The 6 Best Beach Tents That Are Ridiculously Easy To Set Up, According To Reviewers

These canopies, tents and umbrellas will provide some much-needed sun relief.
Open Image Modal

There is nothing shady about wanting extra sun protection when you’re at the beach or lake. Of course, if you’ve ever tried to set up a sun shelter on a hot day only to get tangled up in poles and sandbags, you’re probably in the market for a better portable structure that doesn’t take an entire day to install. 

To help you stay protected from harmful UV rays and give your family a little privacy in the outdoors, we rounded up some of the highest-rated sun tents that are relatively easy to set up. Whether they are designed like camping tents or more like sun umbrellas with extra fabric, they’re beloved by reviewers for being a fuss-free addition to a day in the sun. 

From wrangling your little ones to get them covered in sunscreen to shooing seagulls away from your lunch, there’s enough going on at the beach. You don’t need to spend any extra time or energy trying to set up a canopy for you and your family. If you’re looking to make some special memories this summer, grab one of these tents and enjoy long days in the sun without extra stress.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
A tent with a quick-popping mechanism and pre-inserted poles
Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

With pre-inserted poles and a quick-popping mechanism at the top that sets up the entire tent, this sun shelter will be in place before you've even rolled your towels out. It has large zippered windows for extra ventilation and an extended floor to keep your feet protected from the hot sand.

Promising review: "I wasn't sure I needed a tent but got this one to try. I was skeptical about it being 'easy' to set up and worth the money and effort- I usually just slather on the sunscreen... I LOVE THIS TENT! The first time I pulled it out of the bag at the beach after hiking down many stairs to get there, it popped right up as we were holding it trying to read the directions! Super easy, and it was super easy to take down. Lots of room, lots of shade. It's long in the bag, but hangs easily over shoulder and doesn't feel heavy. Great decision! Highly recommend." — Seattle Nurse
2
A pop-up tent you can simply throw to set up
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

An instant pop-up tent with no assembly required, this ultra-lightweight sun tent weighs less than five pounds and opens in seconds when you throw it out of the bag. You can give it a gentle toss onto an open area and watch it turn into a sun-protecting structure. It comfortably fits 3-4 people with full size doors on the front and back to allow for maximum air flow.

Promising review: "If you have kids or if you just love going to the beach like I do you just need this tent. It's one of the best Amazon purchases I've made, so thankful to have had it when we went to the beach with our infant for the first time. He was able to play and eat under it and get protection from the sun. It's so easy to fold and no set up at all. I wanted something that can pop up because I can't put up a tent for the life of me and this is beyond perfection!!" — issam
3
An extended umbrella offering nine feet of coverage
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

At nine feet across with UPF 50-plus fabric, this large umbrella shelter will keep your whole family in the shade. Simply press a button to open the umbrella, twist the base into the ground and enjoy sun protection for the whole day. It has internal pockets to hold your phone and wallet, zippered mesh windows to allow for light and air and two patented side panels to keep rain away.

Promising review: "I have no negatives about these umbrellas! Took them to the beach for the first time and love everything about them. Easy up and down like a standard rain umbrella. Mesh vents for breeze and strong mount for the sand. Bought 2 for our family of 4 so they kids could spread out. So Worth it! We all 4 fit under 1 but why not have space :)" — Cnm2846
4
A Coleman Skyshade sun tent you'll have for years and years
Rating: 4.4 out of 6 stars

If a known brand is important to you, you'll want to snag this pop-up Coleman portable sun shelter. It has 50+ UPF sun protection, internal pockets for your valuables and a clothesline (available with the green color only) on which you can hang wet clothes or towels so they can dry off in the sun. The brand says it sets up in about five minutes; it comes with both sandbags and stakes, with guy lines pre-attached.

Promising review: "Love this. We used it so much. Easy to set up. Folded small. Actually works in windy situation. You can tell the tent is well made. Very happy with this purchase" — Amazon Customer
5
A standing canopy tent with an instant-popup button
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

With a central push-button and pinch-free buttons on the legs, this outdoor sun canopy is a breeze to set up. Simply pull it out of its carrying case, push the center button to open and lock all the sides and legs and then set the desired height without worrying about hurting your fingers. It's made from water-repellant fabric with UPF 50+ UV protection and has an interior height of 8.5 feet, so you don't have to worry about crouching over, either. This canopy is available in 8-by-8-foot and 10-by-10-foot sizes.

Promising review: "Perfect. Easy setup in minutes. Nice side tabs to eliminate water pooling. Came with weight bags and nice tent bag. Ordered 2 more after I saw how nice they were." — Steven Rengigas
6
A quick-setup standing tent with built-in sandbags
Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

As the name states, this Sun Ninja tent can be set up in a blink of an eye. Fill the bottom corners with sand or rocks (or use the anchors if you're in the grass) and insert the quick-assembly poles for shade in just minutes after getting outside. It's available in two sizes, too.

Promising review: "Very happy with our sun ninja! Easy to set up and take down. Compact and light for carrying, storing and packing. Holds up well to the wind. The one time it fell, we realized we didn’t put enough sand in the corners. Easy to fix and not a big deal at all. The large size is worth the extra coverage. Highly recommend!" — Patrick O

Before You Go

24 Luxury Skincare Products From Amazon That Basically Work Just Like Magic
A Laneige lip mask with over 20,000 5-star reviews for a reason(01 of24)
Open Image Modal
Upon the recommendation of a friend, I tried this product, and after the first use, I wasn't blown away, but as I continued to use this, I fell in love with this product. So much so that I quite literally chased down the gift set in 2021, and I am so glad I did. At home, I think I have at least five different flavors of these, and I use them EVERY SINGLE DAY. I never thought a lip mask would actually change my life, but this one did and I cannot live without it.

Promising review: "I was kinda skeptical, as I am with anything that blows up on TikTok because you never know who is getting paid for a review. But I’m dead serious this stuff works. I have the driest, chapped lips and I have anxiety so I’m always biting my lips and I’ve only used this for three days and my lips are already so soft and healed. It seems expensive but looks like it will last me for months." —Caitlin
(credit:amazon.com)
A very fancy face serum to boost your already incredible skin(02 of24)
Open Image Modal
I tried this product a few years back, and it did a great job of actually plumping my skin and I loved how light it was. I don't recall much of a wrinkle difference since I was in my twenties when I tried it.

Promising review: "Originally received as a sample from cosmetics counter. Quietly used it without telling anyone. Received compliment from coworkers telling me I have beautiful skin. Sealed the deal for me I purchased large bottle. I find it removes/lessens redness from checks, smoothes, and tightens. Decreases pore size as well. Just what this almost 60-year-old was looking for." —Jen
(credit:Amazon)
A tube of a celebrity-beloved moisturizer(03 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I'm 77, not really looking for a miracle cream to get rid of wrinkles, but I do love healthy looking and feeling skin, and this moisturizer is delivering. I start with a vitamin C serum then apply the Embryolisse moisturizing cream. My skin feels wonderful all day. It goes on beautifully, has a very pleasant scent, and makeup goes on smoothly over it. I have only been using it a couple of weeks, but I will definitely order it again. I'm really enjoying the feel and look of my skin." — Roslyn (credit:amazon.com)
A lightweight SPF 50 sunscreen that actually blends into your skin effortlessly(04 of24)
Open Image Modal
This is one of my favorite sunscreens of all time and one of the few I actually finished the entire bottle. The formula is very lightweight and feels almost like a serum when you apply it. It also acts as a great base for any makeup and it feel so light and nice. It's not too thick and it's not too thin, it's just *chefs kiss.*
Promising review: "This is the best tinted sunscreen I have ever tried. It comes out of the bottle in a dark tan, but it somehow manages to blend into many skin tones (I’m very pale and white). It makes me look as I have no visible makeup or sunscreen on, but it evens out my skin tone so perfectly that it’s no-makeup quality acts like the best makeup. I will sometimes throw a little bronzer on top of Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen for contouring, but that isn’t wholly necessary because another nice thing about the finish is that its doesn’t make you look unnaturally blank, with your face in a single solid color, as foundation alone usually does." —Professor R.
(credit:amazon.com)
A bottle of the famous Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C Turmeric Face Oil(05 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "This is hands-down the best face oil I've ever used. It makes my skin glowy and foundation goes over it like a dream. The fragrance — I love how it smells, but I can see how some people might be put off by it. I tried the Sunday Riley Juno Face Oil because there was a deal on it, but it's not the same. I will always buy this oil. I have to hide it from my boyfriend because he also likes to put it on his beard." —Sarah (credit:amazon.com)
An exfoliating cleanser that self-foams to give you a spa day-at-home kind of vibe(06 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "OBSESSED with this cleanser!!! It foams up like a shaving cream on your face, and it’s magical! Leaves your face squeaky (literally) clean!"—Jordyn Bailey (credit:amazon.com)
A serum with hyaluronic acid in it to rehydrate your skin after a long day(07 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I’ve only used this serum for a few days, but like other positive reviews have stated, I already see and feel a difference in my skin. It’s much smoother and softer. I use this under both my daytime and nighttime moisturizer, and one small drop is sufficient. So far, so good!" —Susan Jarvis (credit:amazon.com)
A lightweight moisturizer that'll feel as light as a cloud on your face(08 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I don’t typically write skincare reviews because we are all so different, but I just can’t help doing this one. I am in my forties with fine lines and sun damage, yet break out whenever I use moisturizer of any kind. Worse, I’m in a beach climate, so I really need something hydrating. It’s made using anti-aging products frustrating and a waste of money. I was thrilled to find this one. I wake up with noticeably hydrated skin, and my wrinkles are smoother. Best of all, it doesn’t feel heavy. I know it’s tough trying new products, but this one is special. (And basically unscented, if that stuff bothers you). —Erin R (credit:Amazon)
A vitamin C and antioxidant-rich serum that'll help re-texturize and brighten your complexion(09 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I ordered this product after a colleague had recommended it. I had developed some acne and scarring from wearing face mask. Most of the acne was around my cheek area. Once mask weren’t required anymore I was a bit embarrassed of my skin’s condition. I’ve only ever used face wash and didn’t know the important of moisturizing. This has helped clear up my skin and even it out. I’ve been using for about four months now and only have very minimal scarring left. The price is worth it. I have actually been using it daily and use about 3–4 drops a day. Still have over half the bottle left. Definitely a good investment. It has a light fragrance and will help your skin look dewy without feeling oily." —Lupita Luna (credit:amazon.com)
A Jojoba face oil to give your skin a post-facial glow without actually having to get a facial(10 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I've been using this product for a week and I can see a difference in terms of the texture and clarity of my skin. I have combo skin that is (relatively) acne-prone and my past experiences with oils on my face have been disastrous. But my skin loves this product: it drinks it right up and leaves my skin soft and supple. Sometimes I mix a few drops with my fave moisturizer but if my skin is really dry, I'll apply it after my moisturizer sets in, dabbing it on the drier patches of my skin. I know it's only been a week but judging by the fast results I imagine that my skin will continue to improve." —Zizou (credit:Amazon)
A Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum, so you can help minimize the appearance of acne scars you've had for a while(11 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I’ve tried a few Caudalie products and have loved them because they’re gentle on my skin and deliver on their promises. This is another winner. It hydrates my skin (normal to dry, 40-years-old) and is helping fade a couple of stubborn dark spots on my cheeks. As with most products, it’s important to be consistent and patient. Results don’t come overnight, but you will likely notice some difference over time. It does have a slight scent which may be bother some people. I will definitely continue to purchase this product."—Mariel Lopez (credit:amazon.com)
A Colorescience SPF 50 formula to wear in the summer instead of foundation(12 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I was so skeptical after seeing this product on TikTok, but I took the chance because this comes out white and changes to the formulated color once rubbed onto the skin. I am in LOVE! I needed something that is high SPF, but gives color because I self-tan and I never tan my face since I am acne-prone. So, I wanted something to blend with the 'no makeup' look I was going for. This product has delivered! No pore clogging ingredients, very lightweight, blends out perfectly, and I have no breakouts from this new product. TRY THIS OUT! IT IS WORTH THE MONEY!" —Natasha Hanners (credit:amazon.com)
An eye tightener so you look like you had a full night's sleep(13 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I've bought expensive ones to remove eyebags, starting with the most popular, and everyone that actually removes them leaves a white residue. This one DOES NOT! I put it on at night and I don’t wake up with any bags. I put it on in the morning and I haven’t had an issue with white residue! I will be buying this product again!" —nAFCNEpatriots (credit:amazon.com)
A skincare starter kit for those who need help setting up a regimen(14 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I usually don't order skin products from celebrities, I happened to come across a review from a makeup artist who raved about this product. I decided to give it a try. These products are great. Leaves your skin soft and hydrated with a nice glow. Not greasy looking or shiny. I have applied foundation after applying and it does not affect the foundation. Great product." —christine (credit:Amazon)
A luxe hydrating mist to help refresh your skin in the middle of a hot day(15 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I received a trail size in a beauty subscription. I immediately ordered the larger size. It smell amazing, just like heirloom roses. It is so great for a pick-me-up during the day, especially during this unbearable heat this summer. It’s great for setting your makeup too. I highly recommend." —Valerie (credit:Amazon)
An illuminating serum with SPF 30 that will give you that glow-from-within look to fool people into thinking your skin is really that good(16 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I am a long time fan of COOLA products and this is no exception!!! This one in particular is SO beautiful and the perfect amount of 'glow.' Products I’ve used from other brands for a 'glow/dewy finish' don’t have SPF, so this is absolutely perfect. It’s great to wear alone, great with makeup and fantastic for mature skin. And it smells nice. COOLA — please don’t change or discontinue this one! It’s perfection!" —Amazon customer (credit:amazon.com)
A Dermalogica hydrating toner because your complexion may need it as we enter the warmer months(17 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "This is the best toner I’ve ever used for my oily yet dehydrated skin. It does exactly what it says and helps the moisturizer sink in. I follow up with serum then moisturizer. Finally ending with sunscreen. You can feel your face soaking up the moisture — it’s hard to explain but TRUST it." —Amber (credit:Amazon)
A set of under-eye gels with caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen(18 of24)
Open Image Modal
The package comes with five pairs of under-eye gels.
Promising review: "I purchased these ahead of a girls weekend in Miami, expecting some late boozy nights. HOLY COW were these a lifesaver! They feel like cool [and] moist, jellies on your tired eyes. They felt AMAZING. As far as results, I could definitely tell a difference in puffiness. Really helped wake up my tired eyes and feel like I was doing good for my skin. I will be purchasing more, these are great for travel/goody bags, as opposed to a whole pot of them." —Alyssa
(credit:amazon.com)
A dual-action acne spot treatment(19 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "If I could give this 100 stars I would, it works so well in clearing up my breakouts. I use it with like little bumps acne, like it’s not full on zits but it’s little white or skin color bumps on my skin. This gets rid of those after only using it like twice." —Allison McElwee (credit:amazon.com)
A jar of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30(20 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I have used this product for over 10 years, and it is worth the price. It is so rich and moisturizing. It definitely keeps my face hydrated. I just started using the version with SPF 30, thank you for that addition! I keep the standard version as well for use at night. Very mild scent and makes my skin so gentle and soft. People always ask me what products I use on my face!" —T.M.H. (credit:Amazon)
A nourishing face oil that'll help you master the 'clean' look(21 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I've tried so many face oils and this one takes the cake! It absorbs so well without leaving greasy residue, lays well under makeup, and have really helped to balance out my skin to get rid of hormonal breakouts. I'm almost finished with my second bottle and will definitely be purchasing again!" —Katie Davis (credit:Amazon)
Or a botanical-based oil to help boost skin hydration(22 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I add a couple of drops to my foundation and I love it. It’s non-greasy and makes my face glow." —Klaryx (credit:amazon.com)
A resurfacing cleanser that'll make your skin as clear as a front-facing camera(23 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "I’m in my thirties and my Clarisonic finally kicked the bucket. I have been washing my face with my hands while I figure out which facial brush to get so my skin got dull, and desperately needed exfoliating. I bought this on Prime Day on a whim and I have seen a big change in my skin. It gets rid of the gunk and build up on my face due to my oily skin. People have commented on the “glow” I seem to have now. I have far less blemishes, even the monthly hormonal pimples are reduced in appearance and number. Best of all, I’m still just using my hands to wash my face. A little goes a long way, as I literally use just a drop to wash my face." —Amazon customer (credit:Amazon)
A package of resurfacing facial pads that help lift away dead skin cells and exfoliate your skin(24 of24)
Open Image Modal
Promising review: "This product is amazing. Ever since I started using this product my friends at the gym have been complimenting me on how bright my face looks. 10/10 would def buy again" —abina (credit:amazon.com)

HuffPost Shopping’s Best Finds

MORE IN SHOPPING