28 Types of Beach Chairs (The Comprehensive Guide)

Curious about the different types of beach chairs? This article will discuss 28 different kinds of beach chairs and detail the traits of each type, including:

• Classic Beach Chairs
• Adirondack
• Lounge Chairs
• Folding Beach Chairs
• Tall Beach Chairs
• Backpack Beach Chairs
• Zero Gravity Chairs
• Hammock Chairs

Read on to find out more about each of these types of chairs, and to get info on our 20 bonus types covered in this article! If you’re looking to purchase a beach chair, check out our guide here to help you decide what the best one might be.

Classic Beach Chair

The Classic beach chair has a low profile that allows for easy reclining. Classic beach chairs are made from a range of materials, including wood, plastic, and lightweight metals. Classic beach chairs also usually have a simple folding mechanism, allowing for easy portability and storage when not in use. A Classic beach chair will fit the needs of most beach visitors.

Because classic beach chairs are so prevalent, there are a multitude of designs that will suit any taste. Additionally, convenient features like cup holders, head rests, and pockets offer value in a competitive market. Many classic beach chairs are light and can be carried with built in straps or in a provided carry bag with handles.

Adirondack

Adirondack chairs are a classic design of beach chairs. With a wide back and contoured back, adirondacks are often made with wood or plastic materials. Straight arm rests are on both sides of a deep seat, which can be complemented with the addition of pillows.

Adirondack chairs are generally constructed in one solid piece, so they do not fold down for portability or storage. This makes adirondacks a poor choice for portable beach seating, but an ideal choice for a chair that can stay on the beach more permanently (i.e. on a resort beach, deck, etc). Adirondack chairs come in many stylish options. Wooden style adirondacks are elegant and rustic, while plastic Adirondacks come in a rainbow of colors.

Lounge Chairs

Lounge chairs are full length and fully reclining, allowing beachgoers to lay completely flat while avoiding the wet and sandy surface of the beach. Lounge chairs are commonly made of aluminum, plastic and/or wood. Fabric of the lounge chair can be widely varied. Woven plastic and other synthetic fabrics are a common choice because they are weatherproof, water resistent, and easier to clean. Some lounge chairs are made as a complete unit, (such as poolside loungers) while others can be folded down for easy transport. 

Because lounge chairs allow for users to lie fully reclined and flat, they usually have a wide variety of reclining settings, making it easy for users to find the perfect fit to support their body. These features make lounge chairs almost universally comfortable. The ability to set a reclining setting also often includes both the upper portion of the lounger for head and neck support, as well as the lower half to keep the lower legs and feet elevated if desired. Many lounge chairs have  additional useful features such as removable cushions or headrests, towel clips to keep a beach towel in place, and storage pockets.

Folding Beach Chair

Most models of beach chairs have the ability to fold down or in half. This allows for easy portability when trekking across uneven sandy beaches. Folding chairs generally have low profiles and reclining options. Beach chairs can fold both horizontally or vertically depending on the construction of the chair. Most outdoor chairs have the ability to fold into a smaller unit to make storage and 

Tall Beach Chair

Tall beach chairs have a higher profile when compared to the more traditional construction of a beach chair. The high height makes it difficult to include a reclining feature without compromising stability. While many chairs made for use at the beach are very low to the ground (usually lower than 11 inches) in order to increase stability on sand, higher chairs are usually measure higher than 13 inches off the ground, with the average height of a tall chair falling between 15 to 17 inches.

For those with bad knees or other mobility issues, taller chairs are better option as they cause less strain on the knees when rising from a low sitting position. Read about other beach chairs for bad knees here.

Backpack Beach Chair

A backpack beach chair has all the features of other beach chair models, such as a low profile, ability to recline at different settings, lightweight, but with an added benefit of having backpack straps, usually built into the fabirc of the chair. These lightweight chairs make an especially appealing option for beachgoers with lots of gear to tote because the straps make it very easy to carry chairs while having your hands free to carry other things. 

While a backpack beach chair has built in straps, some ultra light outdoor chairs fold down to just over hand sized and are easily toted into a beach or towel bag.

Zero Gravity

Zero gravity beach chairs offer superb lumbar and spine support, making them an ideal choice for users needing to consider back pain. A unique blend of support through reclining mechanisms and bungee cord suspension systems, Zero gravity chairs promote upright positions through ergonomic design. Many designs have integrated foot rests and reclining settings that allow to lock into a specific position. Zero gravity chairs often come with comfortable arm rests and extra padding.

While every brand is different, zero gravity chairs are larger in size than most other beach chair categories. Zero gravity chairs are constructed to be as lightweight as materials allow, but they are bulky and heavy, making them difficult to carry, especially across an uneven surface like sand. Another drawback of zero gravity chairs is narrow width of the seats and arm rests.

Hammock Chairs

Hammock chairs are made up of a frame that allows for a flexible fabric to hang on either side. The fabric is connected to a metal frame via hooks or straps. The deep seat of a hammock chair is super comfortable and the swinging motion can relieve joint pressure.

The gentle swaying allows for a great balance between sitting upright and reclining, not to mention hammocks are a really fun choice! Hammock chairs are generally lightweight, often wearing less than 15 pounds. Hammock chairs are very portable and easy to store and assemble. However, many hammock chairs have weight limits, and are not comfortable for users weighing more than 250 pounds. Hammock chairs are also less stable than other beach chair designs.

Camp chair

Camp chairs are a good choice for outdoor enthusiasts, not just beach visitors. Camp chairs are a versatile option that is great for picnics, concerts, and camping. Durable and portable are the best features of camp chairs.

The base is generally comprised of collapsible, lightweight metal legs. Seats are made of durable synthetic fabric that is easily cleaned. This fabric also repeals sand, dries quickly and resists mildew. Some camp chairs are available with a low to the ground profile, but most will exceed in 11 inches in height from the ground. Camp chairs run the gamut from simple no-fuss designs, to chairs with a ton of accessories and features, like sun shades and insulated pockets. 

Camp stool

Camp stools are small tripod stools that collapse easily for an ultralight and compact seat. They are very portable and easy to move quickly if needed, such as when a high tide comes in unexpectedly. Ideal for beach visitors who may be interested in fishing, camp stools are a great choice for any beach goer who likes a more minimalist setup.

However, camp stools are definitely not the most comfortable seating option. There is no support for the back or neck and reclining in a camp stool safely is impossible. The tripod design may not be stable in all sandy conditions.

Beach chairs for kids

Beach chairs for children can serve a variety of purposes. Many beach chairs for kids are simply smaller versions of classic beach or camp chairs. Others are better for very young children and babies. These often feature safety buckles or straps that keep little ones secure in the seat. As children as especially vulnerable to sun exposure, beach chairs may include sun shades as well. Beach chairs for kids come in a variety of fun patterns and designs, including some beloved media characters.

Beach chairs for plus size

Beachgoers with larger bodies have unique considerations to consider when purchasing a beach chairs. Many beach chairs have low weight limits and narrow profiles. The best beach chairs for larger bodies are usually marketed as XL and many have weight limits of 450 pounds. Steel and reinforced frames are a good feature to look for when looking for a plus sized beach chair.

Beach chairs with footrests

While the low profile of most beach chairs allows for reclining and resting feet in the sand or gentle waves, some beachgoers prefer to put their feet up. This is especially true for individuals with feet that are sensitive to swelling. Beach chairs with footrests are a great option for anyone who is most comfortable with their legs or feet elevated. Some beach chairs are full length and have built in footrests, such as lounge chairs and zero gravity chairs.

Beach Mat chairs

Some beachgoers opt for a seat that simply serves as a barrier between them and the sandy surface. A beach mat chair resembles a yoga mat and lays atop the sand. Most beach mat chairs have a head rest pillow either built into the mat or as an inflatable option. Beach mat chairs are the most portable lightweight option of beach chairs, but it is not the best choice if you want to avoid sitting in the sand. Beach mat chairs are ideal for last minute trips and are a great option to keep in your vehicle as a seating option for unexpected adventures.

Water Resistant Beach chairs

Because the beach is wet and sandy, beach chairs with durable fabric make a practical choice. Water resistant fabric on beach chairs prevents mildew and makes packing and cleaning up a breeze. Water resistent beach chairs are usually made with mesh, nylon, or other synthetic fabrics that allow for quick drying. These fabrics are also really easy to maintain with spot cleaning using gentle soap or detergent.

Padded Beach chairs

Padded beach chairs increase comfort levels by providing padding in strategic places, such as on the seat and behind the head or neck. Padded beach chairs add cushioning to the back and seat to increase comfort. Certain individuals may especially benefit from extra padding, such as the elderly, disabled, or otherwise infirm. Some padded beach chairs come in “Oversized” types that are meant for people with large and tall bodies.

Beach chairs with storage

Many beach chairs offer a range of storage options. These storage options often include insulated pouches or coolers to keep snacks and drinks ready until use. Zipper pockets keep valuables like cell phones and keys safe from getting buried in the sand or damaged by ocean water.

Mesh cup holders are another great storage feature of beach chairs, helping beachgoers keep their drink at the ready for maximum hydration. Some beach chairs even offer a built in table to keep your personal items accounted for. These storage details are a perfect fit for beachgoers who want to avoid bringing a large cooler or wagon full of gear, but still want comfortable seating, storage for valuables and drinks/snacks.

Heavy Duty Beach Chairs

Heavy Duty Beach chairs are able to withstand continuous exposure to wind, sand, and salt water. These chairs are built with durability in mind, often made with sturdy metals such as alloy steel tubes. As such, they are often made with heavier materials, which can make portabillity an issue. Heavy duty beach chairs are also made larger and generally come with higher weight limits.

Some heavy duty beach chairs can hold up to 500 pounds. The synthetic polyester fabric is often padded to increase durability and distribute weight evenly. Heavy duty beach chairs often include a center component to the chair frame to provide added support. Heavy duty chair feet are designed to be extra durable and shatterproof. Heavy duty beach chairs are the best choice for beachgoers looking for high weight limits and durable chairs that can withstand a lot of use.

Double beach chairs

Double beach chairs are the loveseats of beach seats. These beach chairs are roomy and have space for two people. This can be a great option for people who do not want to carry a bunch of beach chairs. Also, double beach chairs often have really high weight limits, with some double chair sets supporting 500 pounds. Double beach chairs typically come with an umbrella or canopy option, and some even offer a table or dividing armrest to separate the seats. They are also an ideal choice for plus size individuals and can even pull double duty as a place to lay down for small children.

Quad chair

Quad beach chairs have increased stability by using a base with four legs, rather than two. Quad chair legs often have pads to keep the legs from sinking into sand. Even with the increased stability that comes from having four legs, quad chairs are very lightweight, usually weighing around. Quad chairs usually resemble camp chairs and tend to have a higher profile, which may reduce the ability to recline safely, but can also be a great choice for beachgoers who cannot be as low to the ground as traditional beach chairs.

Canopy chairs

Canopy chairs are a great option for users looking to have some additional protection from the harmful effects of too much time in the bright sun. These beach chairs typically have a built in canopy or shade that folds and breaks down with the rest of the chair. Some canopies can be attached. Some chairs may also feature a way to easily disconnect the canopy. This is a great option for adjustable sun protection as needed.

Padded beach chairs

Many beach chairs lack padding in the seat as a way to better keep the chair free from mold or mildew when it is used or stored wet. Padded beach chairs offer built in padding, often as head and neck pillows that can be removed. Padded beach chairs require water resistent or weatherproof fabric. 

Beach chairs for mobility issues

Nothing spoils a day at the beach like an injury or chronic pain. For users that have a hard time walking, sandy beaches and their shifting terrain pose unique challenges, which can be frustrating. Beach chairs that are easy to carry, such as backpack chairs can be the easiest choice for ease in transporting for individuals that have mobility issues. Another option is a beach chair that has wheels as part of the base, so that the chair can be easily pushed or pulled over sandy surfaces.

Depending on the nature of the mobility issues, some people may require larger or taller chairs that are more inconvenient to carry; however, the inconvenience of portability is offset by other amenities, like foot rests for swollen and painful feet, or a seat that is higher off the groung, making that is easier for those with knee and joint pain to get in and out of.

Beach chairs for rocky beaches

If frequenting a beach that has a rocky terrain rather than sand, many beach chairs may not work well. For one thing, beach chairs often have low profiles, which can be an issue if the beach is full of sharp rocks. Blankets or mat beach chairs do not provide a comfortable place to sit when you are sitting on rocks.

Also, rocky surfaces are uneven and it might be hard to find a flat enough place to set up a chair if a beach is rocky. Beaches with large rocks or jetties can be dangerous, so be sure to use an outdoor chair that has a height high enough to give clearance from the rocks, especially if the rocks are sharp. Other rocky beaches may have smooth rocks that may impede providing a flat surface for a traditional beach chair.

Slingback beach chair

Slingback beach chairs are a classic silhouette. They are comprised of a wooden frame, with canvas fabric slung on the top and bottom, creating a vertical hammock. These chairs are often elegant, but owing to the solid wood frame and heavy canvas, they can weight sixteen pounds, which is not a very portable weight for one chair.

Slingback chairs also do not have much lumbar support. As the chairs are typically made with oiled canvas, the water and weather resistance are not as reliable as chairs made from more synthetic fabrics. Slingback chairs are often found beachside at resorts, but do not make a practical or durable choice for most people seeking to sit comfortably at the beach.

Beach chairs with wheels

Sometimes a beach trip requires a lot of stuff, whether it is the size of the group or length of stay at the beach. A beach chair with wheels, especially wheels designed for sand, can be a game changer. Wheeled beach chairs often have other features like wagon or cart attachments that make the most of the easy and convenient transport provided by the chair wheels. 

Rubber chair wheels and attached handles make pushing and pulling the chair easy. Some lounger beach chairs have wheels to make repositioning easier, while others have the ability to transform from a beach chair into a wagon beach cart. The most features, the heavier the chair, with some models of beach chair and cart combos weighing over 20 pounds. However, wheeled chairs are considered heavy duty and often have higher weight limits, making them a great choice for large bodies and chairs that will be at the beach often.

Inflatable beach chairs

Inflatable loungers are a fun option at the beach. Many models do not require a pump to inflate. Instead, users “scoop” air into the fabric of the inflatable lounger. Folding down to very small sizes, inflatable chairs can be taken not only to the beach, but to pool parties, concerts, camping and other fun Summer activities.

Most inflatable beach chairs are made of high quality parachute material to prevent rips and tears that lead to air leaks. Inflatable beach chairs are usually ergonomic and can support up to 400 pounds. These fun beach seats are a great option for flexible beach seating that packs down easily while offering inflatable comfort without the hassle of using a pump or blowing up a chair by mouth.

Umbrella chairs

An umbrella is a great way to provide shade and sun protection while at the beach. Some beach chairs have built in umbrellas and a system for connecting the umbrella to the chair. Unlike beach chairs with canopies, beach chairs with umbrellas can be tilted or repositioned as needed, or even removed from the chair to use in the sand. Beach chairs that have umbrellas may require a special type of footing so that the chair stays put if the umbrella catches a gust of wind. Not only do umbrella beach chairs provide shade, many of the umbrellas offer SPF protection as well. Umbrella chairs are perfect for beachgoers who have extended beach days and require access to consistent shade.

Ultra Light Beach Chairs

Ultra light beach chairs are typically made of aluminum. They can weigh as little as one pound, making them a great option to toss into a beach bag for an impromptu trip. While ultra light beach chairs may not seem sturdy, most are constucted from aluminum alloy and can bear weights of up to 300 pounds. Some may even provide an inflatable cushion or pillow. One drawback of using an ultra light beach chair is that many fabrics are made of lower quality nylon in an effort to avoid the use of heavier fabrics, so these chairs may not be as durable. Ultralight beach chairs are a great option for people who pack light when it comes to beach gear.

Recap

There are many different kinds of beach chairs, and finding the perfect one can be a daunting task. Beach chair types can be used to help you find the right chair for your beach visit and comfort requirements. Some people have specific considerations, both related to their unique needs and definitions of comfort, as well as the specific terrain of the beach being visited. Many types of beach chairs offer similar amenities that can greatly enhance your comfort at the beach. These can be things like the inclusion of sun canopies or umbrellas, cup holders, pockets, foot rests, lightweight, cushioned, and the ability to recline fully. Whatever the needs, there is sure to be a beach chair that will work for any body in any location.