13 Best Beach Chairs to Relax And Soak in the Sun

Written by Nikita Wadi Updated on Feb 09, 2024  |  110.4K
Best Beach Chairs
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When it comes to unwinding at the beach, it becomes essential to find a comfortable place to sit, and drawing from our experience, there's a world of difference between sitting on a towel and a comfy chair. Whether you are reading, relaxing, or enjoying the scenery, you need to get your hands on the best beach chairs to make the most out of your trip to the beach. While beach towels are cheap, they are not as comfy nor do they have any support for your poor tired back. They also sink into the sand in no time, making everything sandy and uncomfortable.

That's where beach chairs come into the picture, solving it all and making sure your day at the beach is perfect. These chairs are comfortable, convenient, and portable, they also ensure your posture is right even as you relax and unwind so that your back health is not compromised, as a study by Harvard University says. Unlike towels and blankets, beach chairs don't sink into the sand and provide a stable and elevated platform to sit and relax on. Moreover, they keep the sand on your feet, where it is supposed to be. You can also recline at different angles. But that's not all! Beach chairs often come with sunshades, plush headrests, cup holders, padded armrests, and storage pockets, to name a few.

Through our trial and error, we discovered the top-rated beach chairs that are worthy of being a reliable partner in your seaside adventures. We tested them based on their type, size, capacity, comfort, portability, durability, additional features, and customer reviews so that you can have a comfortable and super relaxing beach day. Whether you like to lounge away from the sand and the waves or prefer to lay all the way down on your back, there’s a beach chair for everyone on our expert-approved list.   

13 Best Beach Chairs

Give your back some rest after a swim in the sea with this folding beach chair from Coleman. It has a pretty minimalist design and offers basic comfort and convenience to a beachgoer. Whether it's a child or an adult, anyone can sit on it and still be comfortable, thanks to its comfy backrest and padded armrests. Not only is this chair easy on the eyes, but it also comes with additional features like a cup holder for your drink and a back pocket for your towel and sunscreen. This means you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the beach while staying organized. After putting it to the test, we observed it opens a bit low to the ground and is ideal for those who love to enjoy the tide touching their feet.

Key Specifications

  • Dimensions: 29.5"D x 10.7"W x 3.5"H
  • Weight: 6lbs
  • Material: Powder-coated steel
  • Capacity: 250lbs
Pros
  • Easy to fold
  • Comfortable
  • Sturdy
  • Portable
  • Well build
  • Attractive design 
Cons
  • May feel a little heavy to carry
  • Best Overall

    Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair

    Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair
  • The Tommy Bahama beach chair has lots of features, earning itself a name in the market. As the name suggests, this is a backpack chair that can be carried around just like a backpack once folded, allowing you to move around hands-free. You may also utilize this feature to carry even more things from your car to your spot on the beach. From sitting upright to laying flat, this chair allows different positions for you to sit or take a nap in the sun. The relaxed and comfy feels are enhanced by the plush pillow which you can easily stow away when not needed. Based on our firsthand experience, the fabric is sturdy and the multiple storage options enhance the overall experience.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions:24.98"D x 3.92"W x 28.92"H
    • Weight: 7lbs
    • Material: Aluminum and Polyester
    • Capacity: 250lbs
    Pros
    • Easy to fold
    • Wooden armrest
    • Integrated bottle opener
    • Padded backpack straps
    • Zippered accessory pouch
    • Insulated cup holder and cooler
    • Features a back towel bar
    Cons
    • Expensive 
  • Best High Back Chair

    KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chairs

    KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chairs
  • Chill and relax on the seaside with the KingCamp low sling beach chair. This is a high-back beach chair with a recline that offers optimal support to your entire back. The plush headrest is a cherry on the top. It opens low to the ground so that you can sit with stretched legs and feel the soft sand with your toes. You may also position it close to the ocean and feel the waves come and go. That's not all! Its breathable mesh fabric keeps you comfy and cool throughout the day. There's a large mesh pocket to keep your belongings, including your phone and sunscreen. When we trialed this product, we found that the big leg caps prevented the chair from sinking into the sand.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 27.6"D x 23.2"W x 33.5"H
    • Weight: 14lbs
    • Material: Alloy steel and polyester
    • Capacity: 300lbs
    Pros
    • Easy to fold
    • Comfortable
    • Sturdy build
    • Compact
    • Easy to carry
    • Padded armrest
    • Comes with a cup holder
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • May not hold heavy weight in the long run
  • Best Low Beach Chair

    Nice C Low Beach Chair

     Nice C Low Beach Chair
  • Low beach chairs bring a fun element of their own, but you can expect so much more with the Nice C chairs for the beach. They come in two very fun colors, Carrot and Ocean, that will instantly lift your mood if the ocean has not already done so. Made with heavy-duty steel and industrial-grade polyester, they offer a sturdiness like no other chair. You can stretch your legs and take a nap without worrying about the chair sinking as they come with anti-sink feet. After conducting experiments with it, we can say this beach chair is ideal for kids and young people who don't need support while getting up.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 23"D x 21"W x 23"H
    • Weight: 6.2lbs
    • Material: Alloy steel, Oxford polyester mesh
    • Capacity: 300lbs
    Pros
    • Easy to fold
    • 10-second setup
    • Compact and portable
    • Breathable fabric
    • Easy-to-reach cup holder
    • Travel-friendly 
    Cons
    • Doesn’t have head support
  • Best Reclining

    Rio Brands Beach Chair

     Rio Brands Beach Chair
  • This beach chair not just looks good, but also feels good, and is more comfortable than other traditional beach chairs. With a powder-coated, rust-proof steel frame and solid wood armrests, it ensures high durability. Thanks to its adjustable backrest, you can easily recline it in not one but four different positions, making it one of the best reclining beach chairs. Apart from the cup holder, it comes with a huge storage pouch on the back where you can store all your essentials such as towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, mobile, and other accessories safely. Through our practical knowledge, we suggest rinsing the chair off with fresh water after the beach day to ensure it won’t rust.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 22.25" W x 30" D x 29.5" H
    • Weight: 8.23lbs
    • Material: Alloy steel
    • Capacity: 250lbs
    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Easy to carry 
    • Sturdy build
    • Adjusts nicely
    • Feels comfortable
    • Removable headrest
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • May feel a tight squeeze for bottom-heavy individuals
  • Best for Lounging

    UNIPRIDE Beach Chair with Backrest

    UNIPRIDE Beach Chair with Backrest
  • You can still enjoy lying down on the sandy beach and have an authentic seaside experience with these lightweight beach chairs from UNIPRIDE. They are like sitting or lying on a beach towel, but make it better. They require no assembly, and you only have to set them down on the beach. The backrest can be adjusted into different positions depending on your preferences and requirements. Once you are done, you can fold them up and carry them like your favorite tote bag with the shoulder strap. Available in 3 different colors, these chairs are perfect for lounging and sunbathing. Our investigation demonstrated that they don't absorb the sand and are pretty easy to clean.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 70"D x 21"W x 22"H
    • Weight: 7lbs
    • Material: Alloy steel, aluminum
    • Capacity: 270lbs
    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Offers good support to the back
    • Easy to carry and setup
    • Comfortable on sand
    • Portable
    • Adjustable recline
    • Zippered pocket
    Cons
    • Doesn’t have a headrest
  • Best Portable

    HITORHIKE Low Sling Beach Chair

    HITORHIKE Low Sling Beach Chair
  • Fold it, pack it, and get ready to be on the move all under a minute. This ergonomically designed chair will become your reliable companion for outdoor relaxation and lounging, particularly at the beach. Its heavy-duty structure, anti-slip foot pad, and flexible joints ensure it doesn't sink into the sand and stand its ground. The breathable and quick-drying mesh fabric makes it ideal for a beach trip. The easy-access storage pocket lets you store snacks and other beach essentials. You can fold it with ease and carry it wherever you go, making it one of the best portable beach chairs around. 

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 21.6"D x 23.6"W x 21.6"H
    • Weight: 7.2lbs
    • Material: Nylon, Alloy Steel
    • Capacity: 300lbs
    Pros
    • Very comfortable
    • Lightweight
    • Sturdy build
    • Compact
    • Good quality
    • Comes with a carry bag
    Cons
    • May not be very durable
  • Best in Budget

    I&J BASICS Low Beach Chairs Set

    I&J BASICS Low Beach Chairs Set
  • Get your hands on this set of two very compact beach chairs and transform how you relax at the beach. They are very easy to fold and unfold, making sure that all your time is spent enjoying and not stressing over setting up your beach gear. Its high-quality steel construction can handle up to 300 lbs and is wide enough to accommodate different body sizes and shapes. The cushioned armrest adds to the comfort as you lay back and relax. We have found from using this product that the mesh backing keeps you cool and dry throughout the day. These low beach chairs also come with a cooler, making this the perfect beach set. If carrying them with other belongings feels too much to you, you can do it all with a stylish beach wagon

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 21"D x 21"W x 23"H
    • Weight: 13.02lbs
    • Material: Steel, Mesh
    • Capacity: 300lbs
    Pros
    • Easy and quick setup
    • Compact design
    • Portable
    • Anti-sink feet
    • Backpack-style straps
    • Made with durable materials 
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • Have no headrest
  • Best Adjustable

    #WEJOY 4-Position Folding Beach Chair

     #WEJOY 4-Position Folding Beach Chair
  • You can get all your beach needs met with this one chair from #WEJOY. It is as comfy as it can get with its soft and thick fabric that stays taut when unfolded. It has one of the best-cushioned pillows on a beach chair ever, which will make you forget all your worries and push you into a dreamy slumber. You can adjust the backrest in 4 different positions. This high-back beach chair is also good for storage and comes with additional features like a mesh pocket on the back, a side pocket, and a cup holder. Our research indicates that the chair may feel narrow to curvy people.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 26"D x 25"W x 4"H
    • Weight: 5.3lbs
    • Material: Aluminum 
    • Capacity: 265lbs
    Pros
    • Easy to fold
    • Lightweight aluminum frame 
    • Comfortable 
    • Sturdy build
    • Portable 
    • Beautiful color
    • Value for money 
    Cons
    • Cup holder may feel small
  • Best Lay Flat

    SunnyFeel 5 Position Lay Flat Beach Chair

    SunnyFeel 5 Position Lay Flat Beach Chair
  • Feel the warmth of the sun on your back as you lounge away in this flat beach chair. It brings you the best of everything to meet all your potential needs. You can adjust the backrest to 5 different positions for the ultimate comfort whether you choose to sit, lounge, or lie down. The polyurethane foam pillow provides adequate support to your tired head and weary neck. With one side pocket to keep your phone and sunscreen, and a cup holder, it meets your basic storage needs. The best thing about this quality beach chair, however, is the attached cooler pouch on the back where you can store all your drinks and snacks. After trying out this product, we can say that this is the ultimate beach chair and a must-have for regular beach-goers. 

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 26"D x 28"W x 29.5"H
    • Weight: 8.6lbs
    • Material: Aluminum 
    • Capacity: 300lbs
    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Comfortable
    • Easy to fold
    • Sturdy build
    • Can be carried as a backpack
    • Adjustable straps
    • Multi-purpose 
    Cons
    • Pricey 
  • GCI Outdoor Waterside Reclining Portable Backpack Beach Chair

    GCI Outdoor Waterside Reclining Portable Backpack Beach Chair
  • Say hello to one of the best backpack beach chairs that is perfect for spending a day beside the ocean. It offers a quick and easy one-step setup, making it a favorable choice not just for the beach, but other outdoor activities as well.  The backrest is adjustable to 4 different positions to meet the comfort needs and preferences of a wide range of people. The high back and cushioned headrest ensure that you get the maximum relaxation. There's a large storage pocket on the back where you can store all your beach essentials, including sunscreen, magazines, spare sunglasses, tissues, and towels, to name a few. Based on our observations, we can say that the back of the chair is breathable and will ensure you stay cool. You can easily mount a beach umbrella too to stay protected from the harsh sun.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 26"D x 23.6"W x 30.9"H
    • Weight: 8.6lbs
    • Material: Steel, Aluminum 
    • Capacity: 250lbs
    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Comfortable
    • Easy to fold
    • Powder-coated frame
    • Integrated cup holder
    • Adjustable backpack straps
    • Good value for money
    • Durable 
    Cons
    • May sink in the sand a little
  • Ostrich On-Your-Back Reclining Beach Chair

    Ostrich On-Your-Back Reclining Beach Chair
  • This is a top rated beach chair that is available in 9 exciting colors, leaving you spoiled for choice. Made with 600D PVC Polyester fabric, it boasts a sturdy construction. The reinforced seams scream incredible craftsmanship. As opposed to many other classic beach chairs in the market, this one folds flat and can be carried around like a backpack without any awkward feels or bulkiness. As the name suggests, this chair is specifically meant for individuals who like it more to lay on their fronts. The convenient arm slots and the closable face cavity are some convenient features to have. We determined through our tests that it can withstand the rigors of regular beach trips with ease.

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 46"D x 26.4"W x 9.25"H
    • Weight: 9.6lbs
    • Material: Alloy Steel
    • Capacity: 275lbs
    Pros
    • Comfortable 
    • Ergonomic design 
    • Rust-resistant frame
    • Integrated cup holder
    • Comfortable backpack straps
    • Easy to carry
    • Good value for money
    Cons
    • Frame may poke your back when carrying it
  • Old Bahama Bay 5-Position Portable Beach Chair

    Old Bahama Bay 5-Position Portable Beach Chair
  • The Old Bahama Bay Beach Chair will check all your boxes, and that's a promise by the brand and something that we also experienced while testing it out. No wonder, it is so popular! This is the best portable beach chair which makes sure that your comfort and convenience come first. You can recline it in 5 different positions and convert it into a lay-flat chair for a quick nap. The padded pillow ensures that your head and neck stay supported. It is available in 4 interesting colors and patterns that will remind you of a tropical island even when you are lounging around in the California sun. Our analysis of this product revealed that it has adjustable height and a seat lock feature which adds to the overall convenience. 

    Key Specifications

    • Dimensions: 20"D x 20.5"W x 32"H
    • Weight: 8.58lbs
    • Material: Aluminum 
    • Capacity: 400lbs 
    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Sturdy build
    • Comfortable
    • Easy to fold
    • Durable
    • Value for money
    Cons
    • Cup holder is very small

    We have got your back with these beach chairs and we want to ensure that you don’t err in picking the most comfortable one. That’s why, we have a quick buying guide for you.

    How to Choose the Best Beach Chairs?

    It should not take much when it comes to choosing the perfect beach chair, after all, it's just a chair. But you would be wrong if you thought so. There are still a lot of things that you must consider when buying a beach chair to ensure optimal comfort. That's why we are here to guide your way with our comprehensive guide. Here are a few factors you must carefully consider before making your final choice: 

    Type

    Since there are different types of beach chairs, you must consider which one suits your preferences and requirements. Ask yourself how you would like to lounge at the beach and take it from there. A reclining or cushioned chair offers the most comfort whereas a low beach chair lets you sit in shallow water. You should get a high chair if you want to avoid contact with sand while sitting. A lay-flat chair with arm slots is best to lay on your front, like the Ostrich Deluxe Padded Sport 3-in-1 Beach Chair.

    Material

    Beach chairs are typically made using aluminum, steel, or plastic. You must pick the one best suited to your needs. For instance, an aluminum beach chair is lightweight and ideal for the beach environment. It can withstand the sun, sand, and the sea. Chairs with steel frames, on the other hand, are stronger and have a higher weight capacity.

    Apart from the material of the frames, you must also pay attention to the fabric used. It is advisable to look for fabrics that can withstand the sharp sun and the seawater. Even if they get sand on them, you must be able to simply wipe it off rather than having it absorbed.

    Padded armrests should be preferred. Wooden armrests are another stable choice. Some chairs have plastic armrests. If you don’t find plastic preferable, you can also add removable padding on them. 

    Portability

    You don't want to lug around a heavy beach chair throughout the day instead of enjoying your time in the sun. Therefore, think about chairs beyond the comfort factor. Pick lightweight chairs that are easy to carry and transport. Foldable chairs that fold compactly are true game changers.

    Size and Capacity

    Make sure the chair can support not only your weight but also your body proportions. Check the specifications given by the manufacturer.

    Additional Features

    Apart from the comfort and convenience of carrying, you must look for some extra features like cup holders, storage pockets, sturdy build, stable legs, padded straps, wide armrests, padded headrest, adjustable sunshade, easy set-up, phone pockets, insulated pockets, adjustable recline positions, for added value to your beach experience. Look for a chair that can hold your beach umbrella if you cannot get your hands on a canopy beach chair. 

    Style

    Since beach chairs are available in various styles, designs, and colors, you must choose the one that aligns with your personal style and aesthetic preferences. 

    Customer Reviews

    Read customer reviews on various online shopping platforms, blogs, and forums. This will give you valuable insights into the real-life performance of the beach chair you have been eyeing.

    Conclusion

    A relaxing day at the beach is incomplete without the best beach chairs. They are compact, comfortable, and convenient, which is far better than sitting or lying on a towel. Whether you are enjoying the scenery on your own or with a loved one, beach chairs make sure you enjoy your time to the fullest. While some chairs allow you shade from the sun, some keep your feet away from the sand. They, of course, come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. And we have tried to cover them all from the super lightweight Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Sling Chair to the most comfortable Old Bahama Bay 5-Position Portable Beach Chair. So, take your time and our help before getting a beach chair that fits your preferences and needs. 

    FAQ's

    Are beach chairs worth it?
    Yes, beach chairs are worth it. They not only let you relax on the beach but also offer extra back support and often come with additional features like cup holders, adjustable headrests, sun shades, and storage pockets, to name a few.
    Do beach chairs rust?
    Yes, beach chairs can rust.
    Is steel or aluminum better for beach chairs?
    Beach chairs are typically made of aluminum and steel, with both metals having their specific properties. Aluminum beach chairs are considered better as they are corrosion-resistant, rot-resistant, and can hold out longer than steel beach chairs.
    Can you wash beach chairs?
    Yes, you can wash beach chairs using mild detergent and water.
    Are there beach chairs designed for sand or water use?
    Yes, beach chairs are designed for both sand and water use. You can take low beach chairs in shallow waters and enjoy as the ocean touches your feet.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Nikita Wadi, the author, loves spending time outdoors, especially on the beaches. She believes while a swim in the ocean feels intriguing, sun-soaked relaxation on the seashore is equally exciting. That's why she scoured the lengths and breadths of the internet to find you the top-rated beach chairs for the ultimate comfort. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO

    Nikita’s love for food and travel has taken her to places of history that speak volumes about cultural richness More