Hawaii’s beautiful beaches are a dream destination for sightseeing tourists, so natives and tourists alike should work to ensure these beautiful beaches continue to thrive. To do so, everyone must do their part to care for Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine life. Here are some tips you can use to keep Hawaii’s coast clean and safe. 

Do

Keep your distance.

Although it can be tempting to get up close to sea life and coral reefs while sightseeing in Hawaii, keep your distance. Any disturbance to reefs can be particularly damaging, as oils from your skin can kill a coral colony. Stay away from sea life as well, as you don’t want them to feel too comfortable around humans; this can make them less cautious or protective, potentially putting them in danger in the future.

Use reef-safe sunscreen.

Some chemicals in sunscreens and other skin care products can be hard on the environment, particularly coral reefs, as they’ve been linked to the destruction of coral reefs across the globe. When sightseeing at the beach, be sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen. These environmentally sound options avoid harmful chemicals and reduce the impact on Hawaii’s sea life. 

Don’t

Leave trash behind.

Litter is dangerous to marine animals, as it often ends up in their stomach or wrapped around their bodies. It can be hard for an animal to tell the difference between a piece of plastic and a tasty snack, which can lead to digestive issues or choking hazards. Be sure to pick up after yourself while on the beach. This includes collecting all your trash and taking it off of the beach with you when you leave. You should recycle your plastics and metals in the appropriate bins when you can. 

Take shells or beach items with you.

Many people enjoy taking shells and pieces of coral home with them when they leave the beach as a keepsake. However, the best way to help protect Hawaii’s beautiful shores is to leave everything where you find it. That’s because many natural objects on the beach are still a part of a complex ecosystem. For instance, old shells are often used as homes by beach creatures like hermit crabs. When you take a shell, you make it more difficult for those animals to find shelter. 

For Hawaiian sightseeing that’s both safe and fun, contact Na Pali Riders Raft Tours in Waimea, HI. From whale watching tours to snorkeling, they’ll help you experience the beauty of Hawaii’s coral reefs. Their professional tour guides will help you learn the best ways to care for coral reefs without missing out on exciting adventures. To learn more about their tours, call (808) 742-6331 or visit their website today.