Going to a beach that allows you to drive on it can be quite a fun experience. Imagine being able to drive right to where you want to set up instead of making your family lug all of your beach supplies from the parking area. Just be sure you know the proper techniques for driving on sand and what to do if you get stuck.
8 Need-to-know Tips for Driving on the Beach
If you want to make it out on the beach safely and with the least amount of problems, be sure to pack lightly deflate your tires, and take your time. Follow these tips so you get home safely.
1. Check the Local Regulations
There are only so many beaches in the country that you can legally drive on. Double-check any local laws and regulations to be sure that you are on one of them. Also, verify what time of day and time of year you're allowed to drive on the beach. Some areas also require you to get a special permit before you start your drive.
2. Use a 4WD Vehicle
Although you can take your car right onto hard-packed sand, having a 4WD capable vehicle will only make things easier. 4WD makes it easier for you to drive on sections of the beach that aren't wet or packed down since you have power to all four wheels instead of just two.
3. Don't Overpack Your Vehicle
The less weight you have in your vehicle, the lower your odds of sinking in the sand. Leave everything at home that isn't a beach necessity — just don't forget to pack the sunscreen!
4. Lower Your Tire Pressure
You may think you should always have your tires inflated to the proper levels, but when you involve sand, it's a different story. Tire pressure of 20 PSI is recommended for most beach conditions, but if the sand is really soft, lower it accordingly. Make sure you reinflate your tires once you get back on the road.
5. Monitor the Tides
The scariest thing about driving on the beach is getting caught in high tide. Before you plan out your drive, make sure you know when the high and low tides are for the day. It is best to drive within two hours of low tide since there is a lot more beach to drive on.
6. Drive Near the Water
The best place you can possibly drive on the beach is between the high tide mark and the water. The compacted sand is the hardest in this area, so you minimize your chances of sinking and getting stuck. Try to follow other tire tracks as well, so you can see where everyone safely drove.
7. Drive Slowly and Carefully
Avoid driving fast on the beach, or you can get stuck. The general rule is to stay below 25 MPH. Another good tip is to avoid braking hard. Instead, coast to a stop if possible. If you brake hard, you can end up burying your vehicle in a rut.
8. Always Wash Your Vehicle Afterwards
Something most people don't think of is to stop at a carwash after a beach drive to spray off all of the salt and sand. Salt is very corrosive and will eventually lead to the rusting of your car. Be sure to spray the underbody and wheel wells especially well.
What to Do if You Get Stuck in the Sand
Anytime you drive on a beach, you run the risk of getting stuck if you aren't careful. You can keep yourself prepared by having a beach driving kit that includes the following:
Shovel
Spare tire
Traction mats
Tow straps
Water jugs
Rope
Extra gas
Flashlight
First aid kit
These tools will help you get out of most sticky situations, but you need to know how to use the tools as well. If you end up stuck in the sand, follow these steps:
Lay off the gas — Excess spinning can just dig a deeper hole for you to get out of.
Use your traction mats — Place the mats on the sand behind your tires and back up onto them.
Break out the shovel — If the mats don't help, you're going to have to dig a path in front of your tires. Lay down your traction mats and try to drive forwards.
Wet down the sand — Use the nearby water to wet the sand and pack it down. Hopefully, this gives you enough traction.
Ask for a tow — If all else fails, find someone nearby who is willing to give you a pull with your tow straps.
Have a Fun Day Driving on the Beach
Driving on the beach is a blast and can make hauling all of your essentials much easier. Just be smart and avoid any situations that may lead to you getting stuck. Another way to learn how to drive in different conditions is by taking a driver's ed course at Aceable.com. You'll learn how to be a safe driver through our online lessons and interactive methods.
Updated 8/11/22