Looking for the best sun loungers? Now that spring is officially underway it won’t be long before the good weather hits, and once the clouds part and the sun starts shining we all want to head straight out into the garden or onto the balcony to soak up some mood-boosting Vitamin D.
So now's the time to get ahead of the game and ensure your outdoor space is fully equipped for relaxation once the temperatures climb.
We’ve rounded up our top choices of design-led sun loungers; from quick-drying options for the poolside to classic wheeled sun loungers, folding and stackable sun loungers for space-saving storage, contemporary reclining chairs for the garden, and decadent outdoor daybeds.
If you’re looking to furnish your whole outdoor space for rest, relaxation and entertaining, then make sure to explore our guide to the best garden furniture of 2021, otherwise, read on to find the best sun loungers for those balmy summer days...
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(Image credit: Emu)
A spacious sun lounger that stacks and wheels; perfect for the pool or garden
Size:
L215 x W92 x H37cm
Materials:
Painted steel, 'Emu-Tex' fabric
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£529 at Made in Design(opens in new tab)
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Generous proportions
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Wheeled for easy manoeuvrabilty
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Adjustable backrest
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Stackable
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Good range of colour options
Opt for bright and playful colour or minimal monochrome with one of the best sun loungers for versatile functionality and uplifting design.
Stackable for easy storage and with rear castor wheels for easy manoeuverability, this is a great option for the poolside or garden, with quick-drying polyvinyl fabric that's UV-resistant and designed to stay cool even in direct sun.
Even better, despite streamlined design and lightweight looks, this is one of the most generously proportioned sun loungers on our list. After all, who doesn't want more space for a drowsy daytime nap?
(Image credit: Ethimo)
Create an oasis of relaxation with this double sun lounger or outdoor daybed
Size:
L170 x D215 x H198cm
Materials:
Solid teak wood, stainless steel, linen
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£4744 at Printemps(opens in new tab)
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Resort-worthy lounging
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Fabric canopy to add privacy and keep out the glare
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Room for two or more
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Adjustable backrests
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Mattresses available separately
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Very bulky to move and store
For the ultimate in outdoor relaxation, this teak framed double sun lounger will create an oasis of zen-like calm in the garden.
Adjustable backrests allow you to find the optimal degree of recline for the most restful laidback lounging, whilst the linen canopy offers shade and privacy - great if your outdoor space is overlooked.
Who needs a holiday anyway when you have resort-worthy relaxation in your own backyard.
(Image credit: Hay)
The best garden lounger; sculptural form and ergonomic comfort
Size:
H70 x W65.5 x L164.5cm
Material:
Powder-coated steel
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£675 at Made in Design(opens in new tab)
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Adds sculptural form to the garden as well as function
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Coordinates with the Palissade outdoor furniture collection for a cohesive look
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No adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky to move and store
If you're willing to sacrifice being able to turn onto your front, then the fluid lines of Hay's Palissade sun lounger bring both function and sculptural form to the garden.
Modern, minimalist, and with a carefully-considered and aesthetically-pleasing silhouette, this chaise longue design is an outdoor focal point rather than a lounger to wheel out of view when not in use.
The ergonomic form is far more comfortable than its weather-resistant metal frame might suggest, but you can opt for maximum comfort with the specifically-designed quilted cushion (opens in new tab) back and padded headrest (opens in new tab).
For effortless garden styling, the Palissade collection also offers a wide variety of coordinating outdoor furniture; from lounge and dining chairs to coffee and bar tables.
(Image credit: Skagerak)
A classic wooden sun lounger in FSC certified teak
Size:
L200 x W66 x H31cm
Materials:
FSC certified teak wood, fabric
£969 at Amara(opens in new tab)
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Wheeled for easy manoeuvrability
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky to store
You just can't beat solid teak wood for a timeless addition to an outdoor space, and this FSC certified wood option from Danish brand Skagerak is one of the best sun loungers for a classic look.
Two wheels for easy manoeuvring and an adjustable backrest ensure you have everything you need for some well-deserved rest and relaxation, whilst the classic design is simplicity at its finest.
(Image credit: Conic Cane)
The best sun lounger for resort-worthy style and comfort
Size:
H40-83 x W78 x L220cm
Materials:
Aluminium frame, SoftTouch fabric cushions
£2760 at Chaplins(opens in new tab)
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Padded quick-dry upholstery
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Simple gas-spring adjustable backrest
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Wheeled for easy manoeuvrability
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Fairly bulky to store
Quick-dry upholstered cushions and a clever gas-spring reclining mechanism maximise comfort and relaxation in this stress-free sun lounger from Cane-Line.
The lightweight powder-coated aluminium frame and rear wheels make for easy manoeuvring, so all you have to worry about is laying back and catching the rays.
(Image credit: Gandia Blasco)
A contemporary wooden sun lounger with a minimal aesthetic
Size:
L198 x W70 x H45 cm
Materials:
Teak, aluminium, 'Silvertex' fabric upholstery
From £2604 at Chaplins(opens in new tab)
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Wheeled for easy manoeuvrability
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky to store
Inspired by the play of light and shadow through Mediterranean window shutters and the refined aesthetic of Japanese bamboo and wooden slatted architecture, the DNA sun lounger by José A. Gandia-Blasco is a masterclass in minimal simplicity.
Linear teak wood and white aluminium are contrasted by statement teak wheels that make for easy manoeuvring.
(Image credit: EMU)
A space-saving sun lounger for easy stacking
Size:
L202 x W79 x H103cm
Materials:
Aluminium, texplast fabric cover. UV protecting nylon
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£615 at Made in Design(opens in new tab)
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Stackable for space-saving storage
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Hidden wheels for easy manoeuvrability
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Adjustable backrest
Taupe and black are the shades of moment, and on-trend neutrals can continue out into the garden with this muted sun lounger.
Designed to stack for space-saving storage and with hidden wheels that make following the sun that little bit easier, this quick-drying lounger is a great option for poolside or terrace.
(Image credit: Houe)
Simple yet stylish, a mechanism-free reclining chair for catching the rays
Size:
H90 x W64 x L180cm
Materials:
Bamboo, metal and plastic
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£389 at Made in Design(opens in new tab)
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Simple reclining chair without mechanisms
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Fairly bulky to move and store
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No adjustable backrest
Ingeniously designed to offer a reclining chair without any finger-trapping mechanisms, in Houe's Click chair you simply pitch yourself backwards onto the angled rear legs when you're ready for some time spent horizontal.
Of course, you can't turn over and lay on your front as you can with a classic sun lounger, but once you've discovered this ergonomically-friendly legs-slightly-above-heart reclined position, we're not sure you'll want to.
(Image credit: La Forma)
Add beach vibes with this curvaceous garden lounger
Size:
L169 x W84 x H91cm
Materials:
Eucalyptus wood, polyester UV-stabilized rope
£932 at Naken(opens in new tab)
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Beach-holiday vibes
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Fairly bulky to move and store
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No adjustable backrest
A eucalyptus wood frame and UV-protected woven synthetic-rope seat give this laidback lounger beach-holiday vibes with added weather-resistance.
The perfect garden lounger for settling down with a good book or daydreaming the day away on a warm summer's day, the curvaceous shape will gently cocoon you as you relax.
(Image credit: Serax)
A minimal sun lounger designed for the monastery
Size:
L205 x W79 x H25cm
Materials:
Powder-coated aluminium, plastic
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£1060 at Amara(opens in new tab)
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Wheeled for easy manoeuvrability
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky to store
Simple and minimalist, the August Outdoor collection was designed by architect Vincent Van Duysen to furnish the terrace of the former monastery he had been commissioned to transform into a not-so-monastic hotel.
Reflecting the austere craftsmanship of the monastery's original functional furnishings, the August sun lounger is perfectly formed with minimal fuss.
(Image credit: Skagerak)
The best wooden lounge chair and footstool
Size:
H90 x W61.5 x D93.5cm
Materials:
FSC-certified teak wood
View at Finnish Design Shop US(opens in new tab)
View at Verishop(opens in new tab)
View at 2Modern(opens in new tab)
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Versatile seating and lounging option
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Hardwearing and durable teak wood
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Fairly bulky to move and store
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No adjustable backrest
This clean-lined Scandinavian lounge chair is the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee, and with the addition of the coordinating footstool, it transforms into a lounger worthy of naptime.
Designed to be passed from generation to generation, Skagerak's Between The Lines deckchair is crafted from FSC-certified teak wood sourced from sustainably-managed forestry plantations.
Allow the wood to weather gently to a restful silver-grey tone or boost the naturally high oil content of the teak wood with regular weather-proofing to maintain the honeyed colour.
(Image credit: Slide)
A colourful sun lounger perfect for the poolside
Size:
L200 x W68 x H80cm
Materials:
Rotomoulded polyethylene
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£631 at Made in Design(opens in new tab)
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Can quickly wipe down so good for the poolside
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky to move and store
Made in Italy, this rotomoulded polyethylene plastic sun lounger has the benefit of drying quickly, which makes it perfect for the poolside.
The adjustable back also has six different inclines, allowing you to find the perfect angle for reading, napping, or reclining blissfully, cocktail in hand.
(Image credit: Maisons Du Monde)
The best value sun lounger for affordable style
Size:
L174 x W51 x H49cm
Materials:
Plastic-coated canvas, polyester, metal
£87 at Maisons Du Monde(opens in new tab)
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Affordable
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Folds for space-saving storage
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Narrow design useful for small spaces
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Adjustable backrest
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Narrow width and shorter length won't suit all
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No wheels
If you want one of the best value sun loungers that still offers a good dose of style, then Maisons Du Monde's Hurghada sun lounger is a good affordable option.
Check your measurements as this sun lounger is narrower - and shorter - than most, but the folding design makes for easy storage and is a great option for any outdoor area, like a balcony or urban courtyard, where space is tight.
Available in terracotta, khaki green, black, white and taupe, it also has a great selection of tasteful colour options.
(Image credit: Unopiu)
The best curved wood garden lounger for contemporary relaxation
Size:
L161 x W59 x H59cm
Materials:
Teak wood, stainless steel
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
£2019 at Printemps(opens in new tab)
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Sculptural design
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Hardwearing and durable teak wood
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Fairly bulky and heavy to move and store
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No adjustable backrest
The curved lines of this teak garden lounger are reminiscent of a fluid wave, allowing the mind to relax into Zen-mode before you even lie down.
Sit the sculptural form directly on the ground, or rest it on the metal legs provided; either way the curvaceous lounger offers striking design and optimum relaxation.
(Image credit: Fiam )
The best folding sun lounger for taking on the move
Size:
L191 x W58.5 x H36cm
Materials:
Aluminium, textilene
£196 at Royal Design(opens in new tab)
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Super lightweight and compact for easy transportation
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Folds for space-saving storage
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Narrow design useful for small spaces
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly narrow width
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No wheels
This lightweight sun lounger folds away into a super compact rectangle when it's not in use, making it one of the best sun loungers for small outdoor spaces, and for packing up and taking to the beach, lake or park.
This option is on the narrower side to make it easier to transport, but if you want a bit more space then Fiam's well-stocked sun lounger collection offers a range of widths and styles. Plus a never-knew-you-needed selection of sun lounging accessories, including a handy attachable sun visor and adjustable padded headrest for bespoke comfort.
(Image credit: Skagerak)
The best steamer chair for the garden
Size:
L163 x W58 x H100cm
Materials:
FSC certified teak wood
View at Finnish Design Shop US(opens in new tab)
Check Amazon(opens in new tab)
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Classic style
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Hardwearing and durable teak wood
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Folds for space-saving storage
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Adjustable backrest
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Fairly bulky and heavy to move and recline
The classic steamer chair is a great option for laidback reclining. An adjustable back offers a wide range of reclining angles and the footrest is ready to whip out as soon as you fancy putting your feet up.
Timeless design and hardwearing FSC certified teak wood ensure this Skgerak garden lounger will stand the test of time.
Ensuring you source the best sun loungers for your outdoor space depends a lot on how you plan to use your lounger:
Manoeuvrability: If you want the freedom to move your sun lounger around the pool or garden to follow the sun, then the best sun loungers for you are likely to be lightweight models with wheels for easy manoeuvring.
Storage: Despite being weather-resistant, you'll lengthen a sun lounger's longevity by storing it under cover during inclement weather. A wheeled sun lounger will make getting it to cover much easier, whilst stacking sun loungers can be placed one on top of the other to save on floor space and foldable sun loungers pack away neatly for the ultimate compact storage.
How low will you go: A true sun lounger will recline into a flat position so you can turn onto your front and catch the sun from all angles, but if you're not a sun-worshipper then some of the best reclining chairs on our list can often be more versatile and comfortable for relaxing backwards.
After all, the optimal relaxation posture is suggested to be having your legs raised slightly above your heart, so a curved reclining seat or steamer chair can be an alternative well worth considering.
Poolside or garden: If you'll be using your sun lounger poolside where it's likely to get wet regularly, then the best sun loungers for you are likely to be models with plastic-coated fabric seating which offers the quickest-drying option.
A fabric seat will usually also have enough give in it to make it comfortable to lie on with just a towel rather than cushioned padding.
In the garden anything goes, but with most metal or wooden designs it's best to check if cushioned padding is included or available to buy separately for the maximum comfort.
With the warmer weather on its way it's time to make the most of whatever outdoor space you have to play with, whether that's sitting pretty on the best garden chairs, cooking up a storm with the best barbecue or a long summer's evening entertaining with the best-in-class firepits.
For more garden inspiration take a look at our modern garden ideas pages and find the hottest design trends and wow-factor landscaping.
And if your outside space is more bijou than bountiful, discover how to maximise a smaller space with these brilliant balcony ideas.