While water is one of the earth's most abundant resources, aquatic sports and activities can lead to environmental damage if you're not careful. A fun weekend doesn't have to leave collateral damage on the ecosystem. The following recreational ideas are exciting and eco-friendly.

Swimming 

You don't need anything more than your bathing suit to have fun in the water. Swimming is excellent exercise and doesn't consume natural resources. When playing in natural water sources, avoid sunscreen and bug repellent that could harm the ecosystem. Find DEET-free insect repellent and sun block without oxybenzone and octinoxate.

Snorkeling and scuba diving put you in closer contact with the wonders of the sea, so pay extra attention to avoid topicals and swimming gear that leave nasty chemicals behind. Arrive at your diving site in a rowboat or sailboat to limit environmental impact.

Swimming is a perfect activity at home when you have a pool. Not all systems are created equal since poorly installed and maintained pools lead to excess water use, energy consumption, and chemical leaching. The top swimming pool contractors Pensacola ensure your pool stays clean and safe by offering smart monitoring features to resolve issues before they cause expensive or dangerous problems. Experts also provide maintenance services and tips so you don't waste water or use harmful chemicals during pool care.

Paddle Boarding and Kayaking

As long as you don't disturb the ocean creatures or their habitat, paddling allows you to explore the aquatic wildlife. Gently use your paddle and avoid picking up coral or algae. Bring any trash back to shore for proper disposal and never toss garbage into the sea.

Sailing

A sailboat allows you to indulge more in nature than motorboats. The wind propels you, or use oars when the breezes aren't going your way. Sailing requires an experienced hand to remain safe, so acquire sufficient training before heading on the open sea or rely on a guide or knowledgeable friend.

Surfing

Surfers love the environment, and the sustainable surfing movement is building momentum as members look for ways to avoid harming the earth. On its face, surfing seems to have no environmental dangers. However, traveling long distances with equipment increases your carbon footprint, so consider road transportation options like a hybrid vehicle and sharing rides to lower your impact.

The manufacture of boards may not be done in an eco-conscious manner. Purchase quality used equipment when you can and maintain your surfboard to prolong its life and minimize waste. Once you're catching waves, respect the ocean by not taking anything you shouldn't or leaving behind something that doesn't belong.

Jet Skiing

Since a jet ski is a motorized vehicle that consumes fuels and puts off exhaust, you may wonder how it can be a green option. One way is to ensure your jet ski is properly maintained so you don't create excessive exhaust or spill fluids. Smaller vehicles leave a minimal carbon footprint and are more efficient. The best solution is to purchase an electric jet ski with no emissions or fuel consumption. A full charge can last you from 45 minutes to an hour of ride time.

Parasailing

Parasailing is an exciting way to enjoy the water from a bird's-eye view. You're pulled by a boat, but your parasail adds no further energy consumption, making the activity less impactful than riding in a plane or helicopter. Research which parasailing tours focus on environmentally friendly rides.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

You can mix the preceding ideas to amp up the fun. Windsurfing brings surfing and sailing together on any windy waterway. The sport is an intense exercise that requires a strong core, so take lessons to prevent injury.

Combine the airborne exhilaration of parasailing with the thrill of surfing for the ultimate in eco-friendly water sport with kitesurfing. You also need instruction for this pursuit, so patiently build up your skill. Once you become an advanced kitesurfer, you can show off with impressive tricks and mind blowing speeds.

You don't have to wreck the environment while enjoying water activities. Consider these ideas to have guilt-free fun on your next aquatic outing.