HomeSunglassesTypes of Sunglasses

What are the best sunglasses for spring break?

young people on the beach wearing sunglasses

Spring break is one of the most popular times of the year for students and families to seek fun in the sun. That also makes it one of the most important times to protect your skin and eyes by lathering on the sunblock and wearing 100% UV-blocking sunglasses.

If you’re not sure which sunglasses to take with you over spring break, we’ve compiled a top 10 list with picks from Prada, Ray-Ban, Costa — and some more affordable options. 

Top 10 spring break sunglasses

Whether you’re looking for inexpensive coverage (under $40 to be exact) or you prefer classic shades from the best brands, here are the top 10 sunglasses to keep your eyes protected this spring break:

  1. Prada Duple Sunglasses - $495

  2. Suite Cat Eye Sunglasses - $32

  3. Ray-Ban Aviator Classic RB3025 - $154

  4. Solstice Round Sunglasses - $25

  5. Sun Amore Heart Sunglasses - $32

  6. Dolce & Gabbana Double Line Sunglasses - $310

  7. Persol Sun 649 Original - $260

  8. Miami Square Sunglasses - $35

  9. Ethereal Square Sunglasses - $35

  10. Costa Rincon Sunglasses - $259

Be sure to take UV protection, cost, reviews and style into account when you shop, and remember, if you need prescription lenses for your sunnies, that will add to your total cost. 

To go into more detailed descriptions of the shades listed in our top 10, we’ve split them into two groups: Styles under $40 and top sunglasses brands.

SEE RELATED: What’s the best UV protection sunglasses can offer?

Best sunglasses under $40 

You want to keep your eyes healthy and sun-damage-free this spring break, but you don’t want to break the bank.

Depending on the brand, the popularity of the frames and any modifications you make (like special tints, prescription lenses and/or scratch resistance), sunglasses can become pretty expensive.

However, that’s not always the case. Here’s a closer look at our favorite styles under $40:

Ethereal Square Cream Sunglasses: Minimalism is in this season, and with a craving for simplicity comes the renewed popularity of the color white. Match or clash — you’re in style and protected from the sun in these shades.

Solstice Round Pink Clear Sunglasses: Many an homage has been made to older fashion trends, and this season’s tribute is to retro round sunglasses. The Solstice sunnies in pink are the perfect example.

Sun Amore Heart Rose Gold Sunglasses: Curved or rectangular sunglasses will always be classics — this is your chance to spice up your wardrobe with heart-shaped specs. Unique lens shapes are in this season.

Suite Cat Eye Black Sunglasses: A few years ago, fashion connoisseurs loved the look of large-framed sunglasses, even when their lenses covered half their faces. This spring break, however, less is more. Tiny frames are in.

Miami Square Matte Green Sunglasses: Flat-top sunglasses are part of a futuristic trend, acting as both a statement piece and broader protection from the sun.

Top sunglasses brands

If you consider new sunglasses a long-term investment, nothing beats the classics. You can’t go wrong with one of these top brands:

Prada: Prada has a line of chic sunglasses that helps you beat the heat and save your eyes from sun damage. For a look that offers sophisticated style and for a brand that has earned its quality reputation, grab a pair of Prada shades.

Ray-Ban: Whether you’re a fan of aviators or thicker wayfarer frames, Ray-Ban has timeless style, widespread popularity and superior protection over lesser-known brands. UV-blocking lenses help shield your eyes from UV rays while the size of the lenses offers broader protection for your eyes and the delicate skin surrounding them. Add polarization to block glare and mirroring to reduce the amount of light getting to your eyes. 

Dolce & Gabbana: A name that evokes elegance and excellence, Dolce & Gabanna offers sunglasses that will protect your eyes from the sun and the flashing paparazzi (real or imagined).

Persol: Founded in Italy in 1917, Persol — which translates to “for sun” — created a line of sleek shades for outdoor use. This eyewear brand has withstood the test of time, and for good reason. 

Costa: Costa has a wide variety of styles, shapes and lens tints available for buyers who like to stand out, especially on the water. With an abundance of options, it’s easy to find a pair of Costa shades that’s perfect for you.

Why you need sunglasses on spring break

You already know the risks of being outside without sunscreen: sunburns, sun spots, aging and even skin cancer. Did you know that the sun can also damage your eyes?

Sunglasses don’t just protect against brightness. They also shield your eyes from harmful UV rays that can lead to corneal sunburns and even vision-obscuring conditions like cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and pterygia.

Spring break is a time to let loose, have fun and lay out in the sun. If you get in the habit now of wearing your 100% UV protection sunglasses every time you go outside, all you’ll have to do over the break is focus on having a good time.

SEE RELATED: What are the top ten most popular sunglasses brands in your state or territory?

Find Eye Doctor

Schedule an exam

Find Eye Doctor