Respecting Reefs Signs

The Respecting Coral Reefs sign project was designed to educate locals and tourists who visit popular coral reef locations around Maui about proper reef etiquette. Composed of informative tips and colorful photographs, the interpretive signs are “adopted” by local businesses that fund the creation and installation of the signs. The project has been so successful on the island of Maui, that we’ve expanded the program throughout the state of Hawaii.

The content of the interpretive signs was developed by CORAL’s Hawaii Field Manager, Liz Foote, in partnership with Megan Webster (Makai Stewardship Coordinator, Maui Land & Pineapple Co., Inc.) and Russell Sparks (Education Specialist, Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources), with extensive input from many individuals, organizations, and agencies statewide. The signs were designed by Geoff Moore of Silver Moon Art and Design, and the photographs were donated by Mike Roberts (Reeflections Underwater Photography), Brandoch Calef, Heather Spalding, John Hoover, George Balazs, Ziggy Livnat, Russell Sparks, and Liz Foote. Special thanks to Mike Roberts and Brandoch Calef, whose efforts for the sign project went above and beyond duty.

Read quotes from sponsors and supporters of the Respecting Coral Reefs Sign Project.

Respecting Coral Reefs Sign Locations* and Sponsors

Honolua Bay, Kapalua Bay, Mokuleia Bay, and Lahaina Harbor (Liz Foote, Megan Webster, Russell Sparks, CORAL, Project S.E.A.-Link, and ML&P, with additional funding from Hawaii Tourism Authority and Tiffany & Co. Foundation)

Wailea Beach (Wailea Community Association)

Kamaole III Beach Park (Kihei Community Association)

Kamaole I Beach Park (Jilly Goldman, Century 21)

Keawakapu I and Maluaka Beach (County of Maui Office of Economic Development)

Ulua Beach Park (Pacific Whale Foundation)

Ahihi Kina’u Natural Area Reserve (2 signs; Department of Land and Natural Resources)

Olowalu mile marker 14 (Kaanapali Beach Hotel; pending site approval)

Napili Bay (sponsored by Island Spirit Yoga; installed and hosted by Napili Bay Resort)

Makena Landing (Keli’i’s Kayak Tours)

Additional Makena location TBD (by anonymous donors)

Five signs on individual resorts’ private property (each funded by the following members of the Kaanapali Beach Resort Association: Sheraton Maui Resort, Marriott Maui Ocean Club, Kaanapali Alii, Kaanapali Beach Hotel, and the Westin Maui)

*Note that some signs have yet to be installed.