10 Best Reef Safe Sunscreens 2026 in the United States

The Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion is a reef-safe option that adheres to the Hawaii 104 Act by being free of Octinoxate and Oxybenzone, which are harmful to coral reefs. Its primary strength lies in its broad-spectrum protection, effectively shielding against both UVA and UVB rays, making it suitable for those looking for high SPF coverage. The sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is beneficial for swimmers or those engaging in outdoor activities.

Moreover, it contains Vitamin E, providing additional moisturizing benefits and is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, which is great for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Another notable feature is its pleasant 'summer' scent, which many users appreciate. However, the scent might not be appealing to everyone, and those with fragrance sensitivities might want to consider this aspect. Additionally, the lotion form may require more effort to apply evenly compared to sprays or sticks.

Its dermatologically approved formula, free from gluten, parabens, and cruelty, makes it a conscientious choice for consumers. Trusted by beachgoers and designed by people who understand sun exposure, this product stands out for its practical and protective qualities. Frequent reapplication every 2 hours as recommended can be seen as a drawback for those looking for more prolonged, hassle-free protection.

The Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 30 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reef-safe sunscreen that protects both face and body. It’s free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, complying with Hawaii’s Reef Act 104, which means it’s safer for coral reefs compared to many traditional sunscreens. The product uses Helioplex technology, offering broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent sunburn and skin aging. With an SPF of 30, it provides good daily sun protection, though those needing stronger defense might consider the higher SPF variants (50 or 70) Neutrogena also offers.

This sunscreen is oil-free, fast-absorbing, and fragrance-free, making it comfortable for most skin types without feeling greasy or heavy. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which is helpful for swimming or sweating but still requires reapplication for longer exposure. While it’s a lotion type that applies easily, it does not mention additional skin benefits like moisturizing or antioxidants, so it primarily focuses on sun protection.

If you want a reef-safe, reliable sunscreen that is easy to apply and suitable for outdoor activities, this product fits well. However, if you prefer a higher SPF or added skincare ingredients, you might want to explore other options.

The COOLA Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 is a strong choice for effective daily sun protection that’s gentle on the environment. It offers broad spectrum SPF 50, shielding well against both UVA and UVB rays, which is important for preventing sunburn and skin damage. This sunscreen is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities where you might sweat or get wet, like swimming or light sports.

Unlike many sunscreens that feel heavy or greasy, this lotion absorbs quickly without leaving an oily residue, making it comfortable for everyday use. It’s fragrance-free, vegan, gluten-free, and free from parabens, which reduces the chance of irritation and is great for sensitive skin. Additionally, it contains antioxidant-rich plant ingredients that help nourish your skin and protect it from environmental damage. From an environmental perspective, this product complies with the Hawaii Reef Safe Act, indicating it’s formulated to avoid harming coral reefs, which is important for eco-conscious users.

The sunscreen comes in a lotion form in a compact 1.7-ounce bottle, which is easy to apply but might require frequent reapplication if you’re out in strong sun or water for extended periods. While the water resistance is decent, it’s not designed for very long or intense water exposure. Also, it’s focused on facial use, so you might need a different product for full-body coverage. This sunscreen is well-suited for daily facial protection, especially if you want a product that’s gentle on skin and the environment, but it’s less ideal for prolonged water activities or if you prefer a spray or stick format.