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Best Holiday Gifts for Water Sports Enthusiasts in 2024

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With the holidays quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about gifts for the beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts in your life.

Whether you’re shopping for a thrill-seeker or someone who enjoys relaxing by the shore, Costa has the perfect gifts for sailors, surfers and other water sports lovers this season. 
Jump in to explore our collections of polarized sunglasses, apparel and accessories, all crafted for those who live for life on the water. If you have a favorite fisherman in your life, be sure to check out our guide to the best fishing gifts for anglers as well. 

What to Look for When Choosing Your Gifts

We know that finding the best gifts for beach lovers and water enthusiasts can be a challenge. Consider trying the following techniques to help narrow down your search:

Shop by Category 

Costa is known for gear that delivers the ultimate in performance, function and style for both land and sea adventures. Whether you’re shopping for a beach lover or water sports enthusiast, it helps to consider what type of gear they might need based on their lifestyle and activities.  

Performance Gear 

Performance is a top priority for those committed to winning on the water. Our performance polarized sunglasses are made for the most extreme conditions, allowing the wearer to focus on the action without worrying about their shades. 

Featuring 580 lens technology, our polarized performance sunglasses offer superior optical clarity and long-lasting durability. They’re perfect for even the most hardcore maritime activity.  

Many of these styles also feature: 

  • Sweat management channels to keep moisture at bay 

  • Eyewire drains for improved airflow 

  • Adjustable, ventilated nose pads for enhanced comfort 

  • Hydrolite rubber grips for a secure fit 

Costa’s performance gear doesn’t stop at eyewear. Our performance apparel and accessories are equipped with top features as well, including:  

  • Moisture-wicking technology 

  • Lightweight fabrics  

  • Built-in sun protection 

Hybrid Gear 

Our hybrid sunglasses collection strikes the perfect balance between life on land and adventures on the open seas. These polarized shades combine style, function and performance, making them ideal for a wide range of activities. Made with 580 lenses, Costa’s hybrid sunglasses offer the unparalleled visual comfort and contrast needed for life on the water. 

Whether it’s a leisurely paddle through a mangrove tunnel or navigating deep water currents, Costa’s hybrid apparel and accessories are designed to keep you cool, dry and protected. Features like quick-dry technology and moisture-wicking materials make this gear versatile enough for any level of action. 

Lifestyle Gear 

For those who live for water adventures yet still value fashion, Costa’s lifestyle sunglasses are the optimal choice. Thanks to 580 lens technology, these polarized shades reduce glare and enhance contrast — offering comfort, visual clarity and a laid-back yet stylish vibe. 

Costa’s lifestyle apparel and accessories complete the package, bringing comfort and practicality to everyday life. From breathable fabrics to eye-catching designs, this quality collection is perfect for transitioning from a day on the water to an evening onshore.  

Shop by Lens Tint 

Sunglasses make excellent gifts for beach lovers and other water enthusiasts, but it’s important to choose the right lens tint (or color). When it comes to wearing sunglasses on or around the water, lens tint matters.  

Costas come in a variety of lens tints, each designed for specific light conditions, environments and activities, such as:  

  • Bright light and deep water – Blue mirror or gray lens tints are perfect for bright sunny days and deep water adventures such as sailing the high seas. 

  • Variable light and shallow water – Green mirror or copper lenses work best for changing light conditions and shallow water activities like kayaking the coastline or rafting down a favorite river.    

  • Low light and cloudy conditions – Sunrise silver mirror lenses are great for early morning beach walks, fishing at dusk and water-based adventures on overcast days.  

  • Everyday activities – Gray sunglass lenses are a go-to option for everyday wear, from lounging on the beach to intense water activities. 

Shop by Prescription Needs 

If the water lover on your list requires vision correction, a pair of prescription glasses makes a thoughtful gift. Costa offers prescription eyeglasses in both single-vision and progressive lenses. Some frame styles are even available with Transitions Gen S lenses that automatically darken in the sun. 

Many of our sunglasses frames can also be fitted with polarized prescription sunglass lenses, letting your water lover enjoy clear vision without sacrificing style, function or performance. 

Shop by Interest 

Finding the perfect gifts for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts is all about understanding their unique passions and preferences. Whether they’re obsessed with having the newest shades, focused on performance or committed to sustainability, Costa has a wide selection of options sure to match their interests. 

For Trendsetters 

If you’re shopping for someone who’s after the latest and greatest, check out Costa’s new arrivals and best-selling sunglasses. These shades feature cutting-edge lens technology and innovative frame designs that blend function with style. 

For Serious Water Sports Enthusiasts 

When it comes to extreme environments and long days on the water, Costa’s PRO series sunglasses are the ultimate choice. Equipped with features like sweat management channels and Hydrolite grips, these advanced shades give serious water enthusiasts the edge they need to keep their eyes on the prize. 

For the Eco-Conscious 

Sunglasses from Costa’s Untangled Collection make the perfect gift for the eco-minded water lover. Made from recycled fishing nets, these shades help support ocean conservation while providing the same high quality and durability Costa is known for.  

Gifts for Sailors

Sailors spend hours on the water navigating the open seas and soaking up the sun. Polarized sunglasses from Costa reduce glare and provide 100% ultraviolet (UV) protection, making them ideal for extended sailing sessions.
Costa also offers sailing-friendly accessories and apparel, such as dry bags for valuables and performance wear to get you through those long days in the elements.  

Our top gifts for sailors this holiday season are:

Gifts for River Lovers

Whether braving the rapids, gliding through calm waters or casting a line into a favorite fishing hole, river lovers deserve the best gear out there. Costa’s polarized shades reduce glare off the water for enhanced visual clarity above and below the surface.
Complete the package with accessories like quick-drying shorts and a C-mask so they can shield their face and neck from the wind, sun and spray.  

These top gifts for river lovers are built to withstand just about any river adventure: 

Gifts for Kayakers

Kayakers need lightweight, durable gear that can perform during long hours of paddling in the sun. Costa sunglasses protect the eyes against the sun’s harmful rays while providing enhanced visibility for navigating underwater obstacles. Add a water-resistant case to protect valuables and a hat for sun protection and your kayaker is ready for their next journey on the water. 

The top presents for kayakers this season are: 

Gifts for Canoe Lovers

Canoeing offers a peaceful way to explore nature in all its glory. Being equipped with the right gear makes for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. While polarized sunglasses can help enhance your canoe lover’s visual clarity, long-sleeve tech shirts and other apparel items are designed for optimal outdoor performance. Top off your gift with a Costa hat and your loved one will be able to bring style and function to every perfect day on the water. 

Our favorite picks for canoe lovers include:  

Gifts for Water Skiers and Wakeboarders

Water skiers and wakeboarders live for the thrill of adventure, and their gear must be able to keep up. Many Costa sunglass styles are ideal for high-speed water sports, offering the secure fit and visual experience needed for action-packed sessions.
Add an adjustable retainer to keep their shades secure and a performance towel for quick-drying convenience after a day on the water.  

The top picks for water skiers and wakeboarders are: 

Gifts for Surfers

Surfers spend their days chasing waves and they need gear that can help them perform at their peak. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare to boost visual clarity and contrast when checking surf spots. Costa’s boardshorts offer comfort both in and out of the water, while a lightweight fleece is ideal for chilly post-surf sessions.   

Our top picks for surfers this holiday season include: 

Gifts for Beach Lovers

Beach enthusiasts are often drawn to the sun, surf and sand, and having the right gear is essential for a relaxing day at their favorite spot.
Costa shades and accessories are some of the best gifts for beach lovers this holiday season. A pair of polarized sunglasses can protect their eyes from UV rays, while a wide-brimmed hat and water-resistant bag combine beach-ready style and function.  

Check out our top gifts for beach lovers: 

2024 Gift Guide

Find even more great gifts for sailors, surfers and other water lovers in your life by checking out our 2024 Gift Guide. From sunglasses and apparel to accessories and beyond, we have everything you need to keep your loved ones ready for any adventure.