Finding that idyllic unspoiled corner of the UK coast is a goal for many of us. The dream? The chance to lie on a secluded beach, bathed in sunshine – alone.
For some of us, the peace and quiet of the quieter parts of the coast is what we’re really looking for when we head to the beach – away from the crowds and the relentless noise of thousands of people enjoying themselves.
It’s not that those in search of quiet begrudge people their fun but the sound of waves crashing against the shore is what’s craved rather than the screams and shouts of those overcome with excitement.
Some people’s idea of the ‘perfect beach day’ is to find a secluded, remote coastal spot but, while the lack of crowds can be a big draw, the cost of that is a lack of access to help if needed.
So … secret beaches, rock pools and miles of sand as far as the eye can see, with not a multi-coloured umbrella in sight. No awkward tripping around the carpet of towels or apologising for standing on a sandcastle.
Just you, the sand and the waves. The pictures of white sand and blue sparkling sea that summer supplements are filled with as they reveal the Top Ten Best Hidden Beaches in the UK… Idyllic right?
Well, yes, up to a point they are. And like you, we love the coastline around the UK and we want everyone to see it and share it.
But we want you to make memories to last a lifetime, not a day you’d rather forget. And while these incredible beaches might look like hidden gems, they also have hidden dangers. We don’t want to stop anyone from having a great day out at a quieter beach but the word ‘remote’ has its downsides as well as its benefits.
Remote means it may not be lifeguarded. Remote means you may not get a phone signal. Remote means just that – remote. The downside of being alone means there is no one to help if something goes wrong.
We don’t want to be the killjoys but equally we’d really like you to think carefully about where you spend your beach days. How will you make a phone call if you get into trouble? Is going into the sea where you don’t know the currents or the conditions worth the risk with no lifeguards in sight?
This Maritime Safety Week, it is worth highlighting these dangers to ensure that you can take the necessary safety precautions and return home safely from your day at the beach.
Nobody sets out to get into trouble. Nobody sets out with the plan of needing the Coastguard to come to their rescue. Nobody thinks it will happen to them.
But it usually happens to somebody and that somebody could be you.
So, if you decide that a remote location really is for you, please take note of the following safety advice:
- Make sure that you check weather and tides before you set out.
- Be aware of the threat of rip currents.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Do not engage in cliff jumping.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you are likely to be back.
- Get your hands on a Personal Locator Beacon, to be able to raise the alarm with emergency services if something goes wrong. Remember, you may not have good phone signal.
- Cliff safety is important. Stay well back from cliff edges, which can be unstable and likely to crumble. Similarly, remain well back from the base of cliffs, to avoid being hit by falling debris.
- Finally, if you are able, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.