5 Ways to Stay Safe on the Coast Using Tide Times
The sea is beautiful, but it’s also powerful — and unpredictable if you’re not prepared. Every year, people get caught out by the tide while walking, exploring, or relaxing by the coast.
The good news? Most coastal accidents caused by the tide are avoidable — if you know what to look for. Here are five ways tide times can help keep you safe.
Table of Contents
- Avoid Getting Cut Off by the Tide
- Know When It’s Safe to Walk Coastal Paths and Beaches
- Time Your Water Activities Safely
- Understand When Currents Are Strongest
- Spot the Warning Signs of Spring Tides
- Conclusion
1. Avoid Getting Cut Off by the Tide
Many parts of the UK and Ireland have beaches, coves, or causeways that become inaccessible when the tide comes in. If you’re on the wrong side, you could be trapped by rising water.
Tip: Always check the tide schedule before heading out — especially to areas you access at low tide.
2. Know When It’s Safe to Walk Coastal Paths and Beaches
Low tide opens up scenic walks along the beach or shoreline, but these paths often vanish quickly. Without tide awareness, you might find your return route gone — or worse, submerged.
Tip: Start your walk shortly after high tide for a safe, outgoing tide window.
3. Time Your Water Activities Safely
Whether you’re swimming, paddling, or foiling, tides impact safety. Some activities are safest around slack tide, while others depend on specific water depths.
Tip: Know the safest time for your activity — and be aware of incoming tides while you're in the water.
4. Understand When Currents Are Strongest
Tidal currents are strongest during the middle of rising and falling tides. These can make swimming, paddling, or even wading very dangerous in certain locations.
Tip: Avoid open water activity during peak tidal flow unless you're experienced and conditions are safe.
5. Spot the Warning Signs of Spring Tides
Spring tides occur during full and new moons. They bring the most extreme high tides and can catch people off guard by flooding areas that are normally safe.
Tip: If the moon is full or new, double-check tide charts — spring tides can rise faster and farther than you expect.
Conclusion
Tide awareness isn't just useful — it can save your life. By using tide times as part of your coastal routine, you can stay safe, avoid accidents, and enjoy your time by the sea with confidence.
The Just Tides app gives you accurate tide times, current moon phase, and more for hundreds of UK and Ireland locations.
Download NowFAQs
Q: How do people get cut off by the tide?
A: Often by walking into coves or along beaches at low tide, not realising the water will block their return route hours later.
Q: When are tides most dangerous?
A: During spring tides or when people don’t realise how fast the tide rises in local areas — especially in estuaries and enclosed beaches.
Q: Is it safe to swim at high tide?
A: It depends on the location and current strength. Check local advice and avoid peak currents during tide changes.
