93% of Americans Say They Have Good Beach Etiquette—92% Are Lying
Americans love the beach. The sun, the surf, the snacks—and apparently, a bit of selective self-awareness.
According to a new Beach.com survey of over 1,000 U.S. beachgoers, 93% say they have good beach etiquette. The catch? Nearly the same number—92%—also admit to breaking at least one unspoken rule of beach behavior. Some even fess up to three bad habits on average.
From peeing in the ocean to stealing shells, here are 10 habits that prove our beach manners may not be as picture-perfect as we’d like to think.
1. “I Have Great Etiquette!” (…Except for the Peeing)
Let’s start with the biggest contradiction. While almost everyone surveyed claims to be a courteous beachgoer, nearly everyone also cops to at least one etiquette crime.
On average, each person admits to three.
Apparently, beach etiquette is more aspirational than actual.
2. The Ocean Is Not a Toilet (But 70% Use It Like One)
Yes, 70% of Americans admit to peeing in the ocean.
What’s wild is that only 19% find it annoying. The other 81%? Probably too polite (or guilty) to say anything.
Bottom line: Bring the waterproof sandals.
3. Shell Theft Is Rampant
About 38% of Americans confess to pocketing sand or shells—making it the #1 “shameless” beach behavior.
And because only 4% find it irritating, it’s a quiet crime of opportunity.
Spoiler: Some beaches do fine for this, so maybe leave the seashells be.
4. Secret Sippers Are Everywhere
Half the people surveyed (49%) admit to drinking alcohol on the beach, even where it’s not allowed. But only 15% of respondents find it annoying.
Takeaway: When the cooler says “sparkling water,” don’t assume they mean LaCroix.
5. Littering: The Ultimate Offense
When it comes to things that actually ruin a beach day, littering takes the top spot.
A whopping 82% of Americans say it’s the most annoying behavior—more offensive than peeing in the water, blasting music, or pets running loose.
Hot tip: Pack it in, pack it out.
6. Too Close for Comfort
More than half (54%) are irritated by strangers sitting too close on the beach.
Beach blankets need breathing room, not neighbors who could reach your sunscreen.
If I can touch your towel with my toe? You’re too close.
7. Pets Running Wild Are More Annoying Than Kids
While most of us tolerate energetic kiddos, pets running loose edge out kids as a top annoyance.
Apparently, rogue frisbee fetchers cause more drama than sandcastle smashers.
8. Loud Music Beats Out Cigarette Smoke
In head-to-head comparisons, blasting music ranked more irritating than smoking or vaping.
Turns out our ears are more sensitive than our lungs when we’re trying to relax.
9. We Don’t Confront—We Just Move (or Glare)
When people witness bad beach behavior, most don’t say a word. Only 7% confront offenders. Instead, 32% ignore it, 26% quietly relocate, and 25% offer the look—that unmistakable beachside side-eye.
10. Each Generation Is Slipping Further From the Sand Standard
Older Americans report fewer bad beach behaviors—not just now, but even when looking back at their younger selves.
So, no—it’s not just the “youth these days.”
We’re collectively getting worse at beach manners, one generation at a time.
Bonus: Think Everyone Else Is Worse Than You?
You’re not alone. Most Americans assume others are guilty of the worst beach crimes:
- 83% think most people pee in the water
- Over two-thirds believe people sneak alcohol and steal shells
It’s a classic case of “not me, but probably everyone else.”
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