Our biggest gear splurge for the beach has been the most worth it. We are a family of super pale skin burners (I’m talking sun poisoning level) and we also just get hot very easily. We have tried other forms of shade, but CoolCabana has been the clear winner.

I’ll start with carrying. This is somewhat heavy but the carrying case and strap make it not bad for someone to carry. We put it in a cart (which it doesn’t take up too much space) but I wouldn’t be bothered carrying that over my shoulder.

It is easy to setup **when you read the directions. The first time was a failure until I noticed the simple directions printed on the carrier. In the broadest terms, you put the stake in first, then the umbrella part, straighten the hinges for the umbrella, and then add sand to the pockets on each corner to weigh it down. We delegate the last part to the kids who love filling it up. Taking it down is the same and pretty easy. I have done this many times on my own, though it is easier with someone else.

I like this better than pop up tents because it has all sides open. This is good for many reasons. I got so overheated in tents that have sides on hot days. The cabana allows for easy air flow. Also, because the sun moves, the shade moves. Easier to move the chairs a bit with the open sides. Finally, if you have multiple families with cabanas, you can put them next to each other to create SUPER SHADE. I also had trouble with umbrellas on their own… getting them to withstand wind and then having to move or shift them is a pain when the sun moves.

If you are looking at sizes, we have the large which is perfect for two adult chairs and room for a cooler and the two kids to play in the sand. If it’s just two adults then the medium will be fine. The material has sustained a lot of use and held up perfectly. We went to Cape May with family and couldn’t tell ours apart from my parents’ brandnew one.

The only thing to keep into consideration is that some beaches do not allow for this. So definitely check the rules before carrying this over. I would love to try one of those chairs out with an attached umbrella. Hinthint!