BEACH ACTIVITIES THIS SUMMER

Source: https://www.getyourguide.com/magazine/2021/05/best-beach-destinations/

There are plenty of activities to do when going to the beach, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some ideas:

Swimming: One of the most popular beach activities is swimming. Swimming is a great way to cool off and have fun during the summer. Whether you're swimming in the ocean, a lake, or a pool, it's important to follow some basic safety guidelines:

1. Swim in designated areas: Make sure you're swimming in an area that is designated for swimming, and that has lifeguards on duty if possible.

2. Know your limits: Only swim as far as you feel comfortable and confident, and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents or undertow.

3. Swim with a buddy: Always swim with a friend or family member, and keep an eye on each other in case of emergencies.

4. Watch for warning signs: Be aware of any warning signs or flags posted on the beach or at the pool, such as "no swimming" or "dangerous conditions."

5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after swimming, and take breaks to rest and rehydrate as needed.

6. Wear appropriate swimwear: Choose swimwear that is comfortable and fits well, and make sure it's appropriate for the activity you're doing.

7. Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays by applying sunscreen regularly, and reapplying after swimming.

By following these safety guidelines, you can enjoy swimming and have a fun and safe time at the beach or pool.

Beach Volleyball: Volleyball is a fun and competitive game that can be played on the beach. All you need is a net and a ball, and you're ready to go. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Find a court: Look for an open area of sand that is large enough to set up a volleyball net. Many beaches have designated areas for volleyball, so check if your local beach has one.

2. Set up the net: Most beach volleyball nets come with instructions on how to set them up. Make sure the net is set at the right height (usually 7 feet 11 5/8 inches for men and 7 feet 4 1/8 inches for women).

3. Gather your players: You need at least two people to play, but four is the ideal number for a full game. Make sure everyone knows the rules of the game.

4. Warm-up: Stretch your muscles and warm up before playing to prevent injuries.

5. Serve the ball: Start the game by serving the ball over the net to the other team. The ball must clear the net and land in the opponent's court to be a legal serve.

6. Keep the ball in play: The object of the game is to keep the ball in play by hitting it over the net and into the opponent's court. Each team has three hits to get the ball over the net.

7. Score points: A team scores a point when the ball lands on the opponent's court, the opponent hits the ball out of bounds, or the opponent commits a fault.

8. Play to win: The game is typically played to 21 points, and you must win by two points.

Remember to have fun and enjoy the game, and be respectful of other beachgoers who may want to use the area.

Sandcastle building: Building a sandcastle is a classic beach activity that is fun for all ages. Get creative and see what kind of castle or sculpture you can build with the sand. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Find a good spot: Look for an area of damp sand close to the waterline. This type of sand is perfect for building because it's easier to mold and shape.

2. Gather your tools: You will need a few tools to help you build your sandcastle, such as a shovel, a bucket, and some smaller tools like a plastic knife, spoon or fork.

3. Start with a solid base: Fill your bucket with wet sand and pack it down to create a solid base for your sandcastle. Turn the bucket over and gently tap it to release the sand onto the beach.

4. Build up the castle: Use smaller tools to shape the sand into turrets, walls, and other castle features. Make sure to keep the sand moist so that it sticks together.

5. Add details: Use shells, seaweed, and other natural materials to decorate your sandcastle. You can also use food coloring or paint brushes to add color and texture to your creation.

6. Protect your castle: If you want your sandcastle to last, consider building a moat around it to prevent the tide from washing it away.

7. Have fun: Remember that building sandcastles is all about having fun, so don't worry too much about making it perfect. Enjoy the process and take plenty of photos to remember your creation.

With a little bit of creativity and some patience, you can create a beautiful and unique sandcastle that will be the envy of the beach.

Beach yoga: If you're looking for a more relaxing activity, beach yoga might be for you. Practicing yoga on the beach can be a great way to unwind and connect with nature. Here are some tips to help you get started with beach yoga:

1. Choose a quiet spot: Look for a quiet, secluded area of the beach where you can practice yoga without being disturbed by other beachgoers.

2. Bring a mat or towel: A yoga mat or towel can provide a stable and comfortable surface to practice on. If you don't have one, you can also practice directly on the sand.

3. Dress comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. It's also a good idea to bring a light sweater or jacket in case it gets cooler during your practice.

4. Bring water and sunscreen: The sun and heat can be intense on the beach, so make sure to stay hydrated and protect your skin with sunscreen.

5. Practice mindfulness: The beach is a beautiful and peaceful environment that can help you connect with your breath and stay present in the moment. Focus on your breath and the sounds of the ocean as you move through your practice.

6. Be aware of your surroundings: Remember to be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards on the beach, such as rocks, shells, or sharp objects.

7. Enjoy the experience: Beach yoga is a wonderful way to combine the benefits of yoga with the natural beauty of the beach. Take your time and enjoy the experience, and don't worry too much about being perfect in your poses.

Remember, the beach is a unique and inspiring environment that can enhance your yoga practice in many ways. With a little preparation and mindfulness, you can enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating yoga practice on the beach.

Surfing: If you're up for a challenge, surfing is a thrilling beach activity to try. You'll need a surfboard and some experience, but catching a wave can be an exhilarating experience. Surfing is a popular and exciting activity for beachgoers who love to catch waves. Here are some tips to help you get started with surfing:

1. Get the right equipment: You will need a surfboard, leash, wetsuit, and wax. Consider renting equipment if you are new to surfing to see what type of board and wetsuit work best for you.

2. Learn the basics: Before hitting the waves, learn about surfing etiquette, safety tips, and basic techniques such as paddling and standing up on the board.

3. Choose the right location: Look for a spot on the beach with waves that match your skill level, and avoid areas that are crowded or have dangerous rip currents.

4. Practice, practice, practice: Surfing takes time and practice to master, so don't get discouraged if you don't catch a wave on your first try. Keep practicing and learning from more experienced surfers.

5. Stay safe: Always wear a leash, and make sure to check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid surfing alone.

6. Respect the environment: Avoid disturbing any marine life or plant life in the ocean. Dispose of any trash or debris properly.

Remember to always prioritize safety and respect for the environment when surfing. With practice and persistence, you can enjoy the thrill of catching waves and become a skilled surfer.

Snorkeling: If you're interested in exploring the underwater world, snorkeling is a great option. You can rent snorkeling gear and explore the marine life just off the shore. Here are some tips to get started with snorkeling:

1. Get the right gear: You will need a snorkel, mask, and fins. Make sure the mask fits well and creates a tight seal around your face. The snorkel should fit comfortably in your mouth and allow you to breathe easily. Fins will help you swim more efficiently and can help prevent cramps.

2. Choose a good location: Look for clear water with lots of marine life. Many beaches have designated snorkeling areas, so ask locals or lifeguards for recommendations.

3. Practice in shallow water: Before venturing out into deeper water, practice snorkeling in shallow water to get comfortable with the equipment and technique.

4. Use the buddy system: Always snorkel with a buddy and keep an eye on each other. It's important to have someone there to help you in case of an emergency.

5. Respect marine life: Observe marine life from a distance and do not touch or disturb them. Avoid standing on coral or other fragile underwater ecosystems.

6. Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on changing water conditions, such as currents, waves, or incoming tides.

7. Stay hydrated: Snorkeling can be a physically demanding activity, so make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Remember, snorkeling is a fun and easy way to explore the underwater world and observe marine life up close. With the right equipment and a little bit of practice, you can enjoy this exciting activity on your next beach vacation.

Picnicking: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach. Bring a beach umbrella or canopy for some shade and relax with some good food and company. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect beach picnic:

1. Choose the right location: Look for a spot on the beach with a nice view and plenty of shade. Consider bringing a beach umbrella or canopy to protect you from the sun.

2. Bring the right supplies: Pack a picnic basket or cooler with plenty of food and drinks, including sandwiches, fruit, chips, and plenty of water. Don't forget to bring plates, cups, utensils, and a blanket or beach towels to sit on.

3. Keep it simple: Choose foods that are easy to transport and eat, and avoid anything that requires a lot of preparation or cooking. Finger foods and pre-made sandwiches are a great choice for a beach picnic.

4. Stay hydrated: The sun and saltwater can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure to bring plenty of water and other non-alcoholic beverages.

5. Respect the environment: Make sure to pack out all your trash and debris, and avoid disturbing any wildlife or plant life on the beach.

6. Have fun: Relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you.

Remember to always prioritize safety and respect for the environment when planning a beach picnic. With the right preparation and a little bit of creativity, you can have a fun and enjoyable day at the beach.

Beachcombing: Take a stroll along the shoreline and see what treasures you can find. You might find seashells, driftwood, or even some interesting sea creatures. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your beachcombing experience:

1. Choose the right time: The best time to go beachcombing is during low tide, when more of the beach is exposed and you have a better chance of finding treasures.

2. Bring the right equipment: You will need a bucket or bag to collect your finds, as well as gloves, a hat, and sunscreen for protection from the sun. A magnifying glass can also come in handy for examining small shells or sea glass.

3. Look for treasures: Keep your eyes peeled for interesting rocks, shells, sea glass, and other objects that have washed up on the shore. Look in areas where the waves have washed up debris, such as near tide pools or rocky outcroppings.

4. Respect the environment: Avoid disturbing any live animals or plants on the beach, and always follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out any trash or debris that you find.

5. Identify your finds: Once you've collected your treasures, take some time to identify them and learn more about the plants and animals that live along the shore. There are many field guides and online resources available to help you identify your finds.

6. Share your discoveries: Beachcombing is a great way to connect with nature and learn more about the world around us. Share your finds with friends and family, or consider donating them to a local museum or educational organization.

Remember to always respect the environment and any wildlife that you encounter while beachcombing. With a little bit of patience and curiosity, you can discover a world of treasures along the shore.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding: If you're feeling adventurous, try renting a kayak or paddleboard and exploring the water from a different perspective. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right equipment: Select a kayak or paddleboard that suits your experience level and the conditions of the water. For calm, flat water, a recreational kayak or paddleboard is usually sufficient, while more experienced paddlers may prefer a sea kayak or racing paddleboard.

2. Check the weather: Always check the weather forecast and ocean conditions before heading out. Avoid kayaking or paddleboarding in strong winds, high waves, or choppy waters.

3. Dress appropriately: Wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothing that you don't mind getting wet. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun. It's also a good idea to wear a life jacket, even if you're a strong swimmer.

4. Know your limits: Paddling can be physically demanding, so be aware of your own abilities and don't push yourself too hard. Take breaks and drink water to stay hydrated.

5. Practice proper technique: For kayaking, use a paddle with blades that are facing in opposite directions and alternate sides with each stroke. For paddleboarding, use a long paddle and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Use your core muscles to maintain balance and paddle on alternating sides.

6. Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb or harm them. Respect any protected areas or wildlife sanctuaries.

7. Have fun: Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to explore the ocean and enjoy a day on the water. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and have fun!

Remember, kayaking and paddleboarding are safe and enjoyable activities when done responsibly. With the right equipment and a little bit of practice, you can enjoy these fun water activities on your next beach vacation.

Beach Bonfire: End the day with a cozy bonfire on the beach with some s'mores and good company. A beach bonfire is a great way to enjoy a warm summer night with friends and family. Here are some tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable beach bonfire:

1. Check local regulations: Before planning a beach bonfire, check with local authorities to ensure that it's legal and permitted in the area.

2. Choose the right location: Pick a spot on the beach that's away from any vegetation or buildings and has a clear view of the ocean. Make sure that there's no debris or flammable materials nearby.

3. Gather the necessary materials: You will need firewood, matches or a lighter, and a container for the fire. Use only dry, untreated wood and avoid using any accelerants such as gasoline or lighter fluid.

4. Build the fire safely: Arrange the firewood in a pile or teepee shape, leaving space for air to circulate. Use kindling to start the fire and keep a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of an emergency.

5. Respect local wildlife: Avoid disturbing any wildlife on the beach, especially sea turtles and their nests.

6. Dispose of the ashes properly: After the fire has burned down, use water to put out any remaining embers and spread the ashes over a wide area. Make sure to clean up any remaining debris or trash.

7. Enjoy responsibly: Keep the noise level down and be considerate of other beachgoers. Don't leave the fire unattended and avoid drinking alcohol excessively.

Remember to always prioritize safety when planning a beach bonfire. With the right preparation and care, you can have a fun and memorable experience under the stars.

Lastly, remember to always stay safe and be aware of any potential hazards on the beach, such as strong currents, high waves, or sharp objects. Stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat. With the right preparation and a little bit of creativity, you can have a fun and enjoyable day at the beach.