The Hawaii Traveler

Some of the compounds found in sunscreens are harming coral reefs, scientists say. So, what’s a water baby to do? For one, cover up with something else, like a rash guard or other SPF fabric clothing, and save the sunblock for the few exposed areas that remain. I like surf shirts because they make me look super sporty, but as it turns out, they contribute to keeping Hawai’i green. (Not to mention that muffin top outbreaks during vacations are common, and the rash guard style is a very forgiving one, thank goodness.) SPF suits for your tot is easier on young skin, and less fussy. No more spending half a day coating your wee one in lotion so that you can spend the other half outside. We used ours forever–the stretchy fabric is so forgiving that it’s almost a one-size-fits-most situation.

Or, if you’re a chilly willy, like me, you could always break out the wetsuit. Even though the temps in the islands are oh so balmy, some of us get too cold too soon in water cooler than, say, your average hot tub. A wetsuit means a better time in the deep end, longer, and wetsuits are more affordable than ever.

Using less of a product means saving money, too. Who said eco-friendly tourism can’t be simple? Sunscreen? Save it, and save the reefs, too.

Photo by Flickr–Creative Commons

1 Comment