Protecting Paradise
How to Enjoy Costa Rica’s Waters Responsibly
Costa Rica’s turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life are some of the country’s most captivating treasures. Here in Manuel Antonio, where lush rainforests meet the Pacific Ocean, protecting this unique environment is more than a responsibility—it’s a way of life. At Oceans Unlimited and Marine Conservation Costa rica, we are not only passionate about diving and marine exploration but also deeply committed to preserving the waters we call home.
As tourism grows, it’s more important than ever to ensure our enjoyment of Costa Rica’s aquatic wonders does not harm them. By making mindful choices, visitors can contribute to the long-term health of this paradise. Here are five essential ways to explore Costa Rica’s waters responsibly:
1. Choose Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The ocean’s vibrant coral reefs are vital ecosystems, providing shelter and food for countless marine species. However, many sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can be toxic to corals, causing bleaching and damage.
When visiting Costa Rica, opt for reef-safe sunscreen, which uses non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients. These mineral-based options are not only safer for marine life but also kinder to your skin. Better yet, cover up with UV-protective clothing like rash guards or wide-brimmed hats to reduce sunscreen use altogether.
You can find reef-safe sunscreen at many local shops, including ours, where we are happy to guide you toward products that protect both your skin and the environment.
2. Respect Marine Life
It’s tempting to reach out and touch a passing turtle or pick up a starfish, but these actions can stress or even harm marine creatures. Wildlife interactions should be on their terms, with no interference.
Whether snorkeling, scuba diving, or paddleboarding, maintain a respectful distance from marine animals. Avoid chasing or cornering them, as this disrupts their natural behavior. Never feed wildlife, as this can alter their diets and make them dependent on human interaction.
Take only photos, and leave behind only bubbles. Observing marine life from afar ensures these creatures thrive in their natural habitat for generations to come.
3. Practice Responsible Diving and Snorkeling
Scuba diving and snorkeling are incredible ways to explore the underwater world, but they require mindful practices to avoid harming fragile ecosystems.
When diving, ensure your buoyancy control is excellent to prevent accidental contact with corals. Kicking or standing on coral can break their delicate structures, which take years to grow. Divers and snorkelers should also avoid touching or collecting anything underwater, including shells, coral fragments, or marine plants.
Participating in guided tours with certified operators, like ours, ensures you are accompanied by professionals who prioritize both safety and conservation. We also organize reef cleanups, inviting divers to actively protect these underwater habitats.
4. Reduce Plastic Waste
Plastic pollution is one of the ocean’s biggest threats. Single-use plastics often end up in the sea, where they can harm marine animals and leach harmful chemicals into the water.
While traveling, bring reusable items such as water bottles, straws, and shopping bags. Costa Rica has made significant strides in reducing plastic waste, and many local businesses support this effort by providing alternatives.
Join beach cleanups in Manuel Antonio to help remove debris from the shores before it can reach the ocean. At Oceans Unlimited, we host regular cleanups to protect our local beaches and mangroves, and we invite visitors to join us in making a tangible difference.
5. Support Local Conservation Efforts
Costa Rica is a global leader in conservation, with nearly 30% of its land and water protected. However, preserving paradise requires ongoing effort and resources.
Support local organizations and businesses dedicated to marine conservation. Whether it’s donating to a the turtle project at Isla Damas, volunteering with our reef restoration project, or booking eco-friendly tours, your contributions make a difference.
For example, in Manuel Antonio, several initiatives focus on protecting sea turtles, mangroves, and coral reefs. Our dive shop partners with these organizations, and part of our proceeds go directly toward funding conservation projects.
By choosing responsible businesses and activities, you help ensure Costa Rica’s waters remain pristine and thriving.
Closing Thoughts: Be a Steward of the Sea
Costa Rica’s waters are a gift—one we are all privileged to enjoy. However, with this privilege comes the responsibility to protect and preserve them. By taking small but meaningful steps, like using reef-safe sunscreen, reducing plastic waste, and respecting marine life, visitors can contribute to the ongoing health of this remarkable ecosystem.
At Oceans Unlimited and Marine Conservation Costa Rica, we believe that every dive, snorkel, and beach day can be an opportunity to protect paradise. Join us in our mission to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural wonders responsibly, ensuring they endure for generations of locals and visitors alike.
Ready to explore Costa Rica’s waters with care? Visit us at Oceans Unlimited in Marina Pez Vela, where adventure meets conservation. Together, let’s protect paradise.