Spending time in the ocean is one of the top reasons visitors choose the Big Island of Hawaii as a vacation destination. And it’s easy to see why. Swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers will find beautiful shorelines, warm, clear waters, and a wide array of brightly colored fish and marine life.
Turtles, fish, eels and more…
On a trip to the beach, you will very likely see honu (Hawaiian sea turtles) either gliding through the water or sunning on the shore. Schools of fish like the yellow tang, the colorful parrot fish, or the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a, dart amongst the coral. Eels (puhi) peek their camouflaged heads out of their rocky hiding spots. You may even catch sight of the giant wings of a manta ray or the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. But watch out for the wana (long-spined sea urchins) that live in the cracks and crevices of rocks and coral – stepping on one of these is a vacation memory you want to avoid.
Easy ways to help protect the ocean
Because the ocean is such an important part of our island’s lifestyle and livelihood, it’s important to do what we can to care for it. One way our visitors can help are by using reef-safe sunscreens, which are free of toxic chemicals that damage the coral that marine life depend on for food and protection.
Choose reef-safe sunscreens
Last summer, Hawaii became the first U.S. state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing two common chemicals, oxybenzone and octinoxate, which many researchers worldwide have deemed potentially harmful to aquatic life. Check out this list of sunscreen ingredients to avoid, as well as 15 sunscreens considered to be reef safe. Beachgoers can also use hats and UV-protecting clothing to reduce their use of sunscreen.
Reduce your use of plastic
Hawaii visitors can also do their part by reducing use of single-use plastic, like drinking straws and bags, which can easily end up in the water where marine life often mistake it for food. This article has some great tips on how you can easily reduce your use of plastic that can end up in our oceans.
The sea is calling …
If the sea is calling to you this summer, we invite you to start planning your trip by visiting our website. We can help you find the perfect vacation rental, whether you’re looking for a cozy studio for two or a luxurious villa for a large group.
Vacation rentals on the Big Island
If you’re considering some family time in Hawaii, we are pleased to offer several side-by-side units at Waikoloa Beach Villas that are perfect for accommodating large families or groups of friends. The proximity makes it easy to spend time together, while providing ample comfort and privacy for all. See Waikoloa Beach Villas E32 and E33, and B2 and B22 on our website.
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Waikoloa Beach Villas – Comfort and privacy for all
Tucked away in a lushly landscaped, private gated community, these units are just steps from two swimming pools, two hot tubs, a fitness center, plus two open-air shopping centers with a wide range of shopping, dining and entertainment options. The units boast covered lanais, upscale kitchens and baths, comfortable living and dining areas, and beautiful tropical views.
Save on your Hawaii vacation rental
Remember, you can save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.
We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!
Images courtesy of Jeremy Bishop, Bernard Spragg NZ, and breic.