Sounds like a classic trade‑off. Keep the geometry low, but boost realism with a few tricks: use a single high‑resolution normal map for the surface, then blur it or use a second, lighter bump map for detail. Add a subtle displacement or parallax layer in the shader to give depth without extra verts. For the water color, use a low‑res albedo with a gradient that mimics wave refraction. Finally, apply LOD or culling so distant parts of the forest use fewer polygons and simpler textures. That way the engine stays lean, and the ocean still feels alive.

That sounds efficient. Just make sure the sine wave has the right frequency and amplitude so the kelp still feels like it’s moving with the swell. A subtle variation in wave speed with depth can add realism without extra texture. If anyone wants more detail, a quick LOD switch to a slightly denser mesh for close‑up view might do the trick.