You’ve made the drive, gathered the family, packed the cooler with lunches and drinks, and you’re heading out onto the sand on a bright Summer day. You unfold your beach chair and SNAP, it breaks, or bends, or the rotting fabric rips. It happens to the best of us. We’ve checked dozens of chair reviews and features. Here are our picks for best beach chair.
We were not provided with free or discounted products to review. These recommendations were not influenced by manufacturers. We did, however, heavily consider customer reviews at retail websites when deciding which products to feature. We like these products, but we took care to make sure other vacationers agree. Some of the product links include affiliate codes. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices listed are updated regularly, but subject to change at any time.
Tommy Bahama Classic 5-Position Lay Flat Aluminum Beach Chair
$66.83 
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
The Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair is a blend of comfort and convenience for your beach days. This chair is designed with a lightweight, durable aluminum frame, making it easy to carry across the sand. It features a unique 5-position adjustment including a lay-flat option, providing ultimate comfort whether you're sitting up or lounging. The chair is equipped with padded backpack straps for hands-free transport, making it a breeze to take to and from the beach.
Crafted with a durable fabric that withstands the elements, this chair is both practical and stylish. The inclusion of a large cooler/storage pouch on the back allows you to keep your beach essentials like sunscreen, books, and snacks within easy reach. Additionally, the chair includes a handy cup holder to keep your favorite beach beverage secure and accessible.
GCI Backpack Beach Chair with Sun Shade
$110.93
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
The GCI Outdoor Backpack Beach Chair is a top-tier choice for beach enthusiasts seeking both comfort and convenience. This chair features a lightweight, yet sturdy design, making it easy to carry on any beach outing. Its backpack-style straps allow for effortless hands-free transport, adding to its overall practicality. The chair offers 4 adjustable backrest settings, ensuring you can find the perfect angle for relaxation, whether you're sunbathing, reading, or simply enjoying the beach. It includes additional thoughtful features like a drink holder, ensuring your drink is always within reach. What really sets the CGI chair apart is the integrated sun shade!
Rio Lace Up Aluminum Backpack Chair
$61.53
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
You may have noticed a recurring theme on our beach gear guides. We like backpack features. If your visits to the beach are like ours, all hands are busy with coolers, games, toys and gear. Anything with a shoulder strap or backpack straps increases comfort and utility. This highly-rated Rio Lace up chair is made from aluminum and molded plastic (no rust!). Its light weight, adjusts to 4 positions for optimal sun exposure/napping, and features a durable polyfull fabric seat suspended by laces. There is a towel/gear pocket behind the back, a neck pillow, and three colors are available. We give the Rio chair top marks for comfort. With its overall light weight and backpack straps, every family member should be able to carry their own chair to and from the beach. Did we mention that the Rio chair is very reasonably priced?
Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
Another great beach chair is made by Tommy Bahama. Like the Rio Chair, this chair features backpack straps for easy carry to and from the sand. The fabric is UV-stabilized 600 denier that holds up to 300lbs. The frame is aluminum and the arm rests are molded plastic. There is an arm organizer pouch for phone, drinks, etc. and a neck pillow. The unique feature of the Tommy chair is a small insulated cooler pouch. It is minimally insulated, but big enough for a couple drinks. If you travel light, combining a chair and cooler may be just the ticket. The backpack straps are padded and a rubber carrying handle sits atop the back. Many color/graphic options are available. We see why over 1000 people love this chair!
Coleman Utopia Breeze Sling Chair
$42.99
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
Fancy yourself a minimalist? The Coleman Utopia Breeze chair might be perfect for you. Compact, light weight (5.3 lbs.), and ease of transportation make this one of our picks. This chair is designed to sit low, so your legs will be positioned straight in front of you. There is a mesh beverage holder on the right arm, and a seatback pocket to store reading material. It really is a light, simple solution loved by many.
Cascade Mountain Tech Low Profile Beach Chair
$49.98
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
Don't be fooled by the "mountain" name. The Cascade Mountain Tech Camp Chair is great in the sand, too! This low profile, compact, foldable chair measures 21" high and 20" wide, and sits 5" off the sand. It folds fast to 26" by 8". The breathable mesh back offers amazing comfort on hot beach days, and cushioned arm rests allow you to rest comfortably for hours. A storage bag with shoulder strap is included. The Cascade Mountain Tech chair can accommodate humans (and pups!) up to 250 lbs.
WEKAPO Inflatable Lounger
$39.98
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
Kids love this inflatable lounger. Made from durable, lightweight fabric, the WEKAPO lounger is designed to withstand a variety of outdoor elements while providing a comfortable, supportive seat. Its unique ergonomic design with a pillow-shaped headrest offers maximum relaxation and comfort.
When you leave the beach, easily deflate and fold into a convenient carrying bag. This WEKAPO lounger also features pockets for storing books, glasses, or snacks, and a stake for securing it to the ground on windy days.
Note that this inflatable is for solid ground only, and not intended for use in the water!
Bonus: Towel Bands - Best Beach Chair Accessory
$11.99
*Prices are updated regularly but subject to change
Towel Bands are a simple yet ingenious solution for keeping your beach or pool towels securely in place. These stretchable bands are designed to wrap around your towel and lounge chair, preventing the towel from slipping, sliding, or blowing away in the wind. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, Towel Bands are built to withstand the outdoor elements while maintaining their elasticity and grip. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and can easily be stretched to fit most chair sizes. Compact and lightweight, these bands are easy to carry and store, making them a must-have accessory for any beachgoer or pool enthusiast looking for a hassle-free sunbathing experience.
