How to Compare Beach Umbrellas: Wind, UV, Setup Time and What You Carry
Most beach umbrella comparisons line up price and canopy size, which tells you almost nothing. There are four things worth comparing, and only one of them is usually on the label. Here are the four...
How to Keep a Beach Umbrella From Blowing Away
Most beach umbrellas blow away for one reason: the anchor never reached the sand that actually holds. Here is the depth that matters, the setup order that works, and the one piece of common advice ...
Can You Get Sunburned Under a Beach Umbrella?
Yes — and more often than people expect. A 2017 JAMA Dermatology study found 78% of people using only a beach umbrella were sunburned after three and a half hours. Here is why shade alone isn't eno...
Beach Blanket With an Umbrella Hole: What It's For and What to Look For
The hole in the middle of a beach blanket is a port for your umbrella pole, so the shade lands on fabric instead of sand. What to check before you buy, and why so few blankets have one.
Best Beach Gifts 2026: Our Gift Guide for Everyone on Your List
The 2026 Handy Beach Goods gift guide, organized by who you're shopping for. Curated picks for beach-loving dads, moms, families, snowbirds, adult kids, and yourself. Real gear. Real warranties. Gi...
Guide to choosing the best beach umbrella sand anchor (2026)
A good sand anchor is what keeps your umbrella from flying away. This expert guide compares the pros and cons of screw-in augers, sandbags, and deep-set hammer-in anchors.