Reef-safe sun cream

Question

Visiting Hawaii soon and wanted to ask if anyone knows if the Costco on Maui stocks reef-safe sun cream?

Many thanks.

Answer

Good question — yes, the Costco on Maui (and elsewhere in Hawaiʻi) *can* stock reef-safe sunscreen, though your success depends on what’s in stock and which sunscreen you pick.

Here’s what you should know if you plan to pick up reef-safe sun cream at Costco (or another store) when you arrive:

Because of Hawaiʻi’s laws and local regulations, non-reef-safe chemical sunscreens (those containing oxybenzone or octinoxate) have been banned from sale across the islands — so any sunscreen available for sale at legitimate retailers in Hawaiʻi technically must meet the “reef-safe” standards (or at least avoid the banned chemicals).
“Reef-safe” is still not a strictly regulated label, so you should always check the active ingredients when you buy. Recommended (and accepted) ingredients are non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid sunscreens that list oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemical UV blockers.
Because sunscreen demand is high — and reef-safe options tend to sell quickly — particular brands might be sold out. Some visitors on forums note that not all sunscreens at Costco or other stores are truly reef-safe, so it pays to check the bottle directly.

If you want to be extra sure, you could bring a trusted reef-safe sunscreen from home, or have one ready to buy easily upon arrival. Here are a few good reef-safe sunscreen options — ones that meet reef-safe criteria and are widely recommended for Hawaiʻi beach and snorkeling use:

— A classic mineral-based sunscreen using zinc oxide/titanium dioxide. Good for sensitive skin and long days at the beach.
— Zinc-based, broad-spectrum, and free of reef-damaging chemicals. A good family-friendly choice if you want strong protection.
— A smaller or boutique-style mineral sunscreen (zinc oxide) that’s designed with reef safety in mind — helpful if you prefer a more natural lotion or are environmentally conscious.

In summary: Yes — Costco on Maui is a viable place to pick up reef-safe sunscreen, and many other local stores will carry acceptable options. Make sure to read the label carefully (only mineral-based — non-nano zinc or titanium), because reef-safe claim or “Hawaiʻi compliant” labeling can still be used loosely. If you want certainty, bringing your own reef-safe sunscreen is often the safest bet.

Reef-safe sun cream

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