How to Choose the Best Beach Chair: And What to Keep Beside It
These beach chair tips will help you pick a seat you will actually enjoy and set up the little station of essentials that makes a long day on the sand comfortable. The right chair, a bit of shade and a few items within reach turn a good beach day into a great one.
1. Know the Types of Beach Chairs
2. Seven Beach Chair Tips for Choosing Well
3. Set Up Your Spot
4. What to Keep Beside Your Chair
5. Sun Protection at Your Seat
6. Care and Storage
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Know the Types of Beach Chairs
Most beach chairs fall into a few categories. Low profile folding chairs sit close to the sand and are easy to carry. Reclining chairs with multiple positions suit napping and reading. Loungers offer full body support, while backpack chairs free up your hands. Chairs with built in canopies add shade, and chairs with cup holders and pockets keep essentials close.
Seven Beach Chair Tips for Choosing Well
- Check the weight: If you will carry it far, lighter is better.
- Look at the seat height: Higher seats are easier on knees and backs.
- Choose rust resistant frames: Aluminum or powder coated steel holds up to salt.
- Pick quick dry fabric: Mesh and polyester dry fast and resist mildew.
- Test the recline: Make sure it feels comfortable and stable.
- Consider a canopy: Built in shade can save you from carrying an umbrella.
- Look for easy folding: A simple fold and a carry strap make travel easier.
Add sun care and a hat to your chairside kit.
Set Up Your Spot
Choose a flat spot above the high tide line, and dig the back legs slightly into the sand for stability. Face away from the wind so sand does not blow in your face, and place the chair so the sun is behind or beside you instead of directly in your eyes. If you have an umbrella, anchor it deeply and tilt it toward the sun as the day moves. Keep walkways clear so others can pass.
What to Keep Beside It
- A small cooler or insulated bag with water and snacks
- Sunscreen, SPF lip balm and aloe gel
- A towel for wiping hands and drying off
- Sunglasses and a wide brim hat
- A book, magazine or waterproof speaker used at low volume
- A trash bag so you can pack out what you bring
Sun Protection at Your Seat
It is easy to forget protection once you settle in, especially under a breeze. Set a reminder to reapply broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every two hours, and move your chair into shade during the strongest midday hours. The CDC advises combining sunscreen with shade and protective clothing. Remember that sand and water reflect UV even when you sit under an umbrella.
Care and Storage
A good chair can last many summers with a little care. Rinse it with fresh water after each trip to remove salt and sand, paying attention to hinges and joints where grit collects. Let it dry fully in the shade before folding, since trapped moisture leads to rust and mildew. Store it in a dry place, such as a garage shelf or closet, and avoid leaving it in a hot car for long periods, which can weaken fabric and plastic parts. A few drops of light lubricant on metal joints once a season keep everything folding smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach chair for seniors? A higher seat with arm rests makes sitting and standing easier.
How do I stop my chair from sinking? Choose a chair with wide feet or place a flat board or mat underneath.
How do I clean a beach chair? Rinse with fresh water and dry fully in the shade.
