When you're preparing your beach bag for a day by the water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a beach hat are probably at the top of your beach packing list, but you should also consider investing in an umbrella or beach tent for respite from the blazing sun. A beach tent that's lightweight, easy to carry and hassle-free when you set it up and take it down is best; that way, you'll be more likely to make it a part of your beach routine.

U.S. News editors researched dozens of review sites – including Amazon, online retailers, and more – and talked to industry experts to come up with this selection of the best beach tents. If you're ready for fun in the sun, these beach tents offer an attractive, affordable and safe way to have "made in the shade" beach days this summer.

The Top Beach Tents for 2023
Best Overall Beach Tent: Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent
Best Baby Beach Tent: Sunba Youth Beach Shade
Best Pop-up Beach Tent: White Fang Deluxe XL Pop Up Beach Tent
Best Beach Canopy Tent: Qipi Beach Cabana
Best Beach Shade: Shibumi Shade
(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Beach Tent
Weight: 4.45 pounds
Assembled dimensions: 86.6 x 47.2 x 49.2 inches
What sets this tent apart: This lightweight tent has UPF 50+ sun protection and is constructed with a breathable and water-repellent polyester fabric. The lightweight tent folds up into a carrying case that's 40 x 5 x 5 inches and comes with sand pockets and stakes. Other features include large windows for ventilation, internal pockets, a lightweight fiberglass frame, water-resistant PE floor and best of all, easy setup. The company also makes an extra-large version with an extendable floor that provides shelter for up to four people.

Travelers appreciate: "The Pacific Breeze beach tent is surprisingly lightweight considering its size," says Amanda Norcross, a family travel expert who owns the extra-large version and appreciates how easy it is to transport. "It's also convenient for outings beyond the beach."

Price: $59.99 or less

Best Baby Beach Tent: Sunba Youth Beach Shade
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Assembled dimensions: 65 x 43.5 x 59 inches
What sets this tent apart: The pop-up design of this lightweight tent – at just 2.2 pounds – allows for quick and easy use at the beach. It's also comfortable to travel with, at 17.72 inches in diameter in a carrying case. The silver-coated fabric provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun for you and your little ones. The wind-resistant tent is also made of breathable polyester and features a mesh window for ventilation and a zippered door for privacy. The tent will accommodate two or three people and it comes in blue or green.

Travelers appreciate: The size, reasonable price and carrying case with a strap all make this baby beach tent ideal for traveling with little ones. Many beachgoers note that this tent is easy to set up, the stakes help to keep it secure on windy days, and the zippered front is a useful feature.

Price: $34.99 or less