Heading to the beach alone can be a relaxing and rewarding experience. Without the company of others, you're free to unwind, explore, and take in the beauty of the ocean at your own pace. However, it does come with unique challenges—what to do with your valuables, how to stay safe, and, perhaps the most common dilemma, applying sunscreen to those hard-to-reach spots.
This guide will walk you through practical tips and advice for managing your belongings, ensuring your safety, and making the most out of your solo beach trip. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or the best solo beach vacations of the year, these tips will help you feel prepared and confident.
What to Do with Your Stuff
When you’re alone at the beach, keeping your belongings safe can be tricky. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to ensure your day by the water is worry-free:
1. Use a Waterproof Bag with a Lanyard
Bring a small waterproof bag that floats and fits your essentials. These bags usually have lanyards for easy carrying and are perfect for storing keys, cash, and even your phone. For underwater photography enthusiasts, pair this with a waterproof case for your smartphone.
2. Leave Valuables Behind
If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, consider leaving your valuables at the front desk or in a secure locker. This ensures you don’t have to worry about them while enjoying your time on the beach.
3. Disguise Your Stuff as Trash
Here’s an ingenious tip—tuck your small valuable items (like keys or money) into a clean, empty chip bag or another disposable-looking container, and top it with paper scraps or a banana peel. Most opportunistic thieves won’t think twice about “trash.”
4. Rent a Chair and Umbrella
Aside from providing shade and comfort, some beaches have rental services where staff keep an eye on your belongings while you swim. It’s also a chance to make connections with fellow beachgoers.
5. Befriend a Nearby Family
Families often settle on the beach for the day and bring a lot of stuff. Politely introduce yourself and strike up a conversation. Many parents will appreciate extra adult company and may watch your things while you take a quick swim.
6. Travel Light
If you can, skip bringing valuables altogether. Pack just the essentials—towel, sunscreen, water, and maybe a book. If you’re truly concerned, try pinning your hotel key to your swimsuit or hiding it in a quirky spot, like inside your sunglasses case.
7. Hidden Compartments
Get creative with storage. Empty sunscreen bottles or hollowed-out personal care items can double as secret compartments for stashing cash, cards, or keys. Just make sure they’re waterproof and securely closed.
8. Consider the Beach Location
Arrive early to snag a spot near the water, where you can keep an eye on your belongings while you swim. And if you’re feeling adventurous? A secluded or nude beach may simplify things—no belongings needed!
Sunscreen and Safety Tips for Solo Beach Days
Sunburn and dehydration can quickly turn a blissful day at the beach into a painful memory. Here’s how to stay protected and comfortable:
1. Use Spray-On Sunscreen
Spray-on sunscreen makes it easy to apply coverage to hard-to-reach spots like your back. Look for one with broad-spectrum protection and a high SPF to shield your skin from UV rays.
2. Bring an Umbrella
An essential for solo beach trips , an umbrella provides much-needed shade and keeps those hard-to-cover spots from overexposure to the sun. Bonus? It keeps your things cool too.
3. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated while basking in the sun. Always carry plenty of water and sip regularly, especially after a swim.
4. Swim Where It’s Safe
Stick to designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty. Riptides and jellyfish are just a couple of risks that may not be obvious to newcomers. When in doubt, ask locals about any hazards.
5. Avoid Gimmicky Distractions
Watch out for frisbees or soccer balls conveniently “landing” near you—sometimes they're just an excuse to start a conversation. Keep trust-building on your own terms.
More Ideas for Enjoying Your Solo Beach Vacation
The beach isn’t just about swimming—it can be a fulfilling adventure, even on your own. Here are more activities for when you’re alone at beach:
1. People-Watch
Bring a pair of dark sunglasses and a book or magazine. Relax in your chair, but don’t miss the chance to observe the lively scenes around you (on the sly, of course!).
2. Plan an Activity
Pack some snorkel gear or plan to join a group outing, like kayaking or paddleboarding. Engaging in an activity can make your beach day more exciting and even help you meet like-minded people.
3. Take a Walk
Walking on sand requires more effort and burns more calories than walking on solid ground. Take a long stroll along the beach—it’s a great way to soak in the scenery while sneaking in cardio.
4. Bring Snacks
Skip the pricey boardwalk vendors and pack your own snacks. Fresh fruit, nuts, and sandwiches are perfect options to keep you fueled throughout the day.
5. Document Your Day
Take a moment to pen a postcard or jot down your thoughts in a travel journal. It’s a great way to reflect on your experiences and savor the peaceful moments.
6. Listen and Unwind
If it’s a quiet beach, enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves. On busier beaches, eavesdrop on the cheery banter or lively chatter of fellow beachgoers.
7. Enjoy the View
Whether it’s sunrise, sunset, or a midday horizon, the beach offers captivating views that remind you to pause and appreciate the moment.
The Takeaway
Going to the beach alone is an excellent way to relax, explore, and enjoy some much-needed “me time.” With a little preparation, you can swim, sunbathe, people-watch, and fully appreciate the joys of solo travel beach days without any stress.
Remember, solo beach trips are as much about the experience as they are about freedom. Take these tips with you to make your next solo beach vacation the best one yet.
Looking for more solo travel inspiration? Stay connected with us for expert tips on how to make every adventure unforgettable!
Want to enjoy a solo travel? Here's everything you know about it: The Best Countries for First Solo Travel for Women
