Reef-Safe Sunscreen & Sun Protection for Snorkeling in Jacó

Here's something first-timers don't expect: the part of you that burns most while snorkeling is your back. You're floating face-down near the surface for over an hour, and the tropical sun is strong. A little planning keeps you comfortable — and protects the reef you came to see. It's part of what makes this the top snorkel tour Jaco Beach visitors keep recommending.

Why your back is the problem spot

When you snorkel, your shoulders, back, and the backs of your legs sit right at the surface facing straight up at the sun — often for 60 to 90 minutes without you noticing. People climb out feeling fine and discover a serious burn hours later. Jaco Beach snorkeling is close to the equator, so the UV is intense even on hazy days.

Wear a rashguard — it's the easiest fix

The single best thing you can do is put on a long- or short-sleeve rashguard (a swim shirt). It covers the exact area that burns, never washes off, and means you barely need sunscreen on your torso at all. A hat and sunglasses for the beach time round it out. This simple combo is why guests stay comfortable on the best snorkeling Jacó Beach has to offer.

Choose reef-safe sunscreen

For any skin that's still exposed — the back of your neck, ears, hands, feet — use a reef-safe sunscreen. Ordinary sunscreens often contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemicals that harm coral and marine life. Look for mineral formulas based on non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead, labeled 'reef-safe' or 'reef-friendly.' You get the protection without leaving a chemical slick in the very water you're enjoying.

• Apply mineral sunscreen 15–20 minutes before you get in, so it bonds to your skin.
• Skip the aerosol sprays — they drift and waste product; a lotion stays put.
• Re-apply to exposed skin after you towel off.
• Pair it with a rashguard and you'll need far less of it.

What we provide — and what to bring

We supply the mask, snorkel, fins, an in-water guide and your photos. You bring a rashguard if you have one, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water. We run three tours a day (8am, 10am, noon), about 1.5 hours in the water for $69 per person, at a calm cove near Playa Mantas a short Uber north of Jacó. Come prepared for the sun and you'll see exactly why this is the top snorkel tour Jaco Beach travelers rave about.

More reading: see what guests say about our top snorkel tour Jaco Beach, or head back to Snorkel Jaco to plan your day.