World Oceans Day 2026: How You Can Help Protect Our Oceans Right Here in Myrtle Beach

June 8th is World Oceans Day, a global celebration dedicated to honoring and protecting the oceans that make life on Earth possible. Covering more than 70% of our planet, the ocean provides food, oxygen, recreation, and habitat for countless species—including many that call the waters off Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet home.

At Crazy Sister Marina, we’re fortunate to spend every day on the water, witnessing firsthand the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the incredible marine life that inhabits it. From playful dolphins and nesting sea turtles to schools of fish and thriving salt marsh ecosystems, our local waters are something worth protecting.

This World Oceans Day, here are a few ways you can celebrate and make a positive impact on our oceans.

Why World Oceans Day Matters

The health of our oceans affects everyone, whether you live along the coast or hundreds of miles inland. Oceans help regulate the Earth’s climate, generate much of the oxygen we breathe, and support millions of jobs and livelihoods around the world.

Unfortunately, marine ecosystems face growing challenges including pollution, habitat loss, climate change, and marine debris. World Oceans Day serves as a reminder that small actions by individuals can collectively make a significant difference.

1. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

One of the easiest ways to help marine life is by reducing your use of single-use plastics.

Plastic bags, bottles, straws, and food containers often find their way into waterways and eventually the ocean. Marine animals can mistake plastic for food or become entangled in debris.

Simple changes include:

• Carrying a reusable water bottle
• Bringing reusable shopping bags
• Using refillable coffee cups
• Skipping plastic straws when possible
• Properly disposing of fishing line and tackle

Every piece of plastic kept out of the ocean helps protect marine wildlife.

2. Leave Beaches Better Than You Found Them

Whether you’re visiting Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park, or exploring the shores around Murrells Inlet, consider bringing a small bag to collect litter during your visit.

Even picking up a handful of trash can prevent harmful materials from reaching the ocean and affecting wildlife.

Beach cleanups are a great family-friendly activity that allows visitors to make an immediate impact while enjoying the beauty of the Grand Strand.

3. Respect Wildlife from a Distance

The waters off South Carolina’s coast are home to bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, shorebirds, fish, and countless other species.

When observing wildlife:

• Maintain a respectful distance
• Never feed wild animals
• Avoid disturbing nesting birds or turtles
• Follow local wildlife protection guidelines
• Dispose of trash properly

Responsible wildlife viewing helps ensure these animals remain healthy and wild for future generations to enjoy. At Crazy Sister Marina, there’s a multitude of activities to get you out on the water and up close to South Carolina native marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

4. Support Sustainable Fishing Practices

Fishing is an important part of life in Murrells Inlet and throughout the Grand Strand. Responsible anglers play a key role in protecting fish populations and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Some best practices include:

• Following local fishing regulations
• Respecting size and catch limits
• Properly releasing fish when required
• Avoiding waste
• Disposing of fishing line responsibly

At Crazy Sister Marina, we encourage responsible fishing practices that help preserve our local fisheries for years to come.

5. Turn Off Lights During Sea Turtle Nesting Season

World Oceans Day arrives right in the middle of South Carolina’s sea turtle nesting season.

Artificial lights visible from the beach can confuse nesting females and hatchlings. Baby sea turtles naturally navigate toward the brightest horizon, which should be the moonlit ocean. Bright beachfront lighting can lead them inland instead.

If you’re staying near the beach:

• Turn off unnecessary exterior lights
• Close curtains and blinds at night
• Use turtle-friendly lighting when available
• Avoid flash photography around nesting areas

These simple actions can help save countless hatchlings each year.

6. Learn About Local Marine Ecosystems

Education is one of the most powerful conservation tools available.

The salt marshes of Murrells Inlet serve as vital nurseries for fish, crabs, shrimp, and other marine life. Understanding how these ecosystems function helps foster appreciation and stewardship.

One of the best ways to learn about our local waters is by getting out on them. Eco tours, dolphin cruises, and wildlife excursions provide opportunities to observe marine life while learning about the importance of conservation and responsible recreation.

7. Choose Eco-Friendly Activities

Supporting businesses and experiences that value environmental stewardship helps encourage sustainable tourism.

Activities such as dolphin watching, eco tours, birdwatching, kayaking, and nature cruises allow visitors to connect with the ocean while developing a deeper appreciation for the wildlife and habitats that make the Myrtle Beach area special.

Celebrate World Oceans Day with Crazy Sister Marina

World Oceans Day reminds us that protecting our oceans isn’t just a one-day event—it’s a year-round commitment.

Whether you’re picking up litter on the beach, reducing plastic use, respecting wildlife, or teaching the next generation about marine conservation, every action matters.

At Crazy Sister Marina, we’re proud to help visitors experience the beauty of the South Carolina coast through dolphin cruises, fishing charters, eco tours, and other on-the-water adventures that inspire a love for our local marine environment.

This June 8th, take a moment to celebrate the ocean, appreciate the wildlife that calls it home, and commit to doing your part to keep our waters healthy for future generations.

Happy World Oceans Day from all of us at Crazy Sister Marina!