In The Human Shore, historian John Gillis describes the transformation of the seashore from a source of food to the ultimate landscape of leisure. As European colonial empires searched for uninhabited shores, beach resorts proliferated throughout the 20th century. However, before beaches became a destination for the rich and famous, they had little history and little social context. Until the modern era, a beach was considered a mere sand-covered expanse.
By the late nineteenth century, the concept of a seaside setting had become a distinctly English concept. It was only after the introduction of the Romantic Movement in Europe that beaches became synonymous with a fashionable lifestyle. The beaches of Britain and the Isle of Wight became fashionable seaside resorts, and the influx of wealthy tourists changed the face of the beach. Hence, beaches were the symbol of a cosmopolitan, modern culture.
In the same way, a beach is home to a diverse range of wildlife. In addition to birds, sea turtles, and other animals live on the shore and feed on the sand. When sea urchins are found washed up on beaches, their empty shells can be picked up and eaten. Their fine spines give them a furry appearance. To avoid these animals, don’t collect anything from the beach, and don’t let anyone take it home.
Many beaches also serve as recreational destinations. They offer scenic views and white sand. Many of them also feature a variety of water sports that are good for staying fit. People can go sailing, surfing, and even deep-sea diving, while enjoying the scenery. However, despite the fact that beach activities have become popular, many visitors and residents remain unaware of the artificiality. This is why the development of beach nourishment has increased in recent years.
When looking for the perfect beach, be sure to consider the season. In winter, storm winds can throw sand into the air, erode sand, and create sandbars. In summer, waves retrieve the sand and build up the beach. Because the waves and sand are constantly changing, beach surfaces tend to be shallower in winter and deeper in summer. In the end, this is a beach’s ultimate goal: to make it as enjoyable for people as possible!
A few beaches are less crowded than others, but there are still many great options for families on Menorca. However, be prepared for crowded conditions in summer. To avoid the craziness of the island, try to find a quieter beach on the north-eastern coast. Mahon locals use Es Grau as a day trip destination, as there are no hotels in the area. Its shallow waters are ideal for swimming and surfing, and the small town of Es Grau provides several family-run restaurants and gift shops.
If you’re travelling from Sydney, consider visiting the greenfield beach, which is a stunning three-hour drive from the city. This beach is framed by the calm waters of Jervis Bay and features white, blinding sand. It is about 500m north of Hyams beach, and is framed by a dense forest of gum trees and a small sandstone cliff. It’s also close to Vincentia town and Booderee national park.