Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

Alternatives to Umbrellas for the Beach

When you're sunbathing or enjoying an afternoon on the beach, an umbrella can provide comforting respite from the sun from time to time. However, there are numerous products that are similar--but in many cases more practical and family-friendly--than the standard beach umbrella.

Beach Cabana
- Beach cabanas are similar to a tent, but with open sides that let in the sun and breeze. The cabana provides respite from the sun, while allowing beach-goers to take in the ocean view and breeze. Cabanas are lightweight and easy to transport, and fasten into the sand for a secure hold. Cabanas are sold primarily by the following brands: Cottonwood, Quik Shade, Pocket Shelter and Calypso Cabana.
Beach Tent
- Beach tents come in a variety of shapes and colors, and provide more coverage and protection from the sun than an umbrella. Beach tents are available in kid or family sizes, and range in price from $50 to $250, depending on brand and quality.
Beach Screen House
- A beach screen house is similar to a beach tent, but with mesh siding. Some beach screen houses are available with shaded mesh siding in varying degrees of SPF protection to provide additional shade from the sun.
Beach Windshield
- Beach windshields are rectangular nylon sheets that station securely on the beach with sandbags. These windshields provide protection from both the sun and wind, and can be adjusted as the wind shifts or the sun rises or sets. Windshields are light and easy to transport, usually weighing just around 5 pounds.

Nature