Loading Page...

Is the sun more intense at the beach?

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.



People Also Ask

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.

MORE DETAILS

Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow and Sand as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

At the coast the horizon facing the ocean is unobstructed, so a larger part of the sky is visible than inland, where trees, buildings, etc., block the view of the horizon. Also, the horizon sky is brighter than the overhead sky.

MORE DETAILS

Sunsets really are cooler at the beach. It's also because the salt and water particles floating around closer to the beach scatter even more of the light, which means more intense reds, oranges, and yellows.

MORE DETAILS

Because Hawaii is closer to the equator, it has a higher UV index than many other states.

MORE DETAILS

The naturally occurring minerals in sea water can help to reduce the risk of a breakout by absorbing bacteria and restoring healthy pH levels in the skin. It can also soothe redness and irritation to calm acne-prone skin.

MORE DETAILS