Protect Maui’s Reefs with the Right Sun Protection

One simple choice can make a difference.

The best way to protect both your skin and Maui’s reefs is to cover up with sun-protective clothing whenever possible. When sunscreen is needed, choose a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient.

Hawaii’s Sunscreen Laws

Because of the growing body of research on reef-harming sunscreen ingredients, Hawaiʻi and Maui County enacted laws to help protect our marine ecosystems.

Hawaiʻi State Law

Since 2021, sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate cannot be sold in Hawaiʻi.

Maui County Law

Since 2022, Maui County has gone one step further by requiring that only mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide may be sold or distributed in the county.

To report violations of Hawaiiʻs State Sunscreen Law, please email [email protected] or call 808-707-5056.

Before You Soak Up The Sun

1

Use sun-protective clothing.

Protect your skin with a rash guard, sun shirt, hat, sunglasses, and shade whenever possible.

2

Choose Mineral Sunscreen.

Look for these active ingredients:

✅ Zinc oxide

✅ Titanium dioxide

3

Check ingredients of ALL skincare products.

Remove anything with:

❌ Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene

4

Skip spray-on sunscreens.

They drift onto sand and wash straight into the ocean.

Remember: It’s not just about what you wear at the beach. The sunscreen you apply at your hotel, vacation rental, or home eventually washes into the ocean. Choosing a mineral-based sunscreen throughout your stay helps protect Maui’s reefs.

Don’t Be Fooled by “Reef Safe”

Don’t rely on the words “reef safe” on the front of the bottle. This term is not regulated, which means a sunscreen can be labeled “reef safe” while still containing ingredients that may harm coral reefs. The best way to know what you’re using is to check the active ingredients.

Ignore the front label. Read the ingredients.

✅ Look for: Zinc oxide & Titanium dioxide

❌ Avoid: Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Homosalate, Octisalate

How Sunscreen Affects Coral Reefs

Every year, thousands of tons of sunscreen wash into oceans around the world. In places like Maui, those ingredients become concentrated at popular beaches and snorkeling sites, where coral reefs are already under stress.

Research has shown that ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate can harm coral reefs, especially young corals that are still developing. Studies have found these chemicals can contribute to coral bleaching, damage coral DNA, and interfere with the growth and reproduction of marine life.

Even extremely small amounts can have an impact. Oxybenzone has been shown to affect corals at concentrations as low as 62 parts per trillion, roughly the equivalent of one drop in six and a half Olympic-size swimming pools.

Protecting coral reefs doesn’t stop with sunscreen. Learn more about responsible snorkeling, where to view sea turtles respectfully, and the work we do to keep Maui’s reefs healthy.

Provided as a public service by the County of Maui Office of Economic Development and Maui Nui Marine Resource Council.

Help Protect Maui’s Reefs

Choosing reef-friendly sun protection is just one way to care for our ocean. You can make an even greater impact by learning how to enjoy the reef responsibly and supporting the science and community efforts that keep Maui Nui’s reefs healthy.

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