10 Beach Safety Tips for Your Summer Vacation

1. Use High-SPF Sunscreen and Reapply Often

Sunburn is one of the most common vacation mishaps. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using about one ounce of sunscreen per full-body application. Sunburns can lead to heat exhaustion and increase the risk of skin cancer, so prevention is key.

2. Protect Your Feet from Hidden Hazards

Beach terrain can vary widely. Sharp shells, broken glass, coral, and tide pools can cause cuts and scrapes. Reef shoes or water sandals offer protection and comfort, especially for children and older adults. For rocky coastlines or coral beaches, check local beach guides like Beachapedia for terrain details before packing.

3. Practice Safe Swimming Habits

Swimming in the ocean is exhilarating but it requires caution. Flotation devices are not a substitute for swimming skills. Make sure everyone in your group knows how to swim and understands basic water safety. The Red Cross offers water safety tips and swimming courses that can help prepare travelers for open water conditions.

4. Confirm Lifeguard Presence Before You Go

Not all beaches have lifeguards on duty. Before booking your trip, research whether your destination includes lifeguard services. Lifeguards are trained to monitor water conditions, warn about riptides, and respond to emergencies like jellyfish stings or swimmer distress.

5. Monitor Weather Conditions Closely

Weather can change quickly near the coast. Check local forecasts for high surf advisories, thunderstorms, or hurricane warnings. The National Weather Service provides real-time updates on surf conditions, UV index, and rip current risks. Storm runoff can contaminate beach water, making it unsafe for swimming. Travel protection plans may help if your trip is disrupted by severe weather.

6. Prepare for Medical Emergencies

While rare, incidents like jellyfish stings or stingray injuries do happen. Stay informed about local marine wildlife and ask lifeguards or locals about current conditions. Purple or blue flags often indicate dangerous marine life. If stung, seek medical attention immediately. All Our  Travel Protection plans may offer help with reimbursement for emergency medical care or evacuation if needed.

Learn more about Emergency Medical Assistance

7. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Alcohol

Dehydration is a serious risk during long beach days. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, which can impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents. The CDC recommends drinking water regularly throughout the day, especially in hot environments. Keeping hydrated helps maintain energy levels and reduces the chance of heat-related illnesses.

8. Be Cautious Around Cliffs and Rocks

Many scenic beaches feature cliffs and rocky outcrops. These areas can be dangerous due to falling rocks or unstable footing. Avoid standing directly below cliffs and supervise children closely. Lifeguards warn that even small rocks can cause serious injury when falling from height. Check local beach advisories for cliff safety updates before visiting.

9. Respect Marine Wildlife

Seeing sea turtles or dolphins in the wild is a magical experience, but it’s important to keep your distance. Touching or disturbing wildlife can be harmful to both the animal and the observer. Look for purple or blue flags indicating dangerous marine life, and seek help immediately if stung. The NOAA offer best practices for safe and respectful wildlife encounters.

10. Learn to Spot and Escape Riptides

Riptides are powerful currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. Learn how to identify them—often seen as a channel of churning, darker water—and teach your group how to escape by swimming parallel to the shore. The N.O.S. (National Ocean Service) provides educational videos and safety tips to help travelers recognize and respond to rip currents.

Why Travel Protection Matters

Even with careful planning, unexpected events can disrupt your beach vacation. Travel protection plans from Generali Global Assistance offer coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, weather-related disruptions, and more. Whether you're traveling with family or solo, purchasing a plan helps provide peace of mind.

10231502510