The Official “10 Beach Commandments”

Summer arrives Sunday so it’s time to roll out the 18^th and revised edition of what some call “Beach Rules” or “Beach Etiquette” but is officially “The Ten Beach Commandments.”  For many of us knowing the do’s and don’ts of a day at the beach are obvious but some need a crash course or reminder about how to behave when they come to the Jersey Shore.

1. DO NOT CROWD THY NEIGHBOR. This is not Coney Island so seek space between yourself and those nearby. It’s fine to love thy neighbor but there is no reason to sit right on top of him or her.
2. DO NOT FEED THE SEAGULLS. It’s nice that you’re a bird lover but when you feed one you bring the entire colony.
3. DO LEARN HOW TO OPERATE YOUR BEACH UMBRELLA. This is especially important on a windy day.  Make sure the base is dug in well, angle the umbrella into the wind and keep it as low as possible. If it takes off like a javelin and nearly spears someone don’t put it up again.
4. DO PLAY GAMES AWAY FROM PEOPLE. Whatever it is from tossing a football to Spikeball play them away from people where there is open space.
5. DO FILL IN THE HOLES YOU DIG. For some reason when people come to the beach they have an obsession with digging, especially fathers and sons.  When you are done excavating fill in the hole so nobody falls in it. Also do not bury anyone in the hole!
6. DO NOT LEAVE ANY GARBAGE ON THE BEACH- This includes empty water bottles and yes…diapers.
7. DO NOT PLAY YOUR MUSIC FOR THE ENTIRE BEACH. Headphones or air pods are appreciated.
8. DO NOT SHAKE YOUR BLANKET OR TOWEL OUT NEAR OTHERS. It’s probably loaded with sand so go to an open area.
9. DO NOT WALK ON THE DUNES. There is a reason why there are signs everywhere that say “stay off the dunes.”10.
10. DO FOLLOW THE LIFEGUARDS DIRECTIONS. If they blow their whistle and move you there is a reason…like maybe you’re near a rip current.  While on the subject NEVER go swimming when the lifeguards are not on duty.

Follow these simple rules and enjoy your time at the beach.  More importantly, don’t ruin it for others.