Is the sun hotter at the beach?

AND YES, THE WATER DOES INTENSIFY THE SUN'S RAYS. And the reason you've been waiting to hear, confirmed — yes, the sun does reflect off of the ocean (or lake or swimming pool) and its rays are intensified as they reach your skin, making your more susceptible to a sunburn.



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Not only do the oceans cover more than 2/3 of the Earth's surface, they also absorb more sunlight and store more heat. Additionally the oceans retain heat longer. The Sun's rays also penetrate the oceans to a depth of many meters, but only heat up the top layer of the sand or soil.

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When the land heats up, the air above it heats up as well. On the other hand, the ocean heats up and cools down relatively slowly. Therefore, areas near the ocean generally stay cooler during the day and have a more moderate temperature range than inland areas.

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Environmental factors like water and sand can also increase your likelihood of sun damage. These surfaces can reflect up to 80 percent of UV radiation, so the sun's rays are hitting you twice.

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Sand can be over 100 degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature is only 75 degrees; indeed, when the ambient temperature is 90 degrees, the sand can be over 120 degrees, a passage from the study said. As a point of reference, temperatures in Tampa are forecasted to peak between 89 and 97 degrees from Aug.

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With an air temp of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, sand can feel as hot as 110 degrees. With average July temperatures in the 90s, sand can feel hotter than 120 degrees.

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Ocean Effect Near the beach is much cooler than it is just over a small set of mountains. The sea air keeps things warmer at night and cooler during the day. This is because of the atmospheric mixing and local winds that are created.

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Do you catch the sun better on the beach? AND YES, THE WATER DOES INTENSIFY THE SUN'S RAYS. Not only that, but the sun's rays reflect off of beautiful white sand, too. But this isn't the sole reason why you experience more sun and worse sunburns at the beach.

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Environmental factors like water and sand can also increase your likelihood of sun damage. These surfaces can reflect up to 80 percent of UV radiation, so the sun's rays are hitting you twice.

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While everyone enjoys their time in the sun, we'd advise taking a break every now and again. Use umbrellas, beach tents or natural shade to protect yourself when the sun's rays are strongest – between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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Reflective surfaces: Water, sand and other reflective surfaces can amplify UV radiation. Due to this reflection, studies have shown that coastal areas consistently have higher UV index values than inland regions. Weather conditions: While seaside areas are known for their sun, they are also prone to fog and haze.

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Most beachgoers only visit the beach in the summer when the conditions are great for tanning and swimming – mild wind, warm water, high temperatures, and strong sun!

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There's no real optimal temperature, but many people feel “comfortable” swimming in water that is 70° to 78° Fahrenheit.

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