Sandbags vs stakes for canopy anchoring: Sandbags are non-negotiable, stakes are situational

Sandbags are the real solution — 20+ pounds per leg minimum — because the plastic pegs that come with most canopies pull out in a moderate breeze. Spiral stakes that screw into sand hold far better than straight ones, but only if the beach allows them. Either way, a cheap canopy with no anchors is a liability.