While swimming or snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean, you’ll likely encounter marine life, such as coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Since you’re a guest in these creatures’ home, be mindful of how to respectfully interact with them so that you don’t cause harm or damage their environment.

Do:

Take plenty of photos.

Photographs are excellent souvenirs to take home instead of breaking off pieces of coral as it can harm the ecosystem. Remember to bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning sights, but keep the flash off to prevent scaring nearby animals.

Give animals space.

Some creatures may be scared of you and swim away. Let them because they may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Instead of swimming after them, let the animal decide if and when it wants to approach you.

Don’t:

Stand on the ocean floor.

There’s life on the ocean floor that you may not be aware of. Rays and fish hide inside the sand and bury themselves, and a coral reef is a living organism that can be killed if you stand on it. Keep your feet or flippers off the floor, and bring a flotation device if you need support while snorkeling.

Feed the animals.

Human food is harmful to marine wildlife as their stomachs aren’t used to digesting our fare. Additionally, feeding the animals also teaches them to rely on humans and not hunt or forage naturally. Keep your food on the snorkeling tour boat, and always take your trash with you when leaving the ocean.

The island of Kauai is home to a wide variety of marine wildlife and scenery, and the best way to see it all is on an adventure tour. Na Pali Riders Raft Tours in Waimea offers several thrilling excursions, including snorkeling and whale watching as well as dolphin and sea cave tours. They depart daily from Kikiaola Harbor and take guests up and down the stunning 17 miles of the Na Pali Coast. Learn more about their adventures online, or call (808) 742-6331 to book a reservation.