Don't Get Crispy: The 5 Best Sunscreens for Summer Fun
Summer fun is better when nobody ends the day looking like a lobster. 🦞☀️ I put together my top 5 sunscreen picks for pool days, backyard BBQs, beach trips, camping, sports, and everyday summer adventures. From budget-friendly Coppertone to the smoother feel of Supergoop!, these are great options to keep in your summer bag. Check out the full list and grab your favorite before your next sunny day outside.
5/8/20243 min read
Because nobody wants to be the crispy one at the BBQ
Summer is made for pool days, backyard games, beach trips, camping, baseball games, and pretending that “just one more hour outside” won’t turn into a sunburn situation.
The truth is, sunscreen is one of those things you do not think about until you really wish you had used it. Whether you are chasing kids around the yard, sitting by the pool, hiking, golfing, or just trying to survive a hot summer afternoon, the right sunscreen makes a big difference.
Here are five great sunscreen options to keep in your summer bag.
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1. Coppertone Sport SPF 50
Best for: Pool days, sports, sweat, and family chaos
Coppertone Sport is one of those classic sunscreens that feels like it belongs in every pool bag, lake bag, golf bag, and “we are leaving in five minutes” summer tote.
It is a great pick for active days when everyone is running around, sweating, swimming, or pretending they are only going to be outside for “a little bit.” It is affordable, easy to find, and works well for families who go through sunscreen fast.
Why I like it:
Great budget-friendly option
Good for active outdoor days
Easy to keep in the car, bag, or camper
A solid family sunscreen pick
2. Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
Best for: The sunscreen hater who wants sunscreen that does not feel like sunscreen
Supergoop! PLAY is a fun one because it feels a little more “fancy summer vacation” and a little less “sticky white beach paste from 1997.”
It is lightweight, easy to wear, and a nice option if you want something that feels better for everyday use. This is a great pick for adults, teens, outdoor errands, walking, travel, and those days when you want sun protection without feeling greasy.
Why I like it:
Lightweight feel
Great everyday option
Good for face and body
Nice upgrade pick for summer trips
Shop it here:
3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60
Best for: A smoother, more skincare-style sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk is a great option if you want something that feels a little more like skincare and a little less like the sunscreen you grabbed at the gas station.
It has a smooth, hydrating feel and works well for people who want a more comfortable sunscreen for daily use, vacation, or outdoor days when you want strong coverage without a heavy feel.
Why I like it:
Smooth texture
Great for face and body
Higher SPF option
Good choice for people who care about how sunscreen feels on the skin
Shop it here:
4. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 70
Best for: Everyday face and body protection without the greasy feeling
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch is a good everyday sunscreen because it is lightweight, easy to apply, and does not feel as heavy as some traditional sunscreens.
This is a nice one to keep around for daily walks, yard work, outdoor errands, ball games, amusement parks, or travel. It is also usually easy to find, which is helpful when someone forgets sunscreen and suddenly everyone is standing in full sun.
Why I like it:
Lightweight feel
Higher SPF option
Good for everyday use
Easy to find in stores or online
5. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50
Best for: Sensitive skin and mineral sunscreen fans
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 is a great option for people who prefer mineral sunscreen or have skin that gets annoyed by everything.
This is a smart pick for sensitive skin, kids, beach bags, and anyone who wants a mineral-based option. Mineral sunscreen can sometimes feel a little thicker than chemical sunscreen, but for many people, it is worth it.
Why I like it:
Mineral sunscreen option
Designed for sensitive skin
Good beach bag sunscreen
Great for people who want a gentler-feeling formula
Quick Sunscreen Tips Before You Run Outside
The best sunscreen is the one you will actually use. Fancy sunscreen sitting in a drawer does not help much.
A few simple reminders:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Choose SPF 30 or higher.
Reapply about every two hours.
Reapply after swimming or sweating.
Do not forget ears, neck, hands, feet, and lips.
Keep extra sunscreen in your car, pool bag, camper, stroller, or backpack.
Summer should be about fun, not sunburn regret. Grab a sunscreen you like, keep it close, and make the most of those sunny days.
My Top Pick
For families, I would keep Coppertone Sport SPF 50 around because it is affordable and practical.
For everyday comfort, I would go with Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50.
For sensitive skin, Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 is the one I would look at first.
No matter which one you choose, use it often, reapply, and enjoy the sunshine without turning into a tomato.