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Place-based research (PBR) allows for genuine engagement with the deep-rooted dynamics of complex social-ecological systems. Ideally, PBR centres reciprocal relationships with communities to co-produce research grounded in transdisciplinary, participatory, and solution-oriented approaches. Yet, for early career researchers (ECRs), the ethical, relational, and cultural dimensions of PBR can be difficult to navigate, especially when research takes place in social, cultural, or ecological contexts that differ meaningfully from one’s own. While critiques of “parachute science” are widely acknowledged, academic training often falls short in preparing ECRs for the relational and ethical realities of transdisciplinary and context-specific research. Accordingly, in this commentary we offer practical strategies and shared perspectives for conducting ethical, relational PBR by: (a) drawing on experiences, tensions, and lessons from PBR; (b) building on conceptual debates about ethics, positionality, and relational reflexivity; and (c) translating experiences and lessons into actionable practice. Further, we outline tools we piloted to promote reflexive capacity (e.g., booklet, reflexive archetypes) needed for PBR. We present these practical insights as contributions to help ECRs navigate the deep dynamics rooted in marine and coastal social-ecological systems research to support meaningful, inclusive, and actionable ocean sustainability.