A day at the beach is a classic Australian pastime but as we all know, too long in the sun is never good for our skin. Here’s where a beach tent or shelter comes in.
Going undercover means you can enjoy the sand for longer, lounging on your beach towel without the worry of sunburn. (This doesn’t mean you can forgo the sunscreen though!).
Depending on what type of beachgoer you are, there are different styles to choose from. From cabanas to pop-up tents, we’ve got you covered (literally) with our top picks of the best beach tents and cabanas currently on the Aussie market.
The best beach tents for air flow
OZoola Beachlife beach tent with sandbags, $199, Hardtofind
Unlike some other beach shelters, this beach tent won’t block your view or breeze while providing the shade we all desperately seek when out in the sun. Made with UPF 50+ fabric, this tent is stylish and can easily be erected in minutes.
Basil Bangs The Weekend beach tent, $229, THE ICONIC
From small Northern Beaches business Basil Bangs comes this premium beach tent that’s big enough for the whole family, it’s made from UPF 50+ outdoor canvas and is ideal in windy conditions. This lightweight, travel-friendly buy will fast become your beach go-to.
Business & Pleasure Co. premium beach tent, $299.99, THE ICONIC
You’ll feel like you’re on holidays with this chic beach tent that comes with a lightweight carry bag and provides optimal shade positioning so you can relax when laying on the shore.
The best beach cabanas
Sunnylife beach cabana in Jardin Ocean, $132.99 (usually $189.99), Myer
This hybrid beach cabana easily converts into an umbrella for versatile shaded beachgoing. Featuring pockets for airflow and comfort, and a handy drawstring carry bag, you’ll be the coolest cats on the beach.
CoolCabanas beach shelter, $189.99 at BCF
Like others on this list, this shelter has been constructed from a cotton-poly canvas material which provides UPF50+ protection, helping to shield you and your family against the harsh Aussie rays. It also includes internal pockets for holding essentials and folds up easily too so you can get ahead of the crowds.
Summer Stripe beach cabana, $189.99, Sunnylife
Large enough to accommodate two adults and two kids, this cabana is the sort of beach shelter you’d pay a pretty penny to hire…but this one makes a great investment. Easy to pack up and put away, this tent is perfect for families who still like to look (and stay) cool.
The best small beach tent
Wanderer Burleigh shelter, $149.99, BCF
With an instant fibreglass frame for easy pack down and set up, this BCF shelter will give you that sweet sweet shade at the beach or on the side-lines of the kid’s sports match.
The best pop up beach tents
Caribee Rapid beach shelter, $119, Big W
This tent by Caribee is a classic for good reason. It pops up instantly and folds down just as easily making it the ideal option for young families juggling multiple items. It offers a UPF50+ meaning you won’t have to fret about the sun but can simply sit back and relax.
Mountview pop up beach tent, $26.99, Kogan
Whilst this shelter may be at the lower end of the price list, it still provides you with some UV-resistant coverage, can withstand breezy conditions and makes a great park or beach staple.
Freshwater cabana, $120, Cancer Council
Look after your own skin and that of millions of others by buying this cabana. Every purchase of Cancer Council sun protection products helps to fund work in cancer research, prevention, advocacy and support. It has all the necessary features too including: easy setup/pack away, UPF 50+, and side and overhead sun protection. What more could you want?
Is a beach tent worth it?
More that will help you beat the heat this summer:
10 Turkish beach towels to bring along to the sea this summer
How to choose the best ceiling fans for your home
Sleep sweetly with these 12 sheet sets perfect for hot sleepers
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
