PFAS in Ocean Water: What Surfers and Beach Goers Should Know

I used to think that a day at the beach was the cleanest thing we could do as a family. Salt air, sunshine, kids running around in the waves. Then I started learning about PFAS, and it turns out that forever chemicals can reach you two ways at the beach: through the water itself, and through the gear you brought along.

Wetsuits, rash guards, water-resistant beach bags, even some swimsuits have historically used PFAS-based coatings for water and stain resistance. The ocean water is not always clean either, thanks to industrial runoff. Here is what I have learned about reducing exposure, and what actually works.

For more on PFAS-free living, see our guide to PFAS free period underwear and PFAS distillation.

Why PFAS in ocean water is a health concern

A 2023 review in eBioMedicine found evidence linking PFAS exposure to thyroid disruption, immune system changes, and developmental concerns in children. These chemicals enter the ocean through industrial discharge, wastewater plants, and stormwater runoff, and once they are there, they do not break down. That is literally why they are called “forever chemicals.”

For surfers and swimmers, exposure comes from two places at once. You have the contaminated water on your skin (and sometimes in your mouth, if we are being real), plus the PFAS-treated wetsuit or rash guard sitting against your body for hours. Tackling both sources is a practical way to cut your family’s overall exposure.

How to spot PFAS in surf and beach gear

Here is the frustrating part: manufacturers do not have to disclose PFAS use on consumer products in most U.S. states. So you cannot just read a label and know. But there are workarounds.

Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100, bluesign, or GOTS, which all prohibit PFAS. Be wary of anything labeled “water-resistant,” “stain-resistant,” or “wrinkle-free” unless the brand specifically says they use a fluorine-free treatment. And honestly? Just ask. Email the brand and ask if they use fluorinated coatings. The good ones will answer clearly.

You can also search the PFAS Free Life Database for tested, verified products across hundreds of categories.

Safer alternatives for surfers and beach families

The good news is that PFAS-free beach gear has come a long way. Here is what I look for:

• Stainless steel or glass drinkware for the beach, since both are inert and PFAS-free by nature
• OEKO-TEX certified rash guards and swimwear, tested and confirmed free from harmful chemicals
• Brands like Patagonia and Cotopaxi that publish their chemical policies openly
• Certified organic cotton towels and cover-ups, which skip synthetic treatments entirely

For clean drinking water at home, I like the Clearly Filtered 3-Stage Water Pitcher (Tested for PFAS). After a long beach day, the last thing you want is more PFAS coming out of the tap.

Tips to reduce PFAS exposure at the beach

A few simple habits go a long way:

• Rinse off after swimming to wash away any PFAS residue from the water
• Wash new surf gear before its first use to reduce chemical loads from manufacturing
• Stick with food-grade materials for anything touching food or skin
• Filter your drinking water at home with a reverse osmosis system, which is the most effective household method for PFAS removal
• Pack snacks in glass or stainless steel containers instead of coated plastic, especially on hot days when chemicals leach faster

For a deeper dive (pun intended), check out our guide to top PFAS free water filters and the PFAS Free Life Database.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ocean water contaminated with PFAS?

Yes, studies have detected PFAS in ocean water around the world. These forever chemicals enter the ocean through industrial discharge, wastewater treatment plants, and stormwater runoff. While concentrations vary by location, PFAS do not break down in seawater, so contamination tends to persist and accumulate over time.

Can surfing or swimming in the ocean expose you to PFAS?

It can. Direct skin contact with PFAS-contaminated ocean water is one route of exposure, and accidental ingestion of seawater is another. On top of that, many wetsuits, rash guards, and board shorts use PFAS-based DWR coatings for water resistance, adding a second exposure source during your time in the water.

How can I find PFAS-free wetsuits and surf gear?

Look for third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or bluesign, which prohibit PFAS. You can also contact brands directly to ask whether they use fluorine-free DWR treatments. The PFAS Free Life Database maintains a searchable list of verified clean products across many categories, including outdoor and water sports gear.

*Research reference: Environmental Research 2022

Taylor & Francis 2025*