. Very lightweight on the back. Only issue is the legs always seem like they’re ready to give away and that should not be for a brand new chair. Love that the chair reclines in the headrest and feet.”
Best canopy: BOTINDO Family Beach Tent Canopy
Pros:
- Lycra fabric has UPF 50+ protection and water-resistant function
- Stable and windproof
- Different colors and sizes are available
- Fits 8 people
Cons:
- Does require assembly (but can be done by just one person)
Material: Aluminum
Weight: 7.26 pounds
Level up your beach experience with a canopy that is perfect for up to four adults. It includes a carrying bag, is nearly eight feet tall in stature, and is even great for lawns to host a cozy picnic. Use this sturdy stand to protect you from the sun (it is designed with UPF 50+ protection fabric), and create a little oasis for all your outdoor gatherings
Customers are saying: “This is a great beach tent. We go to the beach weekly and this has been a game-changer. It’s easy to set up and take down. It holds up against the wind and is large!”
Best pack: Best Choice Products Lounge Chairs
Pros:
- Removable elastic cords that immediately adjust to your body’s weight
- Features a cup and tablet holder for work from beach conditions
- Over a dozen color options
- Heavy-duty frame and weather-resistant material is built to last (per reviews)
Cons:
- They do not come with a carry strap (so transport could be a bit thicker)
Material: Steel
Weight: 32.6 pounds
Two-for-one deal! This two-pack of lounge chairs is wonderful for poolside and oceanside alike. The twin offering comes in virtually every color under the sun, too. Not to mention, the chairs have a lightweight, portable design with a removable storage tray on their side.
Customers are saying: “These chairs are fantastic, easy to fold and pack up to take with you. Easy and comfortable to lay all the way back and has a removable tray table that can hold two drinks, a phone, and a book.”
Best splurge: The Tommy Chair
Pros:
- Designed with signature umbrella canvas (UV, mold, and water-resistant)
- Padded backpack straps
- Five reclining options
- Stainless steel hardware
Cons:
- Recommended to keep away from water
- Some reviewers mention wood fading
Material: Hardwood, stainless steel
Weight: 13 pounds
Introducing the beach chair with the most southern charm. It’s too cute to pass up, holds up nicely, and is even great for your patio for reading and relaxing. Though this model from Business & Pleasure Co. is a splurge, it’s surely one that’ll last.
Customers are saying: “This thoughtful ode to a recreational icon is worth it for the style alone. A chair that puts the beach on notice, ‘we take our pleasure seriously’… You buy these chairs for the look, you keep them for the comfort. Hours, feel like mere moments as you’re cradled under the warm sun… A sip of spritz, a siesta, and a swim. And your day is complete.”
Best with canopy: Quick Shade Pro-Comfort Polyester and Nylon High Armchair
Pros:
- Includes a carry and storage bag
- Aluminum-backed shade top offers up to 99% UV protection
- Sturdier for people with larger builds
Cons:
- Arm rests on the thinner side
- Not cup holders
- Heavier than most
Material: Steel
Weight: 13 pounds
What’s great about the Quik Beach Chair is not only the less-than-$100 price point, but it comes with a mini canopy to provide shade. It also has a longer back allowing you to stretch into the sand and giving you a bit extra room. The heavier build could be a turn-off for some, but it does add some stability and balance for heavier-set people.
Customers are saying: “Beach chairs have gotten really expensive, and I really wanted one with a sun shade. This chair is really heavy, but folds up similarly to a standard camp chair, just longer. The label says good for up to 225 lbs. The shade folds behind the chair when you don’t want to use it.
Best low: Caribbean Joe Folding Beach Chair
Pros:
- Stylish, vibrant print
- Built-in cup holder and bottle opener
- Folds easily
- Padded headrest
Cons:
- The armrests are a bit hard
Material: Metal
Weight: 9 pounds
For a no-frills, durable beach chair that’s built to last, consider Caribbean Joe’s Deluxe Folding Beach Chair. Wayfair has an entire collection of beach chairs to choose from, but the vibrant striped pattern is easy to spot, and the thick armrests provide optimal support for lounging. It even comes with two essentials — a built-in bottle holder and a padded headrest.
Customers are saying: ” Very attractive with pillow and a zippered bag with a phone holder on the side. I like the lighter colors so it does not get so hot in the sun and they are not as low to the ground as some other chairs I have had.”
Best splurge cabana: Cool Cabana 5 Beach Cabana
Pros:
- Variety of stunning shades and prints
- UPF 50+ protection
- Sand pockets provide 35lbs to keep you on the beach
- It comes with a carrying case
Cons:
- Best for smaller gatherings of around four or five people
Material: N/A
Weight: 11 pounds
As one of our personal favorites, Cool Cabana’s 5 Beach Cabana is the creme de la creme of portable beach seaters, providing you shade and a mini safe haven right at the ocean floor. It’s especially great for shade and privacy, too, and a worthwhile investment if you frequent the beach often.
Customers are saying: “It unfolds like an umbrella, but is weighted down with sand pockets keeping it a little more lightweight than a traditional cabana. You’d have to use four umbrellas to equal the size. It sets up in just minutes and can be used on hard or soft sand. We used on an extremely windy day and had no trouble with it blowing away.”
Best towl-like: UniPride Folding Beach Chairs
Pros:
- It does not absorb dirt
- Detachable carry strap
- Storage pocket with zipper to keep items safe
Cons:
- May offer less back cushioning than raised chairs
Material: Aluminum, Polypropylene
Weight: 5.6 pounds
There’s no other beach seater like UniPride’s Folding Beach Chairs. Evoking a towel-like design, the two-pack is perfect if you want a comfortable place to lay but don’t want to simply put a towel down on the sand (it’s the best of both worlds!)
Customers are saying: “Bought because it offered two chairs for one price. Used for beach trips, love that is lightweight, easy to carry, and hassle-free. Just wish it had a little cushion for comfort. But, it’s a great deal and quality is good.”
Best colors: Tommy Bahama Striped Beach Chairs (Set of 2)
Pros:
- Vibrant, colorful pattern
- The bottom pocket can keep drinks cool and out of the sun
- Fabric does not fade (per reviews)
Cons:
- May require some practice for opening and closing
Material: Aluminium, polyester
Weight: 12 pounds
If you’re seeking a colorful two-pack of beach chairs, look no further. For less than $200, Tommy Bahama has you equipped with a tropical-colored set that’s sure to have you relaxing in no time. These vibrant chairs are easy to spot on a crowded beach and are made with high-quality fabric that is built to last. Plus, the side pouches are a must on long beach days.
Customers are saying: “They are great quality, comfy, beautiful, and easy to tote around. I love all the compartments on the chair. It helps to keep sand out of most things! Some have said they are difficult to close. Practice once or twice before heading to the beach. Or YouTube it. Once you know, it’s easy!!!
Best kids chair: Redmon Baby Beach Chair with Umbrella
Pros:
- Umbrella for sun protection
- Built-in cup-holder
- Comes with a carry case
Cons:
- Smaller seat (not made for adult use)
Material: Nylon
Weight: 1.2 pounds
This guide would be incomplete without a mention of a beach chair for babies and kids. It’s not only affordable but the mini seater comes in a few different colors (and the cutest umbrella ever) to keep your kids protected from the sun’s rays and comfortable.
Customers are saying: “Durability? Let’s just say, this chair has withstood more jumping, wiggling, and wobbling than a game of musical chairs at a hyperactive bunny birthday party. It’s like the Hercules of kid-sized furniture. In conclusion, if you want your little explorer to feel like the ruler of the great outdoors, get them this Kids Camping Chair. It’s the throne they never knew they needed”
Best tent: Outak Pop-Up Beach Tent
Pros:
- UPF 50+ protection
- Compact travel bag to keep the shade kit all organized
- Elastic rope inside the folding poles to prevent the poles from shaking
Cons:
- The tent does require some assembly (should be under 10 minutes)
- Only two colors
Material: Aluminum, nylon
Weight: 5 pounds
Nothing is easier to set up than Outak’s Pop-Up Beach Tent. As its name suggests, it literally pops right up, giving you the shade and convenience you want ASAP as soon as you hit the beach. Not to mention, it also comes in a lovely coral color.
Customers are saying: “We’ve had this one and the smaller one for several years now and we love them! I read some complaints about using this tent with higher winds. We were at the beach with wind gusts of + 25 mph. Three poles in the front, none in the back, and the wind pushes up the middle perfectly.”
Best recliner: L.L.Bean Camp Comfort II Recliner
Pros:
- Durable frame for added stability
- Padded headrest
- Folds down (very compact)
Cons:
- Reclines a bit fast
- On the heavier side
Material: Steel, polyester
Weight: 18 pounds
Rather than lay your towel on the ground and risk getting sand everywhere, this reclining beach chair allows you to sit back and nap or work on your tan. The durable powder-coated steel frame shouldn’t be wobbling at all in the sand. Plus, it even comes with a handy cup holder!
Customers are saying: “This chair is very comfortable, I use it on my deck by the pool, you can either sit up or recline and get a great suntan and put your drink in the cup holder. The only issue with this chair is that if you push the button, you can recline too fast so be careful.
Best designer: Serena & Lily Teak Beach Chair
Pros:
- Padded backpack straps for easy toting
- Features five reclining positions
- The frame is made of solid teak
- Seat fabric is made of UV- and water-resistant canvas
Cons:
- Only three colors are available
Material: Solid teak
Weight: 14 pounds
Recline in style. This luxe beach chair boasts country club vibes with its crisp and clean white backing paired with the brown teak frame, and stainless steel hardware with weather-resistant coating. It’ll just make you (and your bathing suit) really pop on the beach — while providing a cozy spot to lounge in, of course.
Customers are saying: Reviews not available.
Best wide-set: Eddie Bauer Backpack Chair
Pros:
- Five recline positions
- Adjustable pillow
- Lightweight polyester
- 6-can cooler below the sea
Cons:
- A little on the wider/bulkier side (per the reviews)
Material: Polyester, aluminum
Weight:
We’re especially obsessed with the coral shade of this Eddie Bauer backpack chair. Not only does it feature convenient straps for easy carrying, but there’s even a spacious front pouch for safely storing your belongings (thank you zipper closure).
Customers are saying: “An excellent all-in-one chair. Very sturdy and stable for sand or lawn areas. Nice extra features in the cup holder, neck rest, and hot/cold insulated zippered compartments. Also, it can be carried like a backpack.”
Best inflatable: BOTE Aero Inflatable Beach Chair, $169
Pros:
- Military-grade PVC skin is virtually indestructible
- Deflates for easy transport
- Sits atop various terrain
Cons:
- Aero Foot Pump and Aero Cup Holder are sold separately
Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
Weight: 7 pounds
This is probably the most lightweight beach chair on our list. Simply inflate it with air and kick back and relax — it even includes a handy side pouch for storing books and snacks. It’s also much sturdier than you would expect. Some reviewers have pointed out that this chair is even stable enough to bring on the boat.
Customers are saying: “The chair is excellent for use on our boat and will be ordering more. The bean bags do not last and move around too much to be comfortable:
Best zero-gravity: Amazon Basics Outdoor Adjustable Zero Gravity Lounge Chairs
Pros:
- Kit includes two chairs, an attached table, and a side table
- Includes multiple built-in cup holders
- Padded pillow
- Zero-gravity design
Cons:
- Some reviewers mention the side tables are a bit flimsy
Material: Steel
Weight: 45 pounds
Consider this your ultimate beach lounging kit as it includes two weather-resistant chairs with reclining capabilities and a side table (in addition to the ones already attached to each chair) for resting an ice-cold soda or water in.
Customers are saying: “This set has been perfect! For the beach, for sitting on our deck; I am so happy we got them. They are the most comfortable and durable chairs and budget budget-friendly! You don’t need the expensive stuff! They are a little bit heavy and awkward but I expect that.”
Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.