The 10 Best Beach Chairs 2025
It’s a perfect summer day at the beach and you're ready to unwind. That is, until you feel a metal bar poking into your back.
Picking the right beach chair isn’t just about having a place to sit after hauling your gear onto the sand (or pebbles!). It’s about maximising those precious moments of rest, whether you're soaking up the sun solo or enjoying laid-back drinks with mates.
We’ve carefully reviewed what we believe are the ten best beach chairs available globally, so you can make the most of your beach time in total comfort.
Note: You’ll notice some camp chairs on our list, too, because not everyone wants or needs the same thing from a beach chair. If sitting close to the ground isn’t ideal for you, a camp-style chair might be a better option.
Know what you’re looking for? Jump there now:
Best Overall: Tommy Bahama Beach Chair
Best Value: RIO Brands Beach Folding Chair
Most Fashionable: SONGMICS Beach Chair
Most Portable: Helinox Savanna Chair
Want to sit on the ground instead? Our Top 5 Picnic Blankets of 2025 are just what you need.
Beach Chair Comparison
Compare the specs or jump straight down to the beach chair reviews.
Score
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Beach Chair Reviews
A five-position recliner with a spot for your face.
The Ostrich OYB-1003S Back Chair (yes, that name’s a mouthful) clearly aims to bring something new to the table. It features face and arm openings designed to make tanning on your stomach a bit more convenient, though we're not convinced they hit the mark in terms of comfort. Still, we give it credit for creativity and a build that feels solid and dependable.
Summary
Pros: The only chair we tested that offers some comfort while lying face-down, folds away compactly.
Cons: The front-lying angle feels a bit awkward, not especially comfy when upright, on the heavier side.
Verdict: Best suited to people who want a chair primarily for lying face-down on the beach.
Charming and practical.
Nice C's beach chair delivers unexpected comfort in a lightweight, no-fuss package. Its crossbar design makes setup and breakdown completely intuitive, while the wide-set feet provide good stability on both sand and grass. The breathable mesh back was a relief on sweltering days, though the drink holder — attached to the frame — tends to sway more than we'd like. Still, it's a thoughtful addition.
Summary
Pros: Featherlight, well-made materials, available in vibrant orange or blue.
Cons: Fixed upright position, minimal back support.
Verdict: A fuss-free, travel-friendly pick, just don't expect the lounging comfort of reclining models.
Where to get it:
Cool and relaxing.
We liked the KingCamp High Mesh Back Beach Folding Chair for all the reasons its name suggests. The tall back provides support all the way up to your neck, while the breathable mesh keeps you cool. It’s a straightforward design that strikes a nice balance between quality and affordability.
Summary
Pros: Supportive, quick to assemble and fold, high back with headrest.
Cons: No reclining feature, build quality isn’t top-tier (though fair for the price — unless you’re in Australia).
Verdict: A budget-friendly pick that delivers comfort, ease of use and portability.
The perfect chair for relaxing without lifting a finger (almost).
You’re comfy, you’re chilled… but now you’re thirsty. No worries! The Coleman Oversized Quad Chair with Cooler has a built-in cooler right in the armrest that holds up to 4 cans, plus there’s a cup holder for the one you’re drinking. It’s extra wide, super comfy and even lets you adjust the armrests. Basically, it’s relaxation made easy.
Summary
Pros: Built-in cooler, super roomy and feels strong and stable.
Cons: A bit heavy, doesn’t recline, and takes up more space when packed.
Verdict: A great chair for truly kicking back and relaxing.
A high-quality featherweight chair.
Helinox has built a strong reputation for producing top-tier ultralight camping gear and the Helinox Savanna Chair lives up to that name. Weighing in at under 4.03lbs, it folds down into a compact, tidy bundle that’s easy to take to the beach, campsite, or wherever your adventure leads. Because the curved armrests are integrated into the seat design, it may not be the roomiest option for larger individuals, but we still found it comfortably supportive.
Summary
Pros: Incredibly lightweight and compact, breathable mesh and a tall back for added head support.
Cons: No recline function, slightly narrow seat, on the pricier side.
Verdict: A fantastic option if keeping weight down is your main priority.
A supportive and sturdy choice for those who need it.
The YETI Trailhead Camp Chair is a heavy-duty portable chair that truly feels like proper seating. It sits high off the ground with a tall, supportive backrest, making it great for anyone with limited mobility or anyone who simply prefers extra support when relaxing outdoors.
Summary
Pros: Premium build you’d expect from YETI, easy to set up and pack down, holds up to 500lbs.
Cons: Doesn’t recline, on the pricier side and quite heavy.
Verdict: Tough, comfortable and extremely well made, but that quality comes with a higher price tag.
A stylish beach chair — just not a spacious one.
The Songmics Portable Beach Chair blends straightforward design, decent durability and easy transport in a compact, lightweight frame. With its relaxed coastal aesthetic and reclining feature, it’s a good pick for those after a budget-conscious, no-fuss chair. The trade-off? Its smaller frame makes it less comfortable for taller people
Summary
Pros: Lightweight and travel-friendly, high backrest for neck support, classic striped design with breathable fabric.
Cons: Not well-suited for taller body types and the front support bar can press into your legs when sitting.
Verdict: A smart, affordable choice for smaller users looking for a reliable and easy-to-carry beach chair.
The most stylish seat on the sand.
The Rio Brands Folding Beach Chair made our top picks for a number of reasons. We love how effortlessly it reclines by simply lifting the armrests, how easily it folds up for transport, and, let’s be honest, it’s a total looker. While a few chairs on our list were more comfortable overall, for a classic beach vibe with serious style points, this one stands out.
Summary
Pros: Sleek design, lightweight and thoughtfully built.
Cons: No head support, a shallow seat and we wish the seat fabric was a bit more heavy-duty.
Verdict: A chic and easy-to-use option that earns its place for looks and functionality at a fair price.
Where to get it:
Live the beach life everyone dreams about.
When your chair comes from a brand known for breezy beachside comfort, chances are it’s going to deliver. The Tommy Bahama backpack beach chair is a charming, lightweight pick that’s easy to sling over your shoulder. It has all the storage you could ask for and makes for a very comfy spot to lounge. The catch? Its lower backrest means it’s not ideal if you prefer to sit upright — but then again, who’s going to the beach to sit bolt straight?
Summary
Pros: Reclines to five positions, including fully flat, well-placed storage pockets, light and easy to carry.
Cons: Backpack straps could be more robust and the low back won’t suit everyone.
Verdict: Just like the name implies, it’s a chair made for dreamlike, laid-back beach days.
Simple and compact.
The Dometic GO Compact Chair is a well-built, travel-friendly camping seat that focuses on long-term durability and comfortable use. With its tough aluminium frame, rugged 600D fabric and smooth beechwood armrests, it brings a touch of luxury to outdoor seating. The fixed recline and a few ergonomic trade-offs, however, may not appeal to everyone.
Summary
Pros: Strong build with high-quality materials, folds down easily, compact for storage and transport.
Cons: Recline angle is fixed and may feel too laid-back for some; relatively heavy compared to others.
Verdict: A sleek, well-built chair ideal for those who prioritise style and portability over added extras.
Where to get it:
Beach Chair FAQs
What is a beach chair?
A beach chair is a foldable, portable seat designed for relaxing on the sand. It usually comes with a lightweight, rust-resistant frame and outdoor-friendly materials like breathable mesh or quick-dry fabric. Many models also include handy extras like storage pockets, cup holders, or built-in coolers. Check out our top picks for the best beach chairs above!
Why are Tommy Bahama chairs so popular?
Tommy Bahama chairs are loved for their combination of comfort, durability and coastal-inspired style. They often feature multiple reclining positions, cushioned headrests, insulated drink holders and storage compartments — everything you need for a relaxing beach day. See how one ranked in our 2025 beach chair review above!
What kind of chairs to use on the beach?
Chairs designed specifically for beach settings are your best bet. These include lightweight travel chairs (like the Helinox Savanna — one of the top beach chairs), lounge-style beach recliners and classic foldable options like the Tommy Bahama and RIO Brands chairs. Look for materials that resist corrosion and are made to handle sand and saltwater exposure.
Is steel or aluminum better for beach chairs?
Aluminum is usually the better choice for beach chairs thanks to its lightweight nature and resistance to rust, making it great for coastal conditions. Steel is more durable overall but tends to be heavier and more likely to corrode if not properly treated.
What’s the best metal for a beach chair?
Aluminum is widely regarded as the best choice for beach chairs thanks to its light weight, strength and natural resistance to corrosion. It holds up better than steel in salty, sandy conditions, which makes it a go-to material for coastal furniture. Want something light and easy to carry? Check out our top-rated lightweight beach chairs above!
Why are beach chairs low to the ground?
Beach chairs are typically built with a low-to-the-ground profile to improve stability on uneven, soft sand. Being low helps reduce the risk of tipping and keeps you more grounded in windy conditions. It also makes lounging feel more natural. They’re especially great for kids and shorter adults, though taller individuals may find them a bit cramped.
Do beach chairs rust?
Beach chairs made with rust-resistant metals like aluminium or powder-coated steel are less prone to rusting, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune. Long-term exposure to salt, moisture and sand can wear them down if they’re not properly cared for. Rinsing off your chair and storing it dry will help extend its life.
Can you use regular camping chairs at the beach?
You can use a standard camping chair at the beach, but it might not perform as well as one made specifically for sandy environments. Beach chairs tend to be lower, lighter and made from materials that resist rust and moisture. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time seaside, a purpose-built beach chair is usually the better pick.
What should I look for in a beach chair?
Look for lightweight, rust-resistant materials like aluminum, breathable or quick-dry fabric and comfort features like headrests, recline settings and cup holders. If portability matters, check how small it packs down and whether it comes with a carry strap or bag, and always consider your height and mobility, as some chairs are much easier to get in and out of than others.
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.