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Protect Yourself from the Sun and Elements with the Perfect Shelter
When Summer is here (or before if you are a crazy Brit like me), it’s time to hit the Seaside! One of the things you must pack for the perfect beach day is some portable shade to stop sunburn or heatstroke.
A beach tent is perfect for this; a good sun canopy provides shade and sun protection; if it has sides, it can give essential cover from rain and strong winds. In addition, the best sun shelters come with built-in mesh pockets or zip-up doors to keep personal items, beach gear and beach towels safe, and ventilation windows to keep you cool.
With so many options, deciding which one to buy takes time. That’s where we come in.
This guide will look at the best beach canopies available and help you find the perfect one for your needs. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions and provide a buyer’s guide to help you buy the right sun tent
In-depth Reviews of Beach Tents:
BEST BEACH TENT FOR BABIES – Badabulle Baby Tent
This baby sun shade is the perfect way to protect your little one from the sun, wind and sand. The tent for kids features a pop-up system that allows for easy setup and take-down and also comes with four pegs for securing the tent firmly on the ground. Good ventilation is ensured with the wide opening and mesh on the sides, keeping your child cool and comfortable.
Key Features:
- UPF50+ protection from the sun’s rays, wind and sand
- Generous size of 125 x 100 x 85 cm suitable for a child, twins and even an adult
- Extra ventilation with wide openings and sides of mesh
- Pop-up system for easy setup and take-down
- Four pegs for securing the tent firmly on the ground
POSITIVES
- Great for privacy during nappy change
- Lightweight and easy to carry, it fits in a suitcase
- Great value for money, good quality and durable
- Offers excellent sun protection on hot days with great ventilation
- Suitable for multiple uses (beach, pool, garden & camping trip shelter)
- It can be used as a play tent for toddlers
NEGATIVES
- Flimsy and challenging to set up/put away
- Video instructions are not accessible.
BEST BEACH PARASOL – SKLZ UNISEX SPORT-BRELLA
Introducing the SKLZ umbrella tent, the perfect solution for quick and easy shade protection from the sun, wind, and rain. With its unique folding umbrella action, it’s the easiest setup sun shelter available. It’s the perfect travel size. The rugged umbrella structure features side flaps for full coverage protection, top wind vents and zippered side windows for efficient airflow, and maximum sun protection of UPF50+.
Key Features
- Quick and easy setup
- Compact size (137cm x 10cm x 10cm) and lightweight (4kg)
- Rugged and durable umbrella structure
- Side flaps for full cover protection
- Top wind vents and side zippered windows for efficient airflow
- Maximum sun protection UPF50+
- Internal pockets for stakes, valuables, and gear
- Includes convenient carry bag, tethers, and ground stakes for extra stability.
POSITIVES
- Multiple customers mention the ease of setup and use
- Many customers say the durability and sturdiness of the sun brolly
- Buyers say the excellent sun protection as its UPF50+
- The sun parasol is five feet tall
- Affordable and good value for money
- It gave excellent wind resistance
NEGATIVES
- Weak plastic used in critical parts of the umbrella
- Some people found it heavy to carry
BEAT BEACH CABANA GAZEBO – WOLFWISE FAMILY SUN TENT
Thick fibreglass poles make the tent stronger, and it comes equipped with three sandbags, four guy ropes and ten stakes to ensure stability in the wind.
Key Features:
- Easy setup with spring opening system
- 9.5 mm thick fibreglass poles and three sandbags make this poolside cabana stable
- Side panels and zipper door give privacy to change, sleep etc
- Water-repellent polyester fabric and silver-coated inside so rainproof too
- Family-friendly with room for up to 5 people, beach chairs etc
- Excellent cooling with three oversized mesh windows for ventilation and fully openable front doors
- Mesh storage bags and a hook for hanging lights or small fans
POSITIVES
- Customers loved the zippable door giving a private space for changing, toileting & napping.
- It can be locked up securely while swimming or riding a donkey.
- Quick and easy setup by one person. Instructions are sewn into the transport bag for easy reference.
- It stays cool and shaded with ventilation windows even on hot summer days.
- It is easy to carry with a shoulder strap bag and lightweight and easy to carry even long distances.
- Has a hook on the top for hanging lights or small fans.
- Are water repellant and shower proof too
NEGATIVES
- Zips can rust if stored away wet
- It makes a lot of noise in windy conditions
- Unpack before you first use it to make sure stitching etc., is perfect
BEST SUN PROTECTION TENT – RED SURICATA BEACH CANOPY
Get ready to enjoy the perfect day out with Red Suricata’s new beach canopy. Our unique design includes four tall poles, creating a 50% larger shaded area than traditional beach canopies. The medium size fits 3-4 adults lying down and the large size fits 6-7 adults. Our canopy is also water-repellent, making it an excellent rain shelter.
Key Features:
- Bigger Shade Area: Our full-height canopy and tall poles increase the shaded area by 50%.
- Lightweight Hi-Tech Poles: Our patented poles are coloured, foldable, lightweight, rustproof, and feature a pointed stake for easy installation in sand or ground.
- Improved Design for Stronger Winds: Includes 4 pole anchor screws for added stability and easy installation.
- Easy Set-up: Can be assembled in minutes with easy-to-follow instructions.
- Durable and Portable: UPF50 UV-rated fabric, lightweight design and waterproof carry bag make it perfect for years of family fun and outdoor adventures.
POSITIVES
- Available in Eight bright colours and two sizes
- Able to withstand winds of 20-25 mph when set up correctly
- Easy and quick setup and takedown process
- It comes with a spacious carrying bag that can fit other beach items
- Made of high-quality materials
- Very Lightweight, compact design
- Adjustable to changing wind conditions
NEGATIVES
- It needs two people to set it up.
- The canopy may require constant adjustments in windy conditions.
- Sandbags may slide or lose tension, especially if people fall over them as they extend far beyond the tent
- The zipper on the storage bag is made of metal and may corrode.
BEST BEACH GAZEBO – COLEMAN EVENT GAZEBO
The Coleman Beach Sun Shelter is a great option when finding the perfect beach gazebo. This pop-up gazebo offers a variety of features that make it an ideal choice for having fun in the sun.
Key Features:
- Sun Protection: SPF 50+ with the certified Coleman UV guard
- Sturdy Design: Strong steel frame construction with secured PVC plug connections
- Large shaded cover with great ventilation: 20.2 m sq shade area with air vents for hot air to escape
- Size: 4.5 x 4.5 m (15 x 15 ft)
- Weight: 22 kg
- Packing size: 100 x 22 x 35 cm
- Includes carry bag, pegs and wind ropes
The Coleman Event Shelter can be used for camping shelters, weekend gardens and sporting events and should not be used as a permanent or long-term shelter solution. With its sturdy design, sun protection and ample space and ventilation, it is the perfect choice for a day at the beach.
POSITIVES
- Easy to assemble with two people & portable
- Very sturdy & value for money
- Floor straps and pegs ensure proper shape
- Good height
- It can be used as an annexe for a campervan
- Improved screen coating for a longer lifespan
- Showerproof & excellent sun protection
NEGATIVES
- Needs sides for weather protection – rain/wind
- Clip-on walls are not rain-tight at the bottom
- A bit heavy for transport
- Some condensation in the morning
- Not recommended for BBQ use
Beach Shelter Buyer’s Guide:
It’s essential to research and ensure the tent you choose will suit your specific needs. So here are the factors we think you should consider before you buy:
Size and Space: Consider how much space you need for yourself, your family, and your gear. Pop-up tents and canopies are great for small groups, while larger shelters and cabanas can accommodate large families, beach chairs, tables etc. Check the tent’s dimensions and how many people it can comfortably fit.
Material and Durability: Look for a sunshade made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as polyester or nylon. These materials can withstand the sun, wind, and rain and will last you for multiple seasons. Also, check for UV protection, protecting you and your family from harmful sun rays.
Ease of Setup and Take Down: A tent that’s easy to set up and take down is essential, especially if you’re planning to use it frequently. Pop-up tents are easiest to set up, while larger shelters and cabanas may require more time and effort. Look for tents with colour-coded poles or easy-to-follow instructions to make the process as seamless as possible.
UV Protection: UV protection is essential in Seaside tents, as it will protect you and your family from harmful sun rays. Look for tents with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings of 50 or higher.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to keep the tent cool and comfortable. Look for tents with mesh windows or vents that allow a breeze to flow through and keep the tent cool.
Price: Sun tents come in a wide range of prices, so it’s essential to consider your budget. Basic pop-up tents can be found for as little as £20 in Argos or BM Bargains (1,2), while fancier, large shelters can cost several hundred Pounds. Decide what features are most important to you, and then compare prices to find the best value.
Additional Features: Some beach tents have other features, such as sand pockets, built-in floors, or privacy panels. Consider what extra features would be helpful to you and your family before making a purchase.
Sun Shelter FAQs:
What’s the best tent for the beach?
When choosing a beach tent, it’s essential to consider factors such as size and space, material and durability, ease of setup and take down, UV protection and ventilation. Additional features such as sand pockets, built-in floors or privacy panels are worth considering.
Is a beach tent worth it?
A beach tent is worth it for those looking for sun protection and comfort while enjoying a seaside trip. They provide shade and shelter from the sun and wind and can also protect from rain. They also offer privacy and a place to store your belongings.
What is the best beach shade canopy?
When choosing a beach shade canopy, it’s essential to consider factors such as size and space, material and durability, ease of setup and take down, UV protection and ventilation. Additional features such as sand pockets, built-in floors or privacy panels are worth considering.
Can I use a regular tent at the beach?
A regular tent may not be the best option for the beach as it is not typically designed with UV protection and is not as durable or resistant to the elements as a beach tent.
Do beach tents protect from the sun?
Yes, beach tents do protect from the sun. Most beach tents are made with UV protection material that blocks harmful sun rays and keeps you and your family safe. They also provide shade and shelter from the sun, which can help keep you cool and comfortable.
Is a beach tent or umbrella better?
It will depend on your needs as to whether a beach tent or umbrella is better for you. Beach umbrellas are great for providing shade and are easy to put up and take down, making them great for day trips. On the other hand, beach tents offer more space and protection from the elements and are perfect for larger families or groups.
What colour tent is best for the beach?
The colour of your beach tent may not be a significant factor in functionality, but it can be a personal preference. Some people prefer lighter colours such as white or beige as they can help to keep the tent cool by reflecting sunlight. Darker colours, such as blue or green, may blend in more with the natural surroundings.
Do beach tents get hot?
Beach tents can get hot if they need proper ventilation or are not made with breathable material. Look for tents with mesh ventilation windows or vents to allow a breeze to flow and keep the tent cool. Additionally, lighter colours such as white or beige can help to reflect sunlight and keep the tent cooler.
Can you get impaled by a beach umbrella?
It is possible to get impaled by a beach umbrella if it is not anchored correctly or if it is not in good condition. It’s vital to ensure that your beach umbrella is pushed deep in the sand (or use a sand screw) and that the poles and ribs are in good condition before using it. Additionally, always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take caution when using a beach umbrella.
References:
Stop Sunburn & Heatstroke: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/
Argos: https://www.argos.co.uk/
BM Bargains: https://www.bmstores.co.uk/
Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API