8 Coastal Activities That Depend on Tide Times
Whether you're heading to the coast for fun or relaxation, understanding the tides can completely change your experience. Tide times affect everything from where you can walk to how good the waves will be.
In this article, we’ll look at eight coastal activities that are directly influenced by the tide — and why checking the tide times is essential before you head out.
Table of Contents
- Rockpooling
- Kitesurfing and Wingfoiling
- Surfing
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding
- Fishing
- Coastal Walking
- Wildlife Watching
- Photography
- Conclusion
1. Rockpooling
The best time to explore rock pools is during a low tide, when the sea retreats and exposes marine life trapped in shallow pools. These hidden pockets are full of crabs, starfish, and anemones.
Tip: Aim for the lowest tide of the day and arrive a little early to catch it at its best.
2. Kitesurfing and Wingfoiling
These wind-powered sports rely on a combination of tide height, wind strength, and beach shape. Low tide might expose hazards, while high tide may reduce beach launch area or cover shallow lagoons ideal for foiling.
Tip: Check local tide times to avoid launching during dangerous conditions and to ride when your beach or spot works best.
3. Surfing
Tide conditions can make or break a surf session. Some beaches work best at high tide, while others are better at mid or low tide. The tide affects wave shape, size, and how quickly they break.
Tip: Check local surf guides or apps to see which tide works best for your spot.
4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Strong tidal currents can make paddling dangerous or exhausting. Launching at the wrong time might trap you or force you to fight against the flow.
Tip: Go out during slack water (just after high or low tide) for the calmest conditions.
5. Fishing
Fish behaviour changes with the tide. Some species feed more actively during rising or falling tides, while certain spots are only accessible or productive at low tide.
Tip: Use the tide to your advantage by targeting species known to feed during tidal movement.
6. Coastal Walking
Many scenic coastal paths or beaches are only accessible at low tide — and some can become dangerous or impassable when the tide comes in. Tide awareness is vital for both safety and scenery.
Tip: Always check tide times before setting off, and plan your return route accordingly.
7. Wildlife Watching
Tides influence where and when animals feed or rest. For example, birds forage on exposed mudflats during low tide, and seals often haul out onto sandbanks when the tide is out.
Tip: Time your visit with low tide to see the most activity in intertidal zones.
8. Photography
Tides shape the landscape — from reflections in wet sand to dramatic rocks and sea foam. Low tide can reveal textures and patterns, while high tide adds mood and energy to wave shots.
Tip: Scout your location ahead of time and check the tide schedule for your desired scene.
Conclusion
Tide times are a powerful natural rhythm that influence nearly every activity by the sea. Whether you're foiling, rockpooling, or chasing the perfect wave, the tides are your guide.
Stay ahead of the tide with the Just Tides app — free, accurate, and built for the UK & Ireland.
Download NowFAQs
Q: When is the best time to go rockpooling?
A: During the lowest tide of the day — this exposes the most rocks and sea life.
Q: Do tide times affect kitesurfing and foiling?
A: Yes — many beaches only work at certain tide heights. Tides also expose or hide hazards like rocks and sandbars.
Q: Where can I get local tide times?
A: Use the Just Tides app for real-time tide info across the UK and Ireland.
