A trip to the beach is the quintessential summer activity. If you want to enjoy your beach day even more without fear of getting sunburned, be sure to pack a beach umbrella.

While beach umbrellas are essential for staying protected from harmful UV rays, a big gust of wind can turn your helpful umbrella into a dangerous instrument. Learning how to set up your beach umbrella properly can put your mind at ease and keep other beachgoers safe.

There are many different types of umbrellas, and not all are safe to use at the beach.

It is not advisable to use patio umbrellas at the beach since they are heavier, have a thicker pole and don’t have a pointed end to stay in the sand. Stick to beach umbrellas for the safety of yourself and fellow beachgoers.

Almost all beach umbrellas have a pointed end to make it easier to stick into the sand. You can even find some with a threaded end, which are even more effective at digging into the sand. However, on the off chance your umbrella does go flying down the beach, a flat bottom beach umbrella is much safer.

In addition to offering airflow to keep you cool, a vented fabric top on a beach umbrella is much safer. It allows the air to flow through the beach umbrella rather than pushing or pulling it down the beach. It also keeps the canopy from twisting inside out.

Some beach umbrellas can tilt at different degrees, so you don’t have to re-bury your umbrella every time the sun moves.

While most beach umbrellas are relatively similar to set up, be sure to consult your user manual to see if any additional steps need to be taken.

If you have a pointed-end umbrella with threads, you can usually just bury it in the sand. Do not just stick it straight down into the sand, as it can easily blow out. Rocking it back and forth is an effective way to bury it in the sand without it coming out. Ensure your beach umbrella is buried at least one-third of the way in the sand.

If you want additional safety measures for your beach umbrella, this sand anchor will ensure it doesn't fly away. It's also helpful if you're going to use your beach umbrella at the park. Just screw the auger into sand or grass and place your umbrella into the base. It should fit most sizes, and it also fits pointed or flat-end umbrellas.

Beach umbrellas with a flat end will not safely stay put in the sand without an anchor. An umbrella base makes it safe and straightforward to set up your umbrella at the beach.

BeachBub All-in-One Beach Umbrella System: Available at Bed Bath & Beyond

If you’re looking for a beach umbrella that has it all, this BeachBub umbrella system is a great choice. In addition to the included base to ensure your umbrella never flies away, it also comes with a towel hook, shovel and carrying case.

Blissun 7.2-Foot Portable Beach Umbrella: Available at Amazon

This affordable beach umbrella is safe and has a locking push button tilt feature. The top vents allow for stability while the aluminum and steel pole resists wind better. The fabric comes with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) 50+.

Sport-Brella Vented Sun and Rain Canopy Umbrella: Available at Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond

A pointed, tie-down cord and stakes keep this beach umbrella securely in place while the three sides provide extra sun protection. It’s vented to keep you cool and is affordable.

Bre Richey is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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