What do you do on a beach vacation? Well, most of us would instantly think of swimming in the ocean and sunbathing. But what if neither of those things were possible? It is obvious that not all beaches in the world are sun-kissed palm tree-lined idylls. What is less obvious to many is that those beaches located in much colder climates (or at colder times of year) can still be popular vacation spots. Indeed, you don’t need the sun for every vacation – and you do not need it for every trip to the beach, either.
Of course, it depends very much on what type of beach you are going to. Some beaches, it is true, are only popular when the sun’s out. Such beaches can become rather dreary and unpleasant places when they don’t have the weather to match. However, many more beaches are actually stunning in the colder months – or they are beautiful precisely because the natural climate and scenery is that of a colder place.
Think of a rocky, white-sanded beach facing out on the Atlantic in October. It is easy to see how this can be idyllic, bracing, refreshing and, well, beautiful. There are many more examples of great winter beaches too, many of which have holiday properties nearby for vacation makers who are specifically interested in this type of experience.
So, it is obvious that many beaches look great in the cold and are popular for that, too. However, what can you actually do there when swimming and sunbathing are off the cards?
What Type of Vacations Involve Cold Beaches?
Cold beaches can be particularly popular if the coastal town holds many different attractions besides that of the beach alone. A great one with lots to do is just that, and it doesn’t matter if there’s an unseasonable beach nearby.
Such beaches can also be popular for those who like to camp. A flat beach with perhaps a little wind cover from a natural harbor can be a great place to camp in any season. You will often see the big SUVs with their equipment affixed to the roof with tie down straps and a tent set up nearby. There is lots of space in such areas and they can be a real experience to drive on. Moreover, they can simply be a great place to wake up in.
Many coastal regions also offer outstanding natural beauty that is inseparable from their cold climate. From stunning rock formations to vast chilly expanses of sand, many cold beaches have an appeal for their beauty alone.
Cold Beach Vacation Tips
So, if you find yourself interested in checking out a cold beach, here are some tips to make the experience one to remember:
Fly a Kite
An exposed beach in winter weather is likely to be pretty windy. This can often be one of the most refreshing, appealing things about such a beach. It is a good idea then to do activities that make the most of the wind – like flying a kite.
Exercise
Normally, it’s too hot to exercise on the beach. But when things are cold, there’s a great opportunity to warm up by going for a run across the flat expanse of the beach. This can be a uniquely refreshing experience, with open spaces and wind in your hair.
Camp
Overlanding tie down strap makers Rollercam say that camping trips are nearly always about sleeping out of doors in often challenging climates. Camping on a beach in cold weather certainly fits this bill.
Beaches are not just for summer, and many have an appeal that is exactly because of – not in spite of – the colder weather.
