No. 42 Go swimming in the sea

Children swimming in the sea at Soar Mill Cove in Devon | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

Swimming in the sea is a brilliant experience. You'll need to be careful of strong waves, currents and tides. But it's fun you'll never forget. Follow our tips to help you have the best time.

Choose your beach

We have lots of coastline in the UK and there are many wonderful places to go for a swim. Many UK beaches have been given Blue Flag awards for the cleanliness of their water and other facilities like lifeguards and whether drinking water is available.

Before you go, think about the tide times and currents at the beach. Some beaches aren't suitable for swimming because currents like rip tides can easily catch swimmers and drag them out to sea. If you go to one of the beaches in our care, speak to a staff member who might be able to advise you on whether swimming is a good idea that day.

A graphic showing gentle waves on a flat beach and plunging waves on a steep beach — Gentle waves on a flat beach and plunging waves on a steep beach | © National Trust Images

It also helps to choose a flat, shallow beach with a gradual slope, as you can expect the waves to be gentle. A beach that drops away steeply into the sea means you might get out of your depth suddenly and also that the waves are more likely to crash down on you.

A lot of beaches have lifeguards to keep an eye on swimmers in the sea. If they do, you'll probably spot handy flags which show you where it's safest to swim.

Child jumping into the sea at Birling Gap, Sussex — Child jumping into the sea at Birling Gap | © National Trust Images/Hannah Slater

Choose your time of year

The sea tends to be fairly cold all year round in the UK, but you'll find the waves warmer between July and September. If you're lucky enough to go on a beach holiday abroad, you could also tick this challenge off then – any sea counts.

If you are going to swim in the UK, then it's wise to have a wetsuit, especially in the colder months.

Choose your time of day

Swimming at sunrise or sunset is a special experience. Tread water for a little while if you can, so you can watch the sun glinting off the ripples of the water. Feel the sea gliding through your fingers and toes as you swim. Drink in the moment and make sure you have some fun splashing too.

Whatever time you plan to swim, be aware of the tides and whether it's likely to be a high tide when you're at the beach.

It's always best to swim with an adult and preferably on a beach with lifeguards too.