Planning a trip to Hawaii means packing light, embracing nature and being mindful of what you put on your skin. I’ll admit, I didn’t always know that some sunscreens can damage coral reefs. But Hawaii does, and they’ve banned certain chemical ingredients to help protect their underwater ecosystems.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what reef-safe sunscreen actually means, which ingredients to avoid, how I use it during my trips, and the sunscreens I’ve personally tested in Hawaii’s sun and surf. Whether you’re snorkeling off Big Island or beach-hopping in Oahu, these picks are ocean-friendly, effective, and legal in Hawaii.
What Makes Sunscreen “Reef-Safe”?
Not all sunscreens are created equal and some can seriously harm marine life. Hawaii has officially banned sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients linked to coral bleaching and damage to marine ecosystems.
Ingredients to Avoid ❌:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Avobenzone (restricted on Maui and Big Island)
- Homosalate, parabens, synthetic fragrance
Ingredients to Look For ✅:
- Non-nano zinc oxide
- Non-nano titanium dioxide
- Fragrance-free, biodegradable formulas
“Non-nano” means the particles are too large to be absorbed by coral or sea life.
Hawaii Sunscreen Law (What You Need to Know)
If you’re headed to Hawaii, reef-safe sunscreen isn’t just a good idea it’s the law.
Since January 1, 2021, Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. In 2023, Maui and Big Island added more restrictions, including octocrylene and avobenzone. So if your sunscreen label lists any of those, leave it at home.
What the law covers:
- You can bring your own sunscreen, but it must follow Hawaii’s standards.
- You can’t buy or sell sunscreens with banned ingredients within the state.
- Labels that say “reef-safe” aren’t always accurate check the actual ingredients list.
Why it matters: Every year, over 14,000 tons of sunscreen enter reef zones globally. Even trace amounts of certain chemicals can hurt coral health and reproduction. Choosing reef-safe isn’t just a legal move it’s a meaningful way to protect Hawaii’s natural beauty.
How to Read a Sunscreen Label
“Reef-safe” isn’t a regulated term, so turn the bottle around and scan the active ingredients section. Here’s what to look for:
Safe Ingredients:
- Zinc Oxide (non-nano)
- Titanium Dioxide (non-nano)
Avoid These:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Avobenzone (on certain islands)
- Homosalate
- Fragrance/parfum
If it lists only zinc or titanium, you’re good to go!
My Reef-Safe Sunscreen Routine in Hawaii
Here’s how I typically use sunscreen during a full Hawaii beach day:
Morning (before heading out):
- Apply Kōkua Sun Care on body
- Use Raw Elements Tinted on my face
- Add lip balm with SPF 15+
- Wait 15–20 minutes before going in the sun
Midday (at the beach):
- Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming
- Use a stick sunscreen to touch up face and shoulders without sandy hands
- Wear a UPF rashguard for added protection
Evening (after sun):
- Wash off with a gentle cleanser
- Apply aloe or a cooling after-sun lotion
Lotion vs. Stick vs. Spray: Which Should You Pack?
| Format | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| Lotion | Full-body coverage | Great for everyday use, rubs in well | Can leave white cast |
| Stick | Face, kids, reapplication | Mess-free, TSA-friendly | Waxy on oily skin |
| Spray | Quick reapplication | Lightweight, easy | Hard to apply evenly, not always reef-safe |
Zee’s Tip: Sprays often contain aerosol propellants, and alcohol sticks to lotion or stick formats for safer reef protection.
My Favorite Reef-Safe Sunscreens for Hawaii
I’ve personally tested all of these sunscreens while hiking to hidden waterfalls, snorkeling with turtles, and soaking up the sun on black-sand beaches. Here’s what I loved and a few tips on which one to pack based on your travel style.
1. Kōkua Sun Care Hawaiian Natural Zinc Sunscreen SPF 50
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that checks every Hawaii-approved box and feels luxurious, Kōkua Sun Care is hands-down my top pick. It’s made locally in Kailua, Oahu, and formulated with a whopping 25% non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum protection. But what really sets it apart are the over 23 Hawaiian-grown antioxidant-rich ingredients, like macadamia nut oil, kukui oil, spirulina, and noni fruit.
I’ve used it for long beach days and sweaty hikes, and it holds up incredibly well even after a swim. It blends better than most zinc-heavy sunscreens I’ve tried and smells faintly herbal, not chalky.
- Texture: Rich and creamy, but rubs in better than you’d expect for such a strong mineral formula
- Water Resistance: 80 minutes
- Best For: Sensitive skin, all-over body use, eco-conscious travelers who want to support local Hawaiian brands
- Where to Buy: Most ABC Stores, Down to Earth markets, or directly from their website
Tip: A little goes a long way start with a pea-sized amount per section.
2. ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
ThinkSport is my go-to when I need something easy, effective, and TSA-friendly. It’s one of the most affordable reef-safe options that still offers solid protection with 20% non-nano zinc oxide. I’ve worn it during hours of kayaking, snorkeling, and even biking around Maui, and it hasn’t let me down.
It’s a bit thick when first applied (like most mineral sunscreens), but it warms up on the skin and spreads evenly. It doesn’t run into my eyes when I sweat which is a big plus if you’re planning anything active.
- Texture: Thick initially, but smooths out as you blend
- Water Resistance: 80 minutes
- Best For: Families, beach days, longer excursions where you need strong sun coverage
- Price Point: Budget-friendly and often sold in 3-packs online
- Where to Buy: Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart, and often stocked in Hawaii convenience stores
Tip: This one leaves a very faint white cast on darker skin tones but it fades quickly.
3. Raw Elements Tinted Face Moisturizer SPF 30
This is my ride-or-die facial sunscreen for Hawaii. Raw Elements makes one of the few reef-safe options that doesn’t make me look like a ghost in photos. The tinted version blends beautifully and adds just enough color to even out your complexion while offering non-nano zinc oxide protection.
It’s a little waxy at first think lip balm consistency but warms up fast and leaves your skin feeling nourished rather than greasy. I love how the formula includes organic green tea, coffee bean extract, and cocoa butter.
- Texture: Balm-like at first, but melts into skin for a smooth finish
- Bonus: Works well under makeup or solo for a natural glow
- Packaging: Available in a recyclable metal tin or compostable stick (perfect for plastic-free packing)
- Water Resistance: 80 minutes
- Where to Buy: REI, health stores, and eco-focused travel shops
Tip: Great for everyday use beyond travel this one lives in my purse year-round.
4. All Good SPF 30 Sport Sunscreen Lotion
When I know I’ll be active hiking to Pololū Valley or bodyboarding on Waikiki Beach I always pack All Good Sport SPF 30. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t clog pores, which is perfect for sweatier adventures. The formula uses non-nano zinc oxide and includes nourishing botanicals like calendula and green tea.
It’s also certified organic and biodegradable, so I feel good about reapplying throughout the day. I’ve used it on my face, arms, and even shoulders where I burn easily and I’ve stayed sunburn-free every time.
- Texture: Silky lotion that spreads easily and absorbs quickly
- Best For: Active travelers, water sports, day hikes
- Water Resistance: 80 minutes
- Extra Points: USDA-certified organic and reef-friendly packaging
- Where to Buy: Pharmacies, REI, and most surf shops across Hawaii
Tip: It works well on both dry and damp skin, so keep it handy for beach reapplication.
Quick Comparison Table
| Brand | SPF | Type | Finish | White Cast | Water Resistance | Best For |
| Kōkua Sun Care | 50 | Lotion | Semi-matte | Low | 80 mins | All-over, daily use |
| ThinkSport | 50 | Lotion | Dewy | Medium | 80 mins | Families, long outings |
| Raw Elements | 30 | Tinted | Natural glow | None | 80 mins | Face, makeup-friendly |
| All Good Sport | 30 | Lotion | Lightweight | Low | 80 mins | Hikes, water sports |
Local Hawaiian Brands to Know
Supporting Hawaii-based businesses means supporting people who live and work to protect the islands every day.
Little Hands Hawaii
Small-batch, locally made, kid-friendly, and ultra clean.
Mama Kuleana
Hand-poured in Maui with organic, food-grade ingredients and zinc-only formulas.
Raw Love Sunscreen
Sold in metal tins and fully plastic-free, great for snorkel tours.
Tips for Reapplying Sunscreen at the Beach
Sunscreen works best when reapplied correctly and often!
- Set reminders every 2 hours
- Use sticks to avoid sandy hands
- Reapply after swimming or towel-drying
- Wear UPF clothing to reduce reapplication areas
Sunscreen Packing Checklist for Hawaii
Make sure you’re covered with these essentials:
- Mineral face sunscreen
- Reef-safe body sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Stick sunscreen for reapplication
- Lip balm with SPF
- After-sun moisturizer or aloe
- Cleansing balm or makeup remover
- Travel-size refillable containers (if checking a bag)
Personal Note: I Made This Mistake Once
On my very first trip to Oahu, I packed a “reef-friendly” sunscreen I’d found online. It wasn’t until I turned it over in the hotel room that I spotted octinoxate on the label yikes. I couldn’t return it and had to buy a new one locally.
Lesson learned: always read the full ingredient list, not just the marketing on the front.
FAQs: Reef-Safe Sunscreen for Hawaii
Is reef-safe sunscreen mandatory in Hawaii?
Yes. Certain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned statewide, and others are restricted locally.
Can I bring sunscreen to Hawaii from home?
You can, but make sure it meets Hawaii’s regulations. Avoid chemical filters and go for zinc- or titanium-based options.
What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreens create a physical barrier and sit on your skin. Chemical ones absorb UV rays and often contain reef-harming ingredients.
Do reef-safe sunscreens leave a white cast?
Some do, but many modern formulas (especially tinted ones) blend in beautifully.
Are spray sunscreens reef-safe?
Rarely. Most sprays still use harmful ingredients or aerosol propellants. Stick to lotions or solid sticks for safety and better control.
