Are you trying to find reef safe sunscreens among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling reef safe sunscreens on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 27 hours of research and did 28 reef safe sunscreens tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best reef safe sunscreens you can buy today
- ORIGINAL SPF 50 SUNSCREEN SPRAY . This is the stuff we use every day. The sunscreen that started it all and smells like summer. We wanted a sunscreen to protect those who live and love in the sun, so we made it.
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this non-comedogenic sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection and is packed with Vitamin E. Our oil-free, water-resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant SPF 50 Spray is great for all skin types.
- HOW TO USE. 15 minutes before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Sonny’s Tip: Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- ORIGINAL SPF 50 SUNSCREEN LOTION . This is the stuff we use every day. It’s the formula that started it all. People say it smells like summer. We like that. Whether we’re spending a lazy day at the beach or just hangin’ out, our Original formula is definitely our fav.
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this non-comedogenic facial sunscreen spray adds a barrier to your face and delivers UVA/UVB protection. Our oil-free, water-resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant SPF 30 Glow is great for all skin types.
- HOW TO USE. 15 minutes before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Sonny’s Tip: Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- HAWAII 104 REEF ACT COMPLIANT: Coral Isles does not contain Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, or Parabens. Help preserve our marine ecosystem by using sunscreen without these ingredients.
- BROAD SPECTRUM PROTECTION: Our sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection, safeguarding your skin from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays contribute to premature aging, while UVB rays cause sunburns. Shielding your skin from these harmful rays with our sunscreen not only reduces the risk of skin cancer but also preserves a youthful complexion. Trust our product for comprehensive sun protection and the maintenance of healthy, age-resistant skin.
- NON-GREASY AND LIGHTWEIGHT: Our formula is hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It contains no PABA, fragrances, or parabens, catering to individuals with specific skin sensitivities. Additionally, our non-greasy and breathable formula provides a comfortable application, feeling lightweight on the skin. This makes it excellent for both active sports activities and daily use.
- WATER RESISTANT AND LONG LASTING: Our sunscreen offers 80 minutes of water resistance, ensuring prolonged protection even during water activities. To maximize its effectiveness, apply it 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after towel drying. Suitable for all ages.
- VARIETY OF SIZES: We offer various sunscreen sizes to suit different needs. Our largest option is a 32-fluid ounce bottle with a pump, ideal for extended sun protection. For a compact solution, we have a 6-fluid ounce bottle. A 2-fluid ounce pack with two bottles is perfect for on-the-go use or sharing. Our 16-fluid ounce bottle offers a mid-sized alternative. We provide a variety of sizes to meet your specific requirements.
- Original SPF 50 sunscreen Lotion. This is the stuff we use every day. It's the formula that started it all. People say it smells like summer. We like that. Whether we're spending a lazy day at the beach or just Hang in out, our original formula is our fav.
- Moisturizing sun protection. Dermatologist and sonny approved, This non-comedogenic sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection and is packed with Vitamin E. Our oil-free, water-resistant and reef Friendly SPF 50 Lotion is great for all skin types.
- How to use. 15 minutes Before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Sonny's tip: Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
- Protect your skin. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our original sunscreen line is hypoallergenic and oxybenzone, Octinoxate, gluten, Cruelty and Paraben free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- Trust the Bum. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on even the most intense days in the sun. The SIMPLE TRUTH is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make 'Em better.
- SAFE EFFECTIVE SUN PROTECTION: Help prevent sunburn and skin damage with mineral zinc oxide sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA UVB protection. Hypoallergenic & non-comedogenic. Gentle on sensitive skin
- SIMPLE NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Made with just 4 simple ingredients (zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax & vitamin E) that moisturize, nourish & protect. Gluten free & non-GMO
- EASY TO USE: Light sunflower based, easy to apply, face and body sunscreen. 80 minutes sweat & water resistant means you stay protected when having fun. Perfect for travel, beach & surfing
- REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN / REEF FRIENDLY SUNSCREEN: No oxybenzone or any chemicals that harm coral reefs. Mexico and Hawaii approved travel sunscreen. Safe for reefs means safe for you
- SUSTAINABLE SPORT SUNSCREEN : Badger mineral sunscreens have no synthetic ingredients, are cruelty free, and come in 50% PCR tubes. Made with 100% solar power in the USA by a women-owned and run family business
- 🐠 REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN: Our sunscreen is approved by Hawaii & Mexico, and provides eco-friendly and biodegradable sun protection.
- 🌿MADE IN THE USA: With natural ingredients, our sunscreen excels in quality and safety. It's free from harsh chemicals, NO Oxybenzone & NO Octinoxate.
- 💧 80-MIN WATER RESISTANT: Our water-resistant formula is a top-rated choice among beachgoers, offering expert sun protection without the toxic chemicals associated with other sunscreens.
- ☀️ MINERAL SUNSCREEN: Infused with Zinc Oxide & Vitamin E, this concentrated mineral sunscreen forms a protective shield, reflecting UV rays away while staying discreet on your skin's surface.
- 🤿 ACTIVE LIFESTYLE: Created for active lifestyles, our sunscreen is water-resistant and non-greasy, ideal for outdoor activities, sports, and travel. Its lightweight feel is reminiscent of Korean sunscreen.
- MINERAL SPF 30 SUNSCREEN SPRAY. Some of us like to go au naturel. Our natural, zinc-based Mineral sunscreen spray sits on top of your skin to block sun, leaving a matte finish with Broad Spectrum SPF 30 protection from UVA/UVB rays.
- CHEMICAL FREE SUNSCREEN. Our zinc-based Mineral collection was created for your lounging and earth loving pleasure. Lightweight and silky, this Sun Bum collection is sure to leave your skin feeling clean, natural and protected!
- HOW TO USE. Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and every 2 hours. Sonny’s Tip: A white tint is normal, as this rad screen sits on top of your skin as opposed to absorbing into your skin!
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Mineral Sunscreen line is enriched with Zinc Oxide, and is Gluten and Cruelty and Free to ensure a fun, clean day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- REEF FRIENDLY SPF 70 SUNSCREEN LOTION: Let the sun caress your body. Our Sunscreen has the essential ingredients to give you skin the healthy glow you are looking for.
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION: This reef friendly, oil-free, water-resistant sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection so you can enjoy your day in the sun.
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. Helps prevent sunburn, decreases the risk of skin damage and early skin aging caused by the sun. It’s Oxybenzone, Octinoxate and Paraben Free.
- HOW TO USE. 15 minutes before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
- BEACH IS LIFE: Aruba Sun sunscreens are carefully formulated to protect those of us who live closer to the sun. Aruban family owned.
- ORIGINAL SPF 50 FRAGRANCE-FREE SUNSCREEN FACE LOTION . This is the stuff we use every day. The sunscreen that started it all. We wanted a sunscreen to protect those who live and love in the sun, so we made it.
- MOISTURIZING SUN PROTECTION. Dermatologist and Sonny approved, this non-comedogenic facial sunscreen delivers UVA/UVB protection and is packed with Vitamin E. Our oil-free, water-resistant and Hawaii 104 Reef Act Compliant SPF 50 Face Lotion is great for all skin types.
- HOW TO USE. 15 minutes before sun exposure, apply liberally to all areas of the skin and avoid the eye area. For best results, reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Sonny’s Tip: Apply every 2 hours for maximum sun protection.
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to practicing safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Original Sunscreen line is Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- Revolutionary Sun Cream :: Moisturizing SPF 50 reef safe sunscreen, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes whether in the sand, sun, sea or surf. Strong broad spectrum protection from both UVA / UVB rays to help protect against sun burn and DNA damage. PA+++
- Coral Reef Safety :: Reef Repair sun cream is a (non nano) Zinc Oxide based reef safe sunscreen that is 100% Oxybenzone free, Octinoxate free & completely chemical free. Safe for marine and aquatic life including our delicate coral reefs, designed to protect!
- Ingredient Safety :: Reef Repair sunscreens are 100% Paraben free, Silicone free & Titanium Dioxide free, providing proven sun & skin safety for you and your family. Our A+ grade Zinc Oxide mineral sun-cream gives you the strongest UV protection available. Daily application is now fun and easy.
- No White Cast :: A Non Sticky, Non Oily mineral sunscreen that applies easy with almost no rubbing, spreads evenly on your skin and no white cast or ghosting effect like many other natural sun creams. Won't leave sticky or greasy feeling on your skin and does not cause excess sweating.
- Other Benefits :: Our natural reef safe sunscreen is a revolutionary layer of sun protection and moisturization for new, sensitive or damaged skin. Natural organic and reef safe formula with bonus ingredients like red raspberry seed and coconut oil for extra sun care protection.
- SPF 50 SUN LOTION – 4 fl oz bottle. Non-nano mineral formula: 11.9% Titanium Dioxide, 1% Zinc Oxide.
- CORAL REEF SAFE – Hawaii & Palau island approved: safe for marine life and ocean water adventures.
- ANTI-JELLYFISH STING – Protects against painful jellyfish stings while swimming, snorkeling, etc. "
- SENSITIVE SKIN APPROVED – No chemical UV filters. Octinoxate and oxybenzone free.
- WATER RESISTANT – Reapply every 2 hrs, after towel drying or after 80 min of swimming/sweating.
- Revolutionary Sun Cream :: Moisturizing SPF 30 reef safe sunscreen, water-resistant for up to 40 minutes whether in the sand, sun, sea or surf. Strong broad-spectrum protection from both UVA / UVB rays to help protect against sun burn and DNA damage. PA+++
- Coral Reef Safety :: Reef Repair suncream is a (non nano) Zinc Oxide based reef safe sunscreen that is 100% Oxybenzone free, Octinoxate free & completely chemical free. Safe for marine and aquatic life including our delicate coral reefs, designed to protect!
- Ingredient Safety :: Reef Repair sunscreens are 100% Paraben free, Silicone free & Titanium Dioxide free, providing sun & skin safety for you and your family. Our A+ grade Zinc Oxide mineral sun-cream gives you the strongest UV protection available. Daily application is now fun and easy.
- Ultra Clear :: A non Sticky, non-oily, non-greasy mineral sunscreen. Applies transparently with almost no rubbing and spreads evenly on your skin. No white cast or ghosting effect like other natural physical suncreams. Does not leave sticky or greasy feeling on your skin and will not cause excessive sweating.
- Other Benefits :: Our natural reef safe mineral sunscreen is a revolutionary layer of sun protection, moisturization for new, sensitive or damaged skin. Natural organic and reef safe formula with bonus ingredients like red raspberry seed and coconut oil for extra sun care protection.
- The below information is per pack only
- SUPERIOR ENDURANCE VS. SWEAT & WATER - from family fun to hardcore competition, our sunscreen provides strong sun protection that stays on so you can play on.
- CLINICALLY PROVEN - broad spectrum protection protects you from UVA/UVB rays.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, BREATHABLE FORMULA - non-greasy feel won't weigh you down.
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUNSCREEN - water & sweat resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- REEF FRIENDLY - made without oxybenzone or octinoxate.
- REEF FRIENDLY AND HAWAII COMPLIANT: Coral Isles Sunscreen offers reef-safe protection, free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, complying with Hawaii's guidelines. Protect your skin while preserving the ocean ecosystem.
- BROAD-SPECTRUM UVA/UVB PROTECTION: Our sunscreen provides reliable defense against harmful sun rays, shielding you from both UVA and UVB radiation. It's gluten-free, PABA-free, and free from fragrances, making it suitable for all skin types.
- NON-GREASY LIGHTWEIGHT FORMULA: Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without leaving a white or pasty residue. Whether you're engaging in active sports or daily activities, our sunscreen will keep your skin feeling fresh and protected.
- DURABLE WATER RESISTANCE: Our sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours or after towel drying. This sunscreen has been approved for usage by individuals aged 6 months and above, including both adults and children.
- THREE-PACK CONTINUOUS-SPRAY BOTTLES: This package includes three 6-fluid ounce bottles of Coral Isles Sunscreen SPF 50 mist. It is not a mineral formula. Rest assured, our sunscreen excludes the ingredients banned by Hawaii for their harmful effects on coral reefs.
- SAFE, NATURAL PROTECTION: Thinksport sunscreen provides effective sun protection for athletes, sports and active use. The broad spectrum UVA & UVB sun cream is suitable for daily use on even sensitive skin, offering gentle defense against the sun’s rays.
- EASY APPLICATION: The hydrating body and face sun cream is quick and easy to apply, and protection from the sun begins instantly. The fast absorbing SPF 50+ sun lotion won’t leave your skin feeling oily or sticky, and has no unpleasant chemical scent.
- CLEAN MINERAL FORMULA: The first sunscreen to pass Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, Thinksport vegan, Leaping Bunny certified sun creams contain no PABA, parabens, phthalates, BPA, oxybenzone, avobenzone, petroleum, gluten, dairy, or toxic chemicals.
- WATER RESISTANT: Ideal sunscreen for sport and other activities that make you sweat. Our sun cream provides the highest water resistance per the FDA, offering continuous protection for up to 80 minutes in the pool or sea before the sunscreen should be re-applied.
- Accurate Ingredient List: Our updated packaging guarantees precise ingredient listings while preserving our unchanged formulas. Rest assured, there have been no changes to our ingredients. Our fragrance is derived solely from natural oils, ensuring a pleasant scent without any harmful effects. Note: "Natural Fragrance Oils" simply describes the natural oils used to provide a delightful aroma.
- MINERAL SPF 50 SUNSCREEN FACE STICK. Some of us like to go au naturel. Our natural, easy roll-on zinc-based Mineral face stick sits on top of your skin to block sun, leaving a matte finish with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 protection from UVA/UVB rays.
- CHEMICAL FREE SUNSCREEN. Our zinc-based Mineral collection was created for your lounging and earth loving pleasure. Lightweight and silky, this Sun Bum collection is sure to leave your skin feeling clean, natural and protected!
- HOW TO USE. Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and every 2 hours. Sonny’s Tip: A white tint is normal, as this rad screen sits on top of your skin as opposed to absorbing into your skin!
- PROTECT YOUR SKIN. The key to safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Mineral Sunscreen line is enriched with Zinc Oxide, and is Gluten and Cruelty and Free to ensure a fun, clean day in the sun.
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better.
- SUPERIOR ENDURANCE VS. SWEAT & WATER — From family fun to hardcore competition, Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen provides strong sun protection that stays on so you can play on
- CLINICALLY PROVEN UVA/UVB PROTECTION — This SPF 30 broad spectrum sunscreen spray protects skin from the sun's harmful UV rays
- LIGHTWEIGHT, BREATHABLE FORMULA — Non-greasy feel won't weigh you down
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE SPF SUNSCREEN 30 SPRAY — Water & sweat resistant up to 80 minutes
- FREE FROM oxybenzone and octinoxate
How to choose a good reef safe sunscreens
Does the idea of finding a fantastic reef safe sunscreens make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in reef safe sunscreens. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top reef safe sunscreens products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top reef safe sunscreens on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top reef safe sunscreens brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top reef safe sunscreens based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the reef safe sunscreens were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good reef safe sunscreens, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your reef safe sunscreens.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting reef safe sunscreens for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our reef safe sunscreens. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what reef safe sunscreens should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on reef safe sunscreens.
