Abstract: A compact umbrella anchor and method is disclosed that includes a bit with a pin member with an auger blade. The pin member has a small body to support the auger blade without interfering with operation of the larger blade surface. A retractable handle is built onto the tubular body of the umbrella anchor. The handle pivots between an open position and a closed position. Stops on the handle stop rotation at the open position so that the hand grips are directed radially outwardly. The handle has slots that are slightly undersized with respect to the tubular body or in other words the cross-section is slightly greater than a semi-circle, so as to cause the grips to snap gently into the closed position. An umbrella pole can be telescopically interconnected with the tubular body of the umbrella anchor.