Beach chairs
A beach chair has to cope with sand, salt, wet towels and a long walk from the car. Light weight, easy carry and a rustproof frame matter more than they do for a camp chair.
Types of beach chair
Low folding chairs sit close to the sand and are easy to carry. Reclining beach chairs have several back positions and sometimes a leg rest. Backpack chairs have shoulder straps so your hands are free. Chairs with a canopy add shade, which in Australia is worth thinking about. A beach chair can also be a folding camping chair if it is light enough and washable.
Sand and salt
Salt water attacks steel. Aluminium frames and coated or stainless fittings last longer at the beach. Rinse the chair with fresh water after use, let it dry fully and store it away from the sun. Wide feet help on soft sand.
Sun
A canopy, an umbrella or a nearby shade structure reduces sun exposure. Wear a hat and sunscreen and take extra water. Sun-safety advice from your state health authority applies to a day at the beach as much as it does to a campsite.
Carrying it
Check the weight and the packed size. Shoulder straps or a backpack chair free your hands for the cooler and the towels. A chair that is heavy on the walk down will be heavier on the walk back.
Seat height
Low chairs are stable in the wind and easy to sit in, but hard to stand from. If you or your guests find low chairs hard, choose a higher seat even if it is a little heavier.