A mechanism for anchoring umbrellas that includes a tubular outer member and a helical assembly at the lower end that is driven into the ground through manually imparted rotation through the use of a gear box and handle or battery powered electric motor. Stabilizing members protrude into the ground by the action of a releasable spring. The spring acts on an inner shaft that is co-axially housed within an outer tubular member. The inner shaft is rigidly mounted at its lower end to a platform member from which the stabilizing members are pivotally mounted. The stabilizing members protrude outwardly and snuggly through angular openings preventing the sand or soil from entering.
