Tech & Gear Accessories The 7 Best Beach Umbrella Anchors of 2023 By Jessica Macdonald Jessica Macdonald Facebook LinkedIn King's College London Jessica Macdonald lives in South Africa's Eastern Cape province and has been TripSavvy's Africa Expert since 2016. She also covers travel products and has written about everything from camping knives to climbing chalk. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 10/07/22 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong Investing in a good beach umbrella is key to staying out of the sun and wind at the seaside. However, an umbrella only works if it stays upright—which is where sand anchors come in. Simply insert your sand anchor into the ground, attach your umbrella, and enjoy hours of fun without worrying about your shade taking off at the first breath of wind. Sand anchors come in various designs and materials, from heavy-duty metal products intended for ultimate wind resistance to budget-friendly, rust-resistant anchors made of plastic. Most have a corkscrew shape and handles for driving them into the sand with minimum effort. For your convenience, we have selected the best overall option and a runner-up. One is made of ABS plastic and the other of steel. While steel is stronger and offers more stability, the plastic model is lighter and compatible with more umbrella sizes. Also, consider that our steel pick is easier to install, while the plastic one requires you to bend down and exert more physical effort. Not sure which to purchase? Here are the best beach umbrella anchors currently on the market. The Rundown Best Overall: REFFU Heavy Duty Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Runner Up, Best Overall: AMMSUN Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Best Budget: Copa Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Best Multi-Purpose: Ultimate Summit Sand Beach Umbrella Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Best Wind Resistance: Simchoco Sand Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Best with Integrated Umbrella: Bumblr Beach Umbrella With Sand Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Best Weighted: Seabreeze Products Inc. Umbrella Anchor at Amazon Jump to Review Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall REFFU Heavy Duty Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Five-spiral corkscrew for greater stability Compatible with most beach umbrella models ABS construction for rust-free durability What We Don't Like Included towel hook may not fit all umbrellas Bulkier than some other options on this list A firm favorite with reviewers, the REFFU Heavy-Duty Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor offers excellent performance at a very reasonable price. It is constructed out of sturdy acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic to provide the perfect combination of lightness and durability. And unlike traditional metal anchors, this one has no chance of rusting. This anchor also stands out from earlier plastic models with five spirals instead of three on the corkscrew point, allowing for greater stability even in strong winds. The reinforced handles are molded to your grip for added comfort and traction when screwing the anchor into the sand, while the universal base includes an adjustable thumb screw so that the anchor can be made to fit any umbrella with a pole diameter of less than 1.5 inches. It also comes with a four-point towel hook for keeping your belongings out of the sand. Price at time of publish: $30 Fits pole diameter: Up to 1.5 inches | Length: 16.2 inches | Weight: 14.4 ounces Runner Up, Best Overall AMMSUN Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Comes with a convenient nylon carry bag Designed to work well in a variety of terrains Steel construction for strength and longevity What We Don't Like Heavy in comparison with most plastic anchors Does not fit poles over 1.26 inches in diameter Traditionalists will love the AMMSUN Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor, which eschews the plastic corkscrew style in favor of a quality steel spike. Many reviewers report finding it easier to achieve a stable fit with this approach, while cracking, bending, and discoloration are all less likely with steel construction. Those that struggle to kneel down or exert force with their hands will also appreciate the fact that this anchor is driven into the sand by foot. Although the anchor is primarily marketed for use in sand, it also works well in soil and grass—giving you the versatility required to use it with fishing rods, flag poles, and even bird feeders. An adjustable thumbscrew lets you control the diameter. Price at time of publish: $23 Fits pole diameter: Between 0.87 and 1.26 inches | Length: 16.7 inches | Weight: 1.1 pounds Best Budget Copa Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor Amazon View On Amazon At the other end of the spectrum is the Copa Beach Umbrella Sand Anchor, with a very reasonable price tag. The well-reviewed anchor is ideal for casual beachgoers who don’t want to spend a fortune but still need a product that works well. It’s made of plastic and features a spiral flange that allows for easy insertion into the sand or soft ground. The comfortable handles provide enough force to install the anchor without the need for any extra tools. It’s designed to withstand 40 mph winds and fits any umbrella with a pole diameter of 1.5 inches or less. Reviewers particularly like this product’s portability: At just 1 pound, it’s a lightweight addition to your beach bag or backpack. Price at time of publish: $7 Fits pole diameter: Up to 1.5 inches | Length: 11.7 inches | Weight: 1 pound Tested: The Best Beach Towels for a Day on the Sand Best Multi-Purpose Ultimate Summit Sand Beach Umbrella Anchor Amazon View On Amazon What We Like One-year warranty Under 1 pound What We Don't Like Only three screw spirals Although most sand anchors can be adapted to an array of different uses, the Ultimate Sand Anchor is specifically marketed as an umbrella- and fishing rod-holder. When you don’t need protection from the sun, you can use the adjustable base to secure your fishing rod, either to give your arm a break while waiting for the big one or to keep the reel out of the sand while baiting up. The anchor is made from strong ABS and features a screw-like tip for easy installation, and at 12.2 ounces, the anchor is also lightweight enough to throw in your beach bag or tackle box without noticing the difference. It includes a one-year warranty. Price at time of publish: $17 Fits pole diameter: Up to 1.5 inches | Length: 15 inches | Weight: 12.2 ounces Best Wind Resistance Simchoco Sand Anchor Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Only 1 pound Long shaft for added stability What We Don't Like Only fits pole diameters 1.25 inches or less For optimum wind resistance at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with the Simchoco Sand Anchor. It’s designed to withstand gusts of up to 50 mph, thanks to its heavy-duty plastic construction. The anchor’s 18-inch shaft features a spring-like screw, which makes the installation process quicker and easier so that your sun exposure is kept to a minimum. Use the thumb-screw to adjust the opening to fit any umbrella pole with a diameter of 1.25 inches or less. Despite its strength, this product is surprisingly portable: It weighs just under 1 pound and comes with a convenient hanging hook. Best of all, your purchase is protected by a one-year warranty and a free replacement guarantee. Fits pole diameter: Up to 1.25 inches | Length: 18 inches | Weight: 1 pound The 9 Best Beach Umbrellas of 2023 Best with Integrated Umbrella Bumblr Beach Umbrella With Sand Anchor Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Integrated umbrella saves separate purchases Push-button tilt mechanism for maximum shade Lightweight, folds down into included carry bag What We Don't Like Not great for strong winds If you’re looking for an umbrella/anchor combo, the Bumblr Beach Umbrella With Sand Anchor receives excellent reviews for its quality construction, stability, and ease of use—all at a mid-range price. There are two canopy sizes to choose from (6.5 or 7 feet) and a range of colors including royal blue, sky blue, orange, and striped. The double-vented canopy is made of high-density water- and UV-resistant polyester, while the pole is steel with fiberglass ribs. In addition to an integrated corkscrew anchor and an aluminum bolt handle for driving the umbrella into the sand, it comes with built-in hooks for hanging beach towels and an adjustable tilt mechanism. The latter is operated with the push of a button and allows for maximum shade throughout the day. Depending on the size, the umbrella weighs 4.4 or 5 pounds in total and comes with a convenient carry bag. Price at time of publish: $20 Best Weighted Seabreeze Products Inc. Umbrella Anchor Amazon View On Amazon The Umbrella Anchor from Seabreeze Products is the easiest-to-use option on our list. Simply attach the plastic base to your umbrella, hang the beach pockets, and fill them with sand to prevent your umbrella from falling over. Even the kids can help set up this anchor so you can open your umbrella as quickly as possible and minimize sun damage. Because the plastic base is weighted down with sand, this anchor is designed to fit any umbrella size. While these bags are lightweight when empty, they weigh 5 pounds when filled with sand. Price at time of publish: $18 Fits pole diameter: Most sizes | Length: 7.6 inches | Weight: 3.2 ounces (5 pounds with sand) The 8 Best Beach Tents of 2023 for Shade and Convenience, Tested and Reviewed What to Look for in Beach Umbrella Anchors Material The vast majority of beach umbrella anchors come in one of two materials: metal (usually steel) or ABS plastic. There are pros and cons to both types. Metal anchors are often sturdier and more durable, but they run the risk of rusting over time and may be heavier. A good, saltwater-resistant coating is essential in these products. Plastic anchors are lighter and usually cheaper, and they will not rust. The only downside is they might be less stable, especially in high winds. Twisting Handles Most beach umbrella anchors have handles, which you use to twist them into the sand by hand. Depending on how compact the sand is, you may need to exert some pressure – so well-constructed, decently sized handles that allow for sufficient traction are essential. If the handles are molded to fit your hands comfortably, all the better. Length Generally speaking, the longer your beach umbrella anchor is, the more stability it offers. Around 14 to 17 inches is the optimum length, although there are other factors at play, including the material of the anchor and its design. For example, corkscrew anchors with five spirals are more effective than those with three spirals. Features like these give added stability so that the anchor itself can be kept shorter and more compact. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know the anchor will fit my umbrella? Before purchasing, be sure to check the anchor’s compatibility. Most have an adjuster that allows them to fit a range of pole diameters, but this range differs from product to product. How deep does the beach umbrella anchor need to go? For the best results, always insert the anchor to its maximum depth. This maximum is usually between 12 and 17 inches. Choose a longer anchor if you’re often at the beach in high winds. What material is best for an umbrella anchor? The best beach umbrella anchors are made of steel with a saltwater-resistant coating, or hard-wearing ABS plastic. Choose steel for stronger winds and plastic for lightweight affordability. Why Trust TripSavvy As a professional scuba instructor and all-around ocean enthusiast, Jessica Macdonald has clocked up countless hours at the beach and has observed many different beach umbrella anchors in action. For this roundup, she researched more than 20 of the latest products on the market, comparing specifications, price, and user feedback for each one. She chose to include a broad spectrum of anchors to suit all tastes and requirements, and the winner of each category had to be backed by reviews that were not only numerous but overwhelmingly positive. 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