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Planning a sunny day by the sea with your little ones? While you have probably got the essentials covered; sunscreen, hats and bucket and spade, it is easy to forget one game changing beach item: the humble beach tent. Whether it is shielding your toddler from rays, giving you a shaded spot for baby nap time, or simply offering the family a base for snacks and nappy changes, the beach tent has become an absolute must.
From UV protection to clever extras like mosquito nets and paddling pools, beach tents are more versatile than ever. In this guide, we not only share our top picks but also give you practical tips for choosing the right tent for your family so you can make an informed purchase.
Why a Beach Tent is Essential for Families
A good beach tent offers more than just shade. It provides a safe, contained environment for your baby or toddler to rest or play, keeps sand out of snacks, and protects sensitive skin from harmful UV rays. It can also be a great spot for nappy changes when public facilities are busy or far away.
According to the NHS Sun Safety Advice, babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to sunburn, so providing consistent shade is crucial. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, making a beach tent an important addition to your family’s summer kit.
How to Choose the Best Beach Tent for Your Family
Before you buy, consider these factors:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| UV Protection | Look for UPF 50+ rating to block over 98% of harmful UV rays. |
| Size | Choose a size that fits your family and intended use. Compact for solo trips, large for groups. |
| Portability | Lighter tents are easier to carry, especially if you have other beach gear. |
| Ease of Setup | Pop-up tents are fast but can be tricky to fold; pole tents take longer but may be sturdier. |
| Ventilation | Mesh panels improve airflow, keeping the tent cool. |
| Extras | Features like mosquito nets, sand pockets, or built-in paddling pools add extra functionality. |
Expert Tip: If you plan on using your tent in both the garden and at the beach, opt for one with removable groundsheet or base so it works on different surfaces.
Our Top Picks
Babymoov Anti-UV Tent – Best for Compact Portability
Lightweight and simple to set up, the Babymoov Anti-UV Tent is a great option for parents with infants. It folds down extremely small and is light enough to carry in your everyday changing bag. Still, despite its compactness, it packs serious functionality with built-in mosquito netting, UPF 50+ sun protection, and airflow ventilation. Plus, the charming nautical print helps set the beachy tone right from setup.
Parent Tip: Keep a small bag inside your tent with baby wipes, nappies, and a change of clothes so you do not have to unpack your entire beach bag during quick changes.
Active Era® Pop Up Beach Tent – Best for Quick Set-Up
If speed is of the essence, this pop-up tent from Active Era is your go-to companion. Ideal for 1–2 people, it pops up in seconds and folds down just as rapidly when it’s time to head home. The tent also includes pegs to anchor it in breezy weather and features UPF 50+ material for quality sun protection. It’s a fabulous option for solo trips with a baby or toddler.
Beach Tent Large 3-4 Person – Best for Larger Groups
Heading to the beach with the whole tribe? This sizeable option from Purebox is spacious enough for families of 3–4. With doors at both ends, it provides great ventilation and privacy when zipped shut. Additionally, it has mesh windows for breathability and integrated sand pockets and stakes to keep it grounded. It’s not the smallest when packed, but the extra room can be worth it.
Pro Tip: Larger tents are heavier. If you have a long walk from the car to the beach, consider a collapsible trolley for easier transport.
Badabulle Baby Tent – Best for Sun and Bug Protection
Badabulle Baby Tent with UV Sun Protection
This adorable tent is not only protective against the sun, but it offers thoughtful extras for parents with young babies. The zip closure keeps bugs out, while the lightweight build makes it easy to transport. Between the carry bag, ventilation features and upgraded UV protection, it’s a brilliant option for beach naps or shaded play.
Glymnis Pop Up Baby Beach Tent – Best with Mini Pool
Glymnis Pop Up Baby Beach Tent
Designed with baby fun in mind, this tent includes a small built-in pool—perfect for safely splashing in the shade. It’s an ultra-lightweight choice that’s easy to transport and includes excellent UPF 50+ protection along with mesh panels for circulation. Additionally, it’s ideal for hot days when you want to keep your baby cool without needing to return to the sea every five minutes.
Purebox Beach Tent Pop Up – Best for Lightweight Shade
This Purebox pop-up option is perfectly suited for quick coastal getaways. It combines portability with functionality, providing just enough space for young children to relax or play. The tent stakes down easily and includes mesh features for breathability on warmer days.
Liewood Bjork Tent – Best for Style-Conscious Families
If you’re after a chic design that still delivers practical features, the Liewood Bjork Tent ticks both boxes. Its minimal striped design blends beautifully with stylish beach gear while still being functional. While compact, it’s super lightweight and suitable for short beach outings or shaded garden play.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Beach Tent
Pro Tip: Always anchor your tent with sand pockets or stakes, even on calm days, to avoid it blowing away.
Parent Tip: Choose a tent with good ventilation for comfort. Overheating can happen quickly in enclosed spaces, even in the shade.
Expert Tip: Practise folding and packing your tent at home before your trip. This can save you time and frustration at the beach.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Beach Tent
Whether you are planning lazy afternoons or action-packed beach days, the right tent can make all the difference. Consider size, portability, UV protection, and extra features when making your choice. By thinking ahead, you will have a comfortable base that keeps your little ones safe and happy.
For more family travel essentials, explore our Best Beach Toys for Kids guide and our summer safety tips from the NHS Sun Safety page.
