A beach is a landform along the edge of a body of water, usually made from sand, gravel, cobbles or shells. Beach material accumulates during periods of accretion and is dispersed during periods of erosion. A beach may be a few meters long or hundreds of kilometers long.
A beach can be a wonderful place to soak up some sun and listen to the rhythm of the surf, but it is also a fascinating landscape of rock, sand, and water. Beaches are often rich in biodiversity and provide important habitat for wildlife. Beaches and tidal zones host shorebirds such as piping plovers, roseate terns, American oystercatchers and black skimmers on the East Coast and western snowy plovers and California least terns on the West Coast. Sea lions, seals and sea birds also use beaches and tidal zones for rest and foraging. Beaches are also vital places for many species of fish, including striped bass, flounder and cod.
Beaches are constantly changing. Each tidal cycle brings new beach materials, and some of the old materials are taken away. These changes are caused by ocean currents, wind, waves and rain. Beaches are often influenced by local geological and geomorphologic conditions such as the shape of the coastline, how well sediment is compacted or how steep the incline is of the beach.
In addition to being beautiful, sandbars can be fun and safe for boating and fishing. However, they can also be dangerous if the tide rises quickly. Therefore, it is a good idea to wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) whenever you are on a sandbar.
It is a good idea to bring food and drink when you go to the beach, especially when it is hot. You should also bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. In addition, it is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and a light-colored shirt in case you get into the water. It is also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and a waterproof map with you in case of an emergency.
Kayaks are an excellent way to explore the waters around a beach. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there is always something new to discover. The most important thing is to have fun!
While there are many different types of kayaks, the only broadly accepted denominator is that they all have two blades. The design of the kayak determines the performance and handling characteristics. Some kayaks are designed for recreational use while others are designed for competition. The most popular kayaks are flat-bottomed kayaks with a center keel and asymmetrical hull. These kayaks are the easiest to maneuver and are a good choice for beginners. Other more advanced kayaks have a more streamlined, aerodynamic hull that provides increased speed and tracking. They are generally more expensive and require a greater degree of skill and coordination to operate. Still other boats have a more complex, asymmetrical hull and are used primarily for racing.