The summertime aesthetic of taking a dip by the pool, sipping on a mixed drink and lathering on skincare products that’ll create a glistening, dewy glow is always desired.
It takes the ideal assortment of products to really have us feeling like Sharpay Evans from High School Musical. In essence, there’s one brand that does it right — and it’s Vacation.
In 2021, Vacation debuted as “the world’s best smelling sunscreen” and is considered a “leisure-enhancing” sunscreen brand based in Miami, FL, per an exclusive interview with its co-founder. You may recognize its top-rated Classic Lotion SPF 50 and “VACATION” by Vacation Eau de Toilette from its packaging alone.
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“We’re on a mission to bring a sense of fun back to the sunscreen aisle!” Dakota Green, founding partner of Vacation, exclusively told the New York Post. “All of our products and surrounding brand world are designed to prompt joy and transport you to a nostalgic, vacation state of mind (wherever you are). By drawing on that universally shared ideal of a quintessential vacation, we’ve found that our message appeals broadly and resonates across many demographics.”
What’s more, the sunscreen brand’s ethos is revitalizing the fun in sun protection by strategically crafting a brand identity that transports customers to a paradise of leisure and pleasure.
“By capitalizing on nostalgia, social sharing, and organic buzz-building, Vacation has positioned itself as more than just a skincare product but as a lifestyle enhancer,” Melany Marangabassa, a consultant specializing in content strategy, marketing analysis and all things beauty, told The Post. “The brand’s homage to bygone eras like the ’80s and early ’90s, when sunscreen was synonymous with fun and tanning, resonates with consumers seeking a return to those carefree times. Through consistent branding that delivers a unified experience, Vacation has created a strong and cohesive presence in the market, fostering customer loyalty, brand recognition, and a positive perception among its audience.
As I was headed on a resort vacation to Barbados this summer, I found no better time to review the brand at large. I packed my raffia beach tote, stocked it with those aesthetically pleasing Vacation lotions and potions and found myself reaching for the brand every second of the day. The products feel lavish and incredible, smell divine and most importantly, work.
Below, find a comprehensive review for each Vacation product, along with an in-depth FAQ section highlighting interviews with Green and Marangabassa. Your next ticket to paradise is found within any of the products below.
Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 30
Pros:
- Cosmetically elegant to apply
- Absorbs seamlessly into the skin
- Has a subtle beach scent that will have you reaching for it 24/7
Cons:
- Is only SPF 30, so must be reapplied very regularly
The Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 30 is a dream to use. I go through body sunscreens like it’s nobody’s business (sensitive skin, represent) and this one is simply the one I prefer. It’s cosmetically elegant to apply and absorbs quickly onto my skin.
I always feel like I have thorough, non-sticky protection whenever I use it. Its subtle scent instantly transports you to a tropical oasis and I didn’t feel a burning sensation when I was tanning at the beach, unlike some others I have used. It applies evenly and feels great.
While dermatologists recommend SPF 30 as their go-to threshold for sun protection, I have extremely sensitive skin and I apply a lot. Typically, I prefer a higher SPF amount and reapply every two hours, but this one I tend to apply every hour. It’s not a dealbreaker, but your tube may run out a bit quicker than usual if you’re sensitive to the sun.
Vacation “VACATION” Eau de Toilette
Pros:
- Summertime-ready scent
- Spot-on smells like a vacation
- Excellent, travel-friendly size
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Not as versatile to wear in the fall and winter months (unless you happen to be on vacation)
The Vacation “VACATION” Eau de Toilette is your ticket to the tropics, no questions asked. It’s called Vacation after the brand’s namesake, but it literally smells like vacation. Once you smell it, you’ll understand.
Signature and sprayable on demand, I loved using this on my personal vacation, layering it atop my Classic Lotion SPF 50. Its bottle is travel-friendly and not too fragile to toss in your beach bag. It’s one of those products you simply have to pick up, especially in the summer.
Vacation Classic Spray SPF 50
Pros:
- Coats your skin in a non-greasy way
- Easily absorbs into the skin
- Contains SPF 50, which is higher than the dermatologist-recommended count of SPF 30
Cons:
- None to speak of
While I’m not super keen on spray sunscreens, the Vacation Classic Spray SPF 50 is an exception. Its spray power isn’t too “in your face,” if you know what I’m saying, and it’s one you can maneuver around your body and on top of your skin with ease.
It’s not going to drench your skin and be too watery as well, which is unfortunately the case for a variety of spray sunscreens I’ve put to the test. You can visibly detect its absorption levels once it’s sprayed. Oh, and it smells amazing, so it’s totally worth the just-shy-of-$20 price.
Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50
Pros:
- Refreshing and sun-protecting
- Great to toss into your beach bag
- Great for reapplying, allowing you to have a more lightweight finish every two hours or so instead of continuing to dollop on a cream
Cons:
- Should be applied with a traditional facial sunscreen, especially for sensitive skin
Surprisingly, I’m obsessed with this stuff. I’m a bit skeptical on any facial sprays as I tend to think they don’t fully cover and protect, but the Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 blows competitors out of the water.
Namely, its refreshing and sun-protective formula makes it a key necessity in my beach bag. While I tend to use this as a topper to my facial sunscreen or to reapply and refresh as needed, it’s 100% worth the price. Plus, it’s pocket-sized, clad with Vacation’s signature retro packaging and scent appeal.
Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50
Pros:
- Milky, lightweight consistency
- Excellent to serve as a standalone facial sunscreen
- Contains SPF 50, which is higher than the dermatologist-recommended count of SPF 30
Cons:
- Doesn’t absorb as well, compared to other Vacation products
The Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50 is shaking things up in the sunscreen industry. As its name suggests, you simply shake, apply and feel like you’re using a serum that’s as light as air. It’s truly a “mineral milk” in consistency.
This is my go-to facial sunscreen for when I’m tanning by the pool or beach. While I don’t notice it to have a white cast, it’s not as blendable as some others I’ve used. However, it can still be a wonderful last step to your skincare routine or to use as-is in the summertime months.
The kicker? Its “shakerball” packaging that mixes a hydrating, non-nano ZincWater formula into its watery-milk texture to feel as light as it does. Revolutionary in every sense of the word, it’s worth the pick-me-up.
Vacation Super Stick SPF 45
Pros:
- Ensures you never miss a spot, thanks to its targeted applicator
- Contains SPF 45, which is higher than the dermatologist-recommended count of SPF 30
- Great to toss into your beach bag
Cons:
- Those with sensitive skin may fare better with a traditional facial sunscreen, with this product rolled on over it
Roll-on and convenient as ever, the Vacation Super Stick SPF 45 is the definition of beachside practicality. Topped with Vacation’s signature subtle scent, it’s simple to control areas you’d like extra protection on, like parts of the nose and even by your ears.
Truthfully, the fact that it contains SPF 45 is impressive. However, my skin is far too sensitive to use this product on its own. I love it for reapplication, touch-ups and to ensure I don’t miss any areas that some facial sunscreens may neglect.
Vacation Studio Tone SPF 50
Pros:
- Versatile to mix with moisturizer or to stand on its own
- Contains SPF 50, which is higher than the dermatologist-recommended count of SPF 30
- Offers a natural glow
Cons:
- May not be for those with hyperpigmentation
Your beach-appropriate bronzing drops are now in reach. Unlike a tanning drop that tends to leave an unnatural finish, the Vacation Studio Tone SPF 50 is a versatile product that touts a “bronze, nourish and protect” formula.
Specifically, I love to mix this in with a moisturizer, using it as a precursor to my facial sunscreen. With ceramides and collagen, it’s a particular bottle of bronzing drops that your dermatologist would be proud of, thanks to its focus on moisturizing the skin.
Vacation After Sun Gel
Pros:
- Leaves the skin well-soothed and refrfeshed
- Not sticky
- Thick yet easily absorbable formula gives you the relief you so crave
Cons:
- None to speak of
I’m going to come out and say it — the Vacation After Sun Gel and the Classic Lotion SPF 50 are the two best products from the brand. As someone who unfortunately is prone to turning as red in the lobster on extremely sweltering days, the cooling feel and soothing effect of this product is second to none.
Essentially, it’s a refined version of aloe vera. It’s not sticky, alcohol-free and is a product I don’t want to live without. When my fiancé had sunburn and I accidentally left this product at my family’s beach house, I was *devastated* that he couldn’t experience just how good this is. That’s how incredible this less-than-$15 summertime essential is.
Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30
Pros:
- Lovely and luxe experience to use
- Cosmetically elegant to apply
- Broad-spectrum, so protects against UVA and UVB rays
Cons:
- Not as versatile as a traditional sunscreen, though not a dealbreaker
It’s retro, it’s perfection and it’s the Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30. For a product that applies like whipped cream, I was wholly impressed with this mousse-y finish and broad-spectrum finish. That means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays — protecting both anti-aging and burns.
It’s boasted as “lighter than air,” and it’s truly the case. It’s also described as “dessert for your skin,” which is also the case. It feels incredibly decadent and lovely on the skin, while offering the protection you need.
Vacation Chardonnay Oil SPF 30
Pros:
- Makes you look glistening and glowing, without that unwanted shining finish
- Offers dermatologist-recommended SPF 30 sun protection
- One of those products that makes you look your best
Cons:
- May not be as versatile as a traditional body sunscreen
As someone who has never used tanning oil before, I was impressed by the Vacation Chardonnay Oil SPF 30. It’s glistening and glow-producing result made me look my best in Barbados, and a product I continue to use when I’m tanning by the pool.
Not to mention, when I’m wearing vacation dresses where my arms and legs are exposed, I love to use this product for protection and that lovely glow. As a whole, you can’t resist this product for your next tanning sesh.
Vacation Mineral Lotion SPF 30
Pros:
- Excellent for sensitive skin
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes
- Features a lovely subtle scent that’s characteristic of the brand
Cons:
- A bit stickier than the Classic Lotion SPF 50
For fans of mineral sunscreens, the Vacation Mineral Lotion SPF 30 is for you. It’s a dreamboat for sensitive skin and, impressively, is water-resistant for 80 minutes. It’s one of the best to apply beach-side, too.
While it’s a bit stickier than the brand’s Classic Lotion SPF 50, it’s still a wonderful body sunscreen option that I love to use. Its signature scent is a Vacation emblem, giving you all those retro summertime vibes. Plus, I love how it’s safe to use on my sun-sensitive skin.
An FAQ on Vacation
Ahead, find our exclusive conversations with Dakota Green, founding partner of Vacation and Melany Marangabassa, a consultant specializing in content strategy, marketing analysis and all things beauty.
What audience does Vacation appeal to?
“All of our products and surrounding brand world are designed to prompt joy and transport you to a nostalgic, vacation state of mind (wherever you are),” Green told The Post. “By drawing on that universally shared ideal of a quintessential vacation, we’ve found that our message appeals broadly and resonates across many demographics.”
Green has found that generations who grew up in the eras that we pay homage to (namely the 80s and 90s) love Vacation “for the nostalgic memories we prompt, and younger generations who feel like they missed out on these times are now able to experience it through our products and our immersive brand world.”
Vacation has captured the hearts of fans with its innovative approach to sunscreen and scents as well. “The fan-favorite Classic Whip Sunscreen boasts a design that mimics whipped cream for a ‘lighter than air’ experience and meets rigorous standards like water resistance and reef safety,” Marangabassa shared. “Its banana-coconut scent adds to the delight, making it perfect for all outdoor activities.”
Not to mention, the brand’s evocative product names and whimsical packaging, like whipped cream cans, enhance the “fun” experience. Interestingly, its fragrance “Vacation” became an instant hit even before their sunscreen launch, transitioning from limited edition to a permanent collection due to overwhelming demand. “This success underscores the brand’s focus on creating products that resonate deeply with their fanbase, setting the stage for scents to be a key part of their future portfolio strategy,” she added.
Vacation’s hero products, listed
Vacation’s Classic Lotion (available in both SPF 30 and SPF 50) is a consistent best-seller, and the first product it launched with. It’s a luscious, lightweight sunscreen lotion that’s a joy to apply and rubs in fast and clear. But it’s not only an elegant formula; it also features our award-winning signature scent.
“When we were formulating it, we tasked some of the world’s top perfumers to come up with the scent for the ‘The World’s Best-Smelling Sunscreen,’ and they delivered,” Green said. “It marries notes of classic sunscreen such as banana and coconut, along with notes of that universally shared ‘sunscreen experience,’ such as pool water, pool toy and swimsuit lycra. The result is a nostalgic scent that instantly transports you to your favorite summer memories.”
In fact, to support the launch of the Classic Lotion in 2021, Vacation bottled up that signature scent in an eau de toilette called “VACATION” by Vacation. “It allows you to recall your best poolside memories, sprayable on demand,” Green added. “It’s developed a really devoted fanbase over the past few years; it’s been exciting to see people come to us not only for our sunscreens, but for our fragrances as well.”
Another hero product is the Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse — a great example of our mission to make sunscreen fun. “It’s a lightweight, nourishing and effective sunscreen that perfectly replicates the experience of dispensing whipped cream: ‘whooshing’ noise and all!” Green said. “We even worked with the manufacturing company Clayton Corporation — the original creators of Reddi-wip — to design the packaging and to bring the product to life most-authentically.”
The result? An undoubtedly fun and unexpected sunscreen experience, which has led to the product regularly selling out and going viral on social media (Kim Kardashian even shared it on Instagram, saying she is “obsessed” with it!).
How is Vacation more than a “retro sunscreen brand?”
For Vacation, it’s all about paying homage to a time when sunscreen was about having fun.
“When we looked at the category, we found that in the 80s, 70s, 60s and earlier, when the focus in the category was largely around tanning, the messaging centered on having fun in the sun,” Green said. “Thankfully in the 90s, people became more educated about the risks of sun damage and skin cancer, but with that came a shift in the messaging which was a lot more clinical and focused on responsibility. We feel that people are now on board with the idea that we should protect our skin, so it’s time to have fun with sunscreen again!”
So, Vacation is calling upon that earlier era, making sunscreen feel fun and familiar while bringing that “leisure-enhancing” approach into the modern day.
“It helps that all three of us founders have a long-standing obsession with this era – Marty even created a popular 1980s-inspired internet radio station back in 2014 that we draw a lot of inspiration from, called Poolsuite,” he said. “When designing our packaging and our brand world, we draw inspiration from our own experience growing up in the late 80s and 90s, digging through family albums from childhood holidays and sourcing imagery from archives of 80s travel brochures and timeshare pamphlets.”
Is Vacation trending on TikTok?
Based on its core brand identity of making sunscreen fun, Vacation has tailored its social media presence to be more than just product-focused.
“The brand creates content that truly engages their followers by immersing them in the 80s universe,” Marangabassa added. “Its TikTok strategy, in particular, has been exceptionally successful, with user-generated content (UGC) amassing millions of views, and Vacation Sunscreen has garnered 40.6M posts on the platform.”
Through strategic investments in content creators and utilization of TikTok’s platform, Vacation has amplified brand visibility and achieved significant sales growth. “Notably, its bestselling Classic Whip sunscreen sees an impressive 80% of its sales directly from the TikTok Shop,” she shared.
How are Vacation’s products formulated?
For Vacation, breaking through the noise starts with imaginative, transportive sunscreen products that people have never seen before on the sunscreen shelf.
“It’s our mission to make sunscreen fun, and so we often talk about having a Willy Wonka-esque sunscreen lineup for people to choose from,” Green said. “But alongside that approach comes a serious commitment to efficacy and top-tier formulation practices. Our products are formulated with our CleanClassic process, meaning they combine everything that you love about sunscreens of the past with the best of modern skincare science.”
What’s more, Vacation uses tried and true ingredients that have been proven to work, and that also follow the modern, clean beauty guidelines set by leading experts. “In addition to this, our products are vegan, cruelty-free, paraben and PEG free, dermatologist tested and toxicologist reviewed,” he noted.
How we tested
After using Vacation for at least three months, here’s what I’ve been keeping in mind for each product:
- Formulation: Is it pigmented? Is it long-lasting? These factors were majorly taken into account.
- Irritation levels: I have incredibly sensitive skin, so I made a note if any product broke me out in any way (spoiler alert: thankfully, they didn’t).
- Finish and glow: Because the whole aesthetic of the Vacation is representing all those desirable beach days, I made sure to note its standout products within this review.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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