Tommy Bahama Beach Chair Reviews: Is It Worth It?

I’ve spent countless summers lugging gear to the beach, and let me tell you, a good beach chair can make or break your day by the ocean. The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair is my go-to for a reason—it’s like a trusty sidekick that makes every beach trip feel like a mini-vacation.

With its lightweight design, smart features, and tropical vibe, this chair is worth every penny. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or dodging seagulls, I’m convinced this is the chair you need to elevate your beach game. Here’s why it’s a must-have for your next coastal adventure.

My Experience With Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

Picture this: it’s a sweltering July afternoon, and I’m trudging across the Jersey Shore with a cooler in one hand, a beach bag slung over my shoulder, and a couple of kids trailing behind me, whining about the sand in their flip-flops.

In years past, I’d be wrestling with a clunky, rusted chair that felt like it was punishing me for wanting to relax.

Enter the Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair, and suddenly, I’m not cursing under my breath anymore.

This chair has been a game-changer for me, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s transformed how I approach beach days.

The first thing I noticed was how easy it is to carry. At just under 8 pounds, it feels like nothing compared to the heavy, awkward chairs I’ve hauled before. The padded backpack straps are a lifesaver—they distribute the weight so evenly that I barely notice I’m carrying it, even when I’m schlepping across a crowded beach.

I can toss it on my back, free up my hands for other gear, and still have enough energy to chase my kids when they inevitably bolt toward the water. Setting it up is a breeze too. It unfolds smoothly, and while it took me a couple of tries to get the hang of locking it in place, it’s now second nature. I love that I don’t need a Ph.D. in engineering to get it ready.

Once I’m settled in, the comfort kicks in. The polyester seat is supportive yet soft, and the aluminum frame feels sturdy without being bulky. I’m 5’10”, and my husband is a bit taller, and we both find the chair roomy enough to relax in. The five reclining positions are a standout feature—I can sit upright to keep an eye on the kids or recline almost flat for a quick nap.

The headrest pillow is adjustable, which is great because I can tweak it to support my neck just right. The cooler pouch on the back? Genius. It fits a six-pack of soda or a few water bottles, keeping them cold even on the hottest days. There’s also a zippered pocket for my phone, sunscreen, and a book, so I’m not digging through a sandy bag to find my essentials.

I’ve taken this chair to beaches from Cape May to Destin, and it’s held up through sand, salt, and the occasional splash from a rogue wave. After two years of regular use, it still looks almost new, though I’m careful to rinse it off after each trip.

My only gripe is that the cupholder could be deeper—my tumbler has tipped over once or twice when I wasn’t paying attention. But honestly, that’s a small price to pay for a chair that makes me feel like I’m on a tropical getaway, even if I’m just at the local beach. It’s not just a chair; it’s a vibe, and I’m here for it.

Pros Of Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair has a lot going for it, and I’ve come to appreciate its strengths after putting it through its paces. Here’s what makes it stand out in my book:

Lightweight and portable: Weighing just 8 pounds, this chair is easy to carry, especially with the padded backpack straps that let me go hands-free. I can trek across the beach without feeling like I’m lugging a piece of furniture.

Comfortable reclining options: With five adjustable positions, including a near-flat setting, I can switch from reading to napping without missing a beat. It’s like having a lounge and an upright chair in one.
Built-in cooler pouch: The insulated cooler on the back is a game-changer. It holds six 12-ounce cans, keeping my drinks cold even during a scorching afternoon. No need to drag a separate cooler for a quick trip.
Sturdy yet stylish design: The aluminum frame is rust-resistant and holds up to 300 pounds, so it feels solid without looking clunky. Plus, the tropical patterns scream “beach vacation,” which I love.

Thoughtful storage features: The zippered pocket and phone slot keep my essentials organized and sand-free. I can stash my sunscreen, keys, and a paperback without worrying about losing them in my beach bag.
Easy to clean: The polyester fabric dries quickly and wipes clean with a damp cloth. Even after my kids spilled juice on it, a quick scrub had it looking good as new.
Adjustable headrest: The padded headrest can be moved up or down, so I can customize it for my neck. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference during long beach days.

These features make the Tommy Bahama chair a reliable companion for any beach outing. It’s practical, comfortable, and has that extra bit of flair that makes me feel like I’m living my best beach life. Whether I’m lounging for hours or just popping down for a quick break, this chair delivers every time.

Cons Of Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

No product is perfect, and while I’m a big fan of the Tommy Bahama chair, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. Here’s what I’ve noticed after using it extensively:

Flimsy backpack straps: The padded straps are comfy, but they feel a bit thin and have started to fray slightly after two years of use. I worry they might not hold up as long as the rest of the chair.

Shallow cupholder: The cupholder is handy, but it’s not deep enough for larger tumblers or bottles. I’ve had my drink tip over a couple of times, which is annoying when I’m trying to relax.
Lower backrest height: The backrest is lower than some other chairs, so if you’re tall or prefer a higher back for upright sitting, it might feel a bit short. My husband notices this more than I do.
Tricky initial setup: The first few times I set it up, I fumbled with the locking mechanism. It’s not super intuitive, and I nearly ended up in the sand once when it wasn’t fully locked.

Pricey compared to budget options: At around $80-$100, it’s not the cheapest chair out there. If you’re on a tight budget, you might hesitate, though I think the quality justifies the cost.
Limited color options: While I love the tropical vibe, the color and pattern choices are somewhat limited. I’d love a few more neutral or bold options to mix things up.
Not fully waterproof: The chair handles splashes fine, but prolonged exposure to water can seep into the fabric. I’ve learned to shake it off and dry it thoroughly to avoid issues.

These cons don’t outweigh the pros for me, but they’re worth keeping in mind. If you’re particular about cupholders or need a higher backrest, you might want to weigh these against your needs. Still, I’ve found workarounds for most of these issues, and they haven’t stopped me from loving this chair.

Maintenance Tips For Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

Keeping your Tommy Bahama Beach Chair in top shape is key to making it last, and I’ve learned a few tricks to keep mine looking and functioning like new. Here’s how I care for it:

Rinse off salt and sand: After every beach trip, I hose down the chair with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and sunscreen residue. This prevents corrosion on the aluminum frame and keeps the fabric from getting gritty.

Dry thoroughly before storage: I always make sure the chair is completely dry before folding it up and storing it. Leaving it damp can lead to mildew on the polyester fabric, especially in humid climates.
Clean stains promptly: For spills like juice or sunscreen, I use a mix of warm water and mild soap with a soft cloth. A quick scrub usually does the trick, and the fabric dries fast, so it’s back in action quickly.
Inspect straps regularly: The backpack straps can fray over time, so I check them for wear and tear. If I notice loose threads, I trim them carefully to prevent further damage and avoid overloading the straps.

Store in a dry place: I keep my chair in a closet or garage when not in use. Storing it vertically saves space, and keeping it out of humid or salty air helps prevent rust on the hinges.
Lubricate hinges occasionally: The reclining mechanism can get sticky from sand or salt. I apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the hinges every few months to keep them moving smoothly.
Avoid overloading the cooler: The cooler pouch is great, but I’ve learned not to stuff it with heavy items like glass bottles. Keeping it light with cans or plastic bottles prevents strain on the zipper and fabric.

These steps have kept my chair in great condition for two years and counting. With a little care, you can extend its life significantly, making it a worthwhile investment for your beach adventures. It’s not high-maintenance, but a bit of attention goes a long way.

Comparison With Other Brands

When I started looking for a beach chair, I didn’t just settle on the Tommy Bahama right away—I tried out a few others to see how they stacked up. Here’s how it compares to some popular competitors, based on my experience and research.

Yeti Hondo Beach Chair: The Yeti Hondo Beach Chair is built like a tank, with a powder-coated aluminum frame and UV-resistant mesh fabric that screams durability. I tried one at a friend’s beach house, and it’s incredibly supportive, especially for longer lounging sessions. It’s wider and deeper than the Tommy Bahama, which is great if you’re taller or need more space, and it handles up to 350 pounds. However, at 13 pounds, it’s noticeably heavier, and the single shoulder strap isn’t as comfy as Tommy Bahama’s backpack straps. It also costs nearly three times as much, which felt steep for my needs. While the Yeti is a beast for all-day comfort, I prefer the Tommy Bahama for its portability and affordability.

GCI Outdoor Waterside Chair: The GCI Outdoor Waterside Chair caught my eye because of its built-in UPF 50+ sunshade, which is a huge plus if you burn easily like I do. It’s slightly heavier at 9.7 pounds, but the backpack straps make it manageable. I found it comfortable with its padded headrest and four reclining positions, but it lacks the cooler pouch that I love on the Tommy Bahama. The mesh backrest is breathable, but the overall design feels less stylish. It’s a solid choice if shade is your priority, but I missed the Tommy Bahama’s extra storage and tropical flair.
Helinox Beach Chair: For those who prioritize portability, the Helinox Beach Chair is insanely light at just 3.19 pounds. I tested one during a camping trip, and it’s perfect if you’re hiking to a remote beach. It folds down super small, fitting into a compact carry bag, but the trade-off is comfort. The low-to-the-ground design wasn’t ideal for my knees, and it lacks features like a cooler or cupholder. It supports up to 320 pounds, which is impressive for its size, but it feels less luxurious than the Tommy Bahama. I’d pick the Helinox for backpacking but stick with Tommy Bahama for regular beach days.
Ostrich Deluxe 3N1 Beach Chair: The Ostrich Deluxe 3N1 Beach Chair is unique with its face-down lounging option, complete with a padded face hole and arm slots for reading while tanning your back. I tried it at a resort, and it’s a dream for sunbathers. It’s about 10 pounds, slightly heavier than the Tommy Bahama, and has a single strap instead of backpack straps, which I found less convenient. It’s also pricier, and the frame isn’t as rust-resistant. If you love lying face-down, it’s a great pick, but for all-around versatility, I prefer the Tommy Bahama’s reclining options and cooler pouch.

Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair: The Coleman Utopia Breeze is a budget-friendly option at just 5.3 pounds and under $40. I used one for a quick beach trip, and it’s super portable with a simple design. However, it doesn’t recline, which was a dealbreaker for me, and the fabric felt less durable than the Tommy Bahama’s. It lacks extras like a cooler or storage pockets, so I had to carry a separate bag for my stuff. It’s great if you’re on a tight budget, but the Tommy Bahama’s features and longevity make it worth the extra cost for me.

Each of these chairs has its strengths, but the Tommy Bahama strikes a balance of comfort, portability, and features that suits my beach lifestyle best. It’s not the cheapest or the lightest, but it’s the one I keep reaching for.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why are Tommy Bahama beach chairs so popular?

You’ve probably seen these chairs dotting every beach from Miami to Malibu, and there’s a reason for that. The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair combines portability, comfort, and style in a way that feels like it was designed by someone who actually goes to the beach. The backpack straps make it easy to carry, the cooler pouch keeps your drinks cold, and the tropical designs give off vacation vibes. Plus, they’re built to last with rust-resistant aluminum and durable polyester. They’re a bit pricier, but people love the reliability and luxury feel for their beach days.

Do Tommy Bahama beach chairs recline?

Yes, they do, and it’s one of my favorite features. The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair offers five reclining positions, from upright to nearly flat. You just lift the armrests, adjust the back, and lock it in place. It’s perfect for switching between reading, chatting, or napping. The mechanism is smooth once you get the hang of it, though I recommend double-checking it’s locked to avoid any unexpected tumbles into the sand.

How long do Tommy Bahama chairs last?

With proper care, these chairs can last for years. I’ve had mine for two years with no major issues, and I know people with 10-year-old Tommy Bahama chairs that are still going strong. The aluminum frame resists rust, and the polyester fabric holds up well if you rinse off salt and sand after each use. Some folks report straps fraying or hinges sticking after heavy use, but regular maintenance like hosing it down and storing it properly can keep it in great shape for a decade or more.

Are Tommy Bahama chairs waterproof?

They’re not fully waterproof, but they handle beach conditions well. The polyester fabric is water-resistant and dries quickly after a splash from a wave or a spilled drink. However, if it’s submerged or left wet for too long, the fabric can absorb water, and the hinges might corrode over time. I always shake off excess water and dry mine thoroughly before storing it to avoid any issues. It’s built for the beach, not a dunk in the ocean.

Conclusion: For Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

If you’re dreaming of beach days where you’re comfortable, organized, and maybe even a little stylish, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair is calling your name. It’s not just a chair—it’s a ticket to hassle-free relaxation with its lightweight design, handy cooler, and tropical charm. Sure, it has a few quirks, but the pros far outweigh them. I can’t imagine hitting the shore without mine, and I’m betting you’ll feel the same once you try it. Grab one, and make your next beach trip the best yet.