Reef-Safe Sunscreen in Hawaiʻi: What’s Legal, What Works and What to Know Before You Go

Not all sunscreens are allowed or appropriate to use in Hawaiʻi. Certain ingredients are restricted by law, some formulas harm coral reefs and others simply don’t hold up in the ocean or Hawaiʻi’s intense sun. Here’s how to choose a sunscreen that’s legal, reef-safe and effective for your trip, so you can protect your skin without harming the environment or violating local regulations.

Hawaiʻi’s reef-safe sunscreen law (What the law actually says)

Hawaiʻi has some of the strictest sunscreen regulations in the world, and they apply statewide, not just at beaches. These rules are taken seriously by residents, conservation groups and tour operators. Some airlines flying into Hawaiʻi even share information about reef-safe sunscreen laws during flights to help visitors comply before they land.

What Hawaiʻi bans by law

Under Hawaii Revised Statutes §342D-21, the state prohibits the sale and distribution of sunscreens containing:

• Oxybenzone

• Octinoxate

In simple terms, the law states that sunscreens containing these ingredients cannot be sold or distributed in Hawaiʻi because they are known to cause harm to coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Scientific studies have linked even small concentrations of these chemicals to coral bleaching, DNA damage in coral larvae and disruption of marine life. The law was created to help protect Hawaiʻi’s reefs, which are already under stress from climate change, warming ocean temperatures and heavy visitor use.

Where the reef-safe sunscreen law applies

• Across the entire state of Hawaiʻi, not just at popular snorkeling beaches

• Applies to retail sales and commercial distribution

• Many marine protected areas and tour operators apply stricter guidelines than the law itself

While only certain ingredients are banned by statute, visitors are often expected to follow site-specific rules and operator requirements. Choosing compliant sunscreen is part of being a responsible traveler in Hawaiʻi.

Common misconceptions that cause confusion

• “Reef-safe” is not a regulated term. A product can be labeled reef-safe and still contain ingredients that are discouraged or restricted in Hawaiʻi.

• Not all mineral sunscreens are the same. Some contain nano-sized particles or additives that raise environmental concerns.

• “Biodegradable” does not mean reef-safe. A product can break down over time and still damage coral and marine organisms.

The safest approach is to ignore front-label claims and read the ingredient list.

Ingredients to avoid vs. ingredients that are allowed

Understanding sunscreen ingredients makes choosing the right product much easier, and helps you avoid accidentally bringing a non-compliant sunscreen from home.

Ingredients banned or discouraged in Hawaiʻi

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned by law statewide while other ingredients listed below are discouraged due to environmental concerns.

Avoid sunscreens containing:

• Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3)

• Octinoxate (octyl methoxycinnamate)

• Octocrylene (widely discouraged due to reef and marine toxicity concerns)

• Homosalate (under increasing scrutiny for environmental impact)

These ingredients are most commonly found in chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays rather than physically blocking them.

Ingredients commonly accepted as reef-safe

Look for mineral-based sunscreens that use:

• Non-nano zinc oxide

• Non-nano titanium dioxide

Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin and physically reflect UV rays. They are far less likely to harm coral or marine life when used properly.

Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen

• Mineral sunscreen: Reef-friendlier, works immediately, may leave a white cast

• Chemical sunscreen: Easier to apply, but often contains ingredients harmful to reefs

Why “biodegradable” doesn’t equal reef-safe

Biodegradable refers to how a product breaks down over time not how it interacts with coral, fish, or plankton. Always prioritize ingredient safety, not environmental buzzwords.

Yes, but it works best when used correctly and with realistic expectations.

Water resistance isn’t permanent

Even water-resistant mineral sunscreens typically last 40 to 80 minutes in the water. Snorkeling, swimming, waves and rubbing against gear all reduce effectiveness.

Reapplication is essential

Plan to reapply sunscreen:

• After swimming or snorkeling

• After heavy sweating

• At least every two hours when outdoors

Skipping reapplication is one of the most common reasons people get burned in Hawaiʻi.

Why some mineral sunscreens wash off faster

Mineral formulas are thicker and sit on the skin’s surface. They can rub off on towels, rash guards, snorkel masks and wetsuits. This doesn’t mean they don’t work, it just means application technique and timing matter more.

Activity type matters

• Snorkeling: Choose thicker, water-resistant mineral sunscreen

• Hiking: Sweat-resistant mineral formulas perform better

• Beach lounging: Any compliant mineral sunscreen works with proper reapplication

Best reef-safe sunscreen choices

Here’s how to choose the right type of sunscreen based on what you’ll be doing, with some examples of local brands we love.

Best for snorkeling

• Thick, mineral-based lotion

• High water resistance

• Minimal additives

Why it matters: Sunscreen washes off fastest during snorkeling and reef exposure.

Try: Safe Sea, Raw Love, Hook Ya, 4 Ocean

Best for kids

• Mineral-only formulas

• Fragrance-free

Why it matters: Children’s skin is more sensitive, and they often spend longer in the water, which means sunscreen needs to be gentle and durable.

Try: Badger Mineral Sunscreen Cream

Best for sensitive skin

• Zinc oxide only

• No fragrances or preservatives

• Fewer inactive ingredients

Try: Kokua Sun Care, Thrive

Best for hiking or sweating

• Water- and sweat-resistant mineral sunscreen

• Lotion or cream formulas (sprays are less effective in wind)

Try: Thinksport SPF 50+

Best for minimal white cast

• Tinted mineral sunscreen

• Well-rubbed zinc formulas

Why it matters: If you’re heading from the beach straight to lunch, you may want to avoid that unmistakable all-zinc look.

Try: Babo

Where reef-safe sunscreen is required or strongly recommended

While the state law applies everywhere, enforcement is often stricter at specific sites.

Expect reef-safe sunscreen requirements at:

• Marine protected areas

• Popular snorkeling locations

• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

• Guided snorkel tours and boat excursions

Many tour operators will not allow guests into the water if their sunscreen does not meet their reef-safe guidelines.

Most visitors want to do the right thing — but these mistakes are common:

• Assuming “reef-friendly” labels are regulated

• Bringing sunscreen from home without checking the ingredients

• Not reapplying mineral sunscreen often enough

• Using spray sunscreen in windy beach conditions

• Relying on sunscreen as their only form of sun protection

Avoiding these mistakes protects both your skin and Hawaiʻi’s reefs.

Reef-safe sunscreen FAQs

Is reef-safe sunscreen required by law in Hawaiʻi?

Yes. Hawaiʻi bans the sale and distribution of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate statewide. In addition, many locations and tour operators encourage or require reef-safe sunscreen based on environmental guidelines.

What sunscreen ingredients are banned in Hawaiʻi?

Oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned statewide. Other ingredients are discouraged due to environmental impact.

Can I bring my own sunscreen from home?

Yes, but it should comply with Hawaiʻi’s ingredient restrictions to be appropriate for use.

Are spray sunscreens allowed?

Some are allowed, but sprays are often discouraged because they're less effective and can drift into the environment.

Do hotels or tours provide reef-safe sunscreen?

Some hotels provide sunscreen at pools or sell it onsite, but availability varies. It’s best to bring or buy your own.

What happens if I use non-compliant sunscreen?

You may be denied entry to certain sites or tours and you risk harming fragile reef ecosystems.

Best way to stay sun-safe and reef-safe in Hawai'i

Sunscreen alone often isn’t enough in Hawaiʻi’s intense sun. The most effective approach combines reef-safe mineral sunscreen with physical sun protection. Rash guards, hats and lightweight long sleeves reduce how much sunscreen you need and how much ends up in the ocean.

When used correctly, mineral sunscreen plus smart coverage protects both your skin and the reefs that make Hawaii so special.

For more trip-planning tips, explore our guides to Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island, or read our snorkeling safety guide before heading into the water.