52 of 58

Beach

Write now Article Tools

I am fortunate to live very near a beach, and much prefer it to mountains. It is a two minute walk to the beach, and over a hundred miles to the nearest mountains, so admittedy I have more experience of beaches.

Beaches are always easy to get to, and do not require hours of walking when you get there. All you have to do is find the spot you want, and throw down a towel.

I love the many moods of the sea. When it is tranquil and peaceful,it is wonderful to sit on the beach, listen to the gentle splish - splashing as the sea breaks gently over the pebbles, and let your mind drift wherever it will. After a stressful day it is a huge relief to just sit, and soak up the peace.

On stormy days, the air is full of ozone, it makes me feel alive, and buzzing with energy. Waves crash upon the pebbles, and break spectacularly over the old wooden groynes, as the wind whips surf into a frothing mass before depositing it on the shore. Then after it is over, you can walk for miles along the sand and pebbles, picking up whatever the sea has delivered. Metal detectors are usually out in force after a storm, and find all sorts of interesting items, sometimes jewelery, or coins, bits that have washed away from other beaches, and the not so interesting old tin cans.

At low tide, children play in rock pools, searching for star fish and crabs, or make sandcastles.Quite often they bury their father in the sand, and all you can see is a disembodied head, either laughing or asleep. There is always something to do.

At night time, the multi-coloured lights of the sea-front illuminate the top area, and people often sit around with groups of friends, or their families, having a drink
or just watching the world go by. If they get bored, they go on the pier to play the machines, dance in the club, have a drink in the bar, or something to eat. In the darker areas, lovers play their own games. When the moon is full, the sea is spectacular. It shimmers like a sheet of liquid silver, and the darkness between the moon and its reflection feels like the gateway to another world.

On a hot day, there is nothing better than lying in the rays of the sun in a bikini, book in one hand, and cold drink in the other. If it gets too hot, you can go in the sea, or move into the shade. If you want company there are plenty of people who are happy to chat. And when you have had enough, it is a short walk to the road, then you can either drive away, or explore whatever town or village is nearest.

If you are unlucky enough to need first aid, there is usually a first aid post on most beaches. I don't imagine you get many on the way up a mountain.

Everyone can enjoy the beach, from the newest baby to the oldest pensioner, and for those who like their comfort there are deck chairs.

In short, the beach has plenty to see and do for everyone, without the need for special clothing, emergency kits, or maps. All you have to do is go there, and enjoy it.

Learn more about this author, Gill Hamper.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Which is a better summer vacation spot: The beach or the mountains? ?
We want to hear your view. Write now!