Top 10 Best Beach Chairs of 2023 - Buyer's Guide
There are few things better than spending a full day lazing on the beach. While towels and pillows can offer great support, it’s usually only a matter of time before your body craves a little more comfort.
A quality beach chair is a nifty investment for anyone who is serious about their beach time. There are many surveys that show individuals making use of it tend to last longer (enjoy it more) during their days out when compared to those using towels.
With the wide variety of designs available today, there’s a beach chair to suit every taste and need. You’ll never have to shake sand out of your shorts again.
We’ve taken the time to narrow down our line up of the 10 best beach chairs available today. Scan over the comprehensive list of pros and cons of each to begin identifying your favorite from the bunch.
Use the short buyer’s guide and FAQ list to select the appropriate for you.
Top 10 Beach Chairs (Reviewed By Experts)
1) Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair
Tommy Bahama has been a well known and trusted name in the beach chair industry for many years. It’s best known for the wide range of color and pattern options. This particular unit comes in nine different designs. From solid blue, to sailor striped, to Hawaiian florals – the chair is almost personalized to your individual taste.
Key Features
- Made with 600D polyester fabric, incredibly durable
- Adjusts to five different reclining positions
- Removable attached pillow
- Large storage pouch in the top back of the chair
- Smaller storage pouch that’s insulated for storing cold beverages
- Another small storage pouch in the side for gadgets
- An extra bar to dry a towel on
- Padded backpack straps for carrying
- Weight capacity of 300lb
- Hanging cup holder for your beach beverage of choice
PROS
- Nine colors and patterns to choose from
- Less chance of losing track of your chair thanks to the bright exteriors
- Can be carried like a backpack so your hands are free for other tasks
- Multiple storage pouches for all of the essentials
- Reclines to five different positions
- Lightweight unit
- One year limited warranty
CONS
- Pricier than other units, but the material used and sturdy structure worth the price.
- Low seating, only appropriate for beach use
2) Rio Gear Ultimate Backpack Chair
This unit by Rio Gear is in backpack style and is a lightweight device. You’ll port this unit around with ease. A true example of modern beach chair design: Portable and practical.
Key Features
- The seat is made from breathable, durable mesh that won’t stretch
- The aluminum frame is equally well made
- Five reclining positions including laying flat
- Shoulder straps are padded for additional comfort
- Thick, cushioned pillow in a material much softer than the mesh
- Upper rear carry pouch with zip
- Lower rear carry pouch with insulation for beverage storage
- Weight capacity of 240lb
- Velcro side pouch for valuable belongings
- Unfolding rack to hang clothing or towels
- Extra hook to hang items when transporting
PROS
- Well ventilated material won’t hold sweat or smell
- Aluminum frame is lightweight and easy to carry
- Armrests are padded for increased comfort
- Multiple pouches to hold all necessary belongings
- Reasonably priced for good quality
- Easy to carry backpack design gives you the handsfree experience
CONS
- Limited weight capacity when compared to other units
3) Coleman Portable Quad Chair
This isn’t solely a beach based unit by Coleman. It’s actually a full camping chair unit and therefore extremely versatile to a user. You can use this chair both on and off the beach whenever additional seating is required. For a unit of this size and versatility it’s also extremely well priced making it ideal to invest in as a set for the whole family.
Key Features
- Made from polyester material with increased longevity
- A cup holder in one arm chair
- Insulated cooler can hold four cans
- The back of the chair is cushioned for increased support and comfort
- A mesh pouch down the side of the chair for easy access to personal belongings
- Weight capacity of 325lb
- Made with heavy duty steel
PROS
- The unit collapses into itself in an umbrella fashion for easy, upright storage
- Made from long lasting, durable material and steel
- Perfect for use on camping trips as well as the beach
- Ample storage for beverages
- Impressive weight capacity
- Wide design suitable for bigger individuals to sit in comfort
- Very affordable
CONS
- No carry handle, can be difficult to port around
- Only comes in one choice of color
- Material isn’t particularly breathable which can be a problem and lead to more sweating
4) KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chair
These ultra compact units by KingCamp make great additions to any beach day. The design of these chairs is particularly low, which is most ideal for use on sand. This allows the chair to simulate the sensation of sunbathing laying down, while still keeping the torso upright. Your legs and lower body will get the full exposure to the sun you want to give them while tanning.
Key Features
- Made from breathable and comfortable mesh that won’t retain sweat
- Weight capacity of 300lb
- Frame is made from heavy duty steel
- Cup holder attached
- Compact carrying bag included with strap
- Foam enforced armrests for additional comfort
- Made with powder coating steel that can’t rust
PROS
- Low design makes the seat more stable on the sand
- Impressive weight capacity for such a compact unit
- Extremely portable and easy to store, doesn’t take up much space
- Reasonably priced
- Choice of blue, turquoise or pink allows you to match it to your style
- Suitable for both children and adults
- Tan your body close to how you would while laying down
CONS
- No additional storage pouches included on the unit
- No option of a beach towel rack
- Low design limits the usage to beach only
5) Rio Beach Classic Folding Chair
This is one of our favorite picks of the round up. The Rio Beach Classic is a beach chair that has been in market rotation for quite some time and is the brand’s solution to the most basic form of imaginable. The chair may not come with all the bells and whistles of some more feature packed units, but it’s a sturdy, reliable which delivers long periods of use making it well worth the price tag.
Key Features
- Five reclining positions including laying flat for full body tanning
- Wooden armrests that reduce the risk of pinching while reclining
- All wooden parts of the chair are sealed in a coating that is weather proof, so there will be no risk of decay
- Built in towel bar
- Backpack carry design with padded, adjustable straps
- Weight capacity of 250lb
- Choice of 17 colors and patterns to suit every taste
- Made with rip-free fabric (600D)
- Locks at each bending point to prevent bending or breaking
PROS
- Well made, durable construction that will last
- Reasonably priced
- Classic designed beach chair
- Multiple options of angles for an enhanced tanning experience
- Great array of colors and patterns to choose from
- Bright patterns can easily be seen on a busy beach
- Breathable fabric that won’t retain sweat
- Exceptionally lightweight unit that is easy to port around
- Does not take up much space when folded
CONS
- Limited weight capacity compared to other units
- No storage pouches included
- No pillow for neck or head support
6) Rio Beach Lace-Up Suspension Folding Chair
Another impressive beach chair by Rio Beach. This version is the big brother to the afore mentioned classic unit. It’s slightly more feature packed than the classic and notably more durable. Surprisingly, this doesn’t seem to affect the price tag and all units from Rio Beach remain reasonably priced products.
Key Features
- Backpack design for easy porting, padded straps for comfort
- Backpack straps are adjustable
- Flexible design that conforms to your body
- Four reclining options for added comfort
- Frame is made from aluminum and is fully rust proof
- Weighs only 8lb
- Weight capacity of 240lb
- Large storage pouch in the back of the chair
- Made from rip-free fabric
- Removable pillow attached to the seat
- Cup holder on the side (removable)
- Lace up suspension for enhanced comfort
PROS
- Exceptionally lightweight body
- Range of bright colors
- Won’t pinch you when reclining
- Suitable for children as well
- You’ll enjoy multiple tanning positions
- Reasonably priced
- Suitable for use while camping or hiking
- Nautical themed design with lace up stitching
CONS
- Limited weight capacity when compared to other units
- Bulky when stored upright
7) STRONGBACK Low Gravity Beach Chair
Another great basic beach chair that was designed with relaxation in mind. The Strongback brand hasn’t been around for long but it’s fast becoming a competitive force in the industry. This is largely due to the focus around spinal curvature and the best angles at which to enjoy long days on the beach.
Key Features
- The patented lumbar design supports the spine’s natural curve and naturally relieves tension and relax muscles
- The ergonomic seat is designed to lift your hips and torso for enhanced comfort
- Easy to fold out and ultra lightweight
- Four colors to pick from
- Weight capacity of 300lb
- Cup holder attached to the side
- Additional lumbar pad included to prevent slouching
PROS
- Great for the beach, camping and hiking
- Award winning lumbar design
- Backpack style carrying case for handsfree usage
- Sturdy when placed on soft or hard sand thanks to extra large feet
- Improved leg posture and less risk of pinching
- A chair designed for body health
- Reasonably priced
- Compact and easy to store when folded
- Impressive weight capacity
CONS
- Little to no storage space built in
8) BeachMall Delux Aluminum Beach Chair
Finally a beach chair with a built in canopy! This nifty little unit by BeachMall is your solution to all you need at the beach. It essentially eliminates the need for an umbrella, as an overhead canopy is attached to the chair back. The great thing is that the canopy is entirely optional and can be removed as needed. No need to lug it around on days when you’re certain you won’t be making use of it.
Key Features
- Removable overhead canopy that provides ample shade over the entire chair
- Seat is made from durable polyester
- Four reclining positions
- Three canopy reclining positions to choose from
- Canopy provides UPF 50+ sun protection
- Weight capacity of 250lb
- Small zipper side pouch to hold a few personal belongings
- Cup holder built into the armrest
- Range of designs for easy identification on a crowded beach
PROS
- Slim design unit that is easy to store away
- Single sling strap for over the shoulder carrying
- The aluminum is rust resistant
- Multiple reclining options for increased tanning ability
- Material is breathable and won’t absorb sweat
- Great chair design to suit the whole family
CONS
- Doesn’t have the ability to lay flat
- Comparatively Expensive
9) Terralite Portable Camp Chair
This unit by Terralite is one of the more futuristic looking beach chairs. This is likely because it’s not exclusively after all, but actually a camping chair suitable for beach use. It made it into our roundup because it performs well on sand and provided optimum comfort. There’s no reason this device can’t accompany you on every beach visit.
Key Features
- Exceptionally lightweight at only 2lb
- Velcro straps allow you to attach the chair to a backpack or beach bag
- Terragrip feet that won’t sink in wet or dry sand
- Comes with four additional feet that are interchangeable
- Made from exceptionally durable aluminum
- Weight capacity of 350lb
- Comes with a mesh storage bag that’s easy to fold the chair into
- A number of aluminum poles need to be assembled individually at each use
- Heavy duty pole sockets
- Fully rust proof
PROS
- Impressive weight holding abilities
- Suitable for both beach and camping
- Unfathomably lightweight and portable
- Breathable mesh that regulates body temperature
- Fits into a compact bag for easy carrying
- Suitable for airplane travel, can be packed into luggage with ease
- Reasonably priced
- Sturdy on any terrain with interchangeable feet to increase this
CONS
- No choice of colors, only comes in bright green
- Requires self construction
10) Rio Beach Big Boy Backpack Chair
Another beach chair from a brand we’ve come to recognize – Rio Beach. This is one of the most basic units and consequently most affordable as well. If you’re looking for a simple product to get the job done this is the chair for you. There are very few added features and design elements. True to Rio Beach style, you can still select from a few color and pattern options for a more personalized investment.
Key Features
- Handsfree portability
- Backpack straps are adjustable and padded for carrying comfort
- Four different reclining positions to choose from
- Extra wide armrests for optimized comfort
- Lightweight, rustproof aluminum frame
- The entire unit weighs only 11lb
- Large storage pouch
- Removable neck pillow attached to the seat back
- Removable cup holder in the side
PROS
- Higher, wider seating area is there to accommodate larger body types
- Versatile chair that is good for use in any outdoor situation
- Handsfree carrying enabled
- Lightweight unit
- Enhanced longevity due to the inability to rust over time
- Ability to recline makes it a great chair to use while tanning
- Wooden panels are fully water proof and won’t decay due to moisture
- Very affordable
CONS
- Limited storage space
Buyer’s Guide
It’s our goal to help you select the best beach chair. What follows is a buyer’s guide with a detailed range of information to help make the ideal purchase for your unique needs.
Benefits of Quality Beach Chairs
Purchasing a beach chair that features all the elements you value will reap the following benefits:
- Support for your back while enjoying long periods of time on the sand
- No sand in your clothes anymore
- A better angle from which to block your face from the sun by just using a hat
- Enhanced relaxation
- Sturdy setup for windy days
- Additional shade in units with built in canopies
- You’re able to choose the design and pattern
- Pockets for storing essentials such as sun cream and books
Features to Consider While Choosing a Beach Chair
All that’s left to do is make your selection from our list of top 10 best beach chairs. Identify the features most important to your experience. The following criteria will help you single out these features.
Weight Capacity
Since beach chairs are typically made up of a combination of metal and fabric, there’s a high chance of breakage should weight capacities be exceeded. Be sure to ask yourself:
- Is there a maximum weight capacity?
- Do I fall under said weight capacity?
- Is there any feedback of more wear and tear when used by individuals of a certain weight?
Dimensions & Weight
Your chair needs to be as portable as possible so consider the dimensions of the unit before purchasing. You’ll need to be comfortable porting the unit to and from the beach, along with all of your other possessions. Since a beach chair is likely not the only thing you’ll be carrying with you, consider the maximum weight you can endure.
Reclining Positions
Reclining positions are not standard to all. Most have just one fixed angle. Some higher end chairs offer:
- Upright
- Slightly reclined
- Fully reclined
Foldability
For enhanced portability folding your chair should always make it as compact as possible. Some beach chairs will fold over just once, while others may collapse into themselves multiple times to make it extremely compact.
Construction & Materials
When spending long hours in the sun, materials can become weak and prone to bending or damage. Aluminum is generally the industry standard however any strong metal is dynamic for framework. Thick canvas material is less prone to wear and tear.
FAQ
What Should One Consider Before Buying?
Apart from the above factors consider the space available for storage. If you intend to keep it in the back of your car or in a closet take note of the dimension restrictions.
You never want your beach chair to be the item that “gets in the way” or takes up too much space. Especially in colder months when beach going isn’t an option.
How We Selected The Best Beach Chair
We found that choosing the proper beach chair comes down to aesthetic preferences.
Generally when the overall design and layout of the chair are appealing, then you’re already sold on the unit. If the price tag happens to complement the already suitable design then the chair is pretty much sold.
Why Are Beach Chairs So Expensive & is it Worth it?
They can be expensive but it all depends on where you look and what brands you consider.
The more expensive units will of course be the ones worth investing in because you get better quality for long term use. This makes it worth the cost particularly if you value comfort on every beach excursion.
Can Beach Chairs Be Used Elsewhere?
They’re designed for but not limited to the beach. You can use your portable chair in other scenarios such as on camping trips, or in your back yard when in need of extra seating for a party.
Will I Need To Construct It Myself?
No, almost all beach chairs arrive fully constructed and ready for use. Simply unfold—No assembly required.
Some comes with removable canopies you need to attach.
Final Thoughts
We trust you now have a very clear idea of what your preferences are. We hope that one of our top 10 picks in the roundup made it to the top of your list and that you feel comfortable with your planned purchase.
Gone are the days of wrestling towels in the wind, or moulding sand to find a more comfortable foundation. Investing in your beach chair today will change all future beach excursions for the better!
Let’s hit the shore!