Shore safety at low tide

Low tide opens up the shore for a few hours, then takes it back. These points come from the National Weather Service and the National Park Service, quoted where the wording matters.

Sneaker waves

The National Weather Service describes sneaker waves as "potentially deadly waves that surge further up the beach than expected, overtaking the unaware". Its advice:

• "Arrive knowing the local weather, surf, and tide forecasts."
• "Look to see if there are statements regarding sneaker waves or other beach hazards."
• Do what experienced surfers and lifeguards do: "watch the ocean for at least 20 minutes", and get a feel for the pattern of the waves first.
• "Stay farther back from the ocean than you think is necessary."
• "Never turn your back on the ocean."
• "Stay off and well clear of large logs and debris fields that are anywhere near the surfline or below the high water marks."

The tide comes back

• Acadia National Park: "It is best to start tidepooling before low tide and to leave as the tide is rising", and "always be conscious of ocean waves and surf and know when it's time to return to the safety of dry land."
• Know your way back before you go out: sandbars, points and the far side of rocks can be cut off as the water rises. This is why Only Shores ends its window an hour after the low.
• NOAA: wind and weather can shift tide times "by an hour or more". Treat every time on this site as a prediction.

Footing

• Acadia National Park: "Step carefully and slowly. Wear closed-toed sturdy outdoor shoes." "Black rocks and seaweed are especially slippery, and shells are hard and jagged."
• "Small children should stay within arm's reach of adults."

Leave it as you found it

• "Never use force to remove anything. Replace animals where you find them." (Acadia National Park)
• "Do not wade into the tidepools. Stay on the rocks." "Be mindful of where you place your feet."
• Wash off sunscreen, hand sanitizer and bug spray before you explore.
• Collecting rules differ from place to place, and many parks prohibit it. Check the rules of the beach or park you visit.

Only Shores gives predicted times, not safety clearance. Local signs, lifeguards, park staff and National Weather Service beach hazard statements come first.

Sources

• National Weather Service, "Sneaker Waves": weather.gov/safety/sneaker-waves
• National Park Service, Acadia National Park, "Tidepooling": nps.gov/acad/planyourvisit/tidepooling.htm
• NOAA CO-OPS, Frequently Asked Questions: tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/faq.html