Summer is in full swing! As people head for the beach, they’re grabbing summer essentials like beach hats and sunscreen. What people often overlook is what sunglasses they’re sporting at the beach. When it comes to eye protection, many believe any pair of sunglasses will do the job. You may be surprised to learn this is not the case! We are here to tell you the best sunglasses for the beach.
When spending the day outdoors, you should wear a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses or a pair that offers UV protection. Polarized lenses can give you clearer vision and reduce glare, preventing eye strain. UV protection blocks the sun’s harmful rays that can cause damage to your eyes. Before you race to the beach, here are the best UV sunglasses and the best sunglasses with polarized lenses.
Best Sunglasses for the Beach with Polarized Lenses
#1 Ray-Ban RB3445
These unisex aviator-style sunglasses are lightweight. Its sleek arms make these sunglasses glide on with ease. Fitted with polarized lenses, the double brow bar will compliment your face shape.
These aviators are best suited for heart, square, and oval face shapes and are prescription eligible. The reviews sing praises for its quality. “Fit and quality are outstanding. They even included a pair of replacement lenses!”
#2 Ray-Ban RB4101
Ray-Ban RB4101 (aka Jackie Ohh) is an elegant pair of round frames that add a classic touch to any beach outfit. Just like Jackie O’s style, these sunglasses are timeless and will become a key staple in your accessories collection. Available in 6 different shades, these sunglasses will give you clear vision under the sun’s glare.
These prescription eligible shades are best suited for rectangle, oblong, and oval face shapes. The reviews are stellar! “Love, love, love my new sunglasses. I [checked out] many pairs online and I kept going back to “Jackie Ohh” and I’m glad I did. The bigger the glasses the better to keep the sun from your eyes.”
#3 Ray-Ban RB4061 Polarized
You can’t go wrong with this pair of tortoise sunglasses featuring round, polarized, lenses. These sunglasses are prescription eligible and add flare to your beach style! These frames are best suited for petite faces and are polarized with crystal lenses. “This classical style is just what I’ve been looking for! The high quality of these sunglasses ensures I’ll be wearing them for years to come!
#4 Ray-Ban RB4246 Clubround
These iconic shades from Ray-Ban will never go out of style! These full-rimmed frames are made of lightweight titanium and feature retro silver accents. These prescription eligible sunglasses come with polarized frames to protect from eyes during your days on the beach. Available in three different shades and suited for rectangle, oblong, and oval face shapes, these unisex sunglasses are “very timeless, and get tons of compliments!”
#5 Oakley Square Wire Iridium Polarized
This pair of polarized frames are all about comfort while maintaining a sophisticated look. Adjustable nose pads create a comfortable fit and its earsocks are fashioned with a grip to ensure your sunglasses stay put. An added bonus? These square frames also offer 100% UV protection.
Available in two shades, these sunglasses are best suited for heart, square, and oval face shapes. “The quality of these sunglasses cannot be beat. These sunglasses check off everything sunglasses should have: high-quality materials, polarized lenses, and UV protection.”
Best Sunglasses for the Beach with UV Protection
#1 Zenni Premium Aviator Sunglasses 1125525
Not only are these aviators budget-friendly, but they also offer UV protection and have anti-scratch coating. Available in two shades, these sunglasses are prescription eligible. Crafted from stainless steel, these frames are best suited for heart, square, and oval face shapes. “Excellent product, great price along with quality service.”
#2 Ray-Ban RB3386
Add a splash of style with these square frames and any of its 6 shades. Sporting gunmetal frames, these sunglasses have 100% UV protection and are best suited for heart, square, and oval face shapes. “The quality is exceptional. They fit perfectly and I was able to get these frames in my prescription.”
#3 Zenni Premium Square Sunglasses 1150515
Featuring advanced technology, not only are these frames made of high-quality materials, but they also offer UV protection. Its stainless steel temple arms provide a comfortable fit. These lightweight sunglasses are available in 4 shades and are best suited for heart, square, and oval face shapes. “I love the size and shape of these frames, and the translucent plastic wrapped by the strip of white really makes them pop!”
On top of their eye-catching frame, these sunglasses are also super affordable! Zenni is one of the brands featured on our list of the best sunglasses under $100. Stylish and affordable? That’s a winner!
#4 Zenni Premium Cat-Eye Sunglasses 1117119
This timeless style is not only made of high-quality materials, but it also features advanced technology and is budget-friendly. Available in three different shades, these oversized cat-eye shades feature a street art pattern along the temple arms.
Offering UV protection, these sunglasses are best suited for round and oval face shapes. “These sunglasses are chic and sturdy and I can finally drive without having to choose between squinting to read street signs or squinting because of the sun!”
#5 Ray-Ban RB4171 Erika Tortoise
Compliment your style with these classic, oversized, round frames! Its metal temples add a sleek look to its design. Offering UV protection, these frames are lightweight and best suited for rectangular, oblong, and oval face shapes. “I love lightweight glasses!! I was surprised by how light they were. They really block out the sun, but also look really fashionable!”
Don’t Leave the for the Beach without Polarized Lenses and UV Protection
When it comes to sunglasses, polarized lenses and UV protection should be part of your style! Polarized lenses can give you clearer vision and reduce glare, helping you to avoid eye strain. UV protection blocks the sun’s harmful rays that can cause damage to your eyes while at the beach.
Especially when you factor in the glare from on top of the water, damage to your eyes is inevitable without sunglasses! The sunglasses listed above are perfect for on-the-beach activities, but, for sunglasses that will stay with you through any water activity, check out our list of the best sunglasses for watersports.
While many grab sunscreen and a beach hat for their day by the water, sunglasses with polarized lenses or UV protection should also be an essential in any beach bag!
Hollie McLaughlin-Martin is a freelance writer and associate television producer based in Los Angeles. She is passionate about fashion, writing, and travel. She is an avid world traveler and thinks everyone should try solo traveling at least once!