Dear Jacquelyn,

Now that it is summer, can you please share your thoughts about some best practices for making sure everyone has an enjoyable time at the beach.

Dear Reader,

If your summer plans include plenty of sunshine and waves, there are a few beach etiquette courtesies to pack along with your sunscreen.

Of course, paramount during the continuing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is to observe the protocols promulgated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the department of health and municipality in which the beach is located.

Sharing the sandy shores with hundreds of strangers can get sticky if you forget how to behave in crowds. We all should be courteous and smart when it comes to relaxing on the beach this summer.

Here are some tips on how to have fun at the beach without being rude.

For starters, take the time to read posted rules. If the sign says no grilling or has limitations on where you can swim, heed the warning. You put yourself and others at risk by ignoring the warning signs.

This summer especially, it is important to maintain some sand distance between you and your fellow beach-goers. There really is no need to plop your chair down inches away from someone’s towel. Respect personal space.

Be mindful of the direction of the wind, and where the sand will end up.

Always shake out your towel downwind, away from your neighbors. There is nothing worse than taking a bite out of your snack and ingesting a mouthful of sand. Suntan oil is also a magnet for gritty sand from a neighbor’s towel and an accidental burst is nothing short of annoying.

Many people prefer to relax and read a book at the beach. If you prefer to listen to music, remember, not everyone has the same taste as you do.

You might think your music is free entertainment for those around you but everyone has his or her favorite genre. Be courteous and keep your music at a reasonable volume or use headphones.

While we’re talking about noise levels, when you are having a great time with your friends, keep your language G-rated. Moms and dads on a family vacation would appreciate your discretion when it comes to your vocabulary.

Before you call it a day, clean up your area. Most beaches have trash cans located near entrances and exits. Gather empty bottles and lunch leftovers sitting around in the sand and dispose of your trash. It’s not only inconsiderate to leave garbage behind, but it can also be dangerous for wildlife.

There are few things that spending a day at the beach won’t cure. It’s one of the most relaxing places in the world. The only thing that can possibly ruin the experience is someone who doesn’t practice proper beach etiquette.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2020 Jacquelyn Youst