Before Moana Lands on Disney+, Disney Is Backing a Santa Monica Beach Cleanup

Disney is tying the Disney+ launch of its live-action Moana to a real-world ocean effort in Southern California. Ahead of the film's streaming debut, the company is sponsoring a Santa Monica Beach cleanup with performances, giveaways and volunteer perks.

The new piece of the rollout is a partnership with the nonprofit Heal the Bay for a cleanup at Santa Monica Beach on October 17. The event is called Nothin' but Sand, and it starts at 10 a.m. at Tower 20.

For Disney fans nearby, the event adds more than just beach work. The cleanup is set to include a performance from Moana choreographer and associate producer Tiana Nonosina Liufau, associate choreographer Kayla Faʻamaligi, and members of the Nonosina dance troupe. Disney is also planning Moana-themed giveaways, treats and a Moana tote bag for the first 300 volunteers.

Cleanup supplies will be available on site, though attendees are encouraged to bring their own if supplies run low. Volunteers are also advised to bring a reusable water bottle, sun protection and comfortable closed-toe shoes.

The event supports Heal the Bay, which has worked since 1985 to protect watersheds in the Los Angeles area through science, education and advocacy.

The timing connects directly to Disney's next streaming release. Live-action Moana is scheduled to arrive on Disney+ on October 21, so the beach cleanup comes four days earlier for anyone who wants to mark the release with an ocean-focused volunteer event.