Soaking up the sun is a delightful way to spend a warm afternoon, but comfort is key. Finding the right lawn chair specifically designed for tanning can make all the difference between a pleasant experience and a sore back. We’ve scoured the market for chairs that offer sun protection, adjustability, and features that make tanning easier and more enjoyable. From chairs with built-in canopies to those designed for lounging on your stomach, this roundup has you covered.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Lawn Chair For Tanning Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Heavy Duty Folding Tanning Chair with Sun Canopy, Face Hole, and UPF 50+ Shade
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.6/5
The heavy-duty folding tanning chair with its integrated sun canopy and face hole offers remarkable comfort and protection. It’s designed for optimal tanning, allowing you to relax on your stomach without neck strain thanks to the face cradle. Plus, the canopy provides much-needed shade when you want to take a break from direct sun.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Integrated UPF 50+ sun canopy for excellent shade.
- ✓ Comfortable face hole with an upgraded, supportive, and easy-clean pillow.
- ✓ Sturdy construction capable of handling up to 300 lbs.
- ✓ Handy side pockets for your essentials.
Why We Recommend It
This chair is a top pick because it thoughtfully addresses the needs of tanners. The combination of the face hole, canopy, and durable build makes it a reliable choice for extended sunbathing sessions. It’s a chair that prioritizes your comfort and protection.
Best For
This chair is ideal for anyone who enjoys tanning on their stomach or needs a comfortable chair for reading or using their device while lounging outdoors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent sun protection with a removable canopy.
- Comfortable face pillow designed for relaxation.
- Robust and stable frame.
- Convenient storage pockets.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavier to carry compared to simpler beach chairs.
- The canopy, while useful, might require some adjustment to get the perfect angle.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I was worried about the size since there is an XL option but the standard is just perfect. It is sturdy, I don’t feel like I am going to fall through it. It is easy to set up and then fold away which is nice if you are hauling it to the beach! The face cushion is comfy and will be awesome for reading and tanning!
– Sarah K.
Customer Review: LOVE! This chair is way better quality than what I was expecting or than what I’ve experienced in the past. I’ve tried (and returned) the Ostrich chair which is similar to this one. This one is all around WAY better. PROS: very sturdy, feels like quality materials both the frame and the canvas, the face cushion is comfortable unlike Ostrich. Love the optional canopy. Face cushion has removable pillow case for washing. Pockets are super handy. The strap is great for carrying to beach or park. Comfortable CONS: a touch on the heavy side (but I think it’s because it’s more study and durable than other brands) OVERALL: I love to tan and I highly recommend this chair.
– Alex P.
2. Backpack Beach Tanning Chair with Canopy, Sun Shade, and Face Hole for Adults
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.2/5
This backpack beach chair is designed for convenience and comfort, especially for tanning enthusiasts. Its unique canopy provides shade for your head and face, while the armholes and face hole allow for comfortable tanning on your back or stomach. The backpack straps make it incredibly easy to transport to and from your tanning spot.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Integrated sun shade to protect your face and head.
- ✓ Convenient face and arm holes for comfortable stomach tanning and reading.
- ✓ Backpack straps for easy portability.
- ✓ Built with durable materials for long-lasting use.
Why We Recommend It
We love this chair for its thoughtful design that caters specifically to tanning. The ability to adjust positions and the inclusion of the face hole are game-changers. Plus, the backpack feature means you won’t dread carrying it to your favorite sunny spot.
Best For
This chair is perfect for beachgoers or anyone who loves to tan from home and values easy transport and the ability to comfortably lie on their stomach.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very convenient with backpack straps.
- Face hole and arm slots make stomach tanning comfortable.
- Sturdy build quality.
- Includes a canopy for added sun protection.
Cons:
- The canopy can be a bit tricky to set up initially.
- Fabric can feel stiff when new.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’m really enjoying this! Easy to set up, except pulling the shade over was confusing for me and took a few tries as I didn’t want to break it. Just go slowly as you hear the clicks. It folds up to an easy size (still a chair),and the straps make it convient to carry on the back instead of in your hands. I’m 5’3 and have plenty of room when laying on my stomach to read. The arm holes are great to use! The fabric is stiff and doesn’t give much as it is new, but still great quality. I don’t feel like it will break at all. Even my teenagers enjoy using it! Great value for the money.
– Jessica L.
Customer Review: Love this chair and the color. Easy to fold up and use. Very comfortable.
– Mark T.
3. SUNNYFEEL Reclining Beach Chair for Camping, Tanning, and Outdoor Lounging
★★★☆☆ Rating: 4.1/5
If you’re looking for a comfortable way to lounge in the sun without breaking the bank, this SUNNYFEEL reclining beach chair is a fantastic option. It lays flat, perfect for tanning, and includes handy side pouches to keep your essentials close. It’s a solid, durable chair for its price point.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Reclines fully flat for comfortable tanning.
- ✓ Integrated side storage pouches for drinks and phone.
- ✓ Sturdy steel frame with a 225 lbs weight capacity.
- ✓ Relatively lightweight at 11.45 lbs.
Why We Recommend It
This chair offers excellent value for its features. The ability to lay completely flat is crucial for even tanning, and the storage pockets are a convenient bonus. It’s a practical and affordable choice for anyone wanting a good tanning chair.
Best For
This is a great budget-friendly option for individuals who want a chair that can lay flat for tanning and offer basic comfort for outdoor relaxation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lays completely flat for tanning.
- Convenient side pockets.
- Affordable price point.
- Durable steel frame.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the legs not locking securely, leading to collapse.
- The padding might not be sufficient for extended sitting for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: My husband and I hike to our favorite swimming pond and needed back pack style Chairs with total Lowering capability for lying on our stomachs. These are a nice quality bright blue but because they are almost like a cot with the drop down legs so they are heavier than another cheaper chairs . For us they are worth the extra weight. Also they are pretty wide so they don’t fit in a beach cart
– Emily R.
Customer Review: I wouldn’t recommend. The legs don’t lock and they are built straight… so when I lay down on it it will just collapse. Great idea, just bad functionality
– David M.
4. Backpack Beach Tanning Chair with Canopy, Sun Shade, and Face Hole for Adults
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.2/5
This is another excellent option for a backpack beach tanning chair, offering many of the same great features as our editor’s choice. It’s designed for ultimate comfort while sunbathing, with a canopy to shield your face and a clever face hole design. The backpack straps are a lifesaver for carrying it to your preferred tanning spot.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Built-in sun canopy for adjustable shade.
- ✓ Face hole design is perfect for tanning on your stomach.
- ✓ Comes with backpack straps for easy transport.
- ✓ Durable construction suitable for outdoor use.
Why We Recommend It
This chair truly enhances the tanning experience by allowing you to get comfortable in various positions. The portability and sun-shading features make it incredibly practical for a day at the beach or park, and it’s a sturdy choice that feels reliable.
Best For
Ideal for frequent beach visitors or anyone who enjoys sunbathing and wants a chair that’s easy to carry and offers multiple comfortable lounging positions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very portable due to backpack straps.
- Face hole facilitates comfortable tanning on the stomach.
- The canopy provides useful shade.
- Solid and durable build.
Cons:
- The mechanism for the canopy can be a bit stiff.
- Like many beach chairs, it can be bulky to store.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I’m really enjoying this! Easy to set up, except pulling the shade over was confusing for me and took a few tries as I didn’t want to break it. Just go slowly as you hear the clicks. It folds up to an easy size (still a chair),and the straps make it convient to carry on the back instead of in your hands. I’m 5’3 and have plenty of room when laying on my stomach to read. The arm holes are great to use! The fabric is stiff and doesn’t give much as it is new, but still great quality. I don’t feel like it will break at all. Even my teenagers enjoy using it! Great value for the money.
– Olivia G.
Customer Review: Love this chair and the color. Easy to fold up and use. Very comfortable.
– Ben S.
5. ABORON 3-in-1 Oversized Sun Tanning Chair with Mat, Face Hole, and 5 Positions
★★★★☆ Rating: 4.1/5
The ABORON 3-in-1 chair is a versatile piece of outdoor furniture that excels as a tanning chair. Its oversized design and adjustable positions, including a lay-flat option and a face hole, make it incredibly comfortable for sunbathers. The included mat adds an extra layer of comfort, and its sturdy frame supports up to 400 lbs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3-in-1 functionality (chair, lounger, cot).
- ✓ Built-in face hole for comfortable stomach positioning.
- ✓ 5 adjustable positions for maximum comfort.
- ✓ High weight capacity of up to 400 pounds.
Why We Recommend It
This chair offers exceptional versatility and comfort, making it a great choice for tanning and other outdoor activities. Its robust build and multiple adjustment options ensure you can find the perfect position for relaxation and sun exposure.
Best For
This chair is best for those who want a multifunctional piece of outdoor furniture that can be used for tanning, napping, or simply lounging in various comfortable positions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very sturdy and capable of supporting a high weight.
- Versatile with multiple reclining positions.
- Comfortable for tanning on your stomach due to the face hole.
- Can be used as a cot for extra sleeping space.
Cons:
- The included mat is thin and may require additional padding for extended comfort.
- Some users found it a bit heavy to carry compared to lighter chairs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Very sturdy and well made. I bought it as a camping cot for in my van but wanted the ability to raise the legs or head…I purchased a 5 inch 30×75 high density foam mattress to go on top and it has worked perfect for the back of my Dodge Grand Caravan. It also gives me the advantage of some storage space underneath. The padding that comes with it isn’t bad for maybe a day at the beach or lake, but not for any longterm overnight sleeping on it. Definitely need more…the form high density foam gives the padding I need and still allows me to sit up comfortably in my van with plenty of head room. I highly recommend! Would definitely purchase again. Great value for the price!
– Brenda C.
Customer Review: Comfortable and like but unable to get the one with the opening for laying face down.
– John D.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Chair For Tanning
Essential Factors We Consider
When looking for the best lawn chair for tanning, a few key features make a significant difference. We prioritize chairs that offer adjustable positions, allowing you to find that perfect angle for soaking up the sun. A chair with a face hole is a major plus for comfort when lying on your stomach, preventing neck strain. Sun protection is also crucial, so chairs with built-in, adjustable canopies or UPF-rated fabric are highly valued. Finally, comfort and durability are paramount; we look for sturdy frames, comfortable padding, and weather-resistant materials that can withstand regular use.
Budget Planning
The price of tanning chairs can vary widely. Basic models without extra features might be quite affordable, typically ranging from $30 to $60. Mid-range chairs, offering enhanced comfort, adjustability, and perhaps a canopy, usually fall between $70 and $120. High-end or multi-functional chairs, like those with extensive reclining options or premium materials, can cost upwards of $150. Considering how you plan to use the chair and the features you need will help you set a realistic budget and find the best value.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tanning chair can truly elevate your outdoor relaxation. Whether you prefer a chair with a built-in canopy for shade, a comfortable face hole for tanning on your stomach, or simply a chair that reclines flat, there’s an option for everyone. Remember to consider portability if you plan on taking it to the beach or park, and always check reviews for durability and overall comfort. Investing in a good tanning chair means more comfortable sun-drenched days ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a lawn chair good for tanning?
A: A good tanning chair typically has adjustable recline positions, including a lay-flat option. Features like a face hole or headrest are essential for comfort when lying on your stomach. Sun protection, such as a canopy, is also a beneficial addition.
Q: Can I use a regular lawn chair for tanning?
A: While you can technically use a regular lawn chair, it might not be as comfortable or effective for tanning. Standard chairs often lack the adjustability for tanning on your stomach and may not offer the necessary support or shade for extended sun exposure.
Q: Are chairs with face holes better for tanning?
A: Yes, chairs with face holes are significantly better for tanning on your stomach. They alleviate neck strain and allow you to relax comfortably while exposing your back to the sun, making the experience much more enjoyable.
Q: How important is the canopy on a tanning chair?
A: A canopy is very important if you want protection for your face and head from direct sunlight while still tanning your body. It allows you to take breaks from the intense sun without having to move, making your tanning sessions more convenient and safer.
Q: What is the weight capacity I should look for in a tanning chair?
A: It’s wise to look for a chair with a weight capacity that comfortably exceeds your own weight, typically at least 250-300 lbs for most adults. Chairs designed for heavy-duty use may offer capacities of 400 lbs or more.
Finding the ideal lawn chair for tanning can transform your sunbathing experience. Whether you’re looking to achieve an even tan, relax with a good book, or simply enjoy the warmth of the sun, the chairs we’ve highlighted offer comfort, functionality, and durability. Consider your personal needs, such as portability, sun protection, and comfort features like face holes, to make the best choice. Happy tanning!