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Sustainable Travel

Reef-Safe Sunscreens in Hawaii: Top Picks to Protect Coral Reefs

5 min read

Hawaii's coral reefs face serious threats from sunscreen chemicals. Each year, thousands of tons of sunscreen wash into oceans worldwide, contributing to coral bleaching and ecosystem disruption. Since Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate in 2021, choosing reef-safe products is essential to protect both your skin and Hawaii’s coral reefs. This guide covers the top reef-safe sunscreens, including mineral options and locally made Hawaiian brands.

Why Protect Hawaii’s Coral Reefs?

Hawaii’s coral reefs provide critical habitats for thousands of marine species, protect shorelines, and support local fishing and tourism. Chemicals in conventional sunscreens can cause coral bleaching and damage ecosystems. Reef-safe sunscreen protects both your skin and the marine environment. Learn more about the Hawai‘i Coral Reef Initiative.

What Makes Sunscreen Reef-Safe?

Reef-safe sunscreens rely on mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide instead of harmful chemical filters. Avoid products containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-damaging chemicals. For more guidance, check NOAA’s guide to reef-safe sunscreens.
Applying suncsreen at the beach

Popular Reef-Safe Sunscreens

• Thinksport SPF 50 – Mineral sunscreen offering broad-spectrum protection and water resistance. • Blue Lizard – Mineral formula ideal for sensitive skin, providing strong UVA/UVB protection. • All Good Sport – Certified organic, reef-safe sunscreen suitable for active water sports. • Badger Sport SPF 35 – Eco-friendly, biodegradable, and gentle on skin while protecting reefs. • Sun Bum Original SPF 50 – Mineral-based, water-resistant sunscreen popular for everyday use in Hawaii.

Locally Made Reef-Safe Sunscreens

• Raw Love – Made in Maui, this certified organic, mineral-based sunscreen is reef-safe and gentle on skin. • Kokua Sun Care – From the Big Island, all-natural ingredients make this water-resistant sunscreen safe for reefs. • Little Hands Hawaii – Produced on Oahu, this mineral sunscreen has a gentle formulation suitable for kids and adults. • Mama Kuleana – Crafted in Maui, this non-nano zinc oxide sunscreen uses organic ingredients and is reef-safe. • Project Reef – Also from Maui, this eco-conscious mineral sunscreen supports local conservation efforts while protecting skin and reefs.