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10 Best Reef Safe Sunscreen Hawaii 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Body Spray - Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunscreen with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - 6 oz

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,200
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
26932 reviews

Application Type
Easy to apply to yourself and others.
Additional Skin Benefits
Smells great and provides excellent coverage.

The Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen Spray is a vegan, reef-safe option that complies with Hawaii's 104 Reef Act, as it is free from harmful chemicals like Octinoxate and Oxybenzone. It promises broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. With its SPF 70 rating, it offers a high level of protection, making it suitable for prolonged sun exposure. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is great for swimming or sweating.

Be mindful to reapply it every two hours for continuous protection. The spray application makes it easy to use, though care should be taken to avoid the eye area. Additionally, it is enriched with Vitamin E, which helps to moisturize the skin, and it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. Users appreciate its pleasant scent, often described as smelling like summer.

Despite its many benefits, some users might find the price on the higher side, and the spray form may not be as environmentally friendly due to aerosol usage. Nonetheless, it's an effective and convenient choice for those looking for strong sun protection without harming marine life.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,200
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
26932 reviews

Application Type
Easy to apply to yourself and others.
Additional Skin Benefits
Smells great and provides excellent coverage.
#2

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion | Vegan and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) Broad Spectrum Moisturizing UVA/UVB Sunscreen with Vitamin E | 3 oz (Pack of 2)

Rating
9.1
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
949 reviews

Broad-Spectrum Protection
Provides reliable sun protection that effectively prevents sunburn even in intense beach conditions.
Application Type
Feels lightweight and non-greasy on the skin, avoiding the usual sticky or heavy sensation of some sunscreens.
Additional Skin Benefits
Offers good coverage and maintains skin comfort during extended outdoor activities.

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion is a solid choice if you’re looking for reef-safe sun protection that aligns with Hawaii's 104 Act, as it does not contain harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with an SPF of 30, which is good for everyday use whether you’re at the beach or just outdoors. The lotion is water-resistant, meaning it stays effective for about 80 minutes even if you swim or sweat, though reapplication every two hours is recommended for best results.

It’s also moisturizing and contains Vitamin E, which helps keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types. Plus, it’s vegan and free from gluten, parabens, and cruelty, which adds to its appeal for those who want a cleaner, more ethical product. The only minor downside is that it comes in a 3-ounce bottle, so it might feel a bit small if you need sunscreen for extended outdoor activities. Also, the distinctive banana scent might not be for everyone.

This sunscreen provides a good balance of effective sun protection, skin care benefits, and environmental responsibility, making it a great pick for residents or visitors in Hawaii who care about both their skin and the reef.

Rating
9.1
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Application Type
Additional Skin Benefits

Most important from
949 reviews

Broad-Spectrum Protection
Provides reliable sun protection that effectively prevents sunburn even in intense beach conditions.
Application Type
Feels lightweight and non-greasy on the skin, avoiding the usual sticky or heavy sensation of some sunscreens.
Additional Skin Benefits
Offers good coverage and maintains skin comfort during extended outdoor activities.
#3

Reef Safe Mineral Sunscreen Travel Lotion SPF 50 - Mexico & Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant, Biodegradable, Zinc Oxide, Oxybenzone & Octinoxate Free, Water Resistant, Natural Ingredients, by Coral Safe

Rating
8.5
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Water Resistance

Most important from
586 reviews

Active Ingredients
Packed with natural ingredients and free of harmful chemicals.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Provides excellent protection even under intense tropical sun.
Water Resistance
Holds up well with water activities like swimming and snorkeling.
Application Type
Lightweight and easy to apply without feeling greasy.
Additional Skin Benefits
Reef-friendly and biodegradable, perfect for eco-conscious beach trips.

The Reef Safe Sunscreen Travel Lotion SPF 50 by Coral Safe is designed to meet the needs of environmentally conscious consumers who are looking for a sunscreen that is safe for coral reefs. This product is compliant with the 104 Reef Act, meaning it doesn't contain harmful chemicals like Oxybenzone and Octinoxate that damage coral reefs. Instead, it uses Zinc Oxide as its active ingredient, which is recognized for providing broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it's infused with Vitamin E, which offers added skin benefits by acting as an antioxidant and helping to nourish the skin.

One of the standout features of this sunscreen is its water resistance, which lasts up to 80 minutes, making it a reliable choice for beachgoers and those with active lifestyles. The sunscreen is also biodegradable, adding to its eco-friendly appeal. It's marketed as having a raw texture that ensures a smooth and easy application, and it is unscented, which is beneficial for those with sensitive skin or who prefer products without added fragrances.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The product is manufactured in China, which may be a factor for those who prefer locally made products. Additionally, the raw texture might not appeal to everyone, as some people may prefer a lighter, more traditional sunscreen feel. At 3 ounces, the lotion is travel-friendly but may not last very long if used frequently. Despite these minor drawbacks, this sunscreen is a strong candidate for individuals seeking a reef-safe and skin-friendly option suitable for various outdoor activities.

Rating
8.5
Active Ingredients
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Water Resistance

Most important from
586 reviews

Active Ingredients
Packed with natural ingredients and free of harmful chemicals.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Provides excellent protection even under intense tropical sun.
Water Resistance
Holds up well with water activities like swimming and snorkeling.
Application Type
Lightweight and easy to apply without feeling greasy.
Additional Skin Benefits
Reef-friendly and biodegradable, perfect for eco-conscious beach trips.

Buying Guide for the Best Reef Safe Sunscreen Hawaii

Choosing the right reef-safe sunscreen is crucial not only for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays but also for preserving marine life and coral reefs. Reef-safe sunscreens are formulated without certain chemicals that can harm coral reefs and marine ecosystems. When selecting a reef-safe sunscreen, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you are making an environmentally friendly and effective choice.
Active IngredientsActive ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens are typically mineral-based, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are important because they provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays without harming marine life. When navigating active ingredients, look for sunscreens that list non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the primary active ingredients. Non-nano particles are less likely to be ingested by marine organisms. If you have sensitive skin, zinc oxide is often recommended as it is gentle and less likely to cause irritation.
Broad-Spectrum ProtectionBroad-spectrum protection means that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This is important because UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, while UVB rays can cause sunburn. To ensure you are getting broad-spectrum protection, check the label for the term 'broad-spectrum' or look for sunscreens that list protection against both types of rays. For everyday use, a sunscreen with SPF 30 is generally sufficient, but if you are spending extended time outdoors, consider a higher SPF.
Water ResistanceWater resistance indicates how long the sunscreen remains effective while you are swimming or sweating. This is important for maintaining protection during water activities. Water resistance is typically measured in minutes, such as 40 or 80 minutes. If you plan to be in the water or sweating a lot, choose a sunscreen with a higher water resistance rating. Remember to reapply sunscreen according to the instructions, especially after swimming or towel drying.
Application TypeReef-safe sunscreens come in various application types, including lotions, creams, sticks, and sprays. The application type is important for ease of use and coverage. Lotions and creams are great for full-body coverage and are easy to apply evenly. Sticks are convenient for targeted areas like the face and are less messy. Sprays can be quick and easy to apply but may not provide as even coverage. Choose the application type that best fits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, if you are applying sunscreen to children, a stick or lotion might be easier to manage.
Additional Skin BenefitsSome reef-safe sunscreens offer additional skin benefits, such as moisturizing properties, antioxidants, or anti-aging ingredients. These benefits are important if you have specific skin concerns or want to enhance your skincare routine. When navigating additional skin benefits, look for ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, or hyaluronic acid. If you have dry skin, a moisturizing sunscreen can help keep your skin hydrated. If you are concerned about aging, look for sunscreens with antioxidants to help protect against environmental damage.

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