There was a lot of activity at the beach this summer. We had big crowds, shark attacks, swimmer rescues, storms, turtles, fishing, weddings, and bonfires just like always. The beach is probably the main attraction here, so when tourists come, they are going to the beach and get in the water no matter what the conditions or rules. I understand that sentiment, but it does cause problems.

My grandson, Riley Sebby. has been here every summer of his life, even through college. For the last several years, he has taught surfing and helped run a beach chair and water sports business. We look forward to his stories each night at dinner because every day is different on the water. Even though he is not a lifeguard, he keeps his eye open for people in trouble and many times has had to pull someone out of the water.

The flag system is in place, but many don’t know what the flags mean or pay attention to them. A green one means all is fine. A yellow flag means it is a little rough, but most people can handle it. A red flag warns people of dangerous conditions and indicates you shouldn’t go deeper than your knees. A double red flag says you cannot enter the water at all and you will be fined heavily if you are caught. Usually double reds are when high waves or “rip tides” are present and can pull the unwary swimmer out deep without warning.

A purple flag means that there are “water pests” around. This can mean things as small as jellyfish or as big as a manatee. Sharks are in the category as well. Usually, they stay pretty far away from the beach, but when they are chasing food, they can come in close.

My grandson sees these when he surfs beyond the sandbar, and sometimes closer. Once this summer he was on a paddleboard and was surrounded by 11 manatees! He avoids the sharks and tries to calm beach goers down if they see one. The last thing you should do, he says, is to panic and start splashing towards shore, making them think you are a fish trying to get away.

I find the beach can be a calming influence, with gentle waves, and the laughs of children having a good time, just relaxing with a book, a drink, and good friends. It is a reminder that all of this was here thousands of years before now and it will be here thousands of years after we are gone. It sort of puts your life into perspective.