Spending a day on the beach should be all about fun, not sunburn. That’s why sun protection is one of the most important beach-day essentials you can pack — right up there with sunscreen and a cold drink. At Beach Mart, we make it easy to stay cool and shaded with a variety of reliable, portable sun shelters that suit every style, from classic umbrellas to innovative new shades.
Here’s a quick rundown of our most popular sun protection options — and insider tips to help you pick the best one for your beach crew.
Classic Beach Umbrellas: Tried-and-True Shade
There’s a reason you still see classic beach umbrellas lining the sand — they work. Easy to carry, quick to set up, and available in a wide range of colors and styles, these umbrellas offer a simple and effective way to create personal shade on sunny days.
We carry a selection of high-quality beach umbrellas at Beach Mart that are lightweight yet sturdy, with UV-blocking fabrics and tilt features so you can adjust to the sun’s position throughout the day.
Pro Tip:
Don’t overlook the power of a sand anchor. Newer designs often promise wind resistance, but in real-world beach conditions, an umbrella + sand anchor can be the best solution. The anchor drills into the sand and keeps your umbrella secure — even when coastal winds pick up. It’s one of the easiest, most affordable upgrades to your beach setup, and we sell them in-store!
Neso Tents: Lightweight, Sleek, and Easy to Carry
If you’re looking for modern design and maximum portability, Neso Tents are a game-changer. These sleek, stretchy sunshades are made from a lightweight nylon-Lycra blend that blocks 98% of UV rays. Instead of poles and heavy bases, Neso tents use sandbags at the corners for anchoring — perfect for the sandy shores of Holden Beach.
They pack down small, making them ideal for air travel or tossing into your beach wagon, and come in a variety of fun, beachy patterns. Set up takes just a few minutes once you get the hang of it.
Best For:
Beachgoers who want a lightweight, stylish solution that’s easy to carry and offers a bit more space than a single umbrella.
Solbello Shades: One-Handed Setup, All-Day Shade
If you’ve ever struggled with a tent or umbrella in the wind, you’ll appreciate the engineering behind the Solbello Shade. Designed to harness the power of the breeze instead of fighting it, Solbello’s unique design means no poles to pound or sandbags to fill. One center pole and a large sail do all the work, creating a shade that is stable even in windy conditions.
It sets up in seconds — literally — and collapses just as quickly. That makes it an ideal choice for families with kids, or anyone who wants to get to the relaxation part of the beach day faster.
Best For:
Windy beach days or quick setup and takedown without sacrificing coverage.
Which Shade Is Right for You?
- Want the classic beach look? Go for a beach umbrella with a sand anchor.
- Prefer modern style and ultra-lightweight gear? Try a Neso Tent.
- Looking for ease of use in windy conditions? You’ll love the Solbello Shade.
Whatever your preference, you’ll find all three at Beach Mart, along with sunscreen, chairs, and everything else you need for a perfect day in the sun. We’re always happy to help you choose the best setup for your family — and we’ve tested these products ourselves right here on the sand in Holden Beach.