A Review of the Top 9 Beach Umbrellas

May 01, 2024
Updated:
May 01, 2024
A Review of the Top 9 Beach Umbrellas
beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System (Illustration by The Epoch Times, beachBUB)
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As summer approaches, beaches are becoming the go-to destination for those looking to soak up the sun and relax by the sea.
However, lurking among the pleasant breezes and soothing waves is a hidden danger: sunburns, not crabs, pose a serious threat to beachgoers. One of the key equipment to prevent sunburns is the beach umbrella.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top beach umbrellas available today. Stick around to find out which umbrella can best enhance your beach outings and provide essential skin protection.

The Breakdown: 

Why Do People Use Beach Umbrellas?

Other than preventing sunburn, beach umbrellas have other functions too. They can effectively shield you from overheating and dehydration. The temperature beneath a shade can be up to 15 degrees cooler.
Meanwhile, beach umbrellas are not just for sunny days. They are a good protection against sudden rain showers. So you can take shelter under the umbrella until the rain passes, instead of packing and leaving the beach.
Beach umbrellas become really essential when you have kids. They can play and enjoy snacks under the shade.
Furthermore, they create a comfort zone that is exclusively for you. You can take a nap, read a book, or contemplate life. Beach umbrellas provide serene space away from distractions. Stay with us to explore some of the most favorite beach umbrellas.
 

Shibumi Shade Beach Canopy

Shibumi Shade  Shibumi Shade
The innovative design behind the Shibumi shade is what attracts many to this unique product. It has numerous features that may tempt buyers to at least take a closer look at it.
The Shibumi shade uses wind to provide shade and this is the source of its difference from other competitors. It lacks the traditional structure of poles and fabric; instead, it is equipped with a canopy that billows with the breeze. It can provide 150 square feet of shade which is deemed enough for many beachgoers.
It has a UPF 50+ rating, meaning that it can provide good protection against harmful UV rays. Furthermore, it creates a visually appealing effect as it moves with the wind, making it unique on the beach.
Given that it weighs only 4 Ibs, this product is easy to carry. This is a great advantage, especially for those who go camping or need to take long walks to get to their desired beach.  
Its assembly process is said to be quick, taking some 10 minutes on average. The setup can turn easier if two people are involved.
As far as the material is concerned, it has been made of lightweight polyester fabric. Its supporting structure is also made of aluminum poles to provide strong support. Some 40% of this shade is made of ocean-bound recycled plastic bottles which makes it an eco-friendly choice.
Last but not least is the versatility of this product as it is not designed solely for the beach. You can use it for outdoor picnics, camping trips, or even your backyard.
Pros
  • Powered by wind: The Shibumi shade’s creative design uses wind to provide shade. It eliminates the need for some manual or extra adjustments. 
  • Ease of use: The design allows users to assemble and disassemble the shade easily. This is a plus for beachgoers who do not want to spend much time setting up. 
  • Eco-friendly: The use of recycled materials makes this shade a unique choice. This has drawn praise from both users and environmental activists. 
Cons
  • Stability in wind: The Shibumi shade will have challenges for maintaining stability in strong windy conditions. It also fails to offer shade when it is not windy enough.
  • Price: The product comes with a relatively high price tag. Beachgoers who are on a budget may find better choices in the market. 
  • Visibility: Given its size and the way it is assembled, the shade can obstruct visibility. This has led authorities of some beach locations to ban this type of shade. 
 $290.00 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella

Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella
Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella is made by a company that has been a trusted name for more than a century. Founded in 1898, Frankford has a rich legacy in beach and outdoor products. Its beach umbrellas and loungers are widely used on top beaches across North America and the Caribbean.
The company is stressing its commitment to quality. It aims to ensure customers that its products can withstand coastal winds, salt air, and daily use.
Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella enjoys a renowned classic styling. It uses a strong solid oak center pole. It also has fiberglass ribs that give the shade extra flexibility. These ribs make the product more resilient against windy coastal conditions. This umbrella has an overall height of 94 inches.
There are other features as well that contribute to the longevity of this shade: ultra-durable fiberglass frame, long-grain ash wood pole, and heavy gauge resin parts. The shade also has an air vent which enhances its stability during windy hours.
Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella is equipped with a 7.5-foot canopy which provides amble shade coverage. Buyers can personalize their umbrellas by choosing one of the 23 fabric options available. The fabric is made of marine-grade acrylic fabric that offers strong UV protection.
The sturdiness of the umbrella comes at a cost; it weighs 14 pounds. This may pose challenges to transporting the product although it includes a special carry bag.
The umbrella also comes with a 10-year limited fabric warranty and a 1-year limited frame warranty against manufacturer defects. This is a rare type of warranty among umbrella manufacturers and shows the company’s confidence in its quality products.
Pros
  • Classic design: The shade enjoys a classic design that appeals to most beachgoers. It also allows them to choose among 23 fabric colors.
  • Durable and strong: Its solid oak pole, fiberglass frame, and heavy-duty parts ensure longevity. The company tries not to ruin more than a century of its reputation.
  • Ample shade and UV protection: It offers ample shade for relaxation. The special fabric also shields you from harmful sun rays.
Cons
  • Weight: The use of sturdy parts has increased the weight of this shade. If weight is a major concern for you, there are more lightweight beach umbrellas available in the market.
  • Price: The product comes with a high price tag compared to competitors. But one should take into account the longevity of this shade as well.
 $375.00 on Beach by Frankford (Price at Time of Publishing)

beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System

beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System
The beachBUB company has sought to offer a user-friendly product by manufacturing its All-In-One Beach Umbrella System. The shade enjoys a host of features that may persuade many beachgoers to acquire it.
With a UPF rating of 50+, the 7.5-foot canopy can block some 98% of UV rays, offering ample UV protection. The company says this protection is in place even on the sunniest days.
As the name suggests, the product package includes other necessary equipment including a shovel and Sand Gopher. It also has a towel hook collar for added convenience.
The setup process is quite easy as one person can do it without any assistance. It has a triangle base that needs to be filled with sand. The top half is also assembled with convenience as the upper pole fits onto the bottom one and is secured by a pin.
The company has tried to manufacture the umbrella using quality durable materials. The aim is to have a shade that can withstand beach conditions, including sun, sand, and wind. The company says according to tests, the umbrella has withstood winds up to 44 mph.
The umbrella weighs around 9 pounds and comes with an oversized carry bag. The bag has a wide-padded shoulder strap and a molded carry handle. After being filled with sand, the umbrella will weigh more than 125 pounds.
The manufacturer offers a 3-year protection plan. According to the plan, the company will help replace the umbrellas of those buyers who have lost or broken them.
Pros
  • Ease of use: Buyers have praised the way the shade is set up and the accessories that make the process hassle-free.
  • Windproof: The shade can tolerate winds up to 44 mph. This gives peace of mind to beachgoers during windy days.
  • UV protection: The high UPF rating ensures that the shade shields you from harmful UV rays. This allows you to enjoy the beach without remaining concerned about sunburn.
Cons
  • Lack of tilt adjustment: This shade lacks the built-in tilt-adjust feature that can usually be found in other similar products. This may be disappointing for those who prefer to adjust angels.
  • Restricted color options: The beachBUB umbrella comes in only four color options. If you’re looking for a variety of styles, this might be a drawback.
 $156.45 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)
 

Sun Ninja Pop-Up Beach Tent 

Sun Ninja Pop-Up Beach Tent  Sun Ninja Pop-Up Beach Tent
The Sun Ninja Pop-Up beach tent seeks to provide shelter wherever you are, whether on a beach or in a park. The product enjoys stability poles and anchors that allow you to set it up on a sandy beach, thick grass, or even a rocky area.
Weighing 7.85 Pounds, the lightweight portable shade has a convenient travel bag which makes it a good choice for those who frequently go out for adventures. The bag helps with keeping all the equipment safe and organized.
This shade has three sizes, namely 4-person, 6-person, or 8-person. These sizes ensure that every family or group can answer their needs when it comes to sun protection.
Sun Ninja Pop-Up beach tent is crafted with resilient elastic spandex fabric. It offers ample sun protection as it has a UPF rating of 50+. The fabric is also water-resistant, making the tent an ideal choice for rainy days. The quality fabric makes it easy to clean.
As the name suggests, it has a pop-up design which ensures an easy assembly. According to instructions, users need to lay out the tent, fill the corners with sand, and then prop the poles under the tent. The tent may have two or four poles, depending on its size.
The manufacturer has boosted the fabric by using triple overlock stitching. This method encloses the seam and stops the fabric from fraying, making the shade more durable. This strength and sturdiness of the fabric helps the tent survive strong winds or even other heavy things that may fall on that.
Pros
  • Versatile use: The tent can be set up in different areas from beaches to grassy areas and rocky terrain. This is a plus, especially for those who spend more time in nature.
  • Good sun protection: Having a high UPF rating, the tent ensures reliable UV shielding. This makes it suitable for all ages.
  • Size options: The tent comes in three sizes to make sure that it can fulfill the needs of a small family or a larger group.
Cons
  • Not windproof: Users have reported challenges in setting up the tent in windy conditions even when the wind is not strong.
  • Low to the ground: The tent is relatively low to the ground. This limits the amount of usable space.
 $129.95 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)
 

Sport-Brella Premiere

Sport-Brella Premiere Sport-Brella Premiere
The Sport-Brella Premiere offers both sun and rain protection. The high rating of UPF 50+ makes this umbrella an ideal choice for beach vacations, camping trips, sporting events, and even concerts and festivals.
Its 8-foot umbrella canopy provides ample coverage from the sun’s rays as well as rain. The quality fabric allows users to clean it with ease, eliminating worries about mud and stains.
It also has two patented side panels which enhance protection and privacy. Side flaps can be neatly stored with stow-away clips when you don’t need them. This product has a tilt mechanism as well that allows users to adjust it easily.
The umbrella has a sturdy construction as it enjoys a heavy-duty 1.25-inch center pole. Designed zippered windows let the air freely flow, preventing the umbrella from blowing away.
Equipped with an integrated twist handle, the auger bit anchors the umbrella in dirt, grass, or sand. Additional security is also provided by included stakes.
The product comes with internal pockets that can conveniently hold your phone, snacks, or other gear. The umbrella is offered in a carry bag to make its transportation easy. When packed, the umbrella measures 53x3.5x3.5 inches and weighs 8 pounds.
The manufacturer offers a ‎1-year limited warranty to signal its confidence in the quality of the product. This umbrella is available only in blue color.
Pros
  •  Ample sun protection: The canopy offers a generous UPF 50+ sun protection. This is what most avid beachgoers aim to gain.
  • Umbrella size and adjustability: Its oversized umbrella provides both privacy and maximum protection with two side panels. Its built-in tilt mechanism also makes it easy to adjust the shade.
  • Easy set-up: This umbrella can be installed easily by one person. The auger bit securely anchors the umbrella on different surfaces.
Cons
  • Wind resistance: The umbrella might not stay put in strong windy conditions. If the beach you want to go to is windy, you might better opt for other products.
  •  Weight: Weighing 8-9 pounds, the umbrella might be heavy to carry around. There are more lightweight options available in the market.
 $64.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Coolibar Intego Beach Umbrella

Coolibar Intego Beach Umbrella Coolibar Intego Beach Umbrella
Boasting a UPF 50+ rating, the Coolibar Intego beach umbrella is essentially designed to shield you from 98% of the UVA and UVB rays. The materials used in the product are also water resistant which makes it a good choice for beach outings. It can keep the user up to 15 degrees cooler under intense sunlight.
It comes with a host of features that aim to enhance user convenience. Its corkscrew-style pole tip makes it relatively easy to anchor the umbrella on diverse terrains. Coolibar Intego beach umbrella is backed by lightweight fiberglass ribs and a rust-resistant aluminum pole frame.
Additionally, it is equipped with a manual tilt adjustment. This feature is not available in all beach umbrellas and is a plus for adjusting the shade as the sun moves throughout the day.
The umbrella spans a 6-foot arc and stands 7 feet high. This ensures ample shade on the beach. When packed in its carrying case, the product collapses to 45 inches and weighs around 5.4 lbs, making it relatively easy to transport.
The umbrella comes in three colors blue, silver, and multicolor. Other than the outside color that reflects UV rays, the underside is also designed to absorb these rays. The company says the high UPF rating is the result of quality fabric and that no coating has been used to achieve this rating.
The manufacturer says it has used a water-resistant durable nylon fabric for making this product. This makes the cleaning relatively easy while also helping the longevity of the product.
 Pros
  • UV protection: With a UPF 50+ rating, the umbrella provides good protection against UVA and UVB rays. The company says the product can block 98% of the harmful rays.
  •  User-friendly: It can be anchored fairly easily by its included corkscrew-style pole tip. The design allows the umbrella to be set up in different terrains.
  •  Portable: Weighing 5.4 lbs, the umbrella can transported relatively with ease. It also reduces to 45 inches in the package. 
Cons
  •  Not for heavy rain and wind: It is not recommended for heavy rain or strong wind conditions. Strong winds can blow the umbrella away or even damage it.
  • Noisy: Its flaps make noise when the weather is windy. This may cause disturbance for some users.
 $109.00 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)
 

Anchor Works All-In-One Classic Beach Umbrella System

Anchor Works All-In-One Classic Beach Umbrella System Anchor Works All-In-One Classic Beach Umbrella System
As the name suggests, the Anchor Works All-In-One Classic beach umbrella System is essentially a classic umbrella that carries all the equipment needed to enjoy the beach under the shade.
Its 7.5-foot umbrella provides ample shade and is deemed enough for two to four people.  The fabric has a 50+ UPF rating which means that it can shield you from most of the harmful rays.
Designers have tried to use durable material to make sure that it can tolerate harsh windy conditions at the beach. The product comes with an innovative sand anchor that can secure the umbrella fairly well in windy conditions. The process of setting the system up is easy and can be carried out by one person.
The umbrella weighs 12.5 Pounds which makes the transport a bit challenging on long distances. The manufacturer, however, has included a carry bag to enhance the portability.
The product is available in five different colors: dark blue, green, orange, light blue, and yellow. These vibrant colors allow buyers to have their own style on the beach.
The manufacturer has designed other features to boost the user’s convenience. One of these features is a built-in tray that can hold cups, phones, snacks, or other gear. This is a great addition to keep your things sand-free. Another accompanying gear is a sand spade which is useful for digging a hole and setting up the umbrella.
The manufacturer says the product can withstand harsh beach conditions given its powder-coated steel pole, double-spoke fiberglass ribs, and UV-protected polyester canopy.
Pros
  • Stability: The innovative sand anchor does a fairly good job of securing the umbrella in the sand. It is also easy to assemble.
  •  Ample shade and protection: The 7.5-foot canopy offers generous shade as well as protection against harmful UV rays. The large size ensures coverage for two people.
  • Useful tray: The built-in accessory tray can hold different things such as cups, sunscreen, sunglasses, or snacks
Cons
  • Weight: The umbrella weighs around 12.5 pounds, making it a sweaty choice for long distances.  
  •  Not for strong winds: Although the anchor can withstand moderate winds, tolerating strong winds is a serious challenge for this product.
 $119.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Serwall Beach Umbrella

Serwall Beach Umbrella Serwall Beach Umbrella
The SERWALL beach umbrella comes in three sizes: 6.5, 7.5, and 8,5 feet. It is equipped with a user-friendly sand anchor that helps better secure the shade. The setup process is relatively easy and can be done solo.
The manufacturer says heavy-duty fiberglass ribs and a sturdy sand anchor have been used in it to make it suitable for breezy conditions. It also enjoys an aluminum pole which further enhances the umbrella’s sturdiness.
Crafted from 100% polyester fiber, the canopy provides 98% protection against harmful UV rays. It has a UPF 50+ rating. Furthermore, it has a vent on the top that facilitates air circulation. This both contributes to its stability as well as to keeping the area beneath it cooler.
Another feature that is designed to boost the user experience at the beach is a built-in tilt mechanism. Avid beachgoers know how much this feature helps them avoid extra efforts to change the umbrella’s position.
The product comes with a carrying bag and weighs 6.84 pounds. The umbrella can be folded easily and put into the bag. The bag has a long shoulder strap that makes the transport even easier.
Another feature that is added for the user’s convenience is a hanging hook with four prongs. Users can keep their gear or snacks sand-free by keeping them in a bag and hanging the bag from the umbrella.
This product is also available in seven different colors. The manufacturer offers a variety of choices, from simple colors of navy blue, sky blue, and orange, to vibrant combinations of colors and stripes.
Pros
  • Size and style: Having three sizes and seven colors, the product allows buyers a variety of choices based on their needs.
  •  Portability: The umbrella weighs only 6.8 pounds and is easily portable even on longer distances using the carrying bag.
  •  Sun protection: The canopy has a UPF 50+ rating. It provides a 99% protection against harmful UV rays.
Cons
  • Sturdiness: The product can turn inside-out in breezy conditions. Also, the plastic ribs are susceptible to damage in wind.
  • Quality of production: Some users have reported that some sections of the umbrella such as its augur or canopy have deteriorated too soon.
 $79.99 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella

Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella
Tommy Bahama is a renowned brand when it comes to the beach lifestyle. Founded in 1993, the company focuses on a variety of products that beachgoers need. They manufacture casual men’s and women’s sportswear and activewear, denim, swimwear, accessories, footwear, and after all, beach umbrellas.
With this expertise on the beach, the company knows what is needed to prevent sunburns. The Tommy Bahama beach umbrella comes with a UPF 50+ rating to make sure that harmful rays do not affect its users.
The frame is boosted by fiberglass materials, which make the shade both durable and water resistant. The process of assembling the shade is relatively easy. It has a sand auger that should be fixed on sand or soil before the umbrella sits on top of that.
The umbrella is equipped with a tilting mechanism. This feature allows the users to adjust the shade throughout the day with ease.  The product weighs 4.25 pounds which is light enough to carry it even on long distances. A carrying case is also included.
Additionally, the umbrella is equipped with air ventilation on the top. This feature can keep users cooler during intense hot summer. This feature also can help rescue the umbrella in windy conditions as it helps to make it more stable.
The product has a blue classic design that the company has tried to maintain for years. The red version of the umbrella is also available at some retailers. However, the blue one can be found more commonly.
Pros
  • Protection against rays: With a UPF 50+ rating, the product can block most of the harmful UV rays.
  • No sweaty setup: The assembly process is not challenging. It can be done by one person.
  • Portability: The shade can be carried with relative ease given its 4.25-lb weight and its accompanying carry bag.
Cons
  • Wind resistance: Some users have reported that the umbrella does not have the expected stability in strong winds.
  • Limited color: The umbrella comes with only a blue color. This limits the users who might like other colors.
 $73.45 on Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Beach Umbrella Reviews 

The reviews in this section were compiled from verified customer reviews on Amazon.

Shibumi Shade Beach Canopy

Buyers of the Shibumi Shade have lauded its portability as well as the easy process of setting it up. There are also some positive comments about its ample sun protection and quality. Some customers have hailed the innovative design of the product.
Several customers believe the provided shade is enough for a family. Some comments say if the beach that you aim to go to is not windy, then this product cannot help you.
 

Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella

Numerous reviews on different online websites have praised the sturdiness of the Frankford Modern Beach Umbrella and the high quality of its production. Some say they are sure that the umbrella will last for several years.
Some other users like the 7.5 feet size of the umbrella which provides enough shade for a family. Some others love that they were able to choose from different colors and stripes. The only drawback highlighted by a few is the high price of the product.
 

beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella System

Too many comments highlight the quality of the used material as well as the stability of the beachBUB All-In-One Beach Umbrella system in the wind. They say the product is worth the money and is an investment as it can last for years.
Some users like its ease of assembly and some others believe it is not challenging to carry it. One of the downsides mentioned in some comments is the lack of a tilting mechanism.
 

Sun Ninja Pop-Up Beach Tent

Many buyers like the stability as well as the portability of the Sun Ninja Pop-Up beach tent. They note that if set up correctly, the tent can resist strong winds.
Many comments hail the size of the shade and its good sun protection. Others like the quality of materials used. There are mixed comments on ease of assembly as some people find it hard to set it up solo and correctly.
 

Sport-Brella Premiere

Some buyers like the user-friendly setup process as well as the ample shade that Sport-Brella Premiere provides. Others say the sun protection is standard and the ventilation allows more breeze in to keep the area cooler.
Opinions vary when it comes to the sturdiness of the umbrella in windy conditions. Some others have hailed the improved privacy that they can get while using this umbrella. There are also comments that stress the versatility of the umbrella.
 

Coolibar Intego Beach Umbrella

Customers like stylish appearances as well as the good sun protection of the Coolibar Intego beach umbrella. They also say the product can be transported and assembled with ease.
When it comes to resisting winds, opinions are mixed as some say it is not suitable for windy beaches. Some users say the umbrella makes noise even in mild breezes.
 

Anchor Works All-In-One Classic Beach Umbrella System

Some buyers like the little effort needed to assemble the Anchor Works All-In-One Classic beach umbrella system. They say the tray is a useful option that many other umbrellas lack.
When it comes to resisting strong winds, the opinions are mixed. However, users have lauded the quality of production and material. Some others love the vibrant colors of the umbrella.  
 

Serwall Beach Umbrella

Buyers most of all like SERWALL beach umbrella’s variety of colors and stripes. They say it is easy to assemble and provides ample shade and sun protection. Others have also lauded its light weight and portability.
Some comments have questioned the durability of the product, pointing to rusting issues and low-quality materials used. Opinions are mixed for the sturdiness of the umbrella in strong winds.
 

Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella

Some buyers have praised the easy assembly of the Tommy Bahama beach umbrella as well as its portability. Some say they are satisfied with the sun protection. Many users have expressed happiness with the ease of assembly.
Some customers have raised doubts about the sturdiness of the product and its durability. Opinions vary when it comes to the umbrella’s resistance against strong winds. Some say the company could have used better materials.
  

Facts About Industry

The global beach umbrella market was estimated to have a value of USD 582 million in 2022, according to TechSci Research. The market is also expected to have a compound annual growth rate of 5.7%.
The growth comes amid increased awareness about skin health and the importance of sun protection. Another key factor in this growth is the increasing popularity of beach vacations and outdoor activities.
Additionally, more producers are trying to offer eco-friendly and sustainable products. They also seek to offer innovative designs and materials to make the umbrellas more portable and lightweight.
The market is expected to further expand in the coming years and consumers eye an improved beach experience.
 

What Is a Beach Umbrella Called?

Different regions may refer to this product using different terminology. When the sole role of an umbrella for protecting against the sun is concerned, the product may be referred to as a beach parasol or simply a parasol.
Some other regions term it sunshade or sun umbrella. These terms focus on the primary role of these products which is to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
The terms beach umbrella and sunshade are more commonly used in American English.
 

How Do I Choose a Quality Beach Umbrella?

Several factors need to be considered for buying a beach umbrella. These factors make sure that the product withstands the harsh beach conditions while also meeting your needs.
One of the most basic factors is the durability and quality of the used material. Shades that are made of polyester or vinyl have a better resistance against sand and wind. Meanwhile, fiberglass frames can help the umbrella withstand winds.
Another crucial factor is the process of assembling and disassembling the umbrella. The less effort you put into doing this job, the more you have time to enjoy the beach. Also, portability is another key factor here that can save you a lot of energy.
The beach umbrella’s primary function is to shield people against sun rays, so buyers are advised to search for products with a high UPF rating. Furthermore, the size is important as users should ensure that the product can answer their needs.
Some additional features such as towel hooks, trays, and tilt mechanisms come next that may be important for some buyers.
 

How Much SPF Is a Beach Umbrella?

The SPF rating, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates how well a sunscreen protects skin against sunburn. The higher the rating, the more UV radiation that sunscreen can block.
The correct term that is used to measure sun protection in beach umbrellas is UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). This factor measures the amount of UV rays that go through the fabric and reaches the skin.
Skin experts recommend using beach umbrellas that have a UPF 50+ rating. This is the highest rating that producers can claim.
Those umbrellas that have this rating can effectively block 98% of the sun’s rays.
 

What Is a Good Size for a Beach Umbrella?

The right size of a beach umbrella directly depends on the needs of the user. Most beach umbrellas range from 6 to 7 feet in diameter. These products offer enough shade for one or two people.
When more people, let’s say a four-member family, need shade, then it’s better to opt for larger products that range from 7 to 8 feet. Umbrellas up to 10 feet are also available in the market that can offer broader shade areas.
A key point here is that larger umbrellas are generally harder to transport because they usually are bulkier and heavier.
 

How Many Panels Should a Beach Umbrella Have?

The quick answer is eight. Most classic umbrellas have eight panels which both boost the durability and sturdiness of the product as well as the ease of use.
The panels can also play a role in the aesthetic of the umbrella. Some manufacturers use the panels to offer creative designs that would stand out at the beach.
 

Do All Beach Umbrellas Block UV Rays?

The quick answer is yes but umbrellas differ in the amount of UV rays that they block. The higher their UPF rating, the more harmful rays they can block.
UPF 50+ rating is the highest available in the market. Those umbrellas that have this rating can shield users from 98% of UV rays.
 

Do I Need Sunscreen If I Use a Beach Umbrella?

Absolutely yes. Experts warn that even under an umbrella, one needs to apply sunscreen. This is because rays can penetrate into the body after being reflected from other surfaces such as sand.
Beachgoers are also recommended to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. They also need to reapply the sunscreen every two to three hours for better protection.
 

Can You Get Sunburned Under a Beach Umbrella?

Shade from a beach umbrella is better than no shade at all, however, this is not enough to prevent sunburns. Beach umbrellas provide partial protection by reducing your exposure to direct sunlight.
UV radiation can still reach your body after bouncing off water and sand. The best practice to prevent sunburns is to use a combination of beach umbrella and sunscreen.
 

Is a Square or Round Umbrella Better?

It depends on your style and needs. Most available portable umbrellas are typically hexagonal (6 sides) or octagonal (8 sides). They seem to be round from afar.
When it comes to coverage, square umbrellas can provide maximum shade. These products are also suitable to provide shade for a square table underneath.
 

What Is the Best Color for a Beach Umbrella?

When it comes to sun protection, darker colors are said to act better. Colors such as black, navy blue, or deep green absorb more light, including harmful UV rays.
Lighter colors, on the other hand, allow more natural light in, creating a pleasant ambiance. Bright colors such as (yellow or orange) are also more visible from a distance; this helps friends and family to spot your location more easily.
After all, it is a personal choice and depends on the style of users.
 

Conclusion

There are many factors in play when you are deciding on the best beach umbrella. Some of the factors relate to the features of the product, such as its sturdiness, and some others are linked to personal preferences. After all, budget is a crucial issue.
If you can afford high prices, we recommend you take a second look at the Frankford Modern beach umbrella. This product has relatively all the needed features of a beach umbrella. Additionally, it will probably accompany you on more beach vacations in years.
If you are on a more limited budget but want to take the best out of it, the beachBUB All-In-One beach umbrella system can be your choice. This beach umbrella is strong and provides good protection.
 

FAQ

How do I anchor a beach umbrella?
Beach umbrellas vary in their methods of anchoring. Some of them have sandbags. Some others are equipped with built-in anchors.
 
Are beach umbrellas easy to set up?
It depends on the umbrella system. Some of them can be set up quickly and with ease. But setting up some others may be challenging.
 
How deep should I bury the pole?
For those beach umbrellas the pole is needed to be buried in the sand, it is recommended to go 12 inches deep. This will boost its stability.
 
Do beach umbrellas come with accessories?
Some models have built-in features such as trays, hooks, sand shovels, and carrying bags.
 
Are beach umbrellas allowed on all beaches?
Local regulations vary from beach to beach. Some beaches may ban certain types of umbrellas.