Best Beach Chairs of 2026 in the UK

We tested the top beach chairs side-by-side in real-world conditions, including UK sandy beaches, pebble shores and coastal spots. Our goal was to find out which chairs genuinely hold up on a proper day at the beach.

This in-depth guide compares the best options available, spanning the two distinct design styles you'll find (front folding and crossbar), since what suits you best depends on your intended use and your body. We tested every chair by walking with it and sitting in it for hours across sand, pebbles and grass. Access full reviews of each product via the 'Read Full Review' buttons below, or watch our beach chair video review. Looking for some fun at the beach? Check out our list of the best inflatable kayaks.

Independently tested | Updated for 2026 | Real-world comparison testing

Updated 4th September 2026: Updated Layout

Contents Section

Compare The Best Beach Chairs

Kampa Sandy High Back beach chair

Kampa Sandy High Back

Price At Time Of Writing | £29.99


Overall Rating | 90

Construction and Design | 8

Setup/Pack Down | 8

Portability | 9

Comfort | 8

Durability | 7


Open Size - 64x57x64cm

Weight - 3kg

Load Capacity - 120kg

Materials - Steel, polyester


Best For - Basic, no-fuss camping trips

Pros - Sturdy build, simple setup

Cons - Lacks accessories like cup holders

Overall - A reliable and affordable no-frills chair

Tommy Bahama Deluxe beach chair

Tommy Bahama Deluxe

Price At Time Of Writing | £149.99


Overall Rating | 86

Construction and Design | 8

Setup/Pack Down | 5

Portability | 8

Comfort | 8

Durability | 7


Open Size - 61x81x71cm

Weight - 3.33kg

Load Capacity - 136kg

Materials - Aluminium, polyester


Best For - Stylish relaxation at festivals or the beach

Pros - Attractive design, lightweight, good features

Cons - Low back support, weak carry straps

Overall - A comfortable lounger best for shorter sessions

RIO Beach Folding chair

RIO Beach Folding

Price At Time Of Writing | £111.84


Overall Rating | 85

Construction and Design | 9

Setup/Pack Down | 7

Portability | 9

Comfort | 5

Durability | 5


Open Size - 78x63x75cm

Weight - 3.18kg

Load Capacity - 113kg

Materials - Aluminium, polyester


Best For - Style-conscious users for short outings

Pros - Lightweight, good-looking, well-made

Cons - Shallow seat, no headrest

Overall - A portable chair where aesthetics are a priority

SONGMICS Portable beach chair

SONGMICS Portable

Price At Time Of Writing | £45.81


Overall Rating | 81

Construction and Design | 7

Setup/Pack Down | 6

Portability | 9

Comfort | 4

Durability | 5


Open Size - 63x68x75cm

Weight - 3.1kg

Load Capacity - 150kg

Materials - Aluminium, polyester


Best For - Smaller adults or children on a budget

Pros - Very lightweight, low price

Cons - Too small for larger users

Overall - A compact, basic chair for petite frames

Homevative Foldable Backpack

Price At Time Of Writing | £75.00


Overall Rating | 81

Construction and Design | 8

Setup/Pack Down | 5

Portability | 7

Comfort | 5

Durability | 6


Open Size - 43x64x84cm

Weight - 3.75kg

Load Capacity - 109kg

Materials - Aluminium, polyester


Best For - Organised day trips where gear access is key

Pros - Great storage pockets, durable

Cons - Uncomfortable for reclining or tall people

Overall - A practical chair for those who need storage

GCI Outdoors Sunshade beach chair

GCI Outdoors Sunshade

Price At Time Of Writing | £120.02


Overall Rating | 76

Construction and Design | 6

Setup/Pack Down | 7

Portability | 3

Comfort | 7

Durability | 3


Open Size - 114x62x110cm

Weight - 4.63kg

Load Capacity - 113kg

Materials - Aluminium/steel, polyester/mesh


Best For - All-day sun protection at a fixed campsite

Pros - Effective built-in shade

Cons - Heavy and bulky

Overall - The top choice if shade is your main concern

Homecall Beach Folding chair

Homecall Beach Folding

Price At Time Of Writing | £34.62


Overall Rating | 69

Construction and Design | 4

Setup/Pack Down | 6

Portability | 3

Comfort | 4

Durability | 2


Open Size - 52x35x56cm

Weight - 3.49kg

Load Capacity - 120kg

Materials - Steel, polyester


Best For - Occasional, low-cost use

Pros - Simple to set up, strong fabric

Cons - Poor quality frame components

Overall - A functional but basic entry-level chair

Overall Results

Learn what to look for in a beach chair in our video review

Advice We’d Give to A Friend

The Basics

How do I know if it's going to be comfortable? - Consider whether you want a chair that reclines or something more upright. Look for a good amount of space between the seat fabric and any metal frame to ensure no frame digs into you, check the depth and width of the seat matches your size, and look for extras like armrests, cup holders and storage pockets.

How important is portability in a beach chair? - If you've ever carried a whole bunch of stuff down to the seaside, pretty important. Look for lighter-weight chairs with backpack or carry straps.

Will it last? - Well-constructed chairs made of strong steel or aluminium frames that have been rust-treated, and high denier fabric, will last for years, so look for those qualities when choosing a beach chair.

Budget

You can definitely find a decent beach chair without having to spend a ton of money. For a better comparison, we can divide the market into three main categories:

Under £50 - You're generally looking at chairs with a much simpler design that probably won't recline. You can get some good durable picks in this range if you're happy with that.

£50 to £75 - You're usually looking at some less well-constructed reclining chairs, or chairs with more features. There are decent chairs here too, but if you're after a quality reclining chair that will last, we'd suggest spending a bit more.

Over £100 - You'll get a high-quality, durable reclining chair with lots of features. In most cases, we don't think you should be spending over 150 pounds on a beach chair.

Purpose of Use

Think about how you will use your beach chair. Is it just for you or will you be sharing it with the family? Will you be buying multiple? Do you prefer reclining or reading a book more upright or do you bring a lot of items with you to the beach that you need to store somewhere? Consider these questions when choosing a beach chair as they will determine the type of chair you buy and how simple the design is.


UK-Specific Considerations

Weatherproofing matters - Unlike beaches in the Med, the British seaside isn’t always blessed with endless sunshine. A good beach chair for UK use should be able to withstand sudden showers, salty sea air and even a bit of sand-laden wind. Look for rust-resistant frames (powder-coated steel or aluminium) and quick-dry, mildew-resistant fabric. That way, if you get caught in a drizzle, or forget to pack it away between trips, it won’t be ruined after a season.

Transport and car boot space - If you’re heading to Cornwall, Northumberland, or even a day trip to Brighton, chances are you’ll be packing your car to the brim with buckets, spades, picnic gear and maybe a windbreak or two. That’s where compact, folding chairs with backpack straps or carry handles really come into their own. Some models even fold flat enough to slide neatly into smaller cars, which can save a lot of faff when packing.

Stability on pebbles and sand - Not all UK beaches are golden sand. From Brighton’s famous pebbles to Blackpool’s mix of wet and dry patches, the surface under your chair isn’t always predictable. Chairs with wider legs or ‘sand feet’ won’t sink or wobble as much. If you tend to visit stonier beaches, look for a sturdier frame that can balance comfortably without digging in.

UV protection (for you and the chair) - It might sound odd given our reputation for grey skies, but UV damage is still worth considering. Long exposure to sun can fade fabric and weaken stitching. Chairs with built-in canopies or detachable shades can be a real bonus, especially handy on those rare scorching days in Dorset or Devon.

Family-friendly extras - If you’re hauling gear for the whole family, extras like cup holders, side pockets, or even insulated pouches for snacks and drinks can make life easier. Some UK brands also sell ‘double’ or loveseat-style beach chairs, which can be a fun option for couples or kids who always pinch your spot.

Safety Checklist

Be mindful of the tide - It’s easy to plonk your chair down and forget the sea is creeping closer. Always check the local tide times before you set up, especially on family trips. Getting caught by a fast-rising tide is more common than you might think on UK beaches. You can check tide forecasts on the ADMIRALITY EasyTide website.

Protect yourself from the sun - Even on cloudy days, UV levels can still be high, particularly by the coast where the sun reflects off the water. Bring a chair with a canopy if possible, or pair your seat with a windbreak or beach umbrella. The NHS Sun Safety Guidance has useful advice on sunscreen and shade.

Anchor your chair in windy weather - British beaches can get blustery and lightweight folding chairs can tip or blow over if you’re not careful. Place your chair behind a windbreak, weigh it down with your bag, or dig the legs in slightly if you’re on sand. For coastal weather warnings, keep an eye on the Met Office before heading out.

 
Comparison Section

Which Beach Chair is Right for You?

I'm looking for a beach chair…

Kampa Sandy High Back

…that's a genuinely great all-rounder

A lightweight, durable and well-designed chair that punches well above its price point.

Tommy Bahama Deluxe

…with a stylish look for festivals or short outings

Attractive, well-made designs best suited to shorter sessions rather than a full day's use.

SONGMICS Portable

…that's ultra-lightweight to carry

Very light and easy to carry on your back, though on the small side, best for smaller adults or kids.

Homevative Foldable Backpack

…with plenty of storage for a day out

Great storage pockets and durable construction, though less comfortable for reclining or taller people.

GCI Outdoors Sunshade

…with built-in shade

Effective sun protection for all-day use at a fixed spot, though heavy and bulky to carry.

Homecall Beach Folding

…on a tight budget

Simple and affordable, a functional pick for occasional, low-cost use.

 

Ratings By Category

Method

We selected the top beach chair in each category after evaluating the chairs currently on the market and each chair instantly earned 50 points just for being chosen. To then rank them out of 10 in Construction/Design, Setup/Pack Down, Portability, Comfort and Durability, we conducted field tests and in-person evaluations.

Rankings are modified or weighted according to their significance and degree of variation, for example, certain categories will be rated from 1 to 10, while others will be rated from 4 to 9, etc. However, there are occasionally outliers. We have done our best to accurately depict how each beach chair ranks overall and why.

Our aim is to give you all the information you need to find the best beach chair in the UK. At The Equipment Guide, we believe that thorough reviews of beach chairs should give you all the information you need to choose one.

Testing Methodology

All the beach chairs we review get properly tested out in real UK conditions, such as sand, sea breezes and the occasional gust that sends your towel flying. Once we’ve chosen which models to review, we start with a full setup and inspection, checking how solid each chair feels, whether the frame and joints are sturdy, and how strong the fabric is. We also see how easy it is to unfold, set up and pack away again without a wrestling match. Of course, we also check whether the weight, packed size and carry bag actually match what the brand promises.

Next, it’s all about performance. We spend time sitting in each chair for a proper session, doing as you normally would, whether it be reading, chatting, picnicking or just soaking up the rare British sunshine. We test comfort over a few hours, how stable the chair feels on soft sand, pebbles or uneven ground, and whether handy features like recline settings, armrests, cup holders or built-in shades actually work well in real life. We also get different testers involved, since what fits one person might not suit another.

Finally, we test how tough and user-friendly each chair really is over time. We open and close it repeatedly to see how the mechanisms hold up, look for wear from salt, sand and sunlight, and assess how easy it is to carry from the car park across the beach. Once all that’s done, we score the chairs across comfort, durability, portability and design. The final ratings reflect how the chair performs when you’re actually using it from start to finish on a real day at the seaside.

Want to see exactly how we test and rate everything? Check out the drop-downs below for the full breakdown of our process:

 

Construction/Design

Construction and Design looks at how well the beach chair is made and the quality of the fabrics and frame. It also looks at how well the chair is designed for use.

The difference here does tend to be in line with the price: cheaper chairs will be less well-constructed, except for our top pick. The Kampa Sandy High Back came out on top as it's a great combination of lightweight, durable materials, thoughtful design and comfort, especially for the price. The Tommy Bahama Deluxe and Rio Beach Folding chairs both have features like reclinable backs, armrests, pockets and drink holders. The second cheapest of our picks, the Homecall Beach Folding, does have durable fabric, but its metal frame is low quality and it has no extras.

The Tommy Bahama has a wide seat with armrests

Low armrests can be uncomfortable for tall people

 

Setup/Pack Down

Setup/Pack Down focuses on how easy it is to set up a beach chair, how large it opens to, then how easy it is to pack away and how small its packed size is.

Most chairs are really simple to set up, so there's not a huge amount of difference here between the ratings. Usually non-reclining chairs are slightly easier to set up. It’s best to get a reclinable chair that has something to keep it in place, as with the Homecall Beach Folding chair, it needs your weight to fully keep it open. The SONGMICS Portable Beach Chair requires a simple opening and placing it on the sand, although you must make sure to fold out the support stand first, which is easy to forget. The Tommy Bahama is quite complex to set up for a beach chair, requiring different stages of clips and openings which can be annoying. The Kampa Sandy High Back ranks highest here, with a smooth open and close with its folding design.

Consider how you will store and transport the chair, as this can help you make your purchasing decision

Many of the chairs on our list have a simple 'open/close' design

 

Portability

Portability looks at the important mix of weight, packed size and ease of carrying a chair. In selecting the most portable beach chair, also consider its carry style — does it have in-built backpack straps or come in a carry bag with a shoulder strap?

There are two clear styles here: chairs that fold in half and chairs that fold more into a tube shape. Smaller chairs will obviously tend to be lighter, but the key thing for us is to think about how you want to use it. If it's just a chair for you then backpack chairs are great, whereas if you're a family of four carting a lot of stuff down to the sea then you might want several smaller chairs that you can fit in a cart. The SONGMICS Portable Beach Chair has the word in its name, it’s light — the second lightest of our picks — and comfortable to carry on your back. The lightest on our list, the Kampa Sandy High Back, packs into a small tube, so it’s easy to carry, although the carry back could be better quality. The RIO Beach Folding Chair has a carry strap to sling over your shoulder, although the single strap may not suit some people.

Some chairs compact into a tube with a bag and carrying strap, others fold in half

The Tommy Bahama chair is equipped with backpack straps for transport

 
 

Comfort

Comfort considers the size of the sitting area, how high the back rest is, how the material and frame feels when sitting and how its design comes into play when sitting, such as accessibility to pockets and cup holders.

Make sure chairs have a deep and wide-enough seat to accommodate you. Low-backed, non-reclining chairs can definitely be comfortable, just make sure that's what you want, and if you're after a high-backed chair, also make sure the back will be high enough to rest your head against. Something with armrests, or at least places to rest your arms, is key. Finally, make sure you choose a chair without an obvious frame that's going to dig into you while you're sitting. The Homevative Folding Backpack chair has quite a short back so it can dig into your back if you’re taller, although it does fully recline for lounging. The front edge of the frame of the SONGMICS chair can dig into your legs when sitting and reclining and it’s quite small. Like most low-back chairs, the Tommy Bahama can be a pain when upright, especially with the pillow hitting you under your neck, but it’s fine when reclining.

Some chairs are quite low to the ground

Tall people should opt for a high-backed chair

 
 

Durability

Durability looks at how well a chair is made compared to how well it will last. There's not always a clear correlation here between price and durability, so you need to know what to look for.

We'd recommend chairs using at least 300 denier polyester, which will last well over time. Aluminium frames are much lighter-weight than steel but not quite as strong, so choose based on what you prioritise, and make sure everything metal is rust-treated as repeated exposure to salty air will cause the joints in the metal frame to corrode and weaken over time. The sunshade and attachments of the GCI Outdoors feel easy to bend or break, especially during transport, and while the fabric of the Homecall Beach Folding is great, the carry bag is not so much and the metal frame is very flimsy. The SONGMICS Beach Chair, while it has an aluminium rather than steel frame, feels as though it will last a while.

Look for a durable polyester fabric

Steel frames can rust if exposed to salty air or moisture for too long

 

Our Awards

Award Cards
Best Overall
Kampa Sandy High Back

Beach Chairs

Kampa
Sandy High Back

Best for Style
Tommy Bahama Deluxe

Beach Chairs

Tommy Bahama
Deluxe

Best Value
SONGMICS Portable

Beach Chairs

SONGMICS
Portable

Best for Shade
GCI Outdoors Sunshade

Beach Chairs

GCI Outdoors
Sunshade

Best for Storage
Homevative Foldable Backpack

Beach Chairs

Homevative
Foldable Backpack

Best for Portability
RIO Beach Folding

Beach Chairs

RIO
Beach Folding

 

Beach Chair FAQs

  1. Can I use a cheap beach chair and have it last?

    Sometimes, but don't count on it. A cheap chair might last a season or two, but they often use thin fabric and weak frames that can tear or rust quickly. Spending a bit more on a quality chair upfront usually means it will last for many years.

  2. How important is portability for a beach chair?

    It's one of the most important features if you have to walk to your spot. Look for a chair that's lightweight, folds down easily and has a carrying strap or bag. This makes it much easier to carry than a bulky, heavy chair.

  3. Do all chairs work well on sand?

    No. Chairs with skinny legs can sink right into soft sand. Look for models with wide, flat feet or those specifically advertised as 'sand-friendly' for much better stability.

  4. Will a reclining beach chair make a big difference?

    Yes, especially for long days. Being able to adjust the backrest lets you find the perfect position for reading, napping, or just relaxing, which is far more comfortable than being stuck in one position. They're not for everyone, though, as they're not great for when you want to sit up for long periods of time, such as if you're eating.

  5. Do I need a rust-resistant chair for the beach?

    Saltwater and sea air can quickly rust metal frames. Chairs with aluminium or coated steel frames, along with UV-resistant fabric, will look better and last much longer if you're a frequent beachgoer. Fluoramics has a guide to rust-proofing your beach chair, if interested.

  6. Are beach chairs good for people with limited mobility?

    They can be, but you have to choose carefully. Avoid low-sitting chairs, as they are difficult to get out of. Look for taller chairs with higher seat heights and sturdy armrests that make sitting down and standing up easier.

  7. Is comfort just about seat fabric and padding?

    While padding is nice, true comfort comes from a chair with breathable fabric, a wide and deep seat, good back support, and features like a headrest. These things matter most when you're sitting for hours.

  8. What are common mistakes people make when buying a beach chair?

    The biggest mistakes are buying a chair that's too heavy or bulky to carry, ignoring how stable it is on sand, choosing the lowest price over better construction, and forgetting to check for comfort features you'll really want after sitting for a while.

  9. Why are Tommy Bahama beach chairs so popular?

    They've built a reputation for combining comfortable, well-padded seating with sturdy, durable frames and practical extras like built-in coolers or cup holders. The backpack-style carry system also makes them easier to transport than many rivals, which counts for a lot on a long walk down to the shore.

  10. What is the best beach chair for an older person?

    Look for a taller chair with a higher seat height, since low-slung chairs can be difficult to get in and out of. Sturdy armrests are also worth prioritising, as they give you something solid to push up from when standing.

  11. What kind of chair is best for the beach?

    It depends on how you'll use it, but a chair with wide, sand-friendly feet, breathable fabric and a comfortable recline generally covers most people's needs. If you're walking any distance to your spot, prioritise something lightweight that folds down small over one with lots of extra features.

 

Which Beach Chair Should Most People Buy?

For most people in the UK, the Kampa Sandy High Back comes out on top. It's a great combination of lightweight, durable materials, thoughtful design and comfort, all at an affordable price, which is exactly why it's our top overall pick.

If you're after something a bit more stylish for festivals or the beach, the Tommy Bahama Deluxe is worth a look. It's an attractive, lightweight option with good features, best suited to shorter sessions rather than being sat in all day.

If you're trying to keep the spend down without sacrificing too much, the SONGMICS Portable is our best value pick. It's very lightweight and comfortable to carry on your back, though it runs a bit small, so it suits smaller adults or children best.

For those regularly heading to the coast in unpredictable weather, the GCI Outdoors Sunshade is a good option. Its built-in shade is a genuine bonus on those rare scorching days, though it's noticeably heavier and bulkier than the rest of the lineup.

In short:

  • Best overall: Kampa Sandy High Back

  • Best for style: Tommy Bahama Deluxe

  • Best value: SONGMICS Portable

  • Best for shade: GCI Outdoors Sunshade

 

About Our Testing Process

Here at The Equipment Guide we write reviews for the UK with the goal of providing a genuine personal assessment of the best products on the market right here at home.

All products are reviewed and ranked in a methodical and careful manner and we assess them on relevant key features. We do not accept free products from manufacturers.

Our mission is simple: To create the UK’s best outdoor gear reviews.

Afterword

We hope you liked our reviews of the best beach chairs available in the UK.

There really is a lot of similarity between beach chairs and to be honest, the biggest factor in determining what the best beach chair is for you will come down to your personal preference. If you would like us to review a product or have any feedback we’d love to hear from you, feel free to drop us a note.

If you do purchase and are out in your beach chair please share some pics with us, we’d love to see you in action.