The stated principal objective of the Society is to promote for the benefit of the public, the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge and understanding of coral reefs, both living and fossil. To achieve its objectives the Society holds annual meetings and co-sponsors other gatherings, prints and distributes the journal Coral Reefs and the newsletter Reef Encounter, and raises funds and receives contributions by way of subscriptions and donations.
The site contains a news and events section, online newsletter, a number of links to reef conservation organisations and some scientific documents.