Is Your Sunscreen Really Reef-Safe? What Hawaii Travelers Need to Know

Planning a trip to Hawaii? You need reef-safe sunscreen — and not just any SPF labeled “clean.” Hawaii has banned specific sunscreen ingredients known to harm coral reefs, and most popular brands still include them. Here’s how to know if your sun care is truly safe for your skin and the sea.

What Makes a Sunscreen Truly Reef-Safe in Hawaii?

Under Hawaii Act 104, sunscreens that contain oxybenzone or octinoxate are banned from sale in the state. These chemicals damage coral DNA, disrupt marine ecosystems, and contribute to reef bleaching. Unfortunately, many sunscreens still include them — even ones that claim to be “reef-safe.”

Check the Ingredients

Look for sunscreens that use non-nano zinc oxide or non-nano titanium dioxide. These mineral-based filters are considered safe for coral reefs and marine life, and are fully compliant with Hawaii’s regulations.

Watch for Greenwashing

Old school brands from the Hamptons, new school brands from Australia, kitschy nostalgic brands whose focus is on packaging over formulation, and also goopy brands that claim clean labels but they're only skin deep - Look at the labels! Many of their products still contain banned or controversial ingredients. Spend an extra minute to review the label — and determine whether the product is truly Hawaii-compliant.

Why Soleil Toujours Is the Luxury SPF That’s Hawaii-Safe

Soleil Toujours products are 100% free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. Our formulas are Hawaii Act 104–compliant, eco-conscious, and enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients like red algae, niacinamide, and vitamin C.

• ✅ 100% Reef-Friendly & Hawaii-Compliant
• ✅ TSA-Approved Sizes
• ✅ Chic, Refillable Packaging
• ✅ SPF 30–50 Mineral & Clean Chemical Options

Our Best Pick for Hawaii Travel:

Clean Conscious Sunscreen Travel Mist SPF 30 3oz — ultra-fine mist, TSA-ready, skin-first and reef-safe.

What to Pack Alongside Your Hawaii Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Don’t forget your SPF lip balm, sun hat, mineral face lotion, and travel set. Soleil Toujours offers reef-conscious skincare that protects your glow — without compromising on ethics or elegance.

Learn More

For more on reef-safe regulations, visit the Hawaii Department of Health.

Protect Your Glow. And the Reef.

Choose a sunscreen that’s as safe for the sea as it is for your skin. Shop reef-safe SPF from Soleil Toujours »