Beach umbrella advice, please

[CPR]

We are cruising on the 7-day Western itinerary in April. Three DS (7, 4, 1), their grandparents, DH and I will probably want to head to relaxing beaches in Grand Cayman and Cozumel. But, we will definitely need some shade whenever possible to get a break from the sun, especially for the baby. Has anyone ever taken their own beach umbrella? It would be a pain to take it, but I will if it's the only way to be sure of shade. Otherwise, we simply could not take the baby out (and frankly, none of us snowbirds should be out in the Caribbean sun for four hours or so without even an umbrealla break!). Any advice? Thanks.

 

[rocadonismom]

I don't know if it helps but, I have a fold up cabana type thing that we purchased for going to the beach. When folded it goes into a bag about 8 inches long and 2 inches thick that has a carrying strap. When open it forms a 1/2 circle type enclosure with a bottom, top and sides. You can lay in it and it covers the top half of your body, would also work for the baby to nap and it very portable and convenient. I think we got it at Target