Last Updated on June 25, 2024 by Kat Marie
Year after year, going to the beach with my family is such a fun and relaxing experience, but it’s important to remember these are the top 8 beach vacation mistakes to avoid at the beach!
I’ve seen some things done that I have to shake my head and hope that next time they will make better decisions.
These things can not only be dangerous to you, but also to other beachgoers and the environment. In this article, we’ll go over some things to NOT do at the beach.
Table of Contents
Leave trash behind at the beach
One of the most important things to remember when you’re at the beach is to not leave any trash behind. Always bring a bag or container to dispose of your trash properly. Leaving trash behind can harm marine life and disrupt the natural beauty of the beach.
Many marine animals mistake trash for food or become entangled in it, leading to injury or death. By removing your trash, you are reducing the risk of harm to these creatures and preserving their natural habitat.
Keeping the beach clean ensures an enjoyable experience for everyone. Nobody wants to step on litter or see a polluted shoreline. Taking responsibility for your trash demonstrates respect for the environment and the people who visit the beach.
Picking up your trash sets a positive example for others, encouraging them to do the same and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
By taking a small action like picking up your trash, you can make a big difference in maintaining the beauty and health of our beaches for present and future generations to enjoy.
Pick up after your animal
Picking up after our dogs at the beach is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the beach environment, ensuring that it remains a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. Do you want to be relaxing at the beach, breathing in the fresh air and then you smell a wiff of dog poop? Gross!
Dog waste contains harmful bacteria and parasites that can pollute the water and soil, posing health risks to other beachgoers and marine life.
By promptly picking up after our dogs, we minimize the chances of contamination and prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, leaving dog waste behind can negatively impact the overall aesthetic and ambiance of the beach, detracting from its natural beauty.
It is our responsibility as pet owners to respect and preserve the environment by properly disposing of dog waste, helping to create a clean and welcoming beach experience for all.
Ignore warning signs
These signs are put in place by authorities to communicate potential hazards and risks specific to the beach environment. Ignoring or disregarding these warnings can lead to dangerous situations, such as strong currents, hazardous tides, or hidden underwater obstacles.
During the summer, the lifeguards fly flags at the beach so you will always know the current situation is with the ocean.
By paying attention to and following the guidance provided by the warning signs, beachgoers can make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and others. It is crucial to remember that the ocean can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly.
Respecting and heeding the warning signs ensures a safer and more enjoyable beach experience for everyone involved.
Disturb Wildlife
It is important to leave the wildlife alone at the beach to maintain the delicate balance of the coastal ecosystem and ensure the well-being of the animals that call it home.
Beaches are unique habitats that support a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, marine mammals, and various marine organisms. Interfering with these creatures can disrupt their natural behaviors, breeding cycles, and feeding patterns, ultimately impacting their population and overall health.
Some wildlife may become stressed or agitated when approached by humans, potentially leading to defensive behaviors that can be harmful to both humans and the animals themselves.
By observing from a distance and respecting their space, we can help protect and preserve coastal wildlife, allowing them to thrive undisturbed in their natural environment.
Stay on the Trails
As beautiful the sand dunes are, don’t get off the trail and do urban exploring yourself. Straying off the designated trails can trample vegetation, disrupt nesting sites, and disturb wildlife, ultimately causing harm to the fragile ecosystem.
Staying on the trails promotes visitor safety too. Beaches can have unpredictable terrain, including steep cliffs, unstable sand dunes, or hidden hazards.
Following the designated paths ensures that visitors avoid potential dangers and reduces the risk of accidents or injuries. Lastly, staying on the trails allows everyone to enjoy the beach experience while minimizing their impact on the environment, ensuring that these beautiful natural areas can be preserved and enjoyed by future generations.
Related beach content:
- The Best Beach Day Checklist
- 9 Best Beaches Near Me: A Virginia Beach Native Guide
- Best Surf Lessons In Virginia Beach
- Fun Facts About Virginia Beach
- Best Sunglasses For The Beach
Leave Children Unsupervised
If you’re at the beach with children, it’s important to supervise them at all times. The beach can present various hazards, including strong currents, unpredictable waves, and potentially dangerous marine life.
Without proper supervision, children may not be aware of these risks or have the skills to navigate them safely.
Kids can easily get lost or separated from their group in the vast expanse of the beach. Supervision is essential to keep a watchful eye on children, ensuring they stay within safe boundaries and providing immediate assistance if needed.
By being present and attentive, adults can help prevent accidents, provide guidance on water safety, and ensure a fun and enjoyable beach experience for everyone involved..
Use Glass Containers
Using glass containers at the beach is dangerous for a couple of reasons. First, broken glass can cause injuries to you or other beachgoers. Second, glass can also harm marine life if it’s left behind or broken in the water.
Use reusable plastic instead and don’t forget to pick up after youself too!
Ignore Sun Protection
The sun can be intense at the beach, and it’s important to protect your skin from its harmful rays. Make sure you wear sunscreen and reapply it every few hours, wear a hat, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen acts as a barrier, shielding our skin from these damaging rays. It helps to prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin damage caused by UV radiation.
Sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) provides added protection against both UVA and UVB rays. By applying and regularly reapplying sunscreen, we can enjoy our time at the beach while safeguarding our skin and promoting long-term skin health.
Check out my article of my favorite sunscreens!
Children are extremely susceptible to sunburns so if possible, set an alarm to make sure time doesn’t get away from you!
Play Music Too Loudly
While it’s great to have fun at the beach, it’s important to be considerate of others. The beach is often a place where people go to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Playing loud music can disrupt the tranquility and disturb those who are seeking a quiet escape.
Excessive noise can be a nuisance to nearby beachgoers and residents, especially if they are trying to have conversations or enjoy the sounds of the ocean.
By keeping the volume down or using headphones, we can all contribute to a more harmonious atmosphere and ensure that everyone can fully enjoy their time at the beach
Don’t dig large holes in the sand
Digging deep holes can pose a significant risk, especially for children and unsuspecting individuals. These holes can collapse unexpectedly, trapping and suffocating anyone inside.
Deep holes may be difficult to spot, increasing the chances of accidents or falls for others walking or running on the beach. By refraining from digging deep holes or promptly filling them back in, we help ensure the safety of everyone enjoying the beach.
It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of ourselves and others, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all beachgoers.
Every year here in Virginia Beach, there is always one or two instances of the hole collapsing on people and even causing death! Don’t be one of these people, PLEASE!
Final splash
There are some things you should not do at the beach to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and the protection of the environment. By being aware of these things and following beach rules and guidelines, you can have a fun and enjoyable time at the beach while also being respectful to the natural habitat around you.
#teamocean
Welcome! I’m Kat Marie, founder of Beach Kids Club! Virginia Beach, VA is my hometown and I love where I live! My connection to the beach is more than just a geographical one; it’s a profound passion. Whether I’m catching waves, enjoying long walks by the oceanfront, or simply enjoying the sun, I find so much happiness at the beach. Virginia Beach is more than just a location; it’s a way of life, and I’m here to share my hometown experiences and love for the beach with all of you!