Sustainable Shore: How to Have an Eco-Friendly Beach Day

Safeguarding the pristine charm of “America’s Greatest Family Resort” begins well before you step onto the sand. As a barrier island, Ocean City is a delicate ecosystem balancing heavy summer tourism with vital natural habitats. To let future generations enjoy the same sunny afternoons we do now, we must adopt a “Sustainable Shore” approach. By making mindful choices, each visitor can significantly reduce their environmental footprint while having an ideal beach experience.

The “Pack It In, Pack It Out” Rule

One of the simplest yet most effective methods to safeguard the coast is to properly dispose of your waste. During busy summer months, trash cans along the Boardwalk and at street ends frequently overflow due to the high volume of visitors and the persistent coastal breeze. When these cans become full, stray litter can easily be blown into the dunes or the ocean, threatening marine life.

Carrying your own trash and recycling bags is essential. Instead of relying on public bins, plan to take your waste back to your rental or home to ensure it is properly disposed of and sorted. This “Pack It In, Pack It Out” approach guarantees that nothing—from snack wrappers to juice boxes—is left behind to harm the shoreline or wildlife.

Switch to Ocean-Safe Sunscreen

Protecting your skin is essential, but the chemicals found in traditional sunscreens may damage the marine environment. Many sprays and lotions commonly contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, substances known to be toxic to coral reefs and various small marine life forms.

For an eco-friendly beach day, opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These physical barriers sit on the skin instead of penetrating, and they won’t wash off into the water as harmful chemicals. Check for “reef-safe” labels to ensure your sun protection is gentle on the ocean as well as on your family.

Ditching the Plastic: The Zero-Waste Cooler

Single-use plastics greatly add to beach pollution. During local cleanups, plastic bags, water bottles, and straws are commonly encountered. Achieving a zero-waste beach lunch is simpler than you might expect.

• Reusable Bottles: Switch out plastic water bottles for insulated stainless steel flasks that maintain your water’s cold temperature for hours.
• Use reusable silicone bags or glass containers for sandwiches and snacks instead of disposable plastic wrap or bags.
• Avoid using single-use straws: carry a reusable metal or bamboo straw for your iced coffee if necessary.

Mindful Sandcastles: Fill Your Holes

Building a large sandcastle is a longstanding shore tradition, but how you leave your site matters just as much as building it. Large holes and deep trenches can be dangerous for nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings as they traverse the beach at night.

Additionally, Ocean City’s emergency vehicles and beach-cleaning crews patrol the shoreline after dark. Unfilled holes can damage equipment or cause delays in rescue efforts. Always flatten your sandcastles and, most importantly, fill in every hole before leaving for the night.

Transport with a Conscience

Ocean City becomes crowded in summer, leading to increased traffic and a larger carbon footprint. To reduce your environmental impact, consider alternative methods to reach the beach.

• Use the OCNJ Jitney to conveniently navigate the island, avoiding parking issues and traffic.
• Biking: Ocean City is a highly bike-friendly town. Riding to the beach reduces emissions and offers a chance to enjoy the salty air and historic North End architecture at a leisurely pace.

By embracing sustainable practices, we preserve what makes Ocean City special — from pristine sand and transparent water to lively wildlife. A healthy shoreline starts with our individual efforts, ensuring the shore remains vibrant for future generations.