The 12 Best Beach Canopies of Summer 2024 That Will Level Up Your Sunny Lounging
Never underestimate the power of this sand essential.
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Planning a beach day is a whole process that requires a little bit of strategy. Expert beachgoers know there are two keys to the perfect summer sand excursion: a thought-out beach packing list and timing. The sooner you hit the sand, the better (mainly so you can stake your rightful place on zee beach). If you wait too long (especially during the height of summer beach season), finding a spot where you can soak up some vitamin D and flip through your new beach read is going to be challenging, to say the least.
What’s really gonna make your experience memorable, though, are the proper tools and ~equipment~. That’s right—it’s all about that summer packing list. Step one always calls for some cute swimwear. Next, you’re gonna need a well-stocked cooler full of bevs along with a solid lineup of snacks to help keep hanger at bay. Beach equipment like a plush, oversize towel, sunscreen (protect that skin, bb!), and a comfy lounge chair are also v necessary. But can I talk to you for a sec about what may possibly be the most overlooked summer accessory? Allow me to introduce you to the beach canopy (and a sneak of my faves real quick below):
The Top Picks for the Best Beach Cabanas for Summer 2024
Now, you might be thinking, Hmm, a beach canopy seems a *bit* extra, and hey, I hear ya. But if you’re heading to the beach with a group of pals, a canopy is a convenient way to keep everyone corralled while providing some much-needed shade. It’s also the perfect hangout spot for eating, drinking, playing games, and cooling off after too much sun. TBH, a beach canopy is just the right amount of extra to make you the envy of all your fellow beachgoers. Some of these are also quality IG backdrops for your summer thirst trap pics, so you’re welcome for that.
Ready to find the best beach canopy for your best summer yet? Scroll through to shop our favorites for your next beach retreat.
Pros
- The pockets on each leg can be filled with sand so this cutie stays in place
Cons
- This cabana is a tad on the larger side, so transpo could present an issue
Set up this chic tent (which has pockets for your sunglasses, phone, or drinks) and immediately be transported to the South of France, even if you're just at a local beach that's a little too family-friendly (IYKYK). All that's missing from this picture? A can of crisp rosé and a romance novel.
| Size | 78 sq inches |
Pros
- It’s lightweight and easy to move
- The floor is extendable for extra roominess
Cons
- Strong winds might disrupt the assembly process
This beach tent is no joke: It's roomy enough for three people, features breezy mesh windows, and keeps you protected from the sun, thanks to a genius UPF 50+ exterior. Choose from four different colors, including white and mint green.
| Size | 83 x 55 x 46 inches |
Pros
- This lovely cabana is UV resistant, so no premature color fading over here
Cons
- The side panels can only be used in low wind conditions
A beach cabana with removable curtains that doubles as a changing room for slipping out of sandy suits? It's kinda giving Princess Diaries vibes, no? Shop this cabana and you're guaranteed to be the most chic beach visitor on the sand.
Pros
- It’s extremely portable
- There are reflective ropes built in for night vision!
Cons
- The tent setup might require two or more people
The coolest feature of this tent is that it folds down to a compact, easy-to-lug size, and it comes in its own carrying case. It doubles as a lil rain shelter too, if it starts to sprinkle during your beach day. Beachside picnic, anyone?
| Size | 6.5 x 6.5 x 7 ft. |
Pros
- Comes with a just-as-fab matching canvas carry bag
Cons
- At 16 pounds, it’s a slightly heavier option
Those colors! That fringe! What else does one need? All of your friends will want to take photos for the 'gram with this fashionable beach tent in the background.
| Size | 6'5 x 6'5 ft. |
Pros
- This pretty canvas is UV, water, and mold-treated to make sure it lasts
Cons
- Be extra mindful of how you position the pegs and poles to prevent a flyaway catastrophe
Secure six feet of shade with this beach tent that's giving all the best vintage vibes. It includes four pegs, guide poles, and a matching canvas carry bag.
| Size | 6' x 6' ft. |
Pros
- Setup is simple because this tent pops open with ease
Cons
- Knowing how to fold it back up could take some getting used to
- You have to keep this away from rougher surfaces bc it might rip
Naps on the beach are the literal best, and this pop-up beach tent is practically made for them. It's so easy to set up, too: Packed as a round disc, just hold it away from you, slightly toss it, and this bad boy snaps right open.
| Size | 86.5 x 47.5 x 39.5 inches |
Pros
- Very lightweight—like, only 4 pounds!
- Includes an awning for extra shade
- There are two windows to get some of that fresh air through
Cons
- A bit on the smaller side—it can comfortably fit two or three people
When your crew of three gets bumped up to four, bust out this large tent, which is perfectly designed for two adults and two kids. Bonus: It has an internal pocket where you can store personal items, and sturdy poles to keep it anchored on even the breeziest beach days.
| Size | 92 x 45 x 45 inches |
Pros
- Gives approximately 64 feet of shade and has UPF 50+ protection
- Easy to carry because it folds into just over 3 feet
Cons
- Might be kinda heavy at 12.5 pounds
CoolCabanas is a beach staple and this super large canopy—which comes in 12 colors and two sizes!—makes it understandable as to why. The biggest version of the tent can comfortably keep a family or group of friends shaded all day long. And! You don't even have to worry about it flying down the beach since all four legs have sand pockets that hold up to 35 pounds. Reviews have waxed poetic about how easy it is to set up and that it can hold it's own against wild winds. We love form and function.
| Size | 8 ft x 8 ft when open |
Pros
- Waterproof
- Lightweight and very compatible (JIC you’re trying to fit it in some luggage)
Cons
- The poles can be delicate during assembly
This beach tent is ideal for groups of up to four adults. Besides the sand, it can be set up on lawns, at picnics—you name it. Sun-averse folks will love its UPF 50+ protection too.
| Size | 84" x 84" x 78" |
Pros
- It provides really great sun protection…as in, UPF 50+ level coverage
- It can hold up to four people with room to move around
Cons
- It’s prone to breaking during windy outdoor setups
This top-selling beach tent is loved for its portability; it can be easily assembled and taken down in seconds. On over-the-top hot days, extend the floor of the tent to keep your legs and calves off of scorching sand. And since pockets are always a big deal, you'll love that this one has multiple interior sleeves for stashing all your goods.
| Size | 7'11" x 4'11 |
Pros
- It fits multiple people
- It has a ~retractable~ top piece if you’d rather bask in the sun
Cons
- *Technically* not made to withhold rough sand, so be gentle!
Okay, okay—this is *technically* a float and not a tent, but you get so much bang for your buck with this printed lounger. It's an inflatable float that you can bring with you into the water (just anchor it to something sturdy so you don't end up too far from shore). It also doubles as a lil cabana for taking shaded naps in the sand. We're sold.
| Size | 111 x 56 x 52 inches |
Should I Get a Beach Tent?
Absolutely! Because (1) they provide a fun vibe and chic photo backdrop and (2) they are a great home base for the beach happy hours that you're sure to host this summer. And those are just off the top of my hear. But above all else, it's their sun protection people! Unlike an umbrella, tents like the ones above can shade a lot more square footage. While we emphasize lathering up on the sunscreen (year-round, BTW), investing in a tent is securing a solid extra layer of protection from harmful rays.
How Do I Keep My Tent From Blowing Away at the Beach?
Several tents and cabanas on the market today come with pockets that can be filled with sand to hold them down. If you're on the hunt for additional anchoring, might we suggest grabbing a set of separate sandbags? This buy is pretty worth your while, especially to avoid the headache of dealing with your tent on a super windy day.
Here’s How We Selected the Best Beach Tents
Our tent and cabana expertise stems from pretty intense deep dives into user reviews and first-hand experiences. We are here to help you curate celeb-caught-by-the-paparazzi-while-on-vacay level vibes only. Which is why our team meticulously dug through the overwhelming wealth of options out there to handpick only the best of the best for you. We're talking about the best warm weather ’fits, the top beach lounging chairs, and yes, even the recipes that've gotta go on your summertime menu. This is your one-stop-shop to get the good times rolling.
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