Cut the parachute cords from the parachute with the knife. Keep the cords to help create a shelter and for other uses around your beach camp.
Tie the longest pole (14 feet) to the tree about 4 feet from the ground. Use the parachute cord to secure it. Let the other end of the pole rest on the ground.
Lay the parachute with the narrow-width side facing the tree and over the long pole. Drape the parachute down the sides and onto the ground. There should be the same amount of fabric hanging down on both sides of the long pole.
Place the two shorter poles on either side of the shelter. Tuck the fabric sides under each pole to prevent them from blowing around in the breeze. Spread the fabric over the floor of your shelter so that you don't have to lie on the sand.
