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Everyone looks forward to a trip to the beach. We look forward to the warmth of the sun, the cool sea water and the cool salty breeze.
But some people can't stand the heat. Sooner or later someone will be looking for a parasol to hide under.
Sunburn can make a trip to the beach uncomfortable and painful.
The victim may have to go back to the hotel to get some shade, or there may be a bar or restaurant nearby to get some respite from the sun.
If you brought an umbrella, you're in luck! However, umbrellas are rarely big enough for more than 2 people and don't work well in soft sand or wind.
A beach umbrella can be the perfect accessory for a trip to the beach. Whether the trip is for 1 day, 1 week or a summer camp, a quality umbrella should be big enough for a family and last for several years.
In the following paragraphs I will highlight the best umbrellas for families and friends. I'll also share some reasons why you should consider a parasol and the features to look out for.
After all, heat, salt water, wind and sand can wreak havoc on your gear.
Reasons why you need a beach sunscreen
UV rays:
20 years ago people were not too concerned about UV rays. If you were like me, you'd spend the summer in the sun without sunscreen.
Now your skin is paying for too much sun exposure.
Ultraviolet sunlight is strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. M. to 4 p.m. M. These hours happen to be prime time on the beach.
If you take a trip to the beach, you'll be in the sun within those hours, so it's important to put on sunscreen every two hours whether you need it or not (yes, every two hours, readmy article about sun protection).
You also want a spot where you can shelter from the sun for a few minutes (or hours). Any type of shelter is welcome (canopy, tent, shade, umbrella).
There is always shade in the restaurants near the beach and in the hotel room, but you want to stay on the beach.
dehydration
Dehydration is another problem that many people face on the beach. People drink alcohol and sodas that actually dehydrate you.
People may feel hydrated because they sweat or are wet from the sea, but our skin doesn't absorb water.
We must drink it. Dehydration occurs when we lose more water than we take in. If you plan ahead, drinking water before going to the beach can help you recharge before you get there (Check out my article on peeing in the sea)
A beach shell provides shade, and shade can reduce our sweat rate.
Be sure to take plenty of water with you. I usually freeze a few bottles of water to melt so I have fresh water throughout the day. Frozen bottles can also help keep our cooler cold all day (read more aboutMy best beach tricks).
heat exhaustion
Some people confuse dehydration and heat exhaustion. They may be related, but heat exhaustion is more serious.
Symptoms include throbbing headache, dizziness, lack of sweating, hot, itchy skin, fast heartbeat (among others).
heat exhaustionIt occurs when working and exercising outdoors in a very hot environment. Shade helps reduce the risk of heat exhaustion.
It is extremely important for parents to keep an eye on their little children on hot days.
Children are active on the beach, running and playing non-stop. They are often unaware of the heat, humidity and sweating and they don't want to stop having fun.
Lesson learned:
There is no shade on the beach. take it with you
The 6 Best Parasols (Perfect for the Beach)
#1 Pacific Breeze Easy Set sunscreen
My number one umbrella looks like a tent, but it's only half and made for the beach. Don't worry, you don't live in this store.
With thousands of great reviews, you can't beat this option. Most people think that a "tent" is difficult to set up and take down.
Pacific Breezed has solved the problem and this parasol can be installed in seconds.
Reflexes:
- Few seconds to open and close
- Made for the beach with a pull out bottom
- Sun protection 50+ UPF
- Large windows for ventilation and wind protection.
- Measures 95" x 52" x 51"
- Suitable for 3-4 people
- Inside pockets and hanging hooks
One of the best things about this parasol is the flap that comes out. Sure, the extra area in front of the tent is nice to have, but the flap also closes to cover and enclose the tent.
So if you want to change or take a nap undisturbed, you can zip up the front (Consult Pacific Breeze and Amazon).
Another reason why this parasol is so popular is that it is so easy to use. No need for multiple people, no need for ropes or sandbags, just take it out of the bag and activate the tent by pulling the ropes.
The last reason I like it is that it's super light and easy to carry. It weighs only 6 pounds so even a child can carry it. Direct and effortless.
#2 Authentic Toldo de Playa
Can beach sunglasses be beautiful? How about funky? This beach shade looks great while keeping things simple.
I really like that the sides are open so you don't lose the cool pleasant breeze from all directions.
Reflexes:
- More than 20 color options
- excellent reviews
- microfiber
- UPF50
- made in European style
- Setup takes a few minutes
- Sandbags, poles and rope
- Adjustable to change with the sun.
With the lightweight bag it comes in, it's easy to take this parasol to the beach. When you get there, fill the sacks with sand, stick the posts in the sand and spread the shade over them.
One cool thing about this umbrella is that it's adjustable, so the umbrella can move with the position of the sun; You won't get that with tents or other options.
Otentik uses a delicate microfiber with 28% Lycra to make it elastic (Check out the Otentik parasol on Amazon).
They offer a 30-day return policy, so if you're not satisfied after the first use, feel free to return it. There are some sizes to choose from small to large.
Customers use them for beach trips, fishing trips, and beach volleyball tournaments. Everyone seems happy with that - get ready for lots of compliments on the beach.
#3 Coleman Day Tripper Sunscreen
Coleman is known for their camping gear and this half tent is great for the beach. It is great for day trips to the beach and for young children who need a safe place to rest and sleep out of the sun.
I love the layout of the color options and the price can't be beat!
Reflexes:
- portable pop-up window
- Sun protection UPF 50
- Extended front bottom that also zips up to close the store
- Storage pockets, ventilation
- Dryline for hanging up wet zippers
- Measures 7'6" x 4'5" (center height 4'9")
- Set up in 5 minutes
The Coleman sunshade lasts a few minutes longer than the Pacific Breeze, but is similar in design and cheaper in price.
Ask yourself if it's worth saving a few more minutes for setup.
Use stakes to stay in the sand. Using sand stakes hasn't always worked well for me (similar to umbrellas) but it helps anchor the tent (by Coleman Day Tripper on Amazon).
This design tends to "trap" the wind, but the vents need to let enough air through. I also like that it closes for privacy.
It weighs 5 pounds and comes in a handy carrying case. It disassembles easily and fits in the trunk of a car.
Reviews are excellent and users say it's versatile off the beach. It can be used at sporting events, parks and children's parties. Overall this is a great option for the beach and is made by a solid company.
#4 Neso Portable Beach Umbrella
The Neso parasol is another great option for people who want shade and a feeling of being outside. Similar to the Otentik parasol, the Neso offers a two-post top canopy with sandbag anchors.
Reflexes:
- tolle Designs
- 7' x 7'
- weighs 4 pounds
- Fits in hand luggage
- UV protection up to 98%
- Beaches, parks, stadiums, concerts
- Mixture of nylon and spandex.
- Inspired by skin cancer survivors
The setup process is simple but takes a few minutes. It includes laying material level, filling sandbags, placing sandbags, spreading and anchoring posts, and placing fabric over posts near the corners (Check out the Neso parasol on Amazon).
That might seem like a lot of work, but based on all the positive reviews, people don't really care (a few minutes of work for a full day in the shade is a pretty good compromise if you ask me).
Ratings range from "best parasol ever" to "high fashion on the beach". 4 people can comfortably fit under the shade and it can be adjusted to remain in the shade throughout the day.
It comes at a higher price point, but it's a quality parasol that should last a couple of years or more.
#5 Pacific Breeze Easy Set-Up XL (Arena und Surf)
This Pacific Breeze option is a little different than the #1 umbrella, but still pretty good. Provides an open area with panels that can be joined together.
It all depends on what you want, but it offers a lot more ventilation than the original.
Reflexes:
- Easy Up Hub System (few seconds)
- 9 pounds
- 5" x 94,5" x 59"
- UPF 50+
- Polyester and water repellent
- inside pockets
- floor mat
This option includes a carry bag, 8 sandbags, 2 umbrellas (covers) for extra shade and 4 stakes. 1 year warranty cannot be exceeded (Consult Pacific Breeze Sand and Surf on Amazon).
I like the open air look of these beach umbrellas and I think they would hold up better in windy situations than option #1. #1.
Not sure how much sun protection it would provide if you didn't use the 2 side panels that are included.
I definitely like the design and the brand. Both Pacific Breeze tents are easy to pitch and lightweight. Customers like the look and say it's perfect for the beach.
#6 Tommy Bahama Portable Beach Tent
Tommy Bahama manufactures beachwear items such as clothing and shoes. The brand has been around for decades and remains a leader in beachwear (all those Hawaiian shirts).
This beach tent is similar to the Coleman option on our list and requires more time to set up than other options on the list.
However, it is made specifically for the beach and the design looks great.
Reflexes:
- cheap price
- Offers space for 2 beach chairs
- UPF 50+ rating
- Inside pockets and ventilation.
- Carrying case and strap
- Light weight: 5 pounds
- Durable polyester fabric
This has a frame that requires assembly (like the old style tents). The frame is clad in aluminum that shouldn't rust but will hold up well over time (Check out the Tommy Bahama parasol on Amazon).
With this parasol I like what you get for the price and I like the brand. Customers are also satisfied, saying "it's easy to assemble" and "I can fit 3 chairs in it" (it's bigger than it looks).
With a little care, this parasol can last a long time, so it's worth the small price. You can even use it in the garden or parks, perfect for babies and toddlers to protect them from the sun.
Parasol: Features You Need
Durability:
When using equipment outdoors, it is important that the material is durable enough to last for several years. The thin material and cheap plastic parts can tear and break on the beach.
Beach sunshade fabric can vary, including reinforced nylon, breathable polyester and microfiber, but it's important that the shade is thick enough to withstand the elements.
No metal of any kind should be exposed to prevent rusting on the beach (salt and water will speed up the rusting process). The options on our list use ribbon, fabric, and fiberglass, avoiding the use of metal.
Windproof:
A windproof design goes hand in hand with durability, but that doesn't just apply to the materials used. Many parasol designs tend to catch the wind, making them easy to tip over.
Evidence of a flimsy design is the parasol, which tends to tip over even in moderate winds. Umbrellas can be anchored but it's still difficult when it's windy.
Parasols that don't have walls work well because they're generally light and open at the bottom (they're not tent styles). The side top cover should look like a superior design compared to closed blinds.
You will perform much better in windy environments.
Licht:
Remember to take your umbrella from the car to the beach and back. Your hands are full of bags, towels, sunscreen and surfboards.
Parasols that have a pocket and sling make it easy to toss and carry over your shoulder.
Most beach sunglasses are lightweight and easy to carry, a big change from a few years ago.
>> my recommended beach carts for hauling gear across the sand
Stylish/Colorful:
The style is superficial, but it's okay to look good on the beach. All of the options on this list have colorful prints that go well with the beach.
Whether it's pink, blue, green or grey, there's a color that will suit your style. Bright colors look good on the beach!
Ultraviolet rays (protection):
I already mentioned that umbrellas are important to reduce harmful sun exposure, but we go to the beach to sunbathe, right? We should use it wisely.
When we are with family, we take the necessary precautions to put on sunscreen. Most people apply sunscreen once and don't realize that they should do it every 2 hours (or more often when swimming).
A parasol can help with thisUV raysin some ways. First, it provides shade (duh) and any shade helps reduce the intense sunlight on our skin.
Without sunscreen, it only takes 20 minutes for our skin to start burning, so covering up for sleeping and eating throughout the day helps.
Second, UV rays can penetrate shadows. Yes, the UV rays still pass through the cover over your head.
In general, the thicker and darker the cover, the better the protection. Consider the color and thickness of the material when thinking about UV protection.
It's also important to understand that UV rays reflect off the ocean and sand. If you sit in the shade all day, you can still get reflective burns.
Easy to install and disassemble:
The last thing to note is how easy it is to assemble and disassemble the sun visor. This is carried in a light umbrella in tow.
Some umbrellas are pop-ups, others have poles and sandbags. When you come to the beach, it's important to enjoy your time there and not waste time tending and removing shade.
Most of the options on this list of the best parasols are simple and easy to set up.
A reason whypacific breezeIt's number 1 on the list because it can be set up by pulling 2 wires (so easy). Breaking it down is just as easy and requires no team.
Diploma
Finding the right umbrella for the beach is not difficult. There are hundreds of options and in this article I have rounded up some of the best beach umbrellas.
There is no shade on the beach so it is important to bring your own. It helps fight harmful UV rays, helps reduce the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, and most importantly, it gives your family a comfortable place to sit and enjoy your day at the beach.
In this article, I've featured a few different types of umbrellas, including tents and other sun shelters. Hopefully, depending on the size of your family and your needs, there are one or two that will appeal to you.
When considering a parasol, look for the material, size and ease of installation, durability, weight and wind resistance. There always seems to be a breeze on the beach, so make sure it lasts.
I like the Pacific Breeze better, but larger groups may prefer the Otentik sunshade because it's very basic and has a larger area of coverage. Either way, you can't go wrong.
FAQs
What is the best type of parasol? ›
Acrylic tends to be used in the best-quality parasols as it is stain-resistant, water-repellent and mould-resistant, too. Polyester is the better option if budget is a consideration.
What shape umbrella provides the most shade? ›For symmetry and maximum shade protection, a square-shaped umbrella is your best bet. Octagonal is a common umbrella shape that appears more round and will look best covering a circular table. For a more traditional look, opt for an octagonal shape to shade your space.
What color is best for a parasol? ›The color option black is very popular because of its ability to block UV rays. Out of all the colors in the spectrum, black absorbs the most light and heat. If you have a black patio umbrella canopy, you can rest under it on hot sunny days without letting the heat bother you.
What type of patio umbrella is best for sun protection? ›Black patio umbrellas are the best in terms of UV protection, because they absorb the heat on those hot sunny days. The great thing about this neutral shade is that it matches with any other color so it's likely that it will complement your patio aesthetic.
What to look for when buying a parasol? ›When choosing a parasol for your outdoor space, there are 8 main criteria that you want to consider before purchasing: budget, usage, wind resistance, different types of fixations, the space available, the size of the area that needs shading, the parasol accessories and the materials used for manufacturing.
What is the best size parasol? ›Determining what size parasol you need depends on what you want to shade. For a 6-person table, a 3.5-metre canopy is great. If you have a 4-person table to shade, you may want 3 - 3.3 metres. For a 2-person table, a 2-metre canopy could work well.
What color umbrella fades the least in sunlight? ›Black or charcoal umbrellas are also longer-lasting than other colours as they tend to fade less quickly. They also are less likely to show bird droppings, which is something that you absolutely must think about unless you want to be cleaning your parasol every day.
What is the best Colour for a sun umbrella? ›In a garden parasol, the exterior material absorbs ultraviolet (UV) rays. This means that darker colours absorb more, with black absorbing up to 90% of the sun's rays, according to a study by Emory University School of Medicine.
What color umbrella blocks the most UV rays? ›According to a U.S. study published in JAMA Dermatology, any fully-functioning handheld umbrella can block more than three-quarters of ultraviolet (UV) light on a sunny day. Black ones do even better, blocking at least 90 percent of rays.
Is a black or white parasol better? ›Black umbrellas generally have a higher SPF rating than their white counterparts. They are also very popular amongst those who like to cover themselves in tanning oil while spending time outdoors. White umbrellas tend to have a lower SPF rating than black ones, but they also give off a softer glow.
What is the best material for a parasol? ›
What makes the best parasol fabric? A material that is thick and solution dyed. Olefin and acrylic are the top performing fabrics, with high fade resistance and UV protection. They're also stain- and mildew-resistant.
Are black parasols to hot? ›Myth #1: White vs Black Umbrellas: Black Is Hotter
Since you're typically standing directly underneath an umbrella, the colour does not really affect you in terms of the heat you feel from the sun.
Dark or bright colors
Darker colors absorb more UV than lighter colors like whites and pastels. This means the UV rays are less likely to reach your skin. But bright colors such as red can also absorb UV rays. The more vivid the color, the greater the protection—a bright yellow shirt is more protective than a pale one.
What is the best color for an outdoor umbrella? If you need an umbrella to use as a parasol, go with a black one that can intercept up to 90 percent of the sun's UV rays. If you're just looking for rain protection, any color will do.
How long do Sunbrella umbrellas last? ›You could also consider Sunbrella fabric, a UV solution-dyed acrylic material. This cloth is noticeably thicker and will last up to 10 years before needing replacement.
Is a round or square parasol better? ›A 10 foot square umbrella has a shade are of 100 square feet while a Round/Octagon has approximately 71 square feet. So a square will give you almost 30% MORE shade coverage. If you are looking for maximum shade protection: a square umbrella is the way go!
Which parasol is best in wind? ›Wind in the garden
If you prefer a free-hanging model, the Solero Fuerto Pro, for example, is a suitable option. If you prefer a parasol with the pole in the middle, the Lasagna Pro is a good alternative. The Lasagna is built up in layers so that the wind easily blows through the fabric and has no grip on the parasol.
But if you're looking to sit out in the shade all day, then a cantilever parasol that adjusts on a tilt would be a better option, as it would give you optimal cover all day long.
Are cantilever parasols good? ›Cantilever parasols are some of the most advanced on the market, constructed with a tough yet malleable design for maximum protection and increased flexibility. With these parasols, the base and main pole stand away from the seated area, whilst the umbrella itself leans forward to provide cover.
What is the difference between an umbrella and a parasol? ›Generally, an umbrella has a curved handle to allow for easy grip and storage. A parasol, however, (in Latin para for “shelter or shield” and sol “sun”) is typically constructed from more delicate fabrics such as lace, cotton, silk, linen, canvas and plastic.
How heavy should a parasol stand be? ›
How heavy should a parasol base be? Determining the weight of your parasol base depends mostly on the size of your canopy. Generally, a 3.5-metre canopy needs a 50-kg base, 3 metres requires 40 kg and 2.8 needs 30. If you need more weight, you can buy extra weight bags to put on top of your existing base.
What colors are most sun resistant? ›The Cancer Council in Australia suggests that darker colors absorb UV rays, which helps block them from your skin. That's why dark blue, black, and dark red are the best colors for sun protection compared to white or pastel colors of the same fabric.
Why do we use black umbrellas in summer? ›“Black umbrellas, too, absorb more of the sun's energy, so less of it is able to seep through the fabric to your skin.”
How do I choose a sun umbrella? ›Get a Patio Umbrella Larger Than Your Sitting Area
For proper shade space, you'll need a patio umbrella a couple of feet wider than the table or area where you're sitting. Most home patio umbrellas are nine feet in diameter, fitting tables six to seven feet across. Extra large tables need even larger umbrellas.
Synthetic and semisynthetic fibers like polyester or rayon are the best choices for sun protection, as are dense, heavy, tightly woven fabrics like wool, denim or corduroy.
Are UV umbrellas worth it? ›In short, yes, they do. As mentioned before, UV umbrellas are coated with a special substance that blocks out both heat and UV rays. When you use a UV umbrella, you can feel the difference immediately when it comes to protecting your skin against the sun.
Do UV rays go through parasols? ›Sitting under a parasol on the beach 'does NOT protect you from sunburn': Umbrellas are no match for UV rays, study warns. Sitting under a parasol on the beach does not protect you from sunburn, a new study claims. Seeking shade is a widely-used practice to avoid direct sun exposure.
Why are black umbrellas The best? ›Hence, black umbrella absorbs more energy and simultaneously it also emits more energy, thus maintaining the temperature of the black body.
What is the advantage of cantilever parasol? ›Cantilever umbrellas are arguably the most convenient of all types of portable shade solutions. They are extremely easy to install and are just as easy to operate. They can be manoeuvred and rotated with ease, with a tilt feature as well on some models. They can even be packed and stored away during the winter months.
Why are umbrellas silver inside? ›The reflective surface on the inside prevents heat from being emmitted toward the user from the hot umbrella.
How effective are parasols? ›
How effective are parasols at blocking the sun? That same research found that umbrellas purpose-built for sun protection are highly effective at blocking harmful UV rays.
How do you stop a parasol from falling over? ›- Use a Reliable Patio Table. ...
- Invest in Air Vents. ...
- Be Prepared For Powerful Winds. ...
- Avoid Wooden or Plastic Frames. ...
- Get a Heavy-Duty Base. ...
- Add More Strength to Your Base. ...
- Close Your Umbrella When Not in Use.
They will hold up against very fine, spitting rain although we do not recommend that they are used for rain. We also recommend that you lower your parasol whenever it is not in use and during periods of adverse weather conditions. Was this answer helpful to you?
Can you still burn under a parasol? ›While seeking shade is an effective way to prevent sunburn, it does not entirely block the sun's rays. So if you're wondering whether you can still get sunburned under an umbrella or awning, the answer is yes.
Do I need sunscreen under a parasol? ›Because umbrellas provide limited protection against scattered and reflected UV radiation and because excessive sun exposure can still cause sunburn even when wearing sunscreen, it is recommended to both use sunscreen and stay in the shade when spending the day outside.
What color is coolest in the sun? ›White, silver, and other light colors are coolest, reflecting about 60 percent of sunlight but there are dark "cool" colors that can also stay cooler than traditional dark colors.
Is Coolibar a good brand? ›Our favorite fabrics
Coolibar is one of the best UPF clothing brands, according to medical experts we previously consulted in our guides to UPF fashion and UPF hats. Quality of the fabric is perfect. Addicted to Coolibar!
Solution-dyed polyester is especially great for outdoor use - it has exceptional UV/sun resistance and wear properties. Not to mention, solution-dyed fabrics are much better for the environment (less water waste is used during production).
Is it better to have a light or dark umbrella? ›Much like the clothing we wear, lighter and darker patio umbrella colors draw and repel heat differently. Darker fabric is great at masking stains, and may a better fit for environments that are sunny but cool. A high-quality umbrella is a long-term investment for your patio, and the color should reflect that.
How can you tell quality umbrella? ›- A model that's about 10 or 11 inches long. A large, domed canopy is one key to good protection. ...
- A vented canopy. ...
- A handle that's comfortable to hold in either hand. ...
- A shaft that collapses in only two sections. ...
- A $30 to $40 price tag.
What is the difference between premium Sunbrella and Sunbrella rain? ›
Rain is an innovative upholstery fabric with quicker drying performance and higher resistance to water. It is coated to shed water and drys quickly after a simple wipe down. There is no color difference between Sunbrella and Sunbrella Rain color options.
Which Sunbrella fabric is most durable? ›Sunbrella Heritage fabric is made of 50% Sunbrella acrylic and 50% recycled Sunbrella acrylic. It's a heavier weight at 10.5 oz and is very durable. Other varieties, including Dupione, Mainstreet, and Sailcloth, range from 8 to 12 oz.
What is so special about Sunbrella? ›Sunbrella performance fabrics are fade-resistant because they are made of 100% solution-dyed acrylic and designed for a long life span. Down to the core, the entire fabric fiber is the same color, so the color stays true over time, even in extreme sunlight.
Why did we stop using parasols? ›So why did American women stop using the umbrella for sun protection? The automobile reduced the need for walking and provided a private shield from the sun for the driver and passengers.
How do I stop my parasol blowing away? ›A tall stand that firmly grips the pole.
So look for a stand that grabs onto at least a foot of the umbrella's pole. Good stands can also clamp onto the umbrella for an extra tight grip that doesn't bite into the wood, fiberglass, or metal materials.
The main drawback of cantilever parasols is that, because of the way the weight is distributed, they are more susceptible to being moved around by gusts of wind.
What is a pretty parasol? ›The Pretty Parasol is a Survival item. Like an Umbrella, it negates Sanity loss caused by the Rain when equipped. If playing as WX-78, the Pretty Parasol will prevent damage caused by Rain and prevent being struck by Lightning.
What is the difference between a cantilever and banana parasol? ›A tilting cantilever parasol is a style of parasol that can be adjusted to block sunlight effectively. The canopy is connected to an arm which stretches, or leans out over the area you want protected from the sun. This style of parasol is also known as a banana parasol or hanging parasol.
What is an offset parasol? ›Offset patio umbrellas include a post to the side while cantilever umbrellas may include a post to the side but can also be wall-mounted. Cantilever umbrellas are offset umbrellas. This is ideal because their canopies open to the side, providing more space underneath for seating.