Oʻahu is often described as paradise on earth—with turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and playful spinner dolphins gracing the coastline. But even paradise isn’t immune to the effects of climate change. As ocean temperatures rise and ecosystems shift, tour operators and locals alike are witnessing changes that impact not just the marine environment, but the way we experience it.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how climate change is affecting Oahu’s ocean tours, what responsible tour companies like And You Creations are doing to adapt, and how travelers can help protect the island’s most precious natural treasures—one mindful decision at a time.
Climate Change in Oahu’s Waters: What’s Really Happening?
The Hawaiian Islands are surrounded by more than 1,200 miles of coral reef ecosystems—the largest in the U.S. These reefs, along with the diverse marine life that depend on them, are facing increasing threats from climate change. Here’s what that looks like in real time around Oahu.
Rising Ocean Temperatures = Coral Bleaching
As ocean temperatures rise—even by just a few degrees—corals become stressed and expel the algae (zooxanthellae) that give them their color and energy. This leads to coral bleaching, a phenomenon that has become more frequent in Hawaiʻi since the mid-2010s.
Bleached corals are not dead, but they are weakened and more vulnerable to disease. This impacts:
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The visual beauty of snorkeling sites
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The biodiversity of fish and marine creatures that rely on coral habitats
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The stability of coastal marine ecosystems
How And You Creations Is Leading Sustainable Tours in Hawaiʻi
We believe ocean tours should inspire awe, but also awareness. That’s why we’ve committed to sustainability across all of our tours—from dolphin watching and snorkeling to hiking and cultural storytelling.
Certified Sustainable by STAH
We’re proud to be certified as a Sustainable Tour Operator by the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii (STAH). This certification recognizes our ongoing commitment to:
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Environmental protection
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Cultural respect and education
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Community involvement and local partnerships
Mālama ʻĀina and Mālama I Ke Kai
In Hawaiian, mālama means “to care for.”
We apply this philosophy to everything we do—from picking up ocean debris during tours to educating guests about respecting wildlife and local customs.
Our Eco Practices in Action
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All guests are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen (we even provide guidance on what brands to use)
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Our captains follow NOAA guidelines to keep respectful distances from dolphins, whales, and turtles
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We participate in ongoing training and education to ensure our practices evolve with environmental science
Whether it’s your first time snorkeling or your tenth time dolphin watching, we want your experience to be not just exciting—but ethical and enriching.
How You Can Help Protect the Ocean as a Visitor
Sustainability isn’t just a company policy—it’s a shared kuleana (responsibility). Here’s how you can make a difference during your time in Hawaiʻi:
1. Choose Certified, Responsible Tours
Support companies that are transparent about their environmental practices and carry eco-certifications like STAH.
2. Pack (and Use) Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Hawaiʻi has banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate—two chemicals known to damage coral reefs. Choose brands like:
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Kokua Sun Care (Hawaiʻi-made!)
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Raw Elements
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Stream2Sea
Apply 15+ minutes before entering the water, and reapply on land—not in the ocean.
3. Respect Wildlife and Natural Spaces
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Never touch or chase marine animals
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Follow your guide’s instructions
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Avoid standing on coral or disturbing the seabed
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Reduce single-use plastics whenever possible
4. Practice Mālama Mindset
Whether you’re hiking through Waimea Valley or swimming off the coast of Waiʻanae, approach each activity with care and intention. That’s the heart of mālama tourism—travel that gives back rather than takes away.
Hawaiʻi is home to passionate environmentalists, cultural practitioners, and responsible tour operators who are working hard every day to protect and restore the land and sea. Every guest who chooses to travel mindfully becomes part of that mission.
Join Us on a Tour That Honors the Ocean
Whether you’re watching spinner dolphins leap across the morning sun or snorkeling beside a reef teeming with life, you’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry the story of a place worth protecting.
👉 Explore our certified eco-tours at And You Creations
👉 Travel with purpose. Travel with mālama.
