Last Wave: Marine Conservation

Marine Conservation Tips for Beginner Surfers

When you step into the ocean, you’re entering a living ecosystem. Every choice you make in and around the water can either help protect marine life, or harm it. As surfers, we have a special responsibility to leave no trace, respect marine life, and protect the waves we love. Here are some easy, practical tips to get you started:

1. Choose Ocean-Safe Sunscreen

• Use zinc-based or mineral sunscreens (non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide).

• Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate—these chemicals damage coral reefs and marine life.

• Look for labels like “reef safe” or “biodegradable”.

2. Use Eco-Friendly Hair & Skin Products

• Shampoos, conditioners, and body washes often wash off in the ocean.

• Switch to natural, biodegradable products without sulphates, silicones, or microplastics.

• Solid shampoo/conditioner bars are great plastic-free options.

3. Leave No Rubbish Behind

• Always take your rubbish home (including snack wrappers, wax papers, and drink bottles).

• Pick up litter you see on the beach - it makes a big difference.

• Avoid single-use plastics: bring a reusable water bottle and snack box.

4. Respect Wildlife

• Never chase, touch, or feed dolphins, turtles, or seabirds.

• Give marine life plenty of space - this is their home.

• Remember that nesting seabirds and turtles are especially sensitive to disturbance.

5. Protect Fragile Habitats

• Avoid standing on or dragging boards over coral reefs or seagrass beds.

• Use sandy entry and exit points instead.

• Stick to marked pathways through dunes to prevent erosion.

6. Support Sustainable Surf Gear

• Choose boards, wetsuits, and leashes made from recycled or eco-friendly materials where possible.

• Repair instead of replace - fix dings and patch wetsuits.

• Donate or recycle old gear instead of sending it to landfill.

7. Be a Steward of the Ocean

• Learn about your local marine ecosystem - from mangroves to reefs to migrating whales.

• Share what you know: talk to friends, family, and other beginners about how to surf with care.

• Join or support local beach clean-ups and conservation groups on the Gold Coast.

Final Note: Every wave you catch is a gift from the ocean. Treat it with respect, and you’ll help keep it thriving for generations of surfers to come.