We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.

Never underestimate the power of this sand essential.

Planning a beach day is a whole process that requires a little bit of strategy. Expert beachgoers know there are two keys to the perfect summer sand excursion: a thought-out beach packing list, and timing. The sooner you hit the sand, the better (mainly so you can stake your rightful place on zee beach). If you wait too long (especially during the height of summer beach season) finding a spot where you can soak up some Vitamin D and flip through your new beach read is going to be challenging, to say the least.

What's really gonna make your experience memorable, though, is the proper tools and ~equipment~. That's right—it's all about that summer packing list. Step one always calls for some cute swimwear. Next, you're gonna need a well-stocked cooler full of bevs, along with a solid lineup of snacks to help keep hangriness at bay. Beach equipment like a plush, oversized towel, sunscreen (protecc that skin, bb!), and a comfy lounge chair are also v necessary. But, can I talk to you for a sec about what may possibly be the most overlooked summer accessory? Allow me to introduce you to the beach tent. Now, you might be thinking, "Hmm, a beach tent seems a bit extra," and hey, I hear ya. But if you're heading to the beach with a group of pals, a tent is a convenient way to keep everyone corralled while providing some much-needed shade. It's also the perfect hangout spot for eating, drinking, game-playing, and cooling off after too much sun. Tbh, a beach tent is just the right amount of extra to make you the envy of all your fellow beachgoers. Some of these are also quality IG backdrops for your summer thirst trap pics, so you're welcome for that.

Ready to find the best beach tent for your best summer yet? Scroll through to shop our favorites for your next beach retreat.

Okay, okay—this is *technically* a float and not a tent, but you get so much bang for your buck with this printed lounger. It's an inflatable float that you can bring with you into the water (just anchor it to something sturdy so you don't end up too far from shore). It also doubles as a lil cabana for taking shaded naps in the sand. We're sold.

Set this chic tent up (which has pockets for your sunglasses, phone, or drinks) and immediately be transported to the South of France, even if you're just at a local beach that's a little too family-friendly (IYKYK). All that's missing from this picture? A can of crisp rosé and a romance novel.

This beach tent is no joke: It's roomy enough for three people, features breezy mesh windows, and keeps you protected from the sun, thanks to a genius UPF 50+ exterior. Choose from four different colors, including white and mint green.

A beach cabana with removable curtains that doubles as a changing room for slipping out of sandy suits? It's kinda giving Princess Diaries vibes, no? Shop this cabana and you're guaranteed to be the most chic beach visitor on the sand.

The coolest feature of this tent is that it folds down to a compact, easy-to-lug size, and it comes in its own carrying case. It doubles as a lil rain shelter too, if it starts to sprinkle during your beach day. Beachside picnic, anyone?

Those colors! That fringe! What else does one need? All of your friends will want to take photos for the 'gram with this fashionable beach tent in the background.

Secure six feet of shade with this beach tent that's giving all the best vintage vibes. It includes four pegs, guide poles, and a matching canvas carry bag.

Naps on the beach are the literal best, and this pop-up beach tent is practically made for them. It's so easy to set up, too: Packed as a round disc, just hold it away from you, slightly toss it, and this bad boy snaps right open.

When your crew of three gets bumped up to four, bust out this large tent, which is perfectly designed for two adults and two kids. Bonus: It has an internal pocket where you can store personal items, and sturdy poles to keep it anchored on even the breeziest beach days.

This beach tent is ideal for groups of up to four adults. Besides the sand, it can be set up on lawns, at picnics—you name it. Sun-averse folks will love its UPF 50+ protection too.

This top-selling beach tent is loved for its portability; it can be easily assembled and taken down in seconds. On over-the-top hot days, extend the floor of the tent to keep your legs and calves off of scorching sand. And since pockets are always a big deal, you'll love that this one has multiple interior sleeves for stashing all your goods.