Best Tents for Camping on the Beach

10 Best Beach Camping Tents of 2023 (Buyers Guide!)

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It doesn’t get any better than beach camping—from the beautiful sunsets and sunrises to the never-ending calming of waves crashing steps away from you, it’s hard to top it. While beach camping is something to be enjoyed by many, finding the best tents for beach camping is not always the simplest task.

Finding the best tent for you comes down to a few determining factors, including size, ease of use, and overall protection from the elements. You might be surprised at the number of options there are out there. 

Maybe you prefer pop-up tents that set up as easy as a flick of the wrist, or perhaps you prefer the standard pole setup for extra durability. The options are nearly endless.

Rather than getting overwhelmed with the paradox of choice, look at our beach camping tent reviews to see if we can help zero in on the one which best suits your outdoor needs. 

The Best Tents for Beach Camping Reviews (Editor’s Picks)

Here are the reviews of our top picks for the best beach camping tents in no particular order. The list is numbered for convenience, not as a ranking; each choice has its own pros and cons, and unique selling points.  

1. Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent Deluxe XL

Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent Deluxe XL, SPF 50+ Pop Up Beach Tent Provides Shade from The Sun for 4+ People
  • Specially designed hub system showcases industry leading design. Allows for fast and easy setup
  • The Deluxe XL version is lightweight and compact, weighing just over 6 pounds and folding down to a travel size of 38 L x 6 W x 6 H. The beach tent provides protection from the sun, rain and wind for all outdoor activities, UPF 50+ sun protection and 3 X-large windows for ventilation. The beach tent is made from breathable polyester and is water repellent
  • The tent is 95 L x 52 H x 51 D, providing a spacious interior shelter that comfortably fits 3-4 people. The beach tent has internal pockets to store personal items and hooks for hanging. It is made of a durable and lightweight fiberglass frame and water resistant PE floor makes our Beach Tent a great outdoor accessory

Despite the Deluxe XL name, the Pacific Breeze is a lightweight, easy to assemble tent designed for all of your camping needs. This tent comes with a handy carrying case and additional sand pockets and stakes for added stability while weighing less than seven pounds.

The Pacific Breeze tent’s exterior is a durable yet breathable polyester that is both water repellent and UPF 50+. It’s sure to offer you protection from the sun, rain, and sometimes harsh oceanside wind. The frame is ultra-durable fiberglass, which makes the structure lightweight and easy to handle and store.  

The three large windows around the perimeter allow for maximum ventilation and are simple to roll up or down as needed. This tent is spacious enough to fit three to four comfortably. There are even internal pockets that allow stowage of personal belongings safely and hooks for lighting in the evenings. 

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Three large windows provide excellent ventilation
  • UPF 50+ sun protection
  • Setup in under five minutes
  • Backed with a 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Tarp flooring is challenging to clean
  • Fibreglass frame breaks can be hazardous

2. G4Free Large Pop-up Beach Tent

G4Free Large Pop up Beach Tent for 3-4 Person, UPF 50+ Automatic Sun Shelter Canopy Portable Outdoor Cabana Sun Umbrella
4,385 Reviews
G4Free Large Pop up Beach Tent for 3-4 Person, UPF 50+ Automatic Sun Shelter Canopy Portable Outdoor Cabana Sun Umbrella
  • 【Large Space】Oversized Design, 20% Bigger than competitors'. Pop up Beach Tent size: 78.7 X 47.2 X 51.2 inch (L X W X H), very spacious for 3~4 people, the best choice for family sun shelter. The new frame is steel wire, more solid and lightweight than the old version-fiberglass frame, making the beach tent stably stand by itself and keep shape after a long time of use. Weight: 2.4 LB.
  • 【Windproof】Comprehensive wind design, 2 built-in sand pockets, 4 detachable sandbags, and 4 fixed tent pegs to keep the cabana tent steady in the wind. Also with 4 extra wind ropes, it will be more stable on a windy day.
  • 【Instant pop-up Design and ventilated】Just throw out your sun shelter tents, it will pop up automatically in seconds. 3-side widened mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and you can enjoy the sea breeze. The pop-up beach tent comes in a portable carrying case so you can easily fold it up and take it away.

The name says it all—the G4Free Pop-up beach tent is as easy as throwing open your tent in one simple second. With the oversized design, this beach tent is up to 20% larger than most beach tents you will find and provides more than enough space for three to four people.

This beach tent is made from a 190T silver coated fabric, meaning it is anti-UV and provides UPF 50+, keeping your family safe from the harshness of the sun. The pop-up beach tent’s framing is steel wire, which proves to be a more reliable and safe alternative to other materials out there while still keeping it lightweight at under 2.5 pounds.

This beach tent comes with four additional wind ropes, tent pegs, and detachable sandbags to provide added stability in windier climates.

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight, 2.4 pounds
  • Steel wireframing adds stability during windy days
  • Keeps your family safe with UPF 50+ sun protection
  • 1-second throw style setup
  • Multiple color options to choose from

Cons

  • LImited height space inside the tent
  • Folding up the tent can be challenging

3. East hills Outdoors Instant Shader Deluxe XL

Easthills Outdoors Instant Shader Deluxe XL Beach Tent Easy Up 99' Wide for 4-6 Person Sun Shelter - Extended Zippered Porch Included Beige
4,088 Reviews
Easthills Outdoors Instant Shader Deluxe XL Beach Tent Easy Up 99" Wide for 4-6 Person Sun Shelter - Extended Zippered Porch Included Beige
  • EXTRA LARGE. The Instant Shader Deluxe XL is one of the biggest sun shelters for your whole family. 99" W x 53" D x 57" H plus a 53" front porch of space for up to 4 adults and children or pets. Weighs only 8 pounds and packs down to 41" x 8.5" x 8.5" for easy carrying and storage - easy to fit in the trunk of a car.
  • 1 MINTUE (OR LESS!) SETUP TIME AND EASY TO USE. Setting up this tent couldn't be any faster or easier! In case you can't figure it out, we've sewed step-by-step instructions inside the carry bag; It also has three-sided roll up windows for 360 degree views and efficient ventilation to prevent hot tent; 4 internal mesh pockets to store your personal items.
  • ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT AND WATER RESISTANT. Crafted from 185T polyester coated with UPF 50+ protection that blocks 97.5% of harmful UV sun rays, providing all-day protection for your family on the beach or sports events.

The extra-large dimensions of this beach tent are unmatched by others on the market. Not only does this tent provide 99″ W x 53 “D x 57” H of space for your family, but it also comes with an additional 53 inches of front porch space.

Shockingly, despite the extensive layout, this beach tent weighs in at only eight pounds and folds down easily to fit into its included carrying case. Setup couldn’t be any more comfortable with this beach tent with setup in one minute or less. They even have step-by-step instructions printed inside of the carrying case in case you forget.

If you value your privacy, this beach tent may be an excellent option for you with its zippered front space. This tent’s extended porch area can be used as a front door when needed, zipping up from both sides. 

Pros

  • Zippered front door option
  • 53″ of additional porch space
  • Easy setup, with instructions printed inside the carrying case
  • Water-resistant 185T polyester coating
  • Additional plastic stakes, guylines, and storage pouch included

Cons

  • Heavier than others at eight pounds
  • It can be challenging to break down and get back into the carrying case

4. Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Cabana Beach Tent Sun Shelter

Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Cabana Beach Tent Sun Shelter | Tent for Beach with Porch Space | Pop Up Beach Tents with Compression Hub System for Quick Set Up | Fits 2-3 Adults, Kids or Pets | Blue Wave
  • VIBRANT DESIGN: This beach shelter is made to keep you shielded from the sun when relaxing outdoors! 3 integrated sand pockets, webbed stake loops, and guy lines for added stability are included along with an oversized carry bag, stakes and a stake bag.
  • COMPRESSION HUB SYSTEM: The pop-up design makes setup and teardown easy! Simply press the hub together and the cabana beach tent will open like an umbrella for quick relief from the sun rays while the front awning keeps you in the shade for longer.
  • SUPERIOR FEATURES: Our camping sun shelters include 3 large mesh windows with shades for privacy when needed and maximum ventilation that brings a breeze in. Stretch out and relax in a spacious area with an extended floor and 3 interior storage pockets.

With easy setup and breakdown, the Lightspeed Outdoors Quick beach tent is an excellent option for smaller families. The quick pop-up design opens similarly to an umbrella, without any additional poles to juggle. This beach tent comes with an additional 48″ of porch space, making it the perfect accommodation for two adults with their children or pets.

This beach tent’s frame is made of fiberglass, making it super lightweight yet durable enough to withstand windy weather. The tent itself is an umbrella rated 450mm PU, which sheds water immediately, without absorption. Its waterproof exterior is ideal for inclement weather and salty sea spray.

For additional stability, this tent comes with eight extra stakes and guylines. Best of all, this tent has a one-year warranty and a friendly customer service team who is ready and willing to assist if ever needed.

Pros

  • Umbrella like pop-up setup system
  • Oversized storage bag makes break down simple
  • Two color options to choose from
  • Added porch space included
  • 1-year warranty provided

Cons

  • Plastic stakes aren’t significant for added stability
  • Windows close with velcro flaps

5. KingCamp Quick up 2-3 Person Camping Mesh Beach Tent

KingCamp Quick Up Camping Tent for 2-3 Person Camping Mesh Beach Tent Sun Shelter UPF 50+ Mosquito Net Screen Room Tents Spacious Oversize for Outdoors Hiking Bacpacking
  • STURDINESS: You will have a strong enough tent that is able to stand up even in stiff winds as long as the terrain is hard enough unlike loose sand on beach. Because there are totally 8 ropes, 12 steel nails and 4 sands bags on each corner.
  • WATER-RESISTANT & WEATHERPROOF: The flysheet is made of 190T Polyester with 2000mm PU Coating make you to avoid being wet in outdoor. No worry about heavy sunshine because the quality material is UPF50+ so it is a qualified sun shelter.
  • SPACIOUS: The size 83 inches x 83 inches is absolutely large enough for 2 big guys unless they are NBA Center. Perfect for 3 people if they are normal size. You can easily ask your family or friend about their shoulder width to calculate it easily.

The KingCamp beach tent has a more traditional camping tent. It’s shaped like a square that can be fully enclosed, but there’s still enough space for four. With the option of opening three sides fully, closing them with a mesh screening, or privacy shield, you’ve got lots of possibilities with this tent.

The beach tent’s material is a 190T polyester flysheet with a 2000 PU coating, which prevents water from soaking in on rainy days or nights. Meanwhile, you’ll stay protected in the sun with a UPF 50+ rating as well.

For extra support in windier conditions, this tent comes with eight different ropes, twelve steel nails, and four refillable sandbags on each corner to keep your tent put.

Pros

  • Fiberglass pop-up poles
  • The tent can have a mesh or privacy screening
  • Two color options to choose from
  • Hook at the top of the tent for lighting source
  • No footprint needed

Cons

  • Material is thin, and sand clings to it
  • Open spaces around external stitches may cause water leaks in the rain

6. Alvantor Beach Tent Umbrella Outdoor Sun Shelter

Alvantor Extra Large Beach Tent Super Bluecoast Beach Umbrella Outdoor Sun Shelter Cabana Automatic Pop Up UPF 50+ Sun Shade Portable Camping Fishing Hiking Canopy Easy Setup Windproof Patent Pending
1,584 Reviews
Alvantor Extra Large Beach Tent Super Bluecoast Beach Umbrella Outdoor Sun Shelter Cabana Automatic Pop Up UPF 50+ Sun Shade Portable Camping Fishing Hiking Canopy Easy Setup Windproof Patent Pending
  • ☀NEW VERSION OF PATENTED AUTOMATIC OPEN sun shade beach tent on the Market: EXTRA LARGE for your whole family. CLOSED FRONT SIDE give you convenient privacy space. Patent pending HUB mechanic system on the top, which make tent open by itself effortless.
  • ☀INNOVATIVE DESIGN: 50+ UPF UV protection and water resistant fabric for walls and floor. 3 side roll up mesh window provides excellent ventilation. Includes 3 sand pockets, 4 stakes and extra 4 sand bags. This pop-up beach sun shelter is windproof up to 25 mph.
  • ☀SUPER EASY UP & DOWN: This beach tent sun shelter pop up automatically instant in a second. Sets up less than 30 seconds. Folds down handy, with 2 hands clasp top two poles, into roomy portable carrying bag, no need to struggle with this foldable tent.

The Alvantor beach tent’s new design offers a closeable front side for an added privacy feature as needed for your family. Otherwise, when not required, it can be laid flat as added porch space.

Three large windows around the tent’s perimeter provide excellent ventilation making this tent a superb addition for a family beach trip. With an easy pop up set up, you can have your tent up and ready to go in less than 30 seconds. 

This test’s extra stability features include three attached refillable sand pockets, four plastic stakes, and an additional four sandbags for extra support. This beach tent is known to be able to withstand winds of up to 25 mph.

Pros

  • A US-based company with customer service based out of Los Angeles, California
  • Privacy space with hook up the front flap
  • UPF 50+ keeps your family safe from the sun
  • Two hands clasp top poles
  • 1-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Minimal sun shading provided
  • Lower-quality material

7. OutdoorMaster Pop Up 3-4 Person Beach Tent

OutdoorMaster Pop Up Beach Tent for 4 Person - Easy Setup and Portable Beach Shade Sun Shelter Canopy with UPF 50+ UV Protection Removable Skylight Family Size - Blue
  • Easy Set Up and Portable: This pop up beach tent allows to set up in seconds, without complicated installation steps. Frustrated days of putting up and taking down large beach tents has gone! Lightweight and easy to fold back with a compact carrying bag for easy transport and storage.
  • Durable Beach Tent: OutdoorMaster beach tent pop up shade made with durable 150D floor and thick 8.5mm fiberglass poles, also comes with stakes and guy rope to provide more stability.
  • Sun Protection and Weather Proof: Our beach tent sun shelter is made of premium 210T polyester, it can effectively block heat and harmful UV rays. Also rated 3000mm PU coating, let the beach tent 100% weather proof, provides protection from the sun and wind for all outdoor activities.

The Outdoor Master pop up beach tent provides close to immediate safety from the sun for your family of four. Quickly raise your tent from its included carrying case with one quick motion—no need for additional assembly for your tent.

Sure to protect you from sun, rain, and wind, this is a great tent to come along for any outdoor adventure. For an added privacy option, this beach tent has a built-in zippered door. When not in use, this flap can extend out as a patio space.

Suppose, for whatever reason, you are not fully satisfied with your purchase. In that case, OutdoorMaster backs their pop up beach tent with a six month, 100% satisfaction guarantee warranty through the support of their exceptional customer service providers.

Pros

  • Built-in zippered door
  • UPF 50+ protection from the sun
  • Removable skylight
  • Easy pop-up, no additional assembly required
  • Six months 100% satisfaction guaranteed

Cons

  • The material can get hot inside
  • Heavier option at over eight pounds

8. Coleman Beach Shade Shelter

Sale
Coleman Beach Shade Canopy Tent, Lightweight & Portable Beach Shade Sets Up in 5 Minutes, UPF 50+ Sun Protection Includes Sand Bags & Stakes to Withstand Wind, Great for Beach, Park, Yard, Picnics
  • Portable pop-up beach tent with UPF 50+ sun protection
  • Extended front floor zips for privacy; back window unzips for ventilation
  • Integrated storage pockets and a dry line to hang wet clothing

Coleman is a highly trusted name in the world of camping; beach camping is no exception. Adding to their camping portfolio, the Coleman beach shelter offers sun protection for your family with an easy setup in a matter of five minutes or less. 

Although this is not a pop-up format, the poles are simple to get into the slots and quickly get everything set. With included ground stakes and guylines that come pre- attached, you can ensure the stability of your tent even in windy weather.

Small enough to fit into luggage, this beach tent can join your family on any vacation, although you might need multiples to accommodate a family any larger than two adults and a child or pet.

Pros

  • Two color choices to choose from
  • Patio front material can zip up for privacy
  • Back window zips for ventilation
  • Lightweight yet sturdy design
  • Additional stability stakes

Cons

  • It does not have windows on the sides
  • Smaller than other options

9. Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Canopy Instant Pop Up Shade Tent

Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Canopy Instant Pop Up Shade Tent
752 Reviews
Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Canopy Instant Pop Up Shade Tent
  • Easy up and down hub system with prethreaded poles makes this cool cabana as refreshing as a gentle pacific breeze with maximum UPF 50+ sun protection (see video)
  • Lightweight at 7 lbs; This shade tent gives 8' x 8' x 5' of generous space a sun protection; Packs down to 50" x 5"
  • Built-in sidewall provides extensive protection from sun and wind for the entire family and your gear; Wide open views of the park or beach; Kid and dog durable PE floor; water resistant 450mm PU coating for wet conditions

Great not only for the beach but also for the lake or mountains, the Lightspeed Outdoors quick canopy tent is an excellent addition for a family of four on any outdoor adventure. It offers maximum ventilation with one concrete back wall and three additional open you can safely avoid any wind accidents with this tent.

Even with less material than other beach tents, this is sure to provide additional interior pockets to keep your stored items safe from wandering eyes on the beach. There are also attachments to the interior top, which are perfect for lighting at night.

Setting up your beach tent comes easily with pre-threaded poles and an easy up and down hub system. The flooring is made of polyethylene, making it both kid and dog friendly.

Pros

  • 270-degree views
  • UPF 50+ protected shading from the sun
  • Large size, 7’10” square
  • Lightweight model at seven pounds
  • 1-year warranty provided

Cons

  • The material can get hot inside
  • Heavier option at over eight pounds

10. Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella

Sale
Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella for Beach and Sports Events (8-Foot, Blue)
9,504 Reviews
Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella for Beach and Sports Events (8-Foot, Blue)
  • UPF 50 plus PROTECTION - The Sport-Brella XL will keep your skin safe and protected from UVA and UVB rays. With side panels for extra coverage and wind flaps for ventilation and airflow, you’ll get everything you need
  • UPF 50 plus sun and weather protection and water repellent, protects over 99.5% of UVA and UVB rays
  • Canopy supported by 4.5 mm steel ribs and a 5mm steel stretcher

If you are looking for something even more lightweight and easy to carry, the Sport-Brella canopy is an excellent alternative to the typical beach tents. While not necessarily recommended for long term usage, it makes for a great way to protect your family from harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun.

With a dual canopy top, this umbrella has two wind vents to increase ventilation and avoid windy mishaps on the beach. It also comes with two anchor chords and four heavy-duty ground stakes for even added security.

Sun, wind, and rain repellant, this umbrella is an excellent option for keeping your family safe on the beach and is small enough to fit in most sedan trucks.

(We also suggest you to read our article on Best Beach Umbrellas)

Pros

  • Most portable option
  • Minimal setup
  • Anchor system holds well to winds
  • Added ventilated zippered windows
  • Protect your family from over 99.5% of UVA and UVB rays

Cons

  • Less sturdy than typical beach tents
  • Heavier weight for an umbrella

Buyers Guide—Knowing What to Look For

Buying the best tent for beach camping requires a bit of a different perspective than shopping for a traditional camping tent. Consider the types of beach tents available, the potential benefits of a beach-specific tent, and the features you’ll need to look for to make the best possible purchase. 

You’ll also want to learn how to use your beach tent the right way, to avoid mishaps during your camping trip.

Types of Beach Tents

Three different types of beach tents are broken down according to the shading you need. The three types include a tent, canopy, and umbrella tent.

Tent

The standard style of beach tents offers the most coverage and protection from the sun. Best of all, these tents provide shelter from sun, rain, wind, and most importantly, bugs. If you have smaller children in your family, this tent style is usually preferable because of its increased levels of protection.

Typically, tents will be enclosed on three sides, with the fourth side completely opened, and which can sometimes be closed entirely. They usually have large windows to provide optimal ventilation.

Canopy

Another popular beach tent option is the shade canopy style, which provides the most airflow as they are completely open on three, if not all four sides. Since there is not much protection from the elements in this style, it is not great for bad weather.

Umbrella Tent

The most portable and inexpensive beach tent is the umbrella tent. Just an umbrella with additional coverings along the sides, these tents provide a decent amount of shading from the sun. Of course, they are not very well-grounded and can blow away easily in strong winds.

(You might also be interested in reading our article on Best Beach Tents and Canopies for Families)

Benefits of Using Beach Tents

While it’s pretty apparent you could use any standard camping tent on the beach, there is a reason that beach tents are designed specifically for their environment. Keep in mind that prime time beach camping is typically in the summer when temperatures are the warmest of the year.

Between the sun’s damaging effects and the heat levels in the summertime, choosing a proper beach tent can make or break your camping trip. Standard camping tents will likely cause you to overheat and do not always provide the UPF protection needed.

The most significant benefit of using a beach tent is having proper ventilation. Usually, they have large, spacious windows and open doors. Also, beach tents almost always provide UPF protection to keep you safe from the sun.

(We also have chosen Best Beach Tents for Babies considering their safety and health)

Drawbacks

It is important to note a few drawbacks of beach tents as they do exist. A few things to keep in mind when looking to purchase a beach tent includes:

  • Smaller than standard camping tents
  • Quality can vary greatly
  • Some do not have flooring material included
  • Materials can get hot in the sun
  • Break down can be challenging
  • Not typically built to withstand strong winds
  • UV protection can vary drastically

It is essential to know what you are looking for before making a purchase and keep possible disadvantages in mind. This way, you can avoid disappointment.

Features

Beach tents come in many different shapes and sizes, but there are other features you should consider.  Prioritize the features that matter most to you, so you can pick the perfect tent for your camping journeys.

Basic features of your standard beach tent should always include:

Size

Like a standard camping tent, your beach tent’s size will depend on how many you are trying to accommodate. Keep in mind that beach tents are typically smaller than traditional tents, with the larger sizes fitting up to four as a tight squeeze.

As a rule of thumb, it is a good idea to consider the tent’s floor space. Measure it out to ensure it will be enough space for you. If you need to accommodate a large group, you might need to purchase multiples. 

Resistance to Wind

While beach tents tend to be less sturdy than traditional camping tents, they still withstand a certain level of wind. In general, beaches tend to get windy at random times, so you want to be sure you can secure your tent down safely.

To avoid your tent being picked up and carried away like a kite in the sky, utilize free-flowing ventilation by keeping windows open and allowing the wind to pass through the tent entirely. 

Ease of Use

Everyone has seen that person at the beach struggling to set up or break down their tent or even both. It’s likely that you don’t want to be that person. With the technology behind beach tents today, there is no need to fumble around with either process.

A few different options are available out there, including a pop-up set up or standard poles. It comes down to whichever you feel the most comfortable with. 

Protection

First and foremost, beach tents are built to protect you from the elements, but specifically the harmful UV sun rays. Keep an eye out for UV or UPF ratings of 50+. While it won’t guarantee you avoid a sunburn altogether, it will help tremendously keep you protected.

You also want to find a beach tent that offers essential protection from prying eyes while changing or storage for small devices. Windows with privacy closing options and small interior pockets are typically standard in beach tents, but make sure you look out for them.

You also want to consider the flooring of your beach tent. If yours has flooring, make sure it is a thick, durable material that protects you from the hot sand. If not, make sure you have an alternative flooring solution to keep you safe.

Extra Features

There are all sorts of added features to be seen in beach tents these days. A few to look out for include:

  • Stability reinforcement features
  • Extra interior pockets
  • Interior hooks for lighting at night
  • Porch space
  • Carrying case

While none of these features are essentials, it’s nice to know what’s out there while you’re shopping around. Plus, perks like an interior porch area or high-capacity pockets can make a difference in your comfort level. After all, the more equipment you have for your beach camping trip, the more comfortable you’ll be.

Maintenance

One nice thing about beach tents is that they don’t typically cost as much as camping tents. Maintenance is also much simpler, but if you’d like to extend your beach tent’s life of your beach tent, you can follow these steps:

1. Use a tent footprint

Some beach tents don’t include any flooring, but you can use a footprint beneath. While the footprint might wear from use over time, you don’t have to worry about any features of the actual tent wearing in the process.

2. Use a waterproof coating

Beach camping always comes with a certain level of moisture in the air, so beach tents typically have some level of waterproofing. It’s something you want to look out for because not all do. 

Over time the waterproofing might wear. In this case, you could add a waterproofing solution for added protection.

3. Don’t store your tent while it’s wet

Because of the moisture in sea air, your tent may get wet, especially in the mornings. If you need to break down your tent in the early morning, or while it is still wet, don’t store it right away, or at least not permanently.

If you have to pack it right away, avoid growing mold spores, which are very difficult to remove, by taking it out as soon as you get home. Allow it to dry off entirely before storing it again. This also applies to your carrying bag.

4. Clean it properly

It is inevitable that your tent will get dirty after using it. That’s part of the fun of camping. To ensure your tent lasts a long time, it’s important to clean it after each trip. 

Check the clean and care instructions for your tent to see if they can be machine-washed or dry-cleaned. If that’s not possible, you can probably hose it down. But make sure you always let it dry fully.  

5. Avoid direct sunlight, if possible

When beach camping, it’s pretty near to impossible to avoid placing your tent in direct sunlight. If possible, opt for partially shaded areas or areas that see shade during parts of the day.

Over time, direct sun exposure can wear the tent’s materials. Even if they have a UV coating, you can always apply additional UV protection spray to coat the top to prevent it from fading over time.

6. Mend rips, tears, and leaks

While minor rips, tears, or leaks at the seams might seem insignificant, if you neglect to mend them right away, it is likely they will continue to grow, possibly irreparably. To avoid this, make sure you make any repairs as soon as possible. 

7. Stake your tent properly

It might seem like a nice, calm day at the beach with no stakes needed to keep your tent from flying away, but the weather can change in an instant, often without warning.

Rather than finding yourself chasing your tent aimlessly down the beach once the wind has picked it up, make sure to stake it down right away. Fill all additional sandbags provided for extra stability. You’ll never know when you’ll need it until it’s too late.

8. Maximize ventilation

Not only is ventilation good to help prevent your tent from being carried away by the wind, but it also helps to prolong your beach tent’s life. Condensation can build quickly in tents—especially overnight. Avoid additional moisture and potential mold growth by always maximizing ventilation.

9. Never cook inside your tent

Beach tents are relatively small, and cooking within them is probably more challenging than worth it, but some still do it. One word of advice—don’t. Added smells, moisture, and the possibility of damaging your tent with heat or cooking utensils cumulatively make it not worth the risk.

Not to mention, it’s just not safe to cook inside your tent. You’re on the beach. Go outside and enjoy the stars around a campfire.

10. Follow setup and break down instructions carefully

It seems simple, yet often issues arise due to not reading the directions correctly, for either set-up or break-down. To avoid breaking any poles, or tearing any fabric, be sure to be gentle with your tent throughout the whole process.

Also, if you have a beach tent with poles you have to set up yourself, don’t skip any. It seems silly, but there is a structural purpose for every pole.

11. Always roll your tent

When it comes to breaking down your tent and putting it away into storage, rolling versus folding is crucial for the beach tents made of sturdier fabrics. Constant folding can cause abnormal wear and tear in the materials. 

Safety Tips

Beach camping is a great time to create memories with the whole family, but it is essential to remember a few essential safety tips:

  • Always wear sunscreen, in addition to utilizing your UV protected tent
  • Make sure you have enough fresh water for your trip
  • Don’t cook inside your tent
  • Don’t place your tent too close to your campfire
  • Keep essential items out of sight
  • Follow beach tent set up and break down instructions closely

Your beach camping trip should be a fun and enjoyable trip for everyone. 

Best Beach Tents Comparison Chart

ProductPriceSize (LxWxH)Occupancy (Persons)Unique Features
Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent Deluxe XL$95" x 52" x 51"3Lightweight and compact design
G4Free Large Pop-up Beach Tent$78.7" x 47.2" x 51.2"4Steel wireframing adds stability during windy days
East hills Outdoors Instant Shader Deluxe XL$99" x 53" x 70"4Easy setup, with instructions printed inside the carrying case
Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Cabana Beach Tent Sun Shelter$96" x 54" x 49"4Oversized storage, bag makes break down simple
KingCamp Quick up 2-3 Person Camping Mesh Beach Tent$83" x 83" x 54"4The tent can have a mesh or privacy screening
Alvantor Beach Tent Umbrella Outdoor Sun Shelter$53" x 70" x 48"3Privacy space with hook up the front flap
OutdoorMaster Pop Up 3-4 Person Beach Tent$95" x 56" x 52"4Easy pop-up, no additional assembly required
Coleman Beach Shade Shelter$84" x 48" x 57"3Back window zips for ventilation, lightweight
Lightspeed Outdoors Quick Canopy Instant Pop Up Shade Tent$94" x 60" x 60"4UPF 50+ protected shading from the sun
Sport-Brella Vented SPF 50+ Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella$52" x 43" x 42"2Most portable option, minimal setup

Wrap Up

Whether you plan on spending a day or a week at the beach, you should have the best tent available for your specific needs. Ensure you keep yourself and your family safe from the elements and use UPF protection.

We have provided a comprehensive list of our favorite beach camping tents for all types of trips. With such an extensive list, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs perfectly. 

Whether you’re new to beach camping or an absolute aficionado looking for the best of the best, we hope our guide will help you find your perfect tent. 

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Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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