Writing Beginner

How to Describe a Beach in Writing (21 Best Tips & Examples)

The gentle ebb and flow of waves, the warmth of golden sands, and the melodies of seagulls overhead – beaches captivate the senses.

I’ve described beaches many times in my own short stories and novels.

Here’s how to describe a beach in writing :

Describe a beach in writing by focusing on its unique size, climate, sand color, and location. Explore sensory details such as the sound of waves, the scent of saltwater, and the feel of the sand. Highlight cultural elements, marine life, vegetation, seasonal shifts, and local activities.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to describe a beach in writing.

1. Unearth the Sands of Time

How to Describe a Beach in Writing

Table of Contents

Every beach tells a story.

Some are age-old resting spots for local fishermen, while others have seen shipwrecks, invasions, or have been silent witnesses to lovers’ tales.

Before diving into descriptions, research the history of the beach you’re writing about.

This will not only add depth to your narrative but also connect readers to a bygone era.

Plus, if you love beaches as much as I do, then this will be pure heaven for you.

While some beaches have preserved their old-world charm with untouched landscapes, others boast modern-day beach shacks, surfing schools, or yoga retreats.

Distinguishing between the ancient sands and modernized coasts can set the mood for your description.

2. Palette of the Sands

Not all beaches are golden.

Some have white, powdery sands, while others flaunt a rare black, pink, or even green hue.

The color of the sand can significantly influence the ambiance of the beach.

Dive into the specifics – is the sand fine or coarse? Is it cool to the touch or sun-baked and warm?

Often, the sand isn’t just sand. It’s interspersed with shells, pebbles, seaweed, and sometimes even fragments of corals. Highlight these unique elements as they add character to the beach and provide sensory details for readers.

3. Dance of the Tides

Some beaches are known for their calm, lapping waves, making them ideal for relaxation.

In contrast, others are marked by powerful, crashing waves perfect for adventurous activities like surfing.

Describe the rhythm, sound, and sight of the waves to convey the beach’s spirit.

Understanding the tidal patterns can greatly enhance your description.

Low tides might expose hidden tidal pools, while high tides might bring with them a sense of mystery and anticipation.

This also affects the beach’s width and appearance at different times.

4. Symphony of the Shore

The beach isn’t silent.

From the cries of the seagulls to the whispers of the winds and the rhythmic sound of waves, nature creates a symphony.

Use auditory descriptions to transport readers to the shore.

On popular beaches, the sound of children’s laughter, chatter from nearby cafes, or tunes from a distant radio can add layers to the auditory experience.

Decide whether your beach is serene and untouched or bustling with activity.

5. Coastal Climate Chronicles

Is the beach sun-drenched, making it ideal for sunbathing? Or is it frequently cloaked in mist, giving it a mysterious aura?

The weather plays a crucial role in setting the scene and can influence activities, moods, and narratives.

Beaches transform with seasons.

While summer brings in crowds and vibrant energy, winter might render the beach desolate, with only the bravest souls venturing out.

Describe these shifts to add depth to your narrative.

6. Sunlit Spectacles

The magic of a beach often unfolds during the golden hours.

Narrate the transformation of the horizon as the sun rises, casting a delicate pink and gold hue, or as it sets, engulfing the world in fiery reds and deep purples.

The changing colors reflect not only in the sky but also in the water and sand.

While sunrise and sunset are dramatic, the midday sun brings out the vibrancy of beach activities, and nighttime might unveil a sky full of stars or even bioluminescent waves on certain beaches.

7. Flora’s Flourish

Many beaches are lined with specific vegetation, from towering palm trees to delicate dune flowers.

Describe the flora’s color, shape, and how it dances in the breeze, adding life to the coastal landscape.

Floral aromas mixed with the salty sea air can create a heady combination.

Bring out the varied fragrances one might encounter while taking a leisurely stroll.

8. Fauna Features

Tidal pools might house starfish, crabs, or tiny fishes.

Coral beaches might be teeming with colorful marine life. Delve into the beauty of the creatures that call the beach their home.

From seagulls to pelicans and sandpipers, the avian world adds movement and sound to the beach.

Their behaviors, from hunting for fish to playful chases, can be delightful to describe.

9. Activity Avenues

Be it children building sandcastles, surfers riding waves, or yoga enthusiasts greeting the sun, beaches often become hubs of activities.

Depicting these can give readers a sense of the beach’s energy.

Not all beachgoers seek company.

Some look for solitude – a quiet corner to read, meditate, or just gaze at the horizon.

Highlighting these moments adds depth and contrast.

10. Textures and Touch

Beyond visuals, the feel of the beach is vital.

Is the sand powdery soft, or is it grainy and rough? Does the water feel icy cold or pleasantly warm?

Engaging the sense of touch can make descriptions palpable.

How does the beach make one feel? Tranquil, exhilarated, nostalgic?

Tapping into emotions can resonate deeply with readers.

11. Tastes of the Tides

A trip to the beach is incomplete without the taste of salt on your lips from the sea spray.

For many beaches, nearby stalls serve fresh seafood.

Describing the tantalizing flavors of the ocean’s bounty can make readers’ mouths water.

Beach destinations often have signature beverages – from coconut water to adult drinks.

Highlighting these drinks can set the tone and mood of the beach scene.

12. Auditory Adventures

Every beach has its unique sound of waves – from gentle lapping to roaring surfs.

These sounds are soothing and rhythmic, making them integral to a beach description.

Include the distant laughter of beachgoers, the chirping of coastal birds, or the playful shout of children.

Such sounds breathe life into the scene.

13. Historical Hints

Many beaches have rich histories, from pirate tales to ancient civilizations.

Weaving in some historical elements can give depth to the beach’s narrative.

Statues, forts, or old lighthouses can stand as silent witnesses to the past. Mentioning these can make a beach scene more vivid and layered.

14. Moods of the Sea

The mood of the sea changes with weather and tides.

While a calm sea can be serene and inviting, a stormy sea can be wild and dramatic. Depicting these moods can influence the story’s atmosphere.

Low tide might reveal hidden treasures like shells or ancient shipwrecks, while high tide brings in waves and fresh mysteries.

The ebb and flow of tides can be metaphorical and descriptive.

15. Colorful Canvases

Describing the varying shades of blues, greens, and golds of the sea, sky, and sand can paint a vivid picture.

Sunlight plays a role in these changing hues, so consider the time of day.

Beaches at night transform into a world of silvery moonlight, shadows, and possibly bioluminescent creatures.

Using a palette of darker shades can set a contrasting and mystical scene.

16. Human Imprints

From lone footprints in the sand to majestic sandcastles, human touch is evident on many beaches.

Describing these imprints can suggest recent activity or age-old legacies.

Sadly, not all human imprints are poetic (or positive).

Describing signs of pollution, like plastic waste, can serve as a stark reminder and add an environmental angle to your narrative.

17. Unique Underwater Worlds

Many beaches are gateways to underwater paradises.

Vividly describing the diverse, colorful corals can transport readers into a magical realm.

Each coral formation has its own charm, from brain corals’ intricate patterns to the elegant sway of sea fans.

Beaches often harbor rich marine ecosystems.

Describing encounters with playful dolphins, curious turtles, or schools of shimmering fish can add depth and wonder to your narrative.

18. Local Life and Culture

Many coastal communities have age-old traditions linked to the sea.

Highlighting local festivals, rituals, or even daily activities like fish markets can provide readers with a cultural immersion.

Local handicrafts or special beachside dishes can offer a sensory feast.

Be it a description of intricate seashell jewelry or the tantalizing aroma of grilled seafood, integrating local flavors can enrich your beach description.

19. Dynamic Dunes and Vegetation

Sand dunes, shaped by the wind, can change forms and create mesmerizing patterns.

Describing these dynamic landscapes can add an element of nature’s artistry to your narrative.

Coastal vegetation, from tall palm trees to dense mangroves, not only adds to the beach’s visual appeal but also plays a crucial role in maintaining coastal ecology.

Diving into descriptions of these can add both beauty and educational value.

20. Seasonal Shifts

While summer might bring in sunbathers, winter could wrap the beach in misty allure. Capturing these seasonal nuances can create varied and engaging settings.

Monsoon or hurricane seasons can drastically change beach atmospheres.

Describing the sheer power of nature during such times can infuse drama and tension into your story.

21. Adventure and Activities

From surfing monstrous waves to peaceful kayaking sessions, beaches offer numerous adventure opportunities.

Describing the thrill and challenges of these activities can inject action into your beach scenes.

Leisurely activities like beachcombing can be therapeutic and rewarding.

Detailed descriptions of discovering seashells, driftwood, or even messages in bottles can add mystery and intrigue.

Here is my video that I made about how to describe a beach in writing:

30 Best Words to Describe a Beach in Writing

I’ve collected some of the best words to describe beaches.

Feel free to use these words to bring beaches to life in your own stories:

  • Sun-drenched
  • Crystal-clear
  • Picturesque

30 Best Phrases to Describe a Beach in Writing

Consider using these phrases to describe the beaches in your stories:

  • Waves lapping at the shore
  • Blanket of golden sands
  • Palm trees swaying gently
  • Horizon stretching endlessly
  • Colors of the setting sun
  • Children building sandcastles
  • Echo of distant seagulls
  • Soft whisper of the ocean breeze
  • Shells scattered like treasures
  • Footprints washed away
  • Secrets of the deep blue
  • Calm before the storm
  • A dance of playful dolphins
  • Reflection of a crimson sky
  • Nature’s perfect canvas
  • Dunes shaped by the wind
  • Taste of salt on the lips
  • Shadows growing longer
  • Aromas of beachside grills
  • Moonlit silver waters
  • Mystery of tidal patterns
  • Laughter and beach games
  • Sway of coastal grasses
  • Rhythms of the coastal life
  • Stories the tide brings in
  • Gentle embrace of the sea
  • Paradise found and lost
  • Hideaway for dreamers
  • Dance of light on waves
  • Sands of time standing still

3 Examples of How to Describe a Beach

Let’s look at three imaginative depictions of beaches, each resonating with the unique essence of its respective genre.

  • Romance : The serene beach under the moon’s embrace seemed to whisper tales of ageless romances. The moonlight cast a silvery glow on the quiet beach, where waves serenaded the shores. The sands, cool beneath their feet, became their dance floor. Their hearts resonated with the rhythm of the waves, as they lost themselves in each other’s embrace, amidst the vastness of the ocean.
  • Mystery/Thriller : A heavy atmosphere weighed down on the beach, with secrets buried as deep as its oceanic abyss. The beach was eerily silent, save for the relentless pounding of the waves. A thick fog hung low, concealing much of the shore. As Detective Adams approached, the beam from his flashlight revealed a set of footprints, leading into the mysterious abyss of the night.
  • Fantasy : To the common eye, it’s a beach. But for those with the sight, The Golden Sands of Elaria were gateways to otherworldly adventures. As dawn broke, the sands sparkled with magic. Mermaids emerged from the turquoise depths, dragons soared above the azure skies, and ancient runes appeared, guiding brave adventurers to hidden realms beneath.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a Beach in Writing

Describing beaches is truly an ocean of opportunities.

Dive into more treasures by exploring other articles on our site – you never know what pearls of wisdom you’ll unearth!

Read This Next:

  • How to Describe a Bed in Writing (10+ Tips and Examples)
  • How to Describe a Train in Writing (30+ Words & Examples)
  • How to Describe Flying in Writing (21 Best Tips + Examples)
  • How to Write Traveling Scenes Readers Love (21 Best Tips)

Aaron Mullins

BESTSELLING BOOKS – AUTHOR RESOURCES

Creative Writing Inspiration and Ideas: 10 Beach Writing Prompts

Posted on January 19, 2020 by aaronmullins

Beach Writing Inspiration Creative Writing Prompts Generating Short Story Ideas Sea Seaside

Beach writing prompts and creative writing inspiration often comes to us in waves of inspirational writing ideas . Sometimes quite literally, when we head to the sands for some beach story ideas .

Short story inspiration can be found within the relaxing sound of the waves. Poetry inspiration formed along with footprints with the soft crush of sand beneath your feet.

Beach writing prompts are scattered across the sand. Creative writing inspiration discovered among the lost items washed ashore. Beach short story ideas forming from a mysterious object bobbing on the waves. Good story ideas are sometimes hard to come by, but a stroll along the beach may be all the writing inspiration you need.

Beach Creative Writing Ideas

A walk along the beach is just what a writer needs to clear their heads of daily tasks, relax them, and release their imagination and ideas. Many studies have shown that a walk on the beach lowers stress and blood pressure, boosts mood and has many positive effects on mental health. All things that can also boost creativity for writers .

Beach Writing Inspiration Creative Writing Prompts Generating Short Story Ideas Sea Seaside

The beach is also inspiring for us authors. Anything could be buried in the sand, or wash up on the shore. Everything we see is a beach writing prompt , if we only wonder where it came from, who the previous owner was.

Any kind of horror beach short story idea could be lurking in the darker depths of the sea, or a poetry idea related to the treasure waiting to be discovered on the seabed. Romance authors could even find inspiration for characters who don’t mind a bit of sand in hard to reach places…

“Meredith did drop her dress and her inhibitions, afterwards gently plucking a dainty shell from her bottom.”

I have just remembered why I don’t write beach romance stories.

Writing Stories at the Beach

I have some big news to share with you… after 21 years living in England, I have finally moved back to Scotland ! Ayrshire on the west coast is now my home. I can let the full Scots back into my accent, and my daughter can develop her own twang, so she may finally be able to understand what I’m saying in the home videos of my childhood!

I grew up in Wick, which is in Caithness (near John O’ Groats) in the far north of Scotland. A small town filled with decent, good-hearted, funny and hard-working people, my family included. Wick and the Highlands have become the setting in quite a few of my recent beach short story ideas .

In fact, enough to fill a book with a couple of beach story ideas …

Beach Writing Inspiration Creative Writing Prompts Generating Short Story Ideas Sea Seaside

The majority of my family are Scottish. My dad had also spent part of his childhood growing up in Wick and we had attended the same secondary school, Wick High School. My grandparents ran a tearoom in Strathpeffer and over the years the rest of us became spread out across the Highlands. The A9 north from Inverness is basically the trunk of my family tree, with each of us settled on the branches along the way (minus the few who smuggled themselves south of the border).

Beach Short Story Ideas

Wick has grown over the years that I have been away. What I remember as fields is now a retail park. The Caithness Glass factory that fascinated me as a child is closed down long ago. The ‘forest’ next to it that my friends and I used to play in as children is now mostly fenced off. However, all these memories and experiences are perfect for beach short story ideas and creative writing prompts .

I have been back up nearly every single year since I left as a fresh-faced 16 year old in 1999, sometimes two or three times, on 1,500 mile road trips. Sadly, in the name of progress, my primary school has been knocked down (North Primary School) and my high school is currently empty, a modern one built behind it.

Edit : You can read about the ghosts that haunted my school and terrified me as a child (and also provided writing inspiration ) in the bestseller Scottish Urban Legends: 50 Myths and True Stories .

Beach Writing Inspiration Creative Writing Prompts Generating Short Story Ideas Sea Seaside

Beach Themed Writing Ideas

The following is an excerpt from my beach short story Call of the Nuckelavee which was published in my bestselling book Mysteries and Misadventures: Tales from the Highlands .

The story is about a broken-hearted woman who trudges along the sandy dunes, following the voice of her drowned father. Her mind full of questions, she spies a dog ahead that appears to be beckoning her to follow. She suddenly realises it’s her father’s dog, missing since the day of his death. To rescue the dog, she launches herself into the sea, where she comes face to face with a creature from Scottish legends that has haunted her recent nightmares. With suspicions about her father’s drowning swirling around in her head, she must decide quickly how far she is willing to go to get answers.

She gasped as her foot slipped at the top of the dune. Arms flailing, she tumbled over the high ridge and down the steep sandy embankment. Coarse grass and broken shells scratched at her palms and face as she slid to a halt at the bottom. Need to be more careful. Drawing deep gulps of air, she spat a glob of salty grit onto the sand and pushed herself to her knees. The soft pale sand, so beautiful from a distance, betrayed those who wandered too close to its edge. She knew this, but she didn’t have a choice. The sea called to her, the promise of dark revelations on its lips. Confessing its misdeeds. Scowling from the effort, she stood and brushed the sand from her thick coat and fleece-lined leggings. Let’s do this.

Beach Writing Inspiration Creative Writing Prompts Generating Short Story Ideas Sea Seaside

The above book, Scottish Legends: 55 Mythical Monsters , is packed full of sea creatures and beach-dwelling mythical monsters. Based on Scottish folktales, myths and legends, any of these creatures could inspire fantastic beach writing ideas for your own stories.

Beach Creative Writing Prompts

The memories and friendships I have from my childhood are still strong, and now I’m living a bit closer my road trips will not take as long! Importantly, I can still visit the beaches I played on as a child. Reiss Beach in particular is one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever been to and is a great source of beach writing inspiration for me. And you can still find me having a dip in the North Sea (even the Trinkie) as late as October and November!

Wick and the surrounding area has a strong heritage, from the iron ages, to the Norse pagan period. It’s believed Wick was originally named from the Norse word vik , meaning bay. A Viking town then with an enormous sense of history, adventure, mystery and wonder in its beaches, forests and ruins. Endless beach writing inspiration for short stories and book characters.

To help you form your own creative writing ideas , here is a list of 10 beach story writing prompts :

  • Walking along the beach, your dog returns with a mysterious object in his mouth
  • Your dog stops at a particular patch of sand and starts whining and digging
  • You spot a mysterious object shining among the ashes of a beach campfire
  • You glimpse a hand rising from the sea, beckoning you to enter
  • As you walk along the beach, a familiar voice on the wind whispers your name
  • Drag marks in the sand lead inside a beach cave, but no footprints leave
  • You lift a small crab from a rock pool, and it speaks to you
  • You lose track of time exploring, and the tide has come in quicker than expected
  • After a flash of light on the beach, you return home to find the world has changed
  • As you watch the sun set behind the horizon, something rises from the sea

I hope these beach writing prompts help you generate your own beach story ideas .

Best of luck with your writing!

Pop in your email and click ‘Subscribe’ to get free stories , writing tips and author advice:

Email Address

Aaron Mullins ( @DrAaronMullins ) is an award winning, internationally published psychologist and bestselling author. Aaron has over 15 years experience in the publishing industry, with expertise in business strategy for authors and publishers. He started Birdtree Books Publishing where he worked as Editor-in-Chief, partnered with World Reader Charity and taught Academic Writing at Coventry University. Aaron’s book How to Write Fiction: A Creative Writing Guide for Authors has become a staple reference book for writers and those interested in a publishing career. Find out more .

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Category: All Categories , Writing Inspiration Tags: beach short story ideas , beach writing , creative writing ideas , creative writing inspiration , creative writing prompts , good story ideas , short story ideas , short story inspiration

One Comment on “ Creative Writing Inspiration and Ideas: 10 Beach Writing Prompts ”

This post was truly worthwhile to read. I wanted to say thank you for the key points you have pointed out as they are enlightening.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

  • All Categories
  • Books by Aaron
  • Free Stories
  • Publishing Guides
  • Writing Guides
  • Writing Inspiration

Follow Aaron Mullins

Enter your email and click to follow me:

Email Address:

Follow Aaron

Top Posts & Pages

  • Scottish Dialect: An Author’s Guide to Highland Dialogue
  • List of Best UK Literary Magazines for Author Submissions
  • List of Scottish Mythical Creatures: 55 Legendary Monsters and Folklore Tales
  • How to Write Children's Books in 15 Easy Steps (with examples)
  • Creative Writing Inspiration and Ideas: 10 Beach Writing Prompts
  • Average Length of Fiction Writing: 6 Forms with Typical word counts
  • Aaron Mullins Author Writer Books
  • 50 Scottish Urban Legends, Myths and Folklore Tales
  • How to Describe People

Type your email…

Follow Blog

' src=

  • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
  • Subscribe Subscribed
  • Copy shortlink
  • Report this content
  • View post in Reader
  • Manage subscriptions
  • Collapse this bar

Beach Description Essay

Looking for simple and beautiful descriptive writing about a beach in summer? The beach description essay below is just what you need! Get inspired for your own creative writing with us.

Introduction

Description of a beach.

Summer is the perfect time for individuals to visit and enjoy the marvelous scenes along the coast. In addition, the feelings and experiences felt on the beach during the summer are always fantastic. Several sceneries and experiences are seen and felt at the beach during summer. These include; the plantation along the beach and inside the sea, the animals, the waters, and the people found on the beach.

The beach appears to be alive and joyful with the presence of the natural vegetation. There are evergreen plantations both along and inside the beach. Images of buoyant seaweeds can be seen along the shore. Palms trees are seen to stand tall along the beach, dancing to the tune of the breeze emanating from the waters of the sea.

The sea grapes and the sea oats are also observed gathered in clusters in the sea next to the shore. Their colored flowers are splendid and brighten at the shining of the summer sun. The sweet scent of the flower grapes sends a signal to the world about the hope brought by nature.

The atmosphere is fully intensified by the aroma produced by the buoyant sea flowers. In addition, from afar, images of leafless trees are also observed. The perfect combination of the vegetation along the beach and inside the sea displays the beauty of nature to the highest peak.

It mesmerizes the eyes to gaze at the beautiful creatures that hover all over the beach and on the deep-sea waters. There are sights of beautiful birds that fly all over the dry shoreland and over the seawaters. Their colored feathers brightened the sea with a marvelous appearance at their illumination by the sun’s rays.

There are varieties of birds that are in the vicinity. For instance, there are pelicans and seagulls. Pelicans are seen hovering over the sand, singing sweet melodies that make the atmosphere at the beach vibrant. The seagulls are also observed to be flying over the seawater in small groups. Some of the birds are gathered in groups spreading the wings that cloaked a soft shadow on the gentle water ripples.

Next to the shore, there are sea turtles that seem to enjoy the summer heat from the sun. Their eggs are also seen to be exposed on the sand by the children that play on the shoreline. Bees are seen flying from one flower to another over the sea grapes. The humming of the bees as they gather nectar from the sea flowers attracts insect-eating birds.

Large crowds are observed all over the seashore. These people come to enjoy themselves on the beach at this period of the year. In the sea, people of all ages and sexes are seen swimming and playing with the cool seawater. The scorching heat from the summer sun is felt on the forehead of all individuals.

This makes the people chill themselves in the cool waters of the sea. The children are seen playing beach ball on the shoreline. Some children are also seen pelt each other with sand on the shoreline. Besides, young boys are observed climbing tall palm trees to gather fruits.

What is more, several activities take place along and inside the shoreline. Vendors are seen carrying ice creams and soft drinks all over the shoreline. Views of homes, hotels, and other buildings that run along the peak of the beach are also seen. On the sand where children play, pieces of shells are scattered.

In most cases, children collect the shells for fun. In the shades built along the shoreline, people are seen reading books, journals, and magazines. Some are seen idling on the sand, while few adults are observed playing football.

However, there is a disgusting scene of plastic bags, cigarette butts, food wrappers, and beer bottles along the beach. These items seem to pollute the entire shoreline and the seawater.

Anglers are also observed far into the sea casting large nets into the waters to have a bulk catch of their prey. Some of the anglers are also observed perching on the edge of the shore carrying sticks in their hands. Their faces displayed the anticipation that they had for their prey.

The deep waters of the sea produce a marvelous view for anyone who gazes at the sea. The water is seen to be slowly running low on the shore. Small waves are also observed crashing on the shoreline. The surface of the sea is seen to appear blue in color.

However, some portions are also seen to have the spectrum that results from the sun’s refracted rays. Deep inside the sea, there are high waves that lift boats up and down mightily. The shimmering waves of the sea that are clear and blue mirror the rays of the hot sun. The refreshing breeze that emanates from the seawater is enjoyable.

In conclusion, the beach has a perfect view and activities that are delightful to experience during the summer. It is a place that everyone would love to be at all times.

  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, October 29). Beach Description Essay. https://ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/

"Beach Description Essay." IvyPanda , 29 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'Beach Description Essay'. 29 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "Beach Description Essay." October 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/.

1. IvyPanda . "Beach Description Essay." October 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Beach Description Essay." October 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/description-of-the-beach-scene-in-summer/.

  • Alaska Shoreline Erosion Impact
  • Impacts of Oil Spill on Dolphins and Fishing in Gulf of Mexico
  • South Padre Island Tourism
  • Pine Breeze Administrative Applications
  • Economic Analysis of Stone Crab Season
  • The Miami Beach
  • “Flip, Flop to the Beach We Go” and “Pooper Snooper”: The Topic of Pets
  • Native Dune Systems vs. Man-Made Beach Structures
  • Kilauea, Central Valley Aquifers, and Cape Cod
  • Florida Beach Renourishment and Its Importance
  • Homer's "The Iliad" History and Content
  • The Interpretation of Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll's House Presented by Patrick Garland
  • The Tragedy of Othello
  • Odysseus as Husband
  • William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Prince of Denmark

Unleashing Creativity: Inspiring Beach Story Ideas for Every Writer

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: June 8, 2023  - Last updated: July 1, 2023

Categories Travel

Whether you’re a writer seeking inspiration or an individual looking to create engaging social media content, the beach offers many captivating story ideas.

The ocean’s vast expanse, the rhythmic lull of the waves, and the varied characters that a beach attracts all contribute to an intriguing narrative landscape.

The possibilities are endless, from heartwarming tales of summer romance to thrilling adventures of beachside mysteries.

The beach can also be a transformation, discovery, or conflict setting. It’s a canvas where human experiences intermingle with nature’s drama, offering a rich tapestry of story ideas waiting to be woven.

Sun-Kissed Romance: A Love Story

It’s hard not to fall in love when surrounded by sun-kissed sands and magical sunsets at the beach. The warm salty breeze caresses your skin while the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore lulls you into blissful relaxation.

You find yourself swept up in a whirlwind romance with another vacationer as if fate has brought you together under this enchanting seaside spell. Star-crossed vacationers, destined to meet on this slice of paradise, embark on a journey neither one ever expected.

As days turn into nights and the full moon casts its silvery glow upon the shimmering waters, your beachside heartbreak seems like a distant memory. You wonder if this newfound love is simply an ephemeral encounter or something meant to last beyond your time spent basking in the golden sun and frolicking in turquoise waves.

Long walks along the shoreline leave footprints that tides will eventually wash away but also mark indelible memories etched into your soul.

The inevitable departure looms closer as the sand slips through your fingers like fleeting moments shared with your summer love interest. As suitcases are packed, and goodbyes linger on tear-streaked faces, you hold onto the hope that serendipity might bring you back together again under different circumstances.

And though there may not be any promises made or grand declarations exchanged, it’s undeniable that what began as a chance meeting on sun-drenched sands has left an indelible impact on both hearts involved – proving that sometimes, even temporary connections can shape our lives forevermore.

Mysterious Treasure Hunt on the Shore

You won’t believe that around 95% of lost treasures remain undiscovered, and our tale takes you on a thrilling treasure hunt adventure along the shore! Picture yourself exploring hidden coves and unearthing coastal folklore tales that hold the key to a long-forgotten bounty. As you venture further, the salty breeze caresses your face and whispers secrets of pirates, shipwrecks, and buried wealth waiting to be uncovered.

The sense of freedom as you navigate through these mystical shores is intoxicating. Each step closer to unearthing the treasure further fuels your desire for adventure. With every clue deciphered and each piece of ancient lore unraveled, you are reminded that life is meant for exploration – both within ourselves and in the world around us. The shoreline morphs from an ordinary stretch of sand into an exhilarating playground where imagination runs wild.

As your journey along this enigmatic coast reaches its climax, you can’t help but feel a deep connection with those who have walked these shores before you – pirates seeking refuge in hidden coves or explorers chasing their dreams across vast oceans. This mysterious treasure hunt on the shore has provided thrills and revealed priceless lessons about freedom, discovery, and embracing life’s boundless possibilities. And who knows? Perhaps one day soon, your own story will inspire others to embark on their own adventures in search of hidden treasures yet to be discovered.

A Family’s Seaside Reunion

There’s nothing quite like a family seaside reunion to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds among loved ones. As you gather with your family on the sun-kissed shores, you can’t help but feel a sense of freedom and joy.

This enchanting setting becomes the perfect backdrop for shared adventures, laughter, and new experiences that will be cherished for years.

  • Coastal cuisine exploration : The salty sea air awakens your taste buds as you embark on a culinary journey with your family. From sampling the day’s catch at local seafood shacks to sharing stories over a delicious beach picnic, there is something incredibly satisfying about savoring coastal delicacies while immersed in the shoreline’s natural beauty.
  • Beachside wildlife encounters : Nothing brings families closer than exploring nature together, and at the beach, you’re bound to encounter fascinating wildlife. Watch for playful dolphins dancing in the waves or marveling at majestic sea turtles nesting along sandy dunes; these moments will create unforgettable memories.
  • Building sandcastles and reminiscing : Working together as a team to build elaborate sandcastles not only sparks creativity but also inspires conversations about past vacations and cherished childhood memories—allowing both young and old to connect on a deeper level.

As you watch another breathtaking sunset paint the sky above your family’s seaside reunion, it becomes evident that this gathering has been more than just an enjoyable vacation—it has been an opportunity for everyone involved to reconnect amidst life’s hectic pace truly.

The combination of coastal cuisine exploration, beachside wildlife encounters, and heartwarming moments spent building sandcastles allows each person present to leave with their souls rejuvenated—and perhaps even feeling freer than when they arrived.

The Secret Beachside Hideaway

Finding a secret beachside hideaway isn’t easy, but once you do, it becomes your paradise that you’re almost reluctant to share with others. The thrill of coastal hideout exploration is the perfect way to satisfy your subconscious desire for freedom. Imagine stumbling upon a secluded cove with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, hidden from the world by towering cliffs and lush vegetation – this is where you’ll find the most exquisite secluded beach wonders.

As you explore this idyllic sanctuary, take note of its fascinating features:

The exhilarating sense of discovery when uncovering these unique characteristics will make your secret beachside hideaway all the more special and memorable. Allow yourself to be immersed in its tranquil atmosphere, marvel at the vibrant marine life beneath gentle waves, or lay back on silky-soft sands as warm breezes embrace you.

As the sun sets over your private oasis, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink, pause for a moment to appreciate how rare and precious such an escape truly is.

Cherish each second spent within these hallowed grounds, knowing they offer unparalleled solace amidst life’s chaos. In time, you may even confide in a trusted few about your seaside haven – after all, some secrets are too beautiful not to share.

Oceanfront Adventures: Surfing and Beyond

Imagine yourself standing on a surfboard, riding the crest of a wave with the salty sea spray misting your face and the sun warming your back. The adrenaline pumps through you as you carve along the water’s surface, feeling at one with the ocean’s energy.

However, there is so much more than just surfing to these coastal exploits; from ocean exploration and marine wildlife encounters to beachside bonfires and shoreline strolls, these adventures can soothe your soul, inspire creativity, and ignite your inner explorer.

As you venture beneath the waves during an immersive snorkeling or scuba diving experience, observe firsthand how vast and diverse our underwater world is. Swim alongside schools of vibrant fish that dart playfully around coral reefs teeming with life. Glide above manta rays as they effortlessly cruise across sandy seabeds, or hold your breath in awe while watching dolphins frolic nearby.

This unique opportunity for ocean exploration will allow you to gain a deeper appreciation for our planet’s most incredible ecosystem – all while providing endless inspiration for future stories.

When it comes time to wind down after an action-packed day on (or under) the water, nothing beats relaxing on a soft sandy beach with loved ones. Watch as brilliant hues paint the sky during sunset before giving way to a mesmerizing blanket of stars overhead – perhaps even sparking thoughts about cosmic tales waiting to be told!

As firelight flickers against smiling faces gathered around crackling beach bonfires, let laughter fill the air while sharing tales inspired by your many oceanfront adventures. Allow this experience to fuel your writing and create lifelong memories that spur dreams of boundless freedom and endless possibilities within life and literature.

A Coastal Town’s Secret History

Unraveling a coastal town’s secret history can unveil hidden treasures, where weathered lighthouses stand sentinel over ancient shipwrecks, symbolizing the passage of time and the mysteries beneath the waves.

As you explore this charming seaside locale, dig deeper into its past by seeking out local historians and storytellers who spin tales of coastal folklore and forgotten legends. The salty air whispers about pirate adventures lost civilizations, and untold riches waiting to be discovered.

Listen to captivating stories about mythical creatures said to inhabit the depths or long-lost cities swallowed by the sea. These enchanting tales blend fact with fiction but always contain a grain of truth that sparks your imagination and fuels your desire for freedom.

Venture off the beaten path to discover secret underground passages leading to hidden coves or mysterious grottos carved into towering cliffs. These natural wonders have been sculpted by centuries of relentless waves crashing against the shoreline, their secrets waiting patiently for intrepid explorers like yourself.

Dive beneath the surface to explore sunken vessels from centuries past, each holding clues about life in this coastal town throughout history. These underwater time capsules connect us with our maritime roots while reminding us of nature’s unforgiving power.

As you explore this enigmatic coastal town, remember that every discovery is an opportunity for personal growth and a symbolic reminder of life’s ever-changing tides.

Healing by the Sea: A Journey of Self-Discovery

As you embark on this transformative journey by the sea, let the soothing rhythm of the waves and the salty breeze guide your path toward inner healing and self-discovery. Allow yourself to fully immerse in oceanic meditation as you walk along the shoreline, feeling the sand beneath your toes. The serene landscape before you is a canvas painted with vibrant colors and breathtaking beauty that inspires introspection and personal growth.

The sun sets over this coastal haven, casting a warm glow upon everything it touches. 

As day turns to night, allow yourself to reflect on all you’ve experienced here, recognizing the profound impact of reconnecting with nature through its most powerful element – water. Your heart is lighter, your mind is clearer, and you are one step closer to embracing a newfound sense of freedom that will continue to guide you long after you’ve left these shores behind.

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Tale

In the shadow of the towering lighthouse, you find solace in the keeper’s tale, a poignant juxtaposition of isolation and connection that resonates within your soul.

As waves crash against the rocky shore below, you listen to stories of how the keeper’s solitude was his confidant and tormentor as he watched over this outpost at sea.

The whispers of a lighthouse ghost linger in your thoughts, a specter born from loneliness and longing for human contact – yet also an intriguing reminder that even in seclusion, one is never truly alone.

You’re captivated by the vivid descriptions of sunrises painting the sky with fiery hues and moonlit nights casting silvery reflections on undulating waves.

The beauty in nature’s embrace offers respite from life’s chaos while fueling an insatiable desire for freedom beyond these walls.

The constant rhythm of crashing waves becomes a soothing balm to soothe any lingering unease; their sheer power evoking awe and respect for nature’s unrelenting force.

Through this narrative journey, you understand how living on such a precipice can intensify feelings of insignificance and purpose – each day reminding you that life is fragile but filled with boundless possibilities.

As your time at this remote sanctuary ends, you can’t help but feel changed by your encounter with the lighthouse keeper’s tale.

It’s given voice to your yearning for freedom while illuminating paths toward self-discovery hidden along windswept shores and beneath stormy skies.

You no longer see isolation as merely confinement or detachment; instead, it’s become an opportunity to forge deeper connections with oneself and others around us – like beacons guiding us through the darkness towards our truest selves.

Tropical Island Escapades

You’ll immerse yourself in tropical island escapades, where the vibrant hues of lush foliage and crystal-clear waters invite adventure and discovery. Island wildlife thrives in this haven, allowing you to observe rare species and delicate ecosystems that exist nowhere else on Earth.

The air is filled with the sweet aroma of exotic flowers as you walk along pristine beaches, your senses heightened by the sights and sounds of this idyllic paradise. Underwater exploration opens up a new world beneath the waves, teeming with colorful marine life that will leave you breathless.

Dive into this aquatic playground where schools of the iridescent fish dart through coral reefs like living jewels while sea turtles glide gracefully overhead. Descending deeper into the depths, you encounter mysterious caves and underwater caverns with secrets waiting to be uncovered.

This magical underwater realm invites curiosity and wonders at every turn. As your journey continues, each day offers fresh experiences that awaken your spirit of adventure. Whether navigating winding trails through dense jungles or snorkeling alongside playful dolphins in warm tropical waters, these unforgettable moments instill a sense of freedom deep within your soul.

Secrets Buried Beneath the Sand

It’s impossible not to feel like Indiana Jones when uncovering secrets buried beneath the sand on these tropical islands, where millennia-old treasures and forgotten tales lie hidden just below your sun-kissed toes. As you explore these pristine shores, you’ll stumble upon ancient coastal curses whispered by the locals and marvel at hidden sand sculptures crafted by nature herself.

Each discovery will evoke a sense of wonder and mystery as you delve deeper into the island’s enigmatic past. A mysterious shipwreck emerges from the depths during low tide, telling stories of pirates long gone.

Ancient symbols etched in stone spark your curiosity about the civilization that once thrived here—the skeletal remains of a sea creature fuel legends of mythical beasts that once roamed these waters.

An eerie silence surrounds an abandoned lighthouse, making you wonder what happened to its keepers—a weathered message in a bottle washes ashore, hinting at lost love or adventure from another time.

As you continue to unearth these astonishing finds nestled within the landscape, it becomes clear that this tropical paradise is steeped in history and mystique. Your adventurous spirit drives you to push boundaries further than ever, seeking answers to questions sparked by your discoveries.

A Marine Biologist’s Underwater Discoveries

As a marine biologist, you’re constantly amazed by the underwater discoveries that await beneath the ocean’s surface in this tropical paradise. Each dive immerses you in a world brimming with life and color, teeming with creatures both familiar and alien to your eyes. Your work focuses on coral reef conservation and deep sea exploration, two fields with endless potential for unlocking the secrets of our planet’s oceans.

Your dives take you through vibrant coral reefs where each observation feels like a treasure trove of new information. You witness fascinating symbiotic relationships between organisms, observe rare species in their natural habitats, and document the delicate balance needed to maintain these complex ecosystems. As you venture deeper into the abyss during your deep sea explorations, you encounter otherworldly creatures adapted to an environment devoid of sunlight – bioluminescent beings glowing with an ethereal light that evokes an insatiable curiosity within you.

Through your work as a marine biologist, not only do you uncover hidden wonders beneath the waves but also ignite in others a desire for freedom – freedom from ignorance about our vast oceans’ mysteries and freedom to explore those uncharted depths themselves. By sharing your knowledge about coral reef conservation efforts or shedding light on newly discovered deep-sea creatures, you inspire people to connect with nature at its most enigmatic level. This connection fosters an understanding that we are all part of something much larger than ourselves – a breathtaking blue planet waiting to be explored further.

The Legend of the Lost Shipwreck

As you dive deeper into the world of beaches and ocean mysteries, you can’t help but be captivated by the legend of lost shipwrecks. Maritime legends are filled with tales of sunken treasure, ghost ships, and underwater worlds waiting to be explored. The lore surrounding these lost shipwrecks is often shrouded in mystery, as many have never been found, or their true stories remain untold.

The allure of these maritime legends lies in their sense of adventure, allowing you to imagine yourself embarking on an exciting quest to uncover hidden secrets beneath the waves. Some popular tales from lost shipwreck lore include:

  • The Nuestra Señora de Atocha : A Spanish galleon that sank off the coast of Florida in 1622 carrying a fortune in gold, silver, and precious gems.
  • The Whydah Gally : An infamous pirate ship that went down during a fierce storm near Cape Cod in 1717.
  • The SS Central America : Known as the ‘Ship of Gold,’ this steamship sank during a hurricane while transporting tons of gold from California to New York City in 1857.
  • Atlantis : Perhaps less grounded in reality than other maritime legends but no less captivating – this mythical island is said to have sunk beneath the sea after falling out of favor with its gods.

As you immerse yourself further into these enthralling tales and explore more about maritime history, it’s hard not to feel drawn toward discovering your sunken treasures. After all, each story holds a promise of riches and freedom – whether it’s through escaping modern-day constraints or seeking adventure on uncharted waters.

The Beach House: A Haunting Mystery

You’ll find yourself captivated by the haunting mystery of the beach house, where secrets lurk in every shadow and whispers of a ghostly past echo through its halls.

Ghostly encounters become more frequent as you explore each room, unveiling stories that have been hidden for decades.

The salty ocean air doesn’t do much to dispel the chill running down your spine as you delve deeper into this enigmatic home, determined to uncover its dark history.

As you conduct your paranormal investigations, you may stumble upon curious artifacts and unsettling photographs left behind by previous inhabitants.

Discovering these remnants of lives once lived brings a thrilling sense of adventure mingled with growing unease.

The house seems to possess an eerie intelligence, reacting to your presence with unexplained sounds and shifting shadows that make it difficult to distinguish reality from the supernatural.

Despite the unnerving atmosphere, you can’t help but feel drawn toward the freedom offered by unraveling this twisted tale.

Each discovery propels you further into the heart of the mystery – guided by an insatiable curiosity to unearth what lies beneath this otherworldly façade.

As waves crash against sandy shores beyond the walls of this haunted abode, your determination swells like a rising tide – driven forward by both fear and fascination on this unforgettable journey into the unknown.

Sandy Footprints: Stories of Friendship by the Sea

There’s nothing quite like the magic of seaside friendships and the sun-kissed memories they create. Beach bonfires, laughter echoing along the shoreline, and long talks while waves crash at your feet all weave together to form a tapestry of unforgettable moments. Seaside friendships often have a unique quality, as if the salt in the air and sand between your toes somehow bind you together more tightly than any other bond.

As you walk hand-in-hand with your beach friends, exploring hidden coves or building sandcastles fit for royalty, each shared experience strengthens those seaside connections. The sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant hues become a backdrop for dancing barefoot on the shore or simply sitting side by side quietly, sharing dreams and secrets with someone who understands you completely. And when night falls, beach bonfires light up the darkness as friends gather around to roast marshmallows, share stories from days gone by, and sing their hearts out under a canopy of stars.

The beauty of these sandy footprints is not just in how they mark our journey through life but also in how they remind us of true freedom – to be unencumbered by worries and fully present with those we love most.

So whether it’s watching dolphins play in the surf or racing against time to save one last sand dollar before high tide sweeps it away – every moment spent beside our seaside friends is an opportunity to cherish life’s simple joys.

The Seashell Collector’s Magical Finds

Imagine the enchantment of discovering a magical seashell amidst your collection, one that holds within it the secrets and whispers of the ocean’s depths.

Picture yourself strolling along a mystical beach, where each step reveals another enchanted seashell in the sand just waiting to be discovered.

As you collect these unique treasures, you can’t help but feel a connection to the vast, untamed expanse of water before you – as though each shell is trying to impart its tale of life beneath the waves.

The sun sets on this ethereal shoreline as you continue your quest for more extraordinary finds.

You come across shells with intricate patterns and colors that defy nature’s palette – some shimmering like precious gems while others appear translucent, allowing sunlight to filter through their delicate surfaces.

Each shell seems imbued with an otherworldly essence; perhaps they are remnants from ancient underwater civilizations or gifts bestowed upon us by benevolent sea spirits. Regardless of their origins, these enchanted seashells serve as talismans connecting us to our deepest desires for freedom and exploration.

As night falls on this mystical beach and stars begin to blanket the sky, you realize that your collection has become more than just a hobby – it has become an embodiment of your inner wanderlust and desire for escape from mundanity.

With your pockets brimming with iridescent wonders, you return home feeling transformed by your experience at this magical seaside haven.

And every time you gaze upon these wondrous tokens from your adventure – whether they sit proudly displayed on shelves or rest secretly hidden away in drawers – they will forever remind you of that remarkable journey and inspire dreams of future explorations beyond the horizon’s edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some basic beach story ideas.

Beach stories range from light-hearted tales of summer romance or family vacations to more intense narratives like beachside mysteries or survival adventures. The beach can serve as a backdrop for self-discovery, friendship, environmental awareness, or supernatural tales.

How can I make my beach story unique?

Think beyond the clichés. Consider focusing on the locals’ perspective instead of tourists’, incorporating beach-specific activities like surfing or beach clean-up, or exploring the off-season life of a beach town. Experiment with various narrative techniques, unique characters, and unexpected plot twists.

Can beach stories be more than romantic tales?

Absolutely! While beach settings are popular for romance, they can also serve as a backdrop for numerous other genres. Think suspense with a beachside thriller, adventure with a deep-sea treasure hunt, or drama with a story of environmental activism.

How can I accurately depict the beach setting in my story?

Immerse yourself in the environment. Take note of the sensory details—the smell of the ocean, the sound of waves, the feeling of sand underfoot. Research the beach’s local flora, fauna, and culture. Make the setting an active part of your narrative.

How can I use the beach setting to enhance my story’s theme?

The beach can symbolize various themes—freedom, transformation, the passage of time, the force of nature, etc. Use these elements to enhance your story’s underlying message. For instance, the cyclic nature of tides can mirror a character’s personal growth, or the shifting sands can symbolize instability or change.

creative writing examples about the beach

Write that Scene

May your writing spirit live on forever

creative writing examples about the beach

How to Write a Beach Scene

SHARE THIS SITE WITH YOUR FELLOW WRITERS!

  • At first, focus on the overall atmosphere.

» A. To start your story, describe the weather, the crowd and their activities.

I.      Begin with the weather but ease your way into describing what the five senses are experiencing. Describe the feel of the sand between the character’s toes, the brightness of the sun in their eyes, the sounds of the waves, the sounds of children playing in the sand, the taste of the ocean water. Here are some words you can use:

  C. Smell: Seaweed/saltwater Feel: Humid sea air Gritty sand Cool water

II.      Use metaphors, similes and color to breathe life into your scene. The ocean is an aqua blue, the sand is pale yellow, and the sun is a fierce, hot yellow. The sky is a gorgeous light blue with big, fluffy white clouds. Here are some phrases you can use:

  C. Long golden sands with the waves lapping on the shore.

  D. First thing that hit him/her was the salty air.

creative writing examples about the beach

Jonah hadn’t been to the beach since his first semester of college started. It had been a long couple of months but he survived nonetheless. And, instead of going to a frat party to drink himself silly, he wanted to revisit the place where he first fell in love with life. Could it have been the dazzling sand that sparked in the golden sunlight, or the hungry seagulls beating their wings against the ambush of wind.

Listening with both an open heart and ear, Jonah heard the waves crashing against a nearby rock. This rock had been the go-to place for him as a kid. He used to jump off of it and into the water, or sit on it and read his favorite book.

As the memories poured in, Jonah headed over to the rock where he knew a flood of happiness would follow him. The best stress relief wasn’t popping pills or smoking a joint with his buds, nah… it was the peaceful serenity of the beach. The smell of saltwater traveling up his nostrils, releasing a spell-like hypnotic trance on him. Yes, it was the gritty sand against his bare feet, the tall, hard rock positioned appropriately against his butt as he read a book.

But it didn’t end there. The one thing that made Jonah always returned to the beach wasn’t only because of those reasons. It also had to do with the feel— the emotion he got whenever he looked out far into the ocean. He would forget all forms of agony, pain, regret and frustration. A strong since of peace and calm resided over him always. Only the beach made him feel such things.

With the infinite blue sky above promising sunshine, and the big, fluffy white clouds adding a touch of ecstasy.

Though, all of this fantasizing buildup went out his mind the moment he saw Carolyn, the life guard. She was ten years older than him, but ever since Jonah could remember he had a major crush on her. Watching her sexy body climb up in her high chair with the binoculars in one hand and a whistle around her neck, gave Jonah an idea. A devious idea. The other beach goers meant nothing to him; he wanted her to notice him one way or another…. even if it meant fake drowning.

  • Something interesting should happen, no doubt.

» A. A bit of mystery and action is always a good thing.

I.       Maybe the character moved to another part of the beach and it’s a lot louder or quieter? Or maybe there’s music, dance and a party.

creative writing examples about the beach

Example 2:   

Then it happened. Just like that! No thinking, no pauses: Jonah jumped into the water, screaming. Carolyn looked his way immediately. Running quickly to save him, she blew her whistle for back up and used her binocular to find the fallen body. Jonah saw her every move through his squinted eyes, however he knew in order to make it look realistic, he had to go under water. So he did and in the water below, he pictured Carolyn rescuing him and kissing him…. uh, I mean… doing CPR.

» B. How does the environment affect your character and what’s happening to them? Use the background to emphasize the character’s emotions rather than describing them.

I.     Be sure to give vivid imagery. Allow your reader to continue to see what is going on, in order for the scene to have a realistic feel. What I mean by that is, while you’re talking about the drama, mystery or action events that unfold, every so often add in the “normal stuff” that happens around the character. These can easily become a symbolic meaning. Here are a few “normal, symbolic meaning stuff” to give you an idea:

  C. Playful seal take a ride in a wave = happiness, childlike mindset, freedom, endless joy

  D. A whale surfacing to get a breath can be seen. = revelation, secrets unfold, epic adventure lying ahead

  E. Fishermen’s lines hanging off the pier into the water in hopes of catching dinner. = a new start, overwhelming beginnings, hope for the future, determination to improve one’s circumstances

  F. The sunlight starting to fade = dreams are lost, stuck in darkness, forbidden love

  G. Surfers exit the sea, and build bonfires in the pits and you smell marshmallows burning in the fire. = treasuring the here and now, aspiration ideals about life and upcoming events, finding happiness in the simplest of things

In other words, relate it back to what is going in the story. If your character is talking to a guy she likes, insert a part in your scene about a seal talking a ride in a wave. If your character is feeling miserable and is walking on the beach feeling lonely, insert a part in your scene about them seeing the left overs of children’s sand castles. Come up with your own if you like. Example 3:   

Jonah had been knocked out — he really drowned himself without realizing it. The hot and heavy daydream about Carolyn saving him made him forget to come up for air. By the time Jonah work up, he saw seaweed piled in heaps in various spots on the beach. There were no children and broken shells lined the water line which was filled with debris.

“What, where am I?” Jonah said. Carolyn hovered over him. “Did I go to hell?” Jonah stood up. “There’s no way because you’re here. Tell me, what happened, Carolyn?”

  • Identify the main purpose of this scene. Don’t let it linger on without meaning.

» A. Connect all that you can in this scene with your plot. Enhance the characters, bring in new revelations, and/or establish a long-lasting setting that will take place throughout the entire novel.

I.        What significant thing happens during this scene? Is it someone that your character meets? Something they find? What important event unfolds and how does your character handle it?   II.     What is the next step? If the scene’s purpose was for your character to meet someone, then are they going to leave the beach and go somewhere else to have a more serious, maybe private conversation? If not, the beach can be their go to area where they meet in secret, far, far away from the rest of the world.   III.      Does the ocean or animals on the beach have any relevance? Or does this scene on pertain around human beings and their behaviors toward one another? Animals can potentially save your character if they are about to drown. Animals can be in danger and your character tries to help them, and, in the process, they meet the love of their life or a true friend that wants to help this animal too. Hint: it could be the lifeguard.  

Example 4:   

Carolyn spoke with such elegance. This was the first time Jonah heard her speak. “Your heart stopped beating and I had to do CPR on you. The ambulance is on its way so hang in there, okay.”

“Wait, Carolyn,” Jonah tried to speak as best as he could, “before they take me away, I want to say I love you so very much.”

» B. Exit the scene in style, and leave hints about if the character will return or not.

I.      One of the best ways to finish a beach scene is to show how the scenery, setting and/or environment took effect on your character. For instance, did your character have more peace after visiting the beach or feel anger. Then, connect it back to your plot. Whatever trials and tribulations your character faced throughout the book, take from your simple beach scene and incorporate into the story.

Let’s say at the beach your character finally learned how to swim. Then maybe later on in your book have the character save someone who is about to drown, or join a swimming competition. Another example is if your character met someone. Maybe that special someone can later be of importance to your protagonist

II.      What is the most important image/memory that both the character and reader should take from this scene? It could be as small as the walk on the beach to as big as learning how to swim, finally. You decide. And, with that image/memory, have your character reminisce about their time on the way back home. Give them a short dialogue or monologue, saying how their time was well spent. (Unless, of course, they had a miserable time at the beach).

Example 5:   

Carolyn giggled. “I know,” she said, “before you woke up you were mumbling to yourself. I know everything. All about your crush, all about your fake drowning attempt.”

“And you’re not mad at me?”

Carolyn shrugged. “I was. But I guess I forgave you.”

Jonah closed his eyes and smiled. “See, this is why I love you. I don’t know you very well but your awesome personality shines through.”

“Don’t be corny,” Carolyn said.

“No, I’m being serious. When the ambulance comes to take me away, will I be able to see you again?”

Carolyn nodded. “Of course. You can always find me here.”

“Right, I almost forgot. Silly me. You’re a life guard.”

Carolyn turned red. “Um,” she said softly, “not just a life guard.” She pointed down. “I’m also a mermaid. The ocean is my home.”

Jonah looked down at the large, purple fin he had been resting on. Surprised to see that it was real and in no way a trick, he fainted once again. This time, he had a very vivid dream that only he will ever know about.

  ** !You might have to scroll down the textbox with your mouse!

   Jonah hadn’t been to the beach since his first semester of college started. It had been a long couple of months but he survived nonetheless. And, instead of going to a frat party to drink himself silly, he wanted to revisit the place where he first fell in love with life. Could it have been the dazzling sand that sparked in the golden sunlight, or the hungry seagulls beating their wings against the ambush of wind. Listening with both an open heart and ear, Jonah heard the waves crashing against a nearby rock. This rock had been the go-to place for him as a kid. He used to jump off of it and into the water, or sit on it and read his favorite book. 

      As the memories poured in, Jonah headed over to the rock where he knew a flood of happiness would follow him. The best stress relief wasn’t popping pills or smoking a joint with his buds, nah… it was the peaceful serenity of the beach. The smell of saltwater traveling up his nostrils, releasing a spell-like hypnotic trance on him. Yes, it was the gritty sand against his bare feet, the tall, hard rock positioned appropriately against his butt as he read a book. But it didn’t end there. The one thing that made Jonah always returned to the beach wasn’t only because of those reasons. It also had to do with the feel— the emotion he got whenever he looked out far into the ocean. He would forget all forms of agony, pain, regret and frustration. A strong since of peace and calm resided over him always. Only the beach made him feel such things.  With the infinite blue sky above promising sunshine, and the big, fluffy white clouds adding a touch of ecstasy. 

      Though, all of this fantasizing buildup went out his mind the moment he saw Carolyn, the life guard. She was ten years older than him, but ever since Jonah could remember he had a major crush on her. Watching her sexy body climb up in her high chair with the binoculars in one hand and a whistle around her neck, gave Jonah an idea. A devious idea. The other beach goers meant nothing to him; he wanted her to notice him one way or another…. even if it meant fake drowning. Then it happened. Just like that! No thinking, no pauses: Jonah jumped into the water, screaming. Carolyn looked his way immediately. Running quickly to save him, she blew her whistle for back up and used her binocular to find the fallen body. Jonah saw her every move through his squinted eyes, however he knew in order to make it look realistic, he had to go under water. So he did and in the water below, he pictured Carolyn rescuing him and kissing him…. uh, I mean… doing CPR. Jonah had been knocked out — he really drowned himself without realizing it. The hot and heavy daydream about Carolyn saving him made him forget to come up for air. By the time Jonah work up, he saw seaweed piled in heaps in various spots on the beach. There were no children and broken shells lined the water line which was filled with debris.

      Carolyn spoke with such elegance. This was the first time Jonah heard her speak. “Your heart stopped beating and I had to do CPR on you.The ambulance is on its way so hang in there, okay.”

        Carolyn giggled. “I know,” she said, “before you woke up you were mumbling to yourself. I know everything. All about your crush, all about your fake drowning attempt.”

Jonah looked down at the large, purple fin he had been resting on. Surprised to see that it was real and in no way a trick, he fainted once again. This time, he had a very vivid dream that only he will ever should know about.

Related posts:

' src=

7 thoughts on “ How to Write a Beach Scene ”

this really helped my grades thank’s

You’re welcome Claudia. Spread the word, fellow writer! 🙂

This is good but sadly not what I need rn

Hello :P, can you give us an idea of what you were looking for?

This helped me a lot . Thank you . can you help me with the picture description please

i love this website it helped me so much

This is a really good website, thank you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

Recent comments.

Copyright © 2024 Write that Scene

Design by ThemesDNA.com

build-creative-writing-ideas.com

  • Privacy Policy
  • Create a Website
  • $1,000 Blog Tour
  • Happiness Tour
  • 5/11 Blog Tour
  • Guest Posts
  • Writing Prompts
  • Writing Exercises
  • Writing Tips
  • Holiday Writing
  • Writing Contest
  • Comedy Channel
  • Prompts eBook
  • Kids Writing Book
  • 9 to 5 Writer Book
  • Writing Tips eBook
  • Happiness Book
  • TpT Reviews
  • Read These Books
  • Motivation Help
  • Time Management
  • Healthy Living
  • Grades 9-10
  • Grades 11-12
  • First Grade
  • Second Grade
  • Third Grade
  • Fourth Grade
  • Fifth Grade
  • 1,000 Character Writing Prompts
  • 1,000 Creative Holiday Prompts

Free Creative Writing Prompts #54: Beach

There is really nothing like the feeling of sand in between your toes as your feet are gently washed by the tide. These free creative writing prompts are focused on the experiences that you've had going to the beach. Some may have lived near the coast and traveled to the beach many times during their lives. Others of you may have only visited once or twice in your lifetimes. Either way, there is a certain way that you feel at the beach that you don't feel anywhere else. Sandy :). Being near a body of water and seeing the cycle of the tide come in and out is extremely cool and leads to many interesting sights and sounds that you can now write about here. Enjoy!  Free  Creative Writing Prompts : Beach

1. You are standing on the edge of the sand right before your feet are hitting the water. You stare out into the ocean. Write a story about the many thoughts going through your head.

2. Write a story about a child building a sand castle and talking through the entire story of the medieval town he is creating. The king, the queen, the knights, and all the people inside are given personalities and backstories. Be as detailed as possible.

3. Imagine that you are a crab walking along on the ocean, trying to avoid all of the people while trying to get a bit of food from every passerby is a complicated job. Talk about a day in the life of Herbert J. Crab (or whatever your name is :)).

4. Talk about a sport that you've played on the beach, whether a simple game of catch or some kind of water football hybrid. Who did you play with and how did the game go? If you've never done this, make up a story about it.

5. A beautiful individual in a swimsuit comes up to you. This person asks you to rub lotion all over his or her back. You strike up a conversation. What do you guys talk about and does anything progress from there?

6. You are somehow inserted into the movie Jaws, and while swimming at Amity Island, a great white shark begins terrorizing the beach. How do you and your "movie family" react to this and does any harm come to any of you?

7. The opportunity has presented itself for you to re-enact the famous scene from the movie From Here to Eternity as you lay on the ocean with a beautiful partner kissing and letting the water wash over you. Describe the situation in great detail. Do you really keep kissing when salt water gets in your face? :)

8. What is the most beautiful beach that you've ever been to? Describe the entire scene thoroughly and explain why the beach was such a pretty sight to behold. If you have never been to an aesthetically pleasing beach, create a story in which you had.

9. Describe a late night walk on the beach with someone. What is it you talk about and what's it like hearing the waves crash on the sand and seeing the lights of the nearby building shining at you?

10. There could be no beach without the nearby boardwalk! What is your favorite boardwalk experience, whether it be the shops and restaurants you went to, the money you spent playing skeeball, or hitting on attractive people? Go into detail and if you don't have such an experience, make it up!  One of my most memorable beach moments has to be that time on the boardwalk where I put twenty bucks into a rigged game on the boardwalk :). That being said, I hope that these free creative writing prompts about the beach can help you to use your past experiences (or beach fantasies) to create some fantastic writing. Feel free to use the space below to enter any of your prompts in if you wish to share them with the Build Creative Writing Ideas community. Happy writing!  Bonus Prompt  - What would be your perfect beach day? Describe the weather and the people you would be going with? Who would you see there and what activities would be occurring during your perfect stay? 

Related Articles to Free Creative Writing Prompts about the Beach Free Creative Writing Prompts from the Heart, Part 1 Free Creative Writing Prompts #2: Love Creative Writing Exercises #2: Relaxation

Done with Beach Writing Prompts? Go back to Creative Writing Prompts . 

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  • Click on the HTML link code below.
  • Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.
  • Latest Posts

Write a Story Based on These Prompts or This Article!

Use the above prompts or article as inspiration to write a story or other short piece.

Enter Your Title

Add a Picture/Graphic Caption (optional)  

Click here to upload more images (optional)

Author Information (optional)

To receive credit as the author, enter your information below.

Submit Your Contribution

  • Check box to agree to these   submission guidelines .
  • I am at least 16 years of age.
  • I understand and accept the privacy policy .
  • I understand that you will display my submission on your website.

(You can preview and edit on the next page)

  • What's New?

Additional Info

privacy policy

Blog Header Bryn Donovan 2023

BRYN DONOVAN

tell your stories, love your life

  • Writing Inspiration
  • Semi-Charmed Life
  • Reading & Research

How to Describe a Beach…Brilliantly

how to describe a beach

I thought it would be fun to do a post about how to describe a beach in a story, 

especially since summer is here! I love doing these “master lists for writers” posts, and I hadn’t done one in a while. Bookmark it or pin it on Pinterest for future reference!

If you’re writing a scene or a story with a beach setting, vivid images and other sensory details can make the reader feel like they’re really there, so use these lists of beach sights, sounds, smells, sensations, and even beach foods! I’ve included a list of beautiful coastal words, too. I hope this helps as you think about how to describe a beach in a story! By the way, if you want some inspiration for a summer story, check out my 50 Summer Writing Prompts.

Beach Sights

white-capped waves

white foam on the shore

footprints in the sand

messages written in the sand

seagrass waving in the wind

other birds, such as pelicans, sandpipers, and spoonbills

sunrises or sunsets reflecting on the water

moonlight reflecting on the water

wooden boardwalks

wooden piers

wooden lifeguard stands

blackened sand from natural oil seeps

large beach umbrellas

lounge chairs

brightly patterned beach towels

flip-flop sandals

large beach hats

plastic buckets and pails

beach balls

seashells, especially in the wet sand near the shore at low tide

smooth stones—sometimes stacked by beachgoers

sea urchins, sea stars, mussels, hermit crabs, and/or small fish in tide pools

clumps of brown seaweed on the sand

large rocks at the shore, crusted with barnacles and shells

bonfires—or the charred remains of them

discarded bottles and cans

sailboats, motorboats, and yachts

oil tankers far offshore

children building sandcastles

people flying kites

dogs chasing balls and Frisbees

paddleboarders

windsurfers

water skiiers

parasailers

Subscribe to My Blog

Get extra writing inspiration, news, and giveaways...and never miss a new post!

Email Address

Beach Sounds

I think sounds are such an important part of how to describe a beach, because you hear things there that you don’t hear anywhere else.

lapping or crashing waves

seagull cries

rock, rap, or other music blasting from portable speakers

boat motors

laughing or shouting children

beach volleyball game—the thump of the ball; players calling to one another; players clapping

crunch of a play shovel in the sand

the “thunk” of a coconut dropping to the ground

music from ice cream trucks

Beach Smells

fishy smells

suntan lotion (coconut scent)

decaying algae and seaweed

marijuana smoke, at some beaches

Beach Sensations

sand between toes

hot sand under bare feet

being knocked over (or almost) by a wave

cold water…or warm water

rough stone outcroppings

breeze in one’s hair

sun heating one’s skin

Beach Foods

These are some foods frequently sold at stands and restaurants on boardwalks and near beaches in the U.S.

frozen custard

tacos, especially fish tacos

French fries, straight and curly

soft pretzels

popcorn—butter, cheese, caramel, or “kettle corn” seasoned with sugar and salt

lobster rolls (New England)

funnel cakes

saltwater taffy

fresh lemonade

piña coladas

Beautiful Coastal Words

These are some coastal words that I think are just lovely.

archipelago

bioluminescence

estuary (where the river runs into the sea)

greenling (it’s a fish)

shoal (another word for a school of fish)

spindrift (spray blown off the tops of the waves in a strong wind)

thalassophile (beach lover)

How to Describe a Beach - open book and beach background

Did you know that “beach reads” are more popular than ever?

A “beach read” is usually a light, fun book with a summer vibe. It doesn’t have to be literally set at the beach…but it doesn’t hurt. A lot of people love being at the beach, and a book can provide a fast, cheap, easy escape to a beautiful place…a virtual vacation.

Books with beach settings aren’t just for summer any more, either. Last December, I saw prominent displays of books with beach settings in more than one Barnes and Noble store…for readers who prefer sand to snow! It’s just another reason to know how to describe a beach. 

How to Describe a Beach - beach read book, sunglasses

Do you have any thoughts on how to describe a beach? 

Have you ever written a scene set near the ocean—or are you working on one now? Do you have any beach plans this summer—writing-related or not? Let us know all about it in the comments!

And if you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out my book Master Lists for Writers , if you haven’t already!

Master Lists for Writers at the Beach

Thanks so much for reading, and happy writing!

Related Posts

sunglasses and a pen sitting on a notebook next to a swimming pool

Share this:

15 thoughts on “ how to describe a beach…brilliantly ”.

' src=

Great list of promts Bryn! Yes, I have written a blog about the beach called “My Favourite Place”. Please check it out at naomiplane.com. At the bottom of each scroll is a click to older posts. You will need to click this three times to see it, from Oct.8th, 2020.

' src=

Hi Naomi! Oh, nice—I’ll check it out! Hope things are going well with you!

' src=

Great post! Helpful as always—thanks!

Aww thank you friend!

' src=

Great observations! Here’s a haunting beach scene from a book I wrote that takes place in a dream:

It was in the cool early morning hours that Hannah found herself drawn to the Santa Monica beach in a dream. It was a place she recognized from movies and TV shows, yet despite having lived in Los Angeles her entire life, she had never been there in person. A chill mist hung low to the shore as she walked along the water’s edge, feeling the damp sand beneath her bare feet and the cool wash of waves between her toes. The air was moist and held the tangy smell of salt water and seaweed, and from beyond the gray misty veil came the lonely cry of seagulls and distant crash of waves. Up ahead, the Santa Monica pier slowly emerged as a faint outline against the gloomy sky, its rides and attractions quiet now. And still.

Tom, this is great! I have a lot of memories of the Santa Monica beach. You nailed it!

Thanks Bryn!

' src=

Ooooo. Poetic!

Great list Bryn! Here are a few snippets from my sci/fi novel soon to be published.

Rhythmic thunder of the surf permeated their world as a life pulse.

The ocean spread before Leilani till it touched the horizon, mirroring the ever-changing colors of the twilight clouds. Velvet purple water played a counter melody to the lavenders in the heavens.

As they walked down the path, the inland breeze rustled Leilani’s gown. She searched for the sky-creatures native to the scene but saw none. She heard no scream of the silver manu nor did she detect the slightest trill of a scarlet serf diver. Their absence made the scene artificial.

Jessie, I really enjoyed this! 🙂

' src=

I’ve been published with three different beach short story romances.

Shoal is also a shallow waterway. Sycamore Shoals, Muscle Shoals, Great Shoals, etc…

Horseshoe crabs are common on the beach in the Mid-Atlantic.

Eating steamed Blue Crabs is common in the Mid-Atlantic.

Fries with malted vinegar.

Oceanside. Bayside.

Pluff mud in the Lowcountry.

Ohhh, these are so good! I love the word “shoal” 🙂

' src=

Thiis is how I described a beach in my middle grade novel ‘The Slapstyx’:

They ran on down the slope and round the shoulder of the hill. As the beach was revealed to them in all its glory, they began to think better of their new home; it couldn’t be all bad if it was so near a place like this. The slope ended in two arms of rock embracing a pillow of shingle and a soft quilt of white sand. Beyond that, the beach opened out in a wide bay beaten into a flat golden sheet by great thundering breakers.

The story features a tribe of dirty and dangerous goblins who are helping a greedy businessman to pollute the sea with his disgusting detergent. For anyone who’s interested, the book is available here: http://myBook.to/TheSlapstyx

' src=

Great lists. They are going to be kept.

' src=

Bryn, Wonderful list. I wish I had found it sooner. I’ll need to revise my novel and use some of these. Thank you for sharing.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from BRYN DONOVAN

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

 alt=

Search for creative inspiration

19,890 quotes, descriptions and writing prompts, 4,964 themes

Beach - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

  • beach grass
  • beachcombing
  • Caribbean Island
  • ice cream van
  • ideas to write a story
  • ocean shore
  • sea pebbles
  • tanned skin
Rocks of barnacle crown and seaweed garland adorn the beach as titan crowd.
A chorus of sun-warmed grains sings the melody of the beaches right into my core.
As the seabed swaps the salty brine for oceanic air, we see the beach rise from lacy waves.
Upon the sunny beach, upon the rising gold, my eyes listen to the light as it plays upon seawater.
When these boats of nature's tide, these free sailing sun-kissed branches, come to rest upon either pebbles or golden sands, they sit as kings adoring the seawater view.
There is a soft song of the marram grasses, the green lullaby that speaks so well to the soul without even a whispered word.
The softened hues of the beach at eventide are the colours of my ever-dreams.
The sand is the most gentle hue of gold, almost earthen and muted, the humble star of the scene. I love this beach. I love the driftwood that comes upon the buoyant waves as tiny rescue boats. Then there is the seaweed, that flora of those salty waves, as deeply green as any high summer foliage. My favourite though, of everything that is here upon the softly rolling dunes, is the tall, tall grass that whispers so sweetly into the gusting breeze.
The beach stretched out alongside the water, these constant friends chattering as the water comes in her reassuring way, as if her joy is to soothe the sand. And in her wake she gives the chance for life, for the rock pools to refill. Those briny waves come as rain to a dessert, a gift never repaid, as it always is with nature... the strong give, life thrives... and so it goes on.
Upon this primrose sand, the hue as gentle on the eye as a vintage photograph, there is a steady warmth from the grains. Already the stars glow as if they have kept a pocket of the daytime to shine all through the night sky. Sometimes I think the earth and the moon choose to give of their borrowed warmth and light until the return of the sun, the brilliance forever promised at dawn. Until then, here I remain, breathing deeply of ocean carried air, listening to the percussion of waves that has been my lullaby since before I was a consciousness wrapped in human form.
Jerry sat on the beach, his eyes moving from sand to stone, from rock pools to breaking waves. In the gentle spring sunshine he felt as if he were swimming in the briny aroma, as if the new rays of the day brought a frisson of energy to his finger tips. It was a day for letting his eyes stay open, as he were an old fashioned camera, remaining still while the image developed. The gulls brought their hight notes to the percussion of pebbles at the shoreline. It was a day for dreaming, for allowing time to move fast and slow.
The rain gives of herself unto the ocean, each fragment becoming apart of the body of brine, of the waves and sea-lace. I hear each watery gift, softer than the patter on a rooftop, moving in subtle waves of its own according to the wind. I wonder if this is how music began, how mankind thought to conjure song and dance, by hearing the natural rhythms of nature. Upon the sand, the rain is almost silent, enriching the hue from cream to ears of summer maize.
The sand is softly golden with just the right comforting warmth. To rest on the beach feels like a cosy hug, one only matched by the sunshine filled sky. Tom stretches out both arms and legs to look like a boy-starfish, his grin growing slowly into a broad smile. The only marker of time today is the sun above, the moments savoured by the waves that wash the sands in white lace.
With browning legs curled under, dusted with sand like flour on bread, I sit close to the lapping waves. They feel warm and cool, like tea that's been forgotten and returned to. My fingers wiggle in the water, in these lips of the ocean as she sings. In this place I will remain until the tide is lower, scooping the sand that runs like cold lava through my star-fish fingers and onto the dry beach. With each handful I twist my body as if dancing in a chair, gazing at the falling sand. Below it rises a drip-castle, a sandcastle that looks for all the world like a melted candle. By sunset there will be a long skinny line of them following the ocean as she chases the moon.
In twilight the beach was tinted sepia, the sand more orange, the water darker, our skin soft to the eye. We sat there, Tara to my left, Leon to my right, just taking in the evening and chatting in our characteristic pattern, the laughs and the serious intermingled.

Sign in or sign up for Descriptionar i

Sign up for descriptionar i, recover your descriptionar i password.

Keep track of your favorite writers on Descriptionari

We won't spam your account. Set your permissions during sign up or at any time afterward.

The Write Practice

The Beach [writing prompt]

by Joe Bunting | 103 comments

Free Book Planning Course!  Sign up for our 3-part book planning course and make your book writing easy . It expires soon, though, so don’t wait.  Sign up here before the deadline!

Write about the beach.

Write for fifteen minutes. When you're finished, post your practice in the comments section.

And if you post, please comment on a few pieces by other writers.

The Beach

Photo by Vince Alongi

Here's my practice:

On Friday evening, he arrived at the house and immediately got Amber on her leash and went out to the beach. It was a cool summer evening, as only Santa Barbara can be. The tide was out and as he sauntered along the hard, wet sand with his jeans rolled to his shins, the cold waves came up over his toes and ankles. The sun warmed his cheeks and when the light summer wind stirred about him he caught the scent of the seaweed and the more delicate perfume of the saltsand. Amber trotted beside him, and when the wave came close, splashed in, tugging at her leash until the wave went back out.

When he got to the point he let Amber off her leash. She sprung into the waves, her head up and her mouth wide like a smile. He took a deep breath. He thought about what it would feel like to run in after her. He would launch himself over the waves. Foam would spray around him and the water would fill the space between his skin and clothes. It would be cold. When he got in far enough he would dive under the first big wave and his hair would flatten against his eyes. He might laugh. He might try to catch the dog and wrestle her. But that was for children and he didn’t have time for it. He called Amber and turned back toward the white house and walked away.

' src=

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

How to Write Sounds

103 Comments

Katie Axelson

Each wave crashed closer and closer to our camp on the warm sand. We embraced the Costa Rican lifestyle and arrived hours before the tourists even considered rolling out of their beds.

The sand. The thieving monkeys. The warm Pacific Ocean. All exclusively ours to enjoy.

The last one all too close to enjoy as we watched the waves invade our camp, threatening our peaceful, quiet morning. Surely the water would recede before it reached us.

At the same moment–too late to do much about it–we all realized that was faulty logic. As the swimmers ran in behind the tsunami, those of us on the this-moment-dry land began frantically groping for our belongings and throwing them further up the hot morning sand. Electronics first, flip flops last.

The wave crashed somewhere between the pitching of the electronics and the pulling up of the towels. the towels would dry long before we’d be done in the salty bathwater. The flip flops were easy to recover.

The greatest casualty was my brown journal, grabbed by the vicious water and rushed out to sea. I dove after it, scooping it back into the safety of my arms after the damage had been done.

Tucked beneath the words and prayers were flowers, leaves, and now sand. The pages holding the nearly-flat items were now crinkled with some added character from the sea adventure. The saltwater submission only added to the story.

Marla4

 Gorgeous writing.  I love the journal.  Love the journal!

Thanks, Marla!

Karl Tobar

 Whew that was a close one!  I couldn’t imagine losing all my writing. This reminded me of a saying.  “The tidal wave is coming and you’re picking up seashells.” Nice work, Katie.

Thanks, Karl

Marianne

I felt like I was right there.  Great writing Katie.  I don’t understand the section that says “the towels would dry long before we were done in the salty bathwater” .  I love the description of the journal in the last paragraph.  

Thanks, Marianne. I was trying to say that it was hot so the towels would dry quickly and the water felt good so we didn’t want to get out.

Duh, I get it now.  I should have known that.  

Joan

I like this. I cringed when she lost the journal, yet you turned what could have been a hopeless situation into something postive.

Thanks, Joan

Tamera

This makes me want to read more, and that is always a good thing. 

I’m so glad!

Lee

That vividly reminded me of a crazy time with a rogue wave that my husband had just recently.

I didn’t want to go skinny dipping that evening.  I had no intention of taking my clothes off.  It didn’t matter that they were my best friends.

The half-sun loomed over the liquid horizon.  I stood barefoot in the sand as my friends jumped off the pier.  Josh dropped his trunks to the ground and flung his shirt at me.  He darted past toward the water, shouting “Woohoo!” as he canon-balled into the ocean.  James went right after him.  I rolled my eyes.  I didn’t understand how they could run around, frolicking about with their bits and pieces dangling in front of God and everybody.

Jen came up behind me.  “Come on, John!  I’m gonna do it, too.  We’ll do it together.”

I eyed her quizzically.  “You can’t be serious.  You’re gonna just run around with your tits hanging out, in front of Josh and James?  You’re just gonna swim around with your hoo-ha on display for all the fish?  What if a worm or something swims right on in there?”

“You are so funny.  Come on, it’ll be fun!”  She slipped her shirt off and let it fall to the ground.  I had to admit, of the four of us, I didn’t mind that Jen was stripping down.  She shook her shoulders at me.

“Ok, ok.  I’ll do it.  After you.”  She wrinkled her nose and kissed me on the cheek.  She ran off down the peer and jumped in the water.

I took my shirt off.  Sighing, I dropped my trunks.  I immediately covered my shame with both hands (I would have you believe that I did need both hands for the task).

I called out to my friends, “Don’t look!”

“Nothin’ to look at!”

“No one wants to look at your crusty butt, John!” They called back.

“Run, John!” I heard Jen call out.

I took a deep breath and ran down the pier.  The wind hit the front of my body and made my nipples hard.

I jumped off the pier and brought my knees up to my chest.  I made a splash in the cool water.  I tasted the salt on my lips, felt the water in every pore on my skin.  I treaded water with my chin just resting on the surface of the ocean.  Josh and James were splashing water at each other.  Rachel was floating on her back, her chest facing the sky like two teepees at sunset.

I wanted to swim to her, but something stopped me.  I felt a sharp pain… down there.  Right on the willy.  It burned something fierce.  My hand tried to cover it and I felt something slimy in the way.  My palm started burning immediately.  Right in front of my face I saw a little clear blob swimming with me.

“JELLYFISH!”  I cried out.  Everything was blurry.  Josh, or James, somebody pulled me out of the water.  I heard someone say take him to the hospital.  I yelled at them to put my clothes on.  Somebody said no, we don’t have time for that.  Don’t look down, they said.  I looked down, and I wept.  My bits and pieces were red and furious, almost twice the size of what they were supposed to be.  I never imagined a day when that would be a bad thing, until now.

It will be a cold day in hell when I go back to the beach.

 Wonderful!  I love the line about covering his shame.  Perfect.

KP

 Karl I love your story!  Your opening definitely captured the spirit of skinny dipping… too bad about the jellyfish (I wasn’t expecting that at all!  Now I’m kinda scared to go in the water… lol)

My intention was to really play on his fear of being naked.  The journey to the hospital, into the lobby, everyone staring the whole time.  But the timer went off.  🙁  Oh well.  I’m glad you enjoyed it 🙂

I couldn’t figure out if I was supposed to laugh or cry, Karl. Well done.

 😀 Thank you.  I’d prefer you laugh.

Oh good because that’s what I wanted to do. 😉

Hilary Schrauf

oh man. ha. it would be a long time before i went back to the beach too!!

Michael Lund

Great twist. Wasn’t expecting that at all. A fun read, good job.

That was hilarious!  The best part is when he  is sell asking for his clothes when they take him off to the hospital.   

I love the tone of this piece.  I could read pages and pages. “Covered my shame with both hands,” “chest facing the sky like two teepees at sunset,” “my bits and pieces were red and furious,” all BRILLIANT.  Terrific voice, terrific piece.  Thanks for sharing.

Lee

Very evocative. The outcome after having to build up the courage seemed so cruel!

I have never seen the ocean, but already I don’t like it.  We are driving on this back road in California, Dave at the wheel and me clutching the passenger door handle.  It is night, the sky is navy blue, the stars like warning lights in the sky.

I still can’t see the ocean, but I can hear it because Dave has the windows down and the radio off.  The sea has gnashing teeth, that’s what the sound is like.  There are animals in it as big as my house.  The waves crash.  People always say the waves crash, and now I know what they mean.  They sound hateful against the shore.

Dave touches my cheek.  “Smell that?” he says.  “That’s the smell of life.  Of the beginning of everything.”

What I smell is fish and old socks and something like wet firewood.

We are too new to be here together.  I met Dave three weeks ago.  At a party. When I was with my boyfriend.  My boyfriend left the next day, and I called Dave, who’d given me his number on a scrap of paper, slipped it into my hand at the end of the night, right before I walked out the door.  My boyfriend is out of the country now, gone for a month.  Drumming up business for his boss, who sells used American clothing to people who still think the USA is a mystery to be solved through mimicry and soft denim.  When he comes back I’ll tell him it’s over.  Because it is over.  That is why I’m here.

Dave pulls off the road, and we bump along onto land that feels uncertain under the wide tires of the SUV.  His headlights catch the sea, the waves, the endless line that seems to dip past the horizon.

I pry my fingers loose from the door handle.

Dave has a flashlight, and he’s guiding me through brush and hills of sand, right onto the beach.

“The ocean,” he says, like he’s unveiling a painting.

“The ocean,” I repeat, and lace my finger through his.

The moon is a tambourine in the sky, clouds covering and uncovering it, now you see it, now you don’t.

Far away is a campfire and laughter, and we step across beer cans and shells the shape of guitar picks.  I bend to take one and hold it tight in my hand.

“I almost drowned once,” I say.  The ocean is so loud Dave asked me to repeat it and I can’t.

“It’s beautiful, right?” he says.  He wants me to love it.  I see in him everything I’m not.  With my boyfriend, it’s not the same.  We are too much alike.  I’d say I was afraid of the ocean and he’d say, Well, of course you are.  It’s a deathtrap.

But Dave sees only beauty.  He used to surf, he told me on our way here.  He’s seen a shark.  Got so close he noticed a nick in the fish’s fin.  I felt a chill then, that ran to my toes, and back up again until it clutched my heart.

I reach in my pocket for a cigarette, and pull it out to light it.  Dave stops beside me.  “I thought you were quitting,” he says.

Here, at the edge of everything, I need a smoke. I need a Xanax, but nicotine will have to do.

Dave cups his hands over mine, and I give the cigarette up, and he holds me.  I am shaking.

“It’s all right,” he says, and offers the cigarette back, but I don’t take it.  The sea is rumbling, the spray so close now it hits my face.  If I walk out three steps I will be ankle deep in the ocean.  If I turn and run I can be back to the car in three minutes, tops.  I look at Dave.  I wonder what he sees in me.  You never really know.  I think, if I stay, that he will break my heart open and it will either die or fill up with light so bright I will shine on nights like this.

I think I’m ready to shine.

 What an interesting story Marla, I like how you treat the beach almost as its own character (versus a setting).  I can see how if you didn’t grow up near the water it would certainly be a strange adjustment with the noises and smells!  (I’ve never thought about it because I grew up near water but the sea sounding like the “gnashing of teeth” is a great description!!)

 Thanks KP.  I grew up in a landlocked state.  The ocean looks like a million ways to die to me.  Although, I can’t deny its beauty!

 I love how she starts out pessimistic and turns out optimistic at the end.  Nice work.

 Thank you!

“people who still think the USA is a mystery to be solved through mimicry and soft denim.” – – awesome.  many lines of awesome here 🙂

 Thank you so much.

I like all the description. I can easily picture the scene in my head. Especially like the metaphor with the moon as a tambourine.

You show the personality of these characters so well, the pessimist and the optimist (or I guess he’s just not a pessimist maybe).  I also see her as someone who is going to make a decision that could alter their life if the relationship is of any duration. I wonder what it would look like to her twenty years down the road.  Very interesting and of course very well written as always.  Thanks Marla!

 I love it when you read my work.  Such insight. I think you make me better.

Oddznns

I love the last two paragraphs. She’s so scared and she’s choosing hope. Lovely!

 Thank you.  You’re always so encouraging.

I love this, Marla! I love the juxtaposition of their reactions to the ocean and the protagonist’s attempt to find reconciliation but instead she only finds fear. Great description.

 Thank you Katie!

Mirelba

 Another one for the anthology…  Keep it up Marla.

Giulia Esposito

This is very compelling. The character sounds torn up until the very end where it seems she’s willing take to a leap of faith with Dave. I love it.

Wow – the imagery is really beautiful and strong, and totally supports the emotional energy of the characters. Lovely writing!

He awoke early, before the sun had even begun to think of arching through the sky.  The alarm bleated at him from somewhere in the darkness and he rolled out of bed groggily, begrudgingly.  Pulling on an old pair of jeans, a grey hooded sweatshirt and his worn out sneakers he left the unmade bed and took only a moment to fish his keys out of the clay dish by the door before slipping out.  This morning was particularly cold, and he shoved his hands in his pockets and missed his gloves.  She had said it in passing a few days ago, just a thought that she’d never had before and would probably never have again, but as soon as she said it he knew he had to find one.

“These are so pretty!  I’ve never been able to find one on the beach, though,” she cupped the sand dollar in the gift shop gently, then set it back down on the shelf.

“They are nice,” he’d said this gruffly, because he was already thinking, I would find a million sand dollars for you.  They went to dinner afterwards, and she did not mention the sand dollars again, but they burned in the back of his mind as a small ember, slowly growing to flame.

Pushing through the dunes, the waist high grass soon fell away and gave way to smooth sand.  Huge, gnarled tree trunks dotted the beachscape, serving as a makeshift breadcrumb trail.  He made a beeline for the water’s edge, knowing if he was to find a whole sand dollar he would have to be further up the shore, away from the seagulls.

During the day, the beach was a flurry of activity: kite flying, dogs chasing frisbees, people walking along the surf and splashing each other.  A few brave souls would even swim in the icy green-blue water, often diving in and coming back up a moment later, exclaiming at the frigidity.  There were families, teenagers, old men trying to meet the exercise quota set by their doctors.

Right now, though, it was all his.  Smooth sand, seaweed and the quiet wssshhh of the tide lapping at his feet.  He paused to enjoy the scenery only a moment, then started his search.  Most were broken, chipped or otherwise flawed.  He’d been searching for what felt like forever – he wasn’t sure if he’d ever regain feeling in his face at this point – but then he saw it sticking out of the sand at a ninety degree angle.  A small marker, so easy to miss.  Squatting, he carefully brushed away the sand and seaweed to reveal a small sand dollar, so small it fit easily in the palm of his hand.  Whole.  Perfect.

He cupped it in his hand gently, lovingly.  He rinsed it off carefully in the tide, then carefully placed it in his pocket.  He would give it to her later this morning, when he brought her coffee in bed.  The perfect sand dollar for the perfect girl.

 What a sweetheart, that guy.  She’s lucky!

love the feel of this.  the cold and the search, overpowered by love.

Great description and a touching story.  Well done.  

Audrey stood with her heels in her left hand.  Her toes dug deep into the sun touched sand.  The wind wrapped around her pulling her hair forward across her face, her skirt tight to the back of her long legs. The wind seemed to be pulling thought from her mind, too.  Pulling at it until it broke free, dancing high in the draft and soaring over the ocean’s edge. This place felt so unfamiliar to her. Her, who was raised in the Smokey Mountains, her, who was used to the sharp and jagged rocks of the mountainside under her feet, whose lungs had grown accustomed to the red clay dirt being kicked up along the roads of her childhood. The smooth granules under her feet now seemed so foreign.  The ocean air moist and salty made it hard for her to breath; but more than all that, it seemed unfamiliar to face this unknown terrain without him. She looked down at her right hand, held in a fist at her side; marked now with age and she realized… even her own body had become unfamiliar. The hands at her side were no longer the hands that had held his under the moonlight.  No longer were they the tentative hands of a young mother learning their first child. These unfamiliar hands had reached out for the folded flag they had presented her; these hands had clutched the airplane ticket and crumpled it with her first-time flier’s nerves. And now, she took in the vastness of the water before her.  She took in the gravity of his last wish- “We always had such grand adventures, kid.  Scatter my ashes someplace we’ve never been.  Scatter them where it will remind you to keep exploring. Keep loving. Keep finding this world anew.” She raised her right hand holding the last tangible piece of him deep in her fist.  Conscious, as she always would be now, she supposed; of the similarity of weight and texture she held in her hand, and the sand between her toes. And she released him into that wind that held her.  She released herself into the unknown.

 Ohhh that was a good one.  A sense of wonder followed by closure, is what I got from reading this.  One small thing: the critic in me wants to cringe at your use of the semicolon.  But I have learned to ignore him unless he is wanted or needed. 🙂

no! I appreciate it.  In these practice pieces I don’t spend a ton of time going over the piece for edits so I appreciate that.

I enjoyed the images created with the wind.  I especially liked, “The wind seemed to be pulling thought from her mind”  I could see her.  Nice descriptions.

 So, so beautiful.  The one line of dialogue is gorgeous.  I love this.

I like the idea that the ashes in her hand are similar to the sand.   I think most of us who have thrown ashes into the sea think about that.  It’s like when they say “ashes to ashes, dust to dust” at a funeral.  The entire piece is well written.  I like the detail. I like that the one line of dialogue is meaningful.  Thanks!

Rtravenick

Every year my brother and I looked forward to July 4th with great excitement and anticipation. After chasing each other around the yard with streaming sparklers, we would watch magical snakes unfold and coil from a tiny pellet lit responsibly by our father. Then, we would climb a ladder to the flat roof of our house and, turning toward the bay, watch the fire works explode and sparkle over the water. Then one year our parents decided to join several other families for a beach party on the Fourth of July. Going to the beach itself wasn’t anything special; we lived in a seaside town and going to the beach was a regular outing for us (especially when my mother needed a break). But going to the beach on July 4th was something we had never been allowed to do. Soon the day arrived and we packed our shovels, beach toys, food and fireworks into the car and set off. It was early afternoon when we parked but already the beach was crowded. The dads immediately grabbed shovels and began to dig a gigantic whole, large enough for twelve people to sit in. I was told that once the fireworks began, the hole would shelter us from the smoke. As my brother and I frolicked in the waves, we could see the dads, torsos glistening with sweat digging while the moms lounged on beach chairs smoking and drinking cans of beer. After a dinner of hot dogs, potato chips and cupcakes, we started to hear the popping of firecrackers and the whistling of Piccolo Pete’s. We lit our sparklers and chased the other kids we knew, the darkness thickening as the air filled with smoke. Soon my brother and I found ourselves separated from our parents who, at the onslaught of the festivities, had retreated to their giant hole. A new sound tore across the beach: the whirring of sirens as ambulances began to arrive. Frightened, we ran for what seemed like hours trying to find anything that looked familiar. Eventually we found our parents and didn’t venture away from our temporary compound after that. The next day we heard that a firework had blown up in the hand of boy my age and he had lost three fingers. We never again went to the beach on the Fourth of July.

 Ouch!  You really packed a punch with this one.  Good work.

So many memories of childhood come flooding back when reading this. Well written.

How quickly this turns from a wonderful beach party to a disaster.  I don’t understand what happens though. What is the giant hole for, and what happened that called the ambulances.  

It was the most beautiful beach he had ever seen. But this was no tropical paradise. The wind whipped at his body with its icy fingers. The tiny grains of sand stung his raw, exposed cheeks as they pummeled his face. He was forced to climb down 100 feet of steep, jagged rocks on a narrow and rut-filled pathway just to reach this sandy wonderland. Between the rocks grew windswept trees with all of their branches and leaves growing on one side of the trunk, like bonsai trees with one side completely removed. The air smelled of salt and dead sea creatures. Despite all of this he found it to be one of the most remarkable places he had ever seen. The scenery was breathtaking with a horizon that dropped of the edge of the world. The compacted sand was the color of a perfectly cooked pancake. There were tide pools with hundreds of tiny crustaceans meandering about. It was a place that had yet to be stained by the intrusion that is the mass of humanity. It was nature, a piece of earth that still was as it was meant to be. It made him feel at one with the world, at peace at last.

 Perfect!  Sadly, virtually no such place exists that has not been tainted by mankind in one way or another. 🙁 Your descriptions brought a smile to my face, great job!

That is gorgeous!  The details are great.  I can picture it quite clearly.  It sounds amazing and worth climbing down to see.  

“the color of a perfectly cooked pancake” – I love that description. 

The beach at Ocean View isn’t as impressive as the one at Virginia Beach.  It’s narrower, dirtier, and the jelly fish are thicker there in the summer, but when it’s warm and the sun shines any beach can seem like paradise. 

They didn’t have any life guards at Ocean View and when we were kids out mother’s would be so busy smoking, talking, and drinking iced tea out of thermoses, that is was surprising that none of us drowned.  They did stand up and yell when we drifted down a block toward the storm drain pipes.  The storm drain pipes spit out some interesting things sometimes like once a series of TV dinners were spit out, once a life sized baby doll with no eyes, and once a bottle with a note and a cork but the cork had gone down inside the bottle and the note fell apart when we got it out.  Roger Dunchee, who I was not supposed to play with because his parents were divorced told me that a head and two hands came out once and that they belonged to a girl that looked just like me.  I think that was after I told him I couldn’t talk to him anymore because his mother was a divorcee.  

The worst thing about the Ocean View beach though was there were no leash laws and people let dogs run.  I’m not afraid of dogs except for Doberman Pinschers.  I think I watched too much of the TV show, Matlock. On what seemed like just about every single episode it showed Apollo and Zeus, two Doberman’s who were guard dogs baring their teeth and snarling, while being held back on their leashes or while jumping at a chain link fence.  Or maybe the problem with me and Doberman Pinscher’s is the way they are big dogs but they wiggle and bark like the little dogs, and everyone knows little dogs are nippy.  Anyway I’m terrified of them. 

When we were about twenty or so, a group of five or six of us were lying in the sun on beach recliners when I saw a pinscher bounding toward us.  

“Oh a doberman is coming,” I said. “It’s coming this way.  It’s going to bite us.”

“It won’t bother you,” said Joyce. 

“I hate them,” 

“Well don’t start screaming. Be quiet and it will go on past,” said Bonnie.  She lit a cigarette and gave me a dirty look like I was being annoying or something.  

I tried to be calm. I was in the middle so it would have to tear through someone else to get to me.  I remember thinking that.  I kept my eye on it.  It’s owner was throwing a piece of driftwood for it and it would retrieve it and run back.  I was gleaming black with tan feet and big shiny teeth.  I knew that driftwood had to be full of holes. Driftwood being soft like human muscles.  

They kept coming down the beach. The owner was young with  a tattoo of an anchor on his chest.  The other girls thought he was good looking. He  threw the driftwood and it landed about ten feet away from us at the edge of the water.  The dog surged forward toward the wood, but passed it.  He came straight toward us. I couldn’t believe it.  I buried my head in my arms.  I held my breath. 

“Hey boy,” I heard Joyce say.  “He won’t hurt you Marianne.  Just look at him, pet him.” 

I didn’t move, and then I felt it. I felt a wet, cold nose in the center of my back.  Then one quick lick with a huge tongue.  Worse than watching a horror movie it was.  

“He’s gone said,” said Joyce.  

I looked up then and sure enough he was bouncing down the beach in the other direction.  He did look back and met my gaze.  His mouth was open like he was laughing.  

 So much to love here but my favorite has to be the boy with the divorced parents.  I love the way your story unfolds, the rhythm to it, and the gorgeous detail.  The end is perfect.

Thank Marla.  I appreciate the time you take to go over my stuff.  

I will never swim in these waters. Even love can’t make me. They’re not the seas I grew up with, seas warm like bath-water, the waves lapping so soft you can sleep in them.

This water here bites. And the waves are hungry.  If I were to even try… If I were to strip off this jacket, these socks, these gloves, and run into the churning white like my children are doing, like you, and gran and gramps. 

It’s a thought. I stop there. I can’t.

Returning your hello that day, looking into your strange green eyes, that was the hoodie coming off. Saying yes those many months later, after I’d learnt to touch those bleached out eyebrows, that tangle of animal hair on your chest, that was the gloves. And flying over here, learning to live with your people, in your country, that’s as far as I can wade.

I’m drowning in it already. This life. Our life … Don’t ask me for more.

 I love how this wraps around from the water to an entire life.  I love this line, especially.  “They’re not the seas I grew up with, seas warm like bath-water, the waves lapping so soft you can sleep in them.”  Beautiful.

Great writing here Oddznns.  I like it all but I particularly like how she starts to think the ‘what if” about running into the waves but then can’t even complete the thought.  I feel her alienation.  I think she would be a great character for a book, or story, but you images here are like poetry to me.  I really  like this piece.  

thomasmackayking

Yumi had been drawn back to the beach. Inside her trembling frame her soul screamed in agony, her weakened legs barely held her up. It had been one year and eight months to the hour since hell rose up and sucked away her reason to live. On that frigid silent morning the black putrid ocean came over them and then forever kept coming. The shrieking banshee cry of the tsunami alarm vibrated through her bones as she ran with baby Akiko in her grasp. The impact of the wave smashed her legs and the baby tumbled from her tender grasp. The tiny bundle in the white shawl was pulled under the evil darkness, and was gone. Yumi waded into the Pacific Ocean her eyes on the horizon her heart broken. Soon the mother would again see the baby.    

This is horrifying but the writing is good. 

I agree, Marianne. It captures that primal fear and devastation so brilliantly. Nice job.

Teresa

The image of this  ‘ Beach Post’ was so vivid that I could smell the beach. Many thanks!

Along the White Sands… April slipped off her sandals, enjoying the feel of the warm white sand between her toes. The beach was nearly empty, except for a few neighbors enjoying the last rays of evening sun. She smiled and waved at the Herrings—the retired couple who lived next door. In the opposite direction, Mike and Janet Parsons sat holding hands as they watched their four-year-old twins playing in the sand. April acknowledged them, but hurried by—haunted by painful memories of Brad and of the children that never were. She and Brad once walked together along this beach—arm-in-arm, sharing their hopes and dreams.  Then, life happened—three pregnancies, three miscarriages. It put a strain on their marriage and Brad moved out. “We both need some space,” he had said, “and time to think this through.” Whatever happened to ‘until death do us part?’ Had he truly loved her, or was the love conditional on her bearing his children? She walked to a secluded spot and sat down in the sand, allowing the waves wash over her feet. She gazed at the endless panorama of the azure blue ocean, wishing she could forget her problems. Yet she knew the time had come to face her situation. Either Brad loved her and wanted to remain together or he didn’t. It was time for him to decide—enough of him stringing her along. He had been gone for six months—long enough. She would call him tomorrow. “It’s now or never,” she would say. “I need to get on with my life—with you or without you.” With a newfound resolve, she rose and began walking back to the beach house. Twilight had settled in. The Parsons were gathering their things and calling to the twins to follow them inside. The Herrings had already retired to their deck, as they did most evenings. A man walked along the white sands toward her.  A stranger? Maybe someone new to the neighborhood? No, there was something familiar… Could it be? Dare she hope? The person came nearer. What was he doing here? Had he come home? Home to stay? She walked closer and Brad held out his arms…

This is so good Joan.  I am really happy when it’s Brad coming along the beach.  You explain her situation so well that I feel like I know her.  

Thank you, Marianne. I appreciate your encouragement.

I had the dream again, the one at the beach.  It’s a cold gray Washington beach, not the pretty blue-skied California kind.  I can’t see her face, but I’m pretty sure it’s me.  She’s naked and alone.  The waves are heavy and many.  It seems like the beginning of an independent movie with swirling camera angles and avant-garde cinematography.   She stands there for a long time.  I notice her toenails are not painted, her thighs are dimpled with cellulite, and her hair curtains most of her back.  She begins walking deliberately and rhythmically paced toward the water.  The rhythm never changes, not even when her feet, legs, or waist meet the cold water.  She walks until she is gone.  There is no struggle, no sound, no pain, just gone.  I can taste salt water in my mouth, but there is something not sea about it.  Then I realize it is not seawater, but blood.  I am not in the ocean.  I am face down in a bathtub tasting my own blood.  I can see myself from above myself.  I scream.  No sound comes out. Nobody knows I am in there.  Nobody knows but me. 

 So powerful!  I love this line.  “There is no struggle, no sound, no pain, just gone.”

Wow.  That was a surprise at the end.  The way you move from the image in her mind to “I can taste salt water in my mouth” is great.  The pacing is also good especially when she is walking without pause toward the sea.  

Gabriel Gadfly

Sand Castles

I have a photo of you, squinting in bright sundown next to the big sand castle we built on Clearwater Beach. That castle took hours. It took bucketsfull of wet white sand, and we poured itand shaped it into minarets and towers, arches and battlementson wide round walls, until our hands were raw, our necks burned red and then the sun went down. I took a photo of you with our castle, a snapshot to record our sweat and work and as the last light sunk into the gulf, we packed up our things and you kicked our castle down.

Damn. It didn’t preserve my line breaks.

Joe Bunting

Fixed it…. ish. Beautiful, Gabriel. Did you just write that now? 

Love that last line: “and you kicked our castle down.”

So poignant.

Thanks Joe. I wrote it in a few minutes after reading the prompt.

CM

Reading like this is like taking in a painting- lovely!

What a good description of both a sand castle and I assume a relationship.  I particularly like that you put “kicked it down” and not “knocked it down”.  I like the rhythm of the writing here too. 

Thank you, Marianne!

Ckschleg

Water doesn’t crash upon the sand here. When it reaches the sand it arrives a smooth hand upon a loved one’s cheek. At times, though, when boaters push the limits of the buoy signatures, it slaps upon the perpetually wet grains of sand, void of the relief of tides receded. No, the waters here more often than not rest quietly against the shores, a lover nestled beside it’s mate.Ashore, and in the shallows, in spite of the absence of surf, the activity is no less vibrant than on coastal cousins. Holes are scraped into grains, and forms of moistened sand take the shape of turrets and walls. Moats are crafted, and channels forged to the clear lake water mere meters away. at the water’s edge, floaties flop up an down as feet slowly submerge themselves into cold northern waters. Waist-deep, beside the docks, bread balls torn from a slice, drop atop the surface, a summons to the fish; nets clutched in elementary hands move futiley after the darting bluegills, their hunger sated, and their survival instinct piqued.Atop the aluminum tread of the adjacent dock bare feet thunder toward the terminus. Toward the depths, they launch their bearers skyward, out above the still clear pool, and downward, producing squeals of pleasure and refreshment, and wide-spreading splashes just shy of the swimming boundary.The scene is repeated, for sure, some in the majority of the 10,000 other places up here where fresh water collects itself as a lake. No, the beach is not just a foundation of coastal life. Here, in the land of lakes, the beach is woven into the fabric of lives from youth to the sunset years.In Minnesota you grow up near water. And, you make good use of it, year-round. It is the summers, though where the water is not only imbibed, but embraced, And nowhere is this more true than the municipal, association, and even hidden, private beaches marking the bodies dotting the state north from Austin to International Falls, east from Moorhead to Hastings, and throughout the entirety of what we call the Northland.

You have some great ideas here.  I like the line about the beach being woven into the fabric of lives and the water not having a strong tide but cuddling with the shore.  I think you need some action, some dialogue and some characters to bring it to life more.  It sounds like a very different kind of water than the other beaches described here. 

Luke Madden

                                We spent the summer bare-shoulder, skin kissed pink by the midday sun, freckles blooming across our backs like constellations. Our chests blossomed in air thick with humidity as we wrestled each other to the ground in a tangled mess of limbs still slightly tinged with the awkwardness of growing up. Seagulls littered the sky like bits of old newspaper as we crashed through the waves gulping against the shores of Lake Michigan. Sometimes, we would stand still and let the water creep up around our ankles and recede from our toes, watching the sand squelch between them. The world was filled with vague possibilities, an echo of adventure we felt deep in the marrow of our bones.

But now we reveled in the promise of our new found freedom as the inevitable decline of summer forced its way into our consciousness. W e were leaving behind the fear and embarrassment of high school for something that was much more feral. It was tradition for the newly graduated to camp out at the state park and various other campgrounds, setting up little shanty towns and spending the nights dancing around bonfires with red solo cups filled with various concoctions while trying to avoid the stern gaze of the deputy sheriff. It was a time when you lived as if these were your last moments. When you tried to hook-up with that girl from your chemistry class you’d been meaning to ask to prom or smoked a joint with that kid who always pushed you into your locker in the fourth grade. For once in our lives, we were equals. The hierarchy of high school was broken open as we all embarked on our new journeys, unsure of where life would lead us, and not really caring. But I missed the days when Jackson and I spent scouring the beach for seashells or digging in creek beds for arrowheads, when we were fireflies and our bodies hummed electric. These would be the moments that we would look back on during our distant reunions and say, remember when, those meetings of comparison and competition fueled by alcohol and more failed attempts at scoring with that girl from your second period chemistry class.

But even as those days fade into distant memory, things remain the same. The moonlight rippling on the water’s surface like piano keys, the trees weathered grey lining the dunes scraping the sky with their topmost branches or the way storm clouds rumbled low across the sky like wild horses, manes streaked by lightning, as the beacon at the end of the pier blinked knowingly in the night. The only record of the passage of time being the layers of graffiti covering its base, of lovers come and gone making their history known. It’s a wonder that in a town consumed by cleanliness and the conservation of tradition, this bastion for vandalism and rebellion remained blemished and unsightly. But perhaps it was this conservation of tradition that allowed these acts of declaration to survive throughout the years, as if it were expected, a rite of passage as you entered into the world of the unknown. But even then, we still cling to home. Most of my classmates never left this place. I sometimes think about them and I wonder if they’re happy, if they wished they had escaped.  In the time I’ve been away, the solitude of this place still fills the deep places of my body and anchors me home.

 We spent the summer bare-shoulder, skin kissed pink by the midday sun, freckles blooming across our backs like constellations. Our chests blossomed in air thick with humidity as we wrestled each other to the ground in a tangled mess of limbs still slightly tinged with the awkwardness of growing up. Seagulls littered the sky like bits of old newspaper as we crashed through the waves gulping against the shores of Lake Michigan. Sometimes, we would stand still and let the water creep up around our ankles and recede from our toes, watching the sand squelch between them. The world was filled with vague possibilities, an echo of adventure we felt deep in the marrow of our bones. But now we reveled in the promise of our new found freedom as the inevitable decline of summer forced its way into our consciousness. W e were leaving behind the fear and embarrassment of high school for something that was much more feral. It was tradition for the newly graduated to camp out at the state park and various other campgrounds, setting up little shanty towns and spending the nights dancing around bonfires with red solo cups filled with various concoctions while trying to avoid the stern gaze of the deputy sheriff. It was a time when you lived as if these were your last moments. When you tried to hook-up with that girl from your chemistry class you’d been meaning to ask to prom or smoked a joint with that kid who always pushed you into your locker in the fourth grade. For once in our lives, we were equals. The hierarchy of high school was broken open as we all embarked on our new journeys, unsure of where life would lead us, and not really caring. But I missed the days when Jackson and I spent scouring the beach for seashells or digging in creek beds for arrowheads, when we were fireflies and our bodies hummed electric. These would be the moments that we would look back on during our distant reunions and say, remember when, those meetings of comparison and competition fueled by alcohol and more failed attempts at scoring with that girl from your second period chemistry class.

We spent the summer bare-shoulder, skin kissed pink by the midday sun, freckles blooming across our backs like constellations. Our chests blossomed in air thick with humidity as we wrestled each other to the ground in a tangled mess of limbs still slightly tinged with the awkwardness of growing up. Seagulls littered the sky like bits of old newspaper as we crashed through the waves gulping against the shores of Lake Michigan. Sometimes, we would stand still and let the water creep up around our ankles and recede from our toes, watching the sand squelch between them. The world was filled with vague possibilities, an echo of adventure we felt deep in the marrow of our bones. But now we reveled in the promise of our new found freedom as the inevitable decline of summer forced its way into our consciousness. W e were leaving behind the fear and embarrassment of high school for something that was much more feral. It was tradition for the newly graduated to camp out at the state park and various other campgrounds, setting up little shanty towns and spending the nights dancing around bonfires with red solo cups filled with various concoctions while trying to avoid the stern gaze of the deputy sheriff. It was a time when you lived as if these were your last moments. When you tried to hook-up with that girl from your chemistry class you’d been meaning to ask to prom or smoked a joint with that kid who always pushed you into your locker in the fourth grade. For once in our lives, we were equals. The hierarchy of high school was broken open as we all embarked on our new journeys, unsure of where life would lead us, and not really caring. But I missed the days when Jackson and I spent scouring the beach for seashells or digging in creek beds for arrowheads, when we were fireflies and our bodies hummed electric. These would be the moments that we would look back on during our distant reunions and say, remember when, those meetings of comparison and competition fueled by alcohol and more failed attempts at scoring with that girl from your second period chemistry class.

But even as those days fade into distant memory, things remain the same. The moonlight rippling on the water’s surface like piano keys, the trees weathered grey lining the dunes scraping the sky with their topmost branches or the way storm clouds rumbled low across the sky like wild horses, manes streaked by lightning, as the beacon at the end of the pier blinked knowingly in the night. The only record of the passage of time being the layers of graffiti covering its base, of lovers come and gone making their history known. It’s a wonder that in a town consumed by cleanliness and the conservation of tradition, this bastion for vandalism and rebellion remained blemished and unsightly. But perhaps it was this conservation of tradition that allowed these acts of declaration to survive throughout the years, as if it were expected, a rite of passage as you entered into the world of the unknown. But even then, we still cling to home. Most of my classmates never left this place. I sometimes think about them and I wonder if they’re happy, if they wished they had escaped. In the time I’ve been away, the solitude of this place still fills the deep places of my body and anchors me home.

The beach is home. Surrounded by waves I feel uneasy, but right at the shore, where the breakers hit the sand, I’m at peace. Here the waves are capricious—soaring wintertime gale-driven breakers, or the smooth early-autumn laps more reminiscent of an inland pond.  The waves hit the sand like exhalations-sometimes panting, sometimes the quiet puffs of a sleepy giant.

I know this beach. I’ve met other beaches and even become friends with them, but I know this one like a brother. Even the irritating squeak of the sand becomes comforting in its familiarity. I once walked a beach where the sand was like mud. We didn’t get along. Here it’s so fine the grains rush over each other in their frenzy to flee the path of your feet—bringing to mind childhood chalkboard nail dragging. But it’s a small price to pay for a perfect hammock, and a free exfoliation to boot.

Water here is clear and cool, or warm and silty. But it never stings your eyes with salt. The breezes that come in off the lake are invigorating in their freshness. It’s almost as if someone wished for paradise: soft sand, azure waves, and no bite of brine to mar the Eden.

For many people, sea and beach are synonymous, but no matter how many calendars try to convince me otherwise, I’ll always think first of the shores of Lake Michigan.

“My” beach is the Chesapeake Bay but you and many others on this blog make me want to see Lake Michigan.  It sounds lovely.  The writing here is very descriptive and the setting would be good fro something longer.  

This is a great story, full of the joy and adventure of youth.  I think it might be better if you broke it up with some dialogue or action.  

Asha

In the middle of piles of pillows, waking up to the sound of my alarm buzzing continuously. After hitting the snooze multiple times, I finally wake up and first thing I do is check my notifications on my phone. After I finish looking at my friends posts, I get up to open the window only to find the beach right in front of my eyes. My mom comes into my room to tell my that my dads flight was canceled, so he won’t be back until the following morning. I ask why his flight was canceled, and my mom tells me it was because of a blizzard that was happening. My dad is a business man, so he travels a ton. Usually Americans are known to love snow, well let me tell you something, snow isn’t my thing at all. In fact the one time it snows, I dread going outside, so I just end up staying in bed or being a couch potato. My dad doesn’t really mind snow, but I’m sure he minds the fact that he won’t be home for another day. My mom leaves the room, and closes the door behind her. I turn back to the window and open it to hear the sounds of waves, and light winds from the world outside of our beach house. No need to worry about what clothes to wear on what day, because the forecast is always in for a sunny day. All you think to do in the morning is wake up, eat breakfast, and put your swimsuit, and have fun at the beach with your friends. All you can think of is having beach party’s with friends and coming home from a long day at the beach, tan as a peach. I wash off, eat my dinner, and snuggle into bed. “dan da da dan da dan da” “dan da da dan da dan da” my alarm continues going off in my ear. No need to hit snooze because I knew I was going to wake up to the life of my dreams. I wake up and check the window to see if it was actually real, and all I see is the fall leaves and cars passing by rushing to work. I go back into bed disappointed to see the real world.

Ben

A soft buzz begins faint, then with the focus it gains from me, the beeping all of a sudden becomes immensely irritating. With a sweep of a condemning hand, the alarm is terminated, a red glow burning against my turtle shell turquoise eyes, adjusted to the shadows of night.

My analog clock reads five thirty, the sky a florescent yet dark navy, specked with select bits of sugar, gleaming against Earth’s closest star about to rise against the salted sea. After a few minutes of lingering around my bedroom, articles of clothing strewn about the carpeted floor like piles of sand, I realize how close the sun is to peaking above the Atlantic.

This will not be unseen.

I’d throw on some replaceable sweats and rush out of the door, hopping onto my bike and peddling with all my might. The cool, salty air would lash against my face as lush green forests slowly morph into houses, shops, and soon a sleepy town, just now barely awakening from it’s slumber. Soon, the harbor takes shape out of the commercial center of town, a mist lifting off of the sea. The pungent scent of cod forever stained into the docks and boathouses relieves me, unlike any tourists who might turn their nose up at it’s unique scent. I welcome it, when I can notice it, as it is like the familiar scent of home to me.

Then all of a sudden, like a wave upon the shore, I see it.

The sandy shores beckon me towards it’s hypnotic visage. I have no will. My legs and the bay are in control. And just as I reach the sandy soaked shores, icy morning waves crashing against my bare feet, I see it.

The sun peaks up above the ocean, my cloudless sky searing from navy to a bright orange and pink that slowly creeps upon my little hamlet. The ships that dot the harbor take a over burnt color, followed by lighthouses in the immeasurable distance, flashing the last of their light for the night. Soon, the forested hills are slammed with the all consuming light of the rising sun, hills reflecting a glossy verdant tint.

The sun’s furthest reaches grasp at the town, it’s chipped and worn pastel paints glowing in the sun’s light. Yet it still grows far beyond my own sight.

All while the icy waves crash against me and my beach. My wonderfully sandy, rocky, boat catching beach. My town. My county.

I like the passive language and the images you paint are really beautiful and intriguing. I got swept up in the other-worldliness of your writing! There are a few lines that felt awkward – the description of the narrator’s eyes, the phrase “this will not be unseen.” I wish the ending stopped at “…boat catching beach.” But otherwise really magical!

I hate the beach. Let me just say that first. Sunburn. Sand. Waves. Noise. People. What’s so bad about that you ask? Do I really have to repeat myself? Anyway, look, my mom thought it would be good for me to get outside and get some “fresh air.” She told me on Monday, “Virginia, we’re going to take a trip on Saturday!” I hate it when she calls me by my full name. “A trip? Cool.” “Oh, come on,” she scolded, “You don’t even know what I’m going to say!” “Somehow not very reassuring, mom.” I reached for a yogurt in the fridge. I could feel her stare boring into the back of my neck. “Come on, Ginger,” she whined, “we’re going to the beach.” Oh boy. Now she uses my nickname. That means this is serious. “Can’t we do something like go to Great Escape? I could really stand to be turned upside down on some weird contraption that passes for a roller coaster…” I joked. “Or, god, even to the mall. I could use some new sneakers!”

I’m guessing she really needs to get out of the house, but the beach? Shit. She’s already stressed out about the new job, so there is no way in hell I’m going to give her shit about it. OK, I know I already did, but, you know what I mean. Anyway, she started two weeks ago, and there’s this thing called a “lag” that’s been freaking her out. “What the hell’s a lag, mom?” “Ginger, could you please not swear? You know I hate that.” I shrugged a little and waited. “OK, so a lag is where you start the job, and you’ll be getting paid every other week, but they don’t pay you for four weeks the first time. You just have to wait, and hope you have enough money to get through.” Her face was a little flushed and she looked down. I waited. She sighed. Oh… “So, you mean we need to watch our spending for two more weeks?” I said. She nodded, slowly looking up at me, pleading with her eyes. Fortunately for her, I think I can live on greek yogurt and the store brand is on sale ten for five dollars. I don’t really need a lot of stuff, and I can usually make do with what I have. I can live without new sneakers. Oh god. Now I think I might be a total jerk.

So, mom. And the beach. “Well, look mom. The beach is free! It’s cool.” She looked up, smiled. I continued, “We can hang out like we used to before all the crazy…” No, her eyes said, NO! Do NOT say it! I stopped. Silence hung between us like a wet blanket. I held my breath. She looked down again, struggling to sound cheerful, “Yeah, hang out like we used to…” her voice trailed off. I stood, my hip against the counter, awkward and trying to find something to do with my arms. I’m tall for sixteen – six feet tall. I suppose I should say tall for a girl. Well, thing is, I’m trans. Have been ever since I can remember, but I haven’t been out for very long, really.

I’m six feet tall, with shoulder length auburn hair. (Yeah, Ginger. Get it?) I’m not a big fan of the beach because I don’t like to be that exposed, although I can wear a bikini just fine – I have one I really like, but I sunburn kind of easy. I guess mom is trying to heal us – this trip to the beach is maybe an olive branch, if that’s the right term. I don’t think it is. What do I mean to say? She’s trying to make herself feel about me the way she did before I came out. And dad left. Two years ago. I guess maybe dad left because I came out, or was it the other way around? It all kind of happened around the same time, so I’m not really sure which happened first. It’s a blur. I have my memories of things, but not in real chronological order.

Alan Benlolo

Verasalt Beach was teeming with life that hot, cloudless afternoon in August. From volleyball to makeshift water polo on the ocean to castle-building by the shoreline, the densely packed beach was buzzing with activity — and inactivity, as many of the guests were content to bask in the sun and work on their tans. The sound of the crashing waves was met with the cries of laughter and jubilation, the squawking of seagulls and the occasional warning calls blasting through the speakerphones of lifeguards. Leo Palminsky, the Beach’s lone MD, or “Metal Detective,” was standing with the belly of his frail and wrinkled forearm resting on top of his detector’s handle while observing what was transpiring around him. The best part of his job, which he held for 20 years following his early retirement from the US army as an explosives specialist, was not finding and extracting metal objects but witnessing what he called the “good life” on this picturesque beach. For Leo, his 20-year tenure at this job served as much-need therapy from the horrors he had faced as a 21-year-old during the second World War, in particular the dreadful day on Normandy Beach, aka “D Day”, when he took three bullets — two to his torso and one to his hind leg —and witnessed the death of many of his fellow officers, some of them friends. It was June 6, 1944, but that day was still fresh in his mind. But he wasn’t going to let the dark memories of the past seep into the present, however difficult that was going to be. Leo reached into the right pocket of his pants and pulled out a brittle, yellow-stained note that read: “Look around you my friend… observe and absorb the energies of the people and places that surround you, and claim THIS day on behalf of all of us.” This was written by his then best friend, Sheldon, who died from his injuries a few days following D-Day. This had been part of Leo’s routine every day for the past 20 years while he worked on the beach: roam the sandy shores with his detector, pause after an hour or so, and read the note, over which he started to express concern since it was falling part — badly. It was ripped on all sides and the ink was fading. At this point, Leo was paralyzed with indecision; he didn’t want to exacerbate the note’s already poor condition by folding it. While thinking of a solution, Leo felt two sharp tugs of his right pant leg; he looked down to find a stout round-faced boy not older than four or five holding up an empty Ziploc bag. Flanking the boy was his father, who, after letting out a short chuckle, instructed his son, “Alex, don’t give the mister that; it’s garbage!” “Far from garbage my friend,” Leo defended. Funny, nothing could have prepared Leo for that awful day in 1944. Neither could have this moment.

Verasalt Beach was teeming with life that hot, cloudless afternoon in August. From volleyball to makeshift water polo on the ocean to castle-building by the shoreline, the densely packed beach was buzzing with activity — and inactivity, as many of the guests were content to bask in the sun and work on their tans. The sound of the crashing waves was met with cries of laughter and jubilation, the squawking of seagulls and the occasional warning calls blasting through the speakerphones of lifeguards. Leo Palminsky, the Beach’s lone MD, or “Metal Detective,” was standing with the belly of his frail and wrinkled forearm resting on top of his detector’s handle while observing what was transpiring around him. The best part of his job, which he held for 20 years following his early retirement from the US army as an explosives specialist, was not finding and extracting metal objects but witnessing what he called the “good life” on this picturesque beach. For Leo, his 20-year tenure at this job served as much-need therapy from the horrors he had faced as a 21-year-old during the second World War, in particular the dreadful day on Normandy Beach, aka “D Day”, when he took three bullets — two to his torso and one to his hind leg —and witnessed the death of many of his fellow officers, some of them friends. It was June 6, 1944, but that day was still fresh in his mind. But he wasn’t going to let the dark memories of the past seep into the present, however difficult that was going to be. Leo reached into the right pocket of his pants and pulled out a brittle, yellow-stained note that read: “Look around you my friend… observe and absorb the energies of the people and places that surround you, and claim THIS day on behalf of all of us.” This was written by his then best friend, Sheldon, who died from his injuries a few days following D-Day. This had been part of Leo’s routine every day for the past 20 years while he worked on the beach: roam the sandy shores with his detector, pause after an hour or so, and read the note, over which he started to express concern since it was falling part — badly. It was ripped on all sides and the ink was fading. At this point, Leo was paralyzed with indecision; he didn’t want to exacerbate the note’s already poor condition by folding it. While thinking of a solution, Leo felt two sharp tugs of his right pant leg; he looked down to find a stout round-faced boy not older than four or five holding up an empty Ziploc bag. Flanking the boy was his father, who, after letting out a short chuckle, instructed his son, “Alex, don’t give the mister that; it’s garbage!” “Far from garbage my friend,” Leo defended. Funny, nothing could have prepared Leo for that awful day in 1944. Neither could have this moment.

Vaanchit Srikumar

As I tread down the beach, the silver sands bask in the light like pixie dust in this fairyland. The lofty coconut palms oscillate as a warm, tropical gust whistles. As the sun drifts down the horizon, it hides behind the clouds shyly with the sky’s cheeks blushing a pink hue. As I sit on a rock and am sprayed with cool brine, I gaze at the fathomless ocean churn. As I return home, I ponder over the years that have gone by and the things that have changed. As I live, the one thing that is constant is the beach.

Tab

The Beach Cool and calm would how the ocean would be described by her best friend. Jade stared at the waves as they pushed in and out. She was sitting on the sandy shore, wishing that it were dawn already. The stillness welcomed unwanted thoughts and disturbed her peaceful surroundings. How could she think of anything else at a time like this? The ocean personified, that’s ridiculous. If it were a person it would be irrational and angry. The ocean continuously stirred, in a ceaseless rhythm that warranted disruption. She wiggled her toes a little in the sand. Feeling its cool, grainy texture reminded her of how much she hated the beach. The ocean, the waves and its cool salty air. Too overwhelming for the senses she thought. How could anyone escape when there was just as much noise here than anything else in her head. So why did she come then? It was not anyplace she wanted to go, yet she still arrived. Waiting, for own thoughts to be interrupted by an expected visitor. Pulling her knees in closer, she looked over her left shoulder. Seeing nothing but endless beach and her parked car. She turned to face the water again, not bothering to look over her right. She would hear whoever was coming.

I wrote this, just signed up and love the prompts and idea.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

Headspace

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Want to Get Published?

Enter your email to get our free interactive checklist to writing and publishing a book.

Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Beach — Creative Writing: To Walk on The Beach

test_template

Creative Writing: to Walk on The Beach

  • Categories: Beach Literature Review

About this sample

close

Words: 655 |

Published: Mar 20, 2024

Words: 655 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Image of Dr. Oliver Johnson

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

author

Prof. Kifaru

Verified writer

  • Expert in: Geography & Travel Literature

writer

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 471 words

1 pages / 682 words

1 pages / 466 words

1 pages / 657 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Beach

This descriptive essay is about the beach. I have used different descriptive techniques in each paragraph to better convey the atmosphere of the beach. Blue Bay Beach is one of the best places which shall remain [...]

The beach is a place of relaxation, peace, and tranquility for many people. Its vast expanse of sand, the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, and the gentle sea breeze create an atmosphere that is both [...]

The sun is shining, the waves are crashing, and the sand is warm beneath your feet. This can only mean one thing – it's a perfect day to spend at the beach. The beach is a natural wonder that offers a unique environment for [...]

When one envisions paradise, it often takes the form of a tranquil beach, where the rhythmic symphony of waves caresses the shore, and the golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. In this essay, we will embark on a [...]

Beach is one of the best place for having vacation to me. Staying in a beach gives me a feeling of joy and calm. If it is summer I always prefer to go for a vacation in the beach. A few months ago I went to a beach to enjoy my [...]

Human beings love to travel. It can be considered as an important part of our life. We get bored to our life as we have to follow a busy schedule. Continuous work makes us dull and increase the monotony. A tour or vacation can [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

creative writing examples about the beach

WriteShop

6 beach-themed writing prompts

by Kim Kautzer | Apr 11, 2018 | Writing & Journal Prompts

Whether you live near the coast or far inland, nothing says “summertime” like the beach! Gather your kids around the table for some summer writing fun, using these beach themed writing prompts as a jumping-off point. They’ll love creating imaginative stories, planning menus for a doll’s tea party, or choosing a new home for a crab.

1. The House that Herb Built

Herb the Hermit Crab has outgrown his shell. In his search for a new place to live, he comes across a plastic cup, a tin can, and a large, empty snail shell. Which one will he choose for his new home? Explain your answer.

2. On the Morning Tide

On a morning beach stroll, you stumble upon an unusual item that has washed ashore. Write a paragraph telling what is it, where it came from, and whether you will keep it or throw it back into the ocean.

3. Ocean Overtures

Describe the ocean using all five senses. What color is the water? How does it move? What sounds do you hear? How does ocean spray feel and taste? If you have never been to the ocean, use your imagination! Or, with a parent, you can watch some of these ocean video clips:

Waves Crashing on the Beach

Noisy Seagulls Flying over the Shor e

Thailand Sea

Giant Waves on the Oregon Coast

Foggy, Rocky Beach

Tropical Beach with Lapping Water

Beach Sunset and Clouds

4. Digging Deeper

Write a short story  beginning with this line: My jaw dropped when a tiny voice at the edge of my shovel said, “Don’t hurt me!”

5. Genie of the Shell

At a beachside souvenir shop, you buy a beautiful golden shell. As you polish the shell to remove some crusted sand, a genie suddenly pops out to grant you three wishes! His only condition is that each wish must bless someone other than you. Who will benefit from your wishes? Explain what you will wish for, and why.

6. I’ll Have a Sand-wich

You are a restaurant owner who has been hired to cater a doll’s tea party. Create a beach-themed summer menu for the party guests using only items you might find at the seashore. Give each dish a descriptive name, such as “Mixed Seaweed Salad in Clam Shells.” Include each of the following on your menu: Appetizer, Soup, Salad, Main Course, Dessert, and Beverage.

Did you enjoy these writing ideas? If so, check out more of our  Writing and Journal Prompts !

Gather your kids around the table for some summer writing fun, using these beach themed writing prompts as a jumping-off point.

Let’s Stay Connected!

Subscribe to our newsletter.

creative writing examples about the beach

  • Gift Guides
  • Reluctant or Struggling Writers
  • Special Needs Writers
  • Brainstorming Help
  • Editing & Grading Help
  • Encouragement for Moms
  • Writing Games & Activities
  • Writing for All Subjects
  • Essays & Research Papers
  • College Prep Writing
  • Grammar & Spelling
  • Writing Prompts

Recent Posts

  • An exciting announcement!
  • 10 Stumbling Blocks to Writing in Your Homeschool
  • Help kids with learning challenges succeed at homeschool writing
  • How to correct writing lessons without criticizing your child

By the Beach

By the Beach

SHARON’S BLOG Is it too early to dream about the beach? I think not!

This week’s fun prompts are beach themed and are great for your 5th – 12th graders.

The first set of prompts is from a recent news article that caught my imagination, and the second is from a goofy song by Phil Harris recorded in 1950. Well, maybe it wasn’t so goofy. It became so popular that it hit #1 on the Billboard charts soon after he released it.

Ready? Dive in!

By the Beach Prompts

Message in a bottle.

You’re walking along the beach and find a bottle with a message in it. What could it possibly say?

It turns out that the message is 132 years old, which makes it a good thing that the message wasn’t something like “Help!”

German ships were conducting experiments to map ocean currents, and this gin bottle was one of the original ones thrown overboard near the Indian Ocean—600 miles from where it was found—in 1886. The message is basically this: “Write the coordinates of where you found this and the date and send it back,” according to The Guardian .

Now it’s your turn: Choose from one of the following prompts. Or make up your own related to a message in a bottle. 1. You’ve found a message in a bottle. Where did you find it? What did the message say? What did you do with it? Either write a story about it or write a paragraph or two about your conjectures.

2. You are writing a message. Where will you put it? How will you get it to someone? What is the message? Either write a story about it or write a few paragraphs about your ideas.

3. In the last three years on your birthday, you’ve sent a message in a bottle, hoping each will be read by the same stranger. What are your three messages?

4. You are making something you want to last for 132 years. What is it? Explain.

5. You find a message in a bottle and open it up. It turns out that you had written it when you were much younger, and now you are thirty years old. What did your younger self write? What does your thirty-year-old self think of it?

6. What might be a random way to send a message to someone other than a message in a bottle? What message would you send using this method?

You’re walking along the beach and find a wooden box. Inside the wooden box is . . . well, I can’t tell you. You’ll have to listen to this song sung by Phil Harris, the voice of Baloo in Disney’s The Jungle Book .

Now it’s your turn: Choose from one of the following prompts. Or make up your own prompt about finding something of interest on the beach. 1. What did Phil Harris find in the wooden box in the bay? Write your ideas.

creative writing examples about the beach

3. Write the lyrics to a song in which you find something. Use the lyrics to tell the story of your find. What do you find? What happens next?

4. Did you ever carry or bring something into the house and someone said, “Get out of here with that thing”? Or were you ever present when that happened to someone? Write the story (personal narrative).

Enjoy some poetry prompts here. >>

Do you love Narnia or Middle Earth? >>

Yours for more vibrant writing and literature experiences,

Sharon Watson

Looking for something?

creative writing examples about the beach

Sharon’s Blog

Grading Essays Made Easy

Homeschool Life

Miscellaneous

Proofreading Tips

Writing Prompts

Writing/Teaching Tips

Middle school prompts

Description

jump-in-front-cover

High school prompts

the-power-in-your-hands-front-cover

Download free samples of our courses here. Dismiss

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Writing Tips Oasis

Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

10 Words to Describe Sand on a Beach

By A.W. Naves

words to describe sand on a beach

There is nothing like a beautiful beach to create a relaxing setting in your novel. If you’re looking for ways to create some memorable visual images in the minds of your readers, the following 10 words to describe sand on a beach will help you.

Gold-like, bright : having a yellowish-brown color.

“The golden sand of the beach was a beautiful contrast to the blue water.”

“She posed next to a golden sandcastle glistening in the sun.”

How It Adds Description

The word “golden” adds a sense of warmth and richness to a scene about sand on a beach. It makes the beach look more inviting and magical, evoking feelings of joy and happiness. The golden sand of a beach can set a romantic or peaceful scene. It can also give an illusion of wealth such as in a novel where a character is seeking treasure on the dunes.

Granular, gravelly ; having rough-edged texture.

“The coarse sand scratched at my feet as I walked.”

“It was nearly impossible to build sandcastles that would stay upright with such coarse sand.”

The word “coarse” provides a sense of the texture and consistency of the sand. It means that it is rough and has a rough-edged texture. This can affect the sensory experience of the characters in the scene and give a sense of how the sand feels beneath their feet. It can show that they are in harsh conditions, a less traveled area or a poorly maintained location along the shore.

3. Shimmering

Gleaming, shining ; producing a sheen.

“The shimmering sand spanned for miles as it reflected light back from the brutal sun.”

“The sand was shimmering like diamonds scattered on the beach.”

The word “shimmering” adds description to a scene about sand on a beach by adding a sense of beauty and magic to the environment. It creates a visual image of the sand reflecting light and creating a sparkly or shining effect. This adds to the atmosphere of the scene, making it more memorable and impactful.

Chalky, dusty ; having a fine, dry texture.

“The powdery sand was so soft that it felt like I was walking on clouds.”

“I left a trail of powdery sand behind me as I walked up the walkway to the tiki bar.”

The word “powdery” conveys a sense of softness and delicacy to the sand. It creates an image in the reader’s mind of the sand being finely textured, like flour or talcum powder. This description can evoke a feeling of comfort and relaxation, making the beach feel like a peaceful, tranquil place.

Speckled, multi-colored ; having distinct colors or shades.

“The mottled sand had a mix of dark and light browns that made it look like a work of art.”

“The sand was mottled with different shades and hues blending together.”

The word “mottled” adds visual detail and depth to a scene about sand on a beach by describing the pattern of blotches or spots of different colors or shades. It can be used to represent the protagonist’s journey, where they are faced with different challenges that leave their mark, adding to their own mottled past.

Harsh, rough ; having a grainy texture.

“The gritty sand was hard on my feet as I attempted to walk barefoot along the shore.”

“The sand was gritty near the waterline but settled into a finer grain further off shore.”

The word “gritty” creates a sensory experience for the reader and helps them visualize the sand as being scratchy and uncomfortable. It can convey a sense of roughness, struggle, or difficulty in a character’s situation, adding nuance to the story. As a representation of  a character, it can imply that they possess the same rough surfaces as the sand beneath their feet.

Calm, peaceful ; unbroken in appearance.

“The sand beneath me was serene , allowing me to drift off to sleep in my hammock.”

“The serene sand was a perfect contrast to the noisy waves.”

The word “serene” creates a visual and emotional image of a tranquil and relaxing environment. This can help to set the mood for a particular scene, creating a contrast between the chaos and turmoil of other parts of the story. If a character is in crisis, the serene sand on the beach may represent inner peace or a moment of respite.

Pewter, grey ; having a metallic color.

“The sand was silvery as it caught the light that escaped the clouds.”

“The silvery sand made the beach look like a mirror reflecting the sky.”

The word “silvery” creates an impression of a shimmering, lustrous, and metallic surface. The use of this adjective can evoke a feeling of elegance, glamour, and magic in the reader’s mind. You may expect a silvery beach to lead to something grand or mystical, such as a long-forgotten castle or unexpected doorway.

9. Burnished

Glossy, shiny ; having a smooth polished surface.

“The sand was burnished to a high gloss .

“The burnished sand was like a glassy lake, reflecting the sky.”

The word “burnished” adds a touch of glamour to the setting. This could be used to enhance a romantic or whimsical moment in a novel, such as a beach proposal or a dreamy beach walk. A small patch of burnished sand amid otherwise unremarkable grains can evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment.

10. Stygian

Lightless, dark ; black or shaded.

“The obsidian sand on the beach was rare and exotic, unlike any other sand I’ve seen.”

“I picked up a piece of obsidian sand and marveled at its glossy, smooth texture.”

The word “stygian” adds a sense of ominousness or foreboding to a scene. It can be used to describe something dark, gloomy, or sinister, setting the tone for a tense or dangerous situation. A character may encounter stygian sand in a place that is unknown, creating suspense as they enter another leg of a journey.

Creative Writing Prompts

Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative Writing

Photo of author

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative Writing

Unleashing Your Imagination: The Intriguing World of Describing Sand

Capturing the essence: exploring the texture and color of different sands, painting a picture with words: crafting vivid descriptions of sand, playing with metaphors: infusing emotion and depth into sand descriptions, mastering the art of sensory detail: evoking sights, sounds, and feelings of sand, choosing the right words: enhancing descriptions through precise vocabulary, going beyond the obvious: uncovering the unique qualities of various sands, inspiring your readers: techniques to bring sand descriptions to life, frequently asked questions, concluding remarks.

Have you ever stopped to truly observe the mesmerizing qualities of sand? This omnipresent substance that effortlessly slips through our fingers is more fascinating than meets the eye. Its texture alone can transport us to a multitude of landscapes, from silky smooth shores to rough and grainy dunes. But describing sand goes far beyond its mere sensation. Join us as we embark on a journey to unravel the intriguing world of sand and let your imagination run wild .

Sand, with its infinite variety, holds a treasure trove of colors. From dazzling white beaches to golden desert expanses, it embraces shades that beckon the wanderlust within us. Each grain tells a unique story, composed of minerals, rocks, and even seashells. Imagine the soft, powder-like feel of finely ground quartz sliding through your fingers, or the coarser, uneven grit of volcanic ash-shaped particles. The diversity of sand is as astounding as the landscapes they form. Palettes of ochre, beige, caramel, or ebony awaken our senses and paint vivid pictures in our minds.

Capturing the Essence: Exploring the Texture and Color of Different Sands

Welcome to a captivating journey where we delve into the mesmerizing world of sands! Join us as we uncover the diverse range of textures and colors found in sands across the globe. From sun-kissed beaches to arid deserts, each grain has its own story to tell.

The texture of sands can vary significantly, providing a truly unique tactile experience. Fine sands, with their powdery consistency, effortlessly slip through your fingers, creating a velvety sensation. In contrast, coarse sands offer a grainier touch that exudes a sense of rawness and ruggedness. Embark on an adventure of touch, allowing your fingertips to explore the vast differences that sands have to offer.

  • Jagged Sands: Some sands display jagged edges, formed from elements like crushed shells or volcanic rocks. These rough textures not only add intrigue but also depict the turbulent history of their origin.
  • Silky Sands: As smooth as silk, these ultra-fine grains are like caressing a cloud. Often found on serene beaches, their velvety texture feels luxurious beneath your toes.
  • Glistening Sands: Certain sands shimmer like precious gems under the sunlight. Infused with tiny crystal fragments, they create a mesmerizing spectacle that sparkles and captivates all who behold their beauty.

Colors also play a significant role in the allure of sands. Some beaches boast pristine white sands, where the pureness reflects the surrounding sunlight, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Other shores embrace warm golden tones, reminiscent of endless summer days. Certain volcanic regions unveil striking black sands, drenched in mystery and history. The kaleidoscope of colors found in sands truly invites us to observe the fascinating tapestry of our planet.

Painting a Picture with Words: Crafting Vivid Descriptions of Sand

Color: The sand sparkled like golden silk under the bright rays of the sun, spreading hues of warmth and radiance. As the coastline stretched far into the distance, the sand gradually lightened to a delicate shade of beige, reminiscent of a creamy cappuccino. In some areas, where the sea gently lapped against the shore, the sand appeared damp and darker, contrasting beautifully with the dry, powdery texture surrounding it.

Texture: Running your fingers through the sand felt like sifting through thousands of tiny, velvety granules. It was as if nature had taken the softest down feathers and transformed them into a flooring of delicate particles. The sand was cool to the touch, offering a refreshing respite from the heat of the sun. With each step, the sand gently yielded beneath your weight, leaving behind little footprints and revealing its resilient nature.

Playing with Metaphors: Infusing Emotion and Depth into Sand Descriptions

When it comes to describing sand, the use of metaphors can add a whole new dimension of emotion and depth to your writing. Metaphors allow you to create vivid imagery and engage the reader’s senses, making your descriptions more captivating and memorable.

One way to infuse emotion into sand descriptions is by comparing the texture of the sand to something familiar yet evocative. For example, you could liken the softness of the sand to a baby’s skin, instantly conjuring feelings of tenderness and delicacy. Alternatively, you might compare the roughness of the sand to a warrior’s calloused hands, evoking a sense of strength and resilience. By using metaphors, you can transform a mundane description into a powerful visual experience that resonates with your readers.

  • Compare the warmth of the sand to a cozy fireplace on a winter’s night.
  • Describe the color of the sand as golden, like an ethereal sunbeam at sunset.
  • Portray the sound of the sand as a gentle whisper, reminiscent of secrets shared between loved ones.

Ultimately, the key to infusing emotion and depth into sand descriptions lies in the artful use of metaphors. By carefully selecting metaphors that resonate with your intended emotions and creating a sensory experience, you can transport your readers to the sandy shores and make your descriptions come alive.

Evoke the beauty and essence of a sandy landscape by mastering the art of sensory detail. By incorporating vivid sights, sounds, and feelings, you can transport your readers to a world of sun-kissed shores and shifting dunes.

When describing the sight of sand, imagine the golden grains glistening in the sunlight like a million tiny stars. The fine texture and undulating patterns create a mesmerizing sight, painting a picture of tranquility and endless possibility. Picture the way the sand stretches out before you, seemingly infinite, inviting you to explore and lose yourself in its soft embrace. To amplify this visual imagery, consider using descriptive adjectives like “powdery,” “radiant,” or “undulating.”

  • Sound: Close your eyes and listen closely to the soundscape of sand. As you walk, the grains gently shift under your feet, creating a soothing, rhythmic sound – a gentle dance of nature. The sound of sand blowing in the wind is a whispered melody, harmonizing with the symphony of crashing waves in the background. To convey these auditory sensations, incorporate words like “whisper,” “rustle,” or “murmur.”
  • Feelings: The sensation of sand beneath your toes is an unparalleled experience. As you sink your feet into its warmth, you can almost feel its soft caress against your skin. The playful texture lends itself to building sandcastles or creating intricate patterns with your fingertips. Let your readers feel the sensation of sand slipping through their fingers, the gentle exfoliation as it meets their skin. Use words like “gritty,” “grainy,” or “velvety” to transport your audience to the tactile wonderland of sand.

Incorporating sensory detail in your writing enables you to paint a vivid and immersive picture of the sandy landscape. By harnessing the sights, sounds, and feelings of sand, you can evoke a sensory experience that resonates with your readers, enticing them to embark on their own journeys through the mesmerizing world of sand.

The art of effective communication lies not only in the ideas we express but also in the words we choose to convey those ideas. When it comes to descriptions, the use of precise vocabulary can elevate the impact and clarity of our message. By carefully selecting the right words, we can paint a vivid picture in the minds of our readers, capturing their attention and evoking specific emotions.

First and foremost, precision in vocabulary allows us to be more specific with our descriptions. By utilizing words that are exact and concrete, we provide the reader with a clear image of what we are describing. Rather than simply stating that something is “big,” we can use words like “monstrous” or “towering,” providing a much more evocative and memorable depiction. Additionally, precise vocabulary helps us to express nuanced differences. For example, instead of describing an object as “old,” we can choose words like “antique” or “vintage” to convey a sense of history and value. These subtle word choices add depth and richness to our descriptions, making them more engaging and captivating.

  • Precision in vocabulary provides clarity and specificity in descriptions.
  • Exact and concrete words create clear mental images.
  • Evocative vocabulary helps capture the reader’s attention.
  • Subtle differences can be expressed through nuanced word choices.
  • Precise vocabulary adds depth and engages the reader.

In conclusion, choosing the right words is key to enhancing descriptions. By incorporating a precise vocabulary, we can ensure clarity, evoke emotions, and captivate our readers. So, let us dive into the vast sea of words and select those that best convey our intended meaning, creating descriptions that truly come alive in the minds of those who read them.

Going Beyond the Obvious: Uncovering the Unique Qualities of Various Sands

When it comes to sand, we often take it for granted as simply a gritty substance beneath our feet. However, delve deeper into the world of sands, and you’ll be amazed by their diverse characteristics and rich histories. From the serene beaches of the Caribbean to the mystical deserts of Africa, sands hold unique qualities that set them apart. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the hidden wonders of these fascinating granules!

1. The Singing Sands of Lovers Beach, Mexico: Have you ever heard sand sing? Well, you can experience this enchanting phenomenon at the pristine Lovers Beach in Cabo San Lucas. As you step on the sand, the friction between the tiny grains produces a gentle melody resembling the sound of a distant flute. This extraordinary occurrence is due to the silica-rich content of the sand particles. It’s truly a magical experience cherished by locals and visitors alike.

2. The Magnetic Sands of Tenerife, Spain: Prepare to be amazed by the magnetic sands of Tenerife’s Playa de las Teresitas. Unlike ordinary sand, these unique black grains are formed from volcanic materials, giving them their magnetic properties. Locals believe that the sand possesses healing powers, and visitors flock to this stunning beach to relax and indulge in its alleged therapeutic benefits. So, next time you’re in Tenerife, don’t miss the opportunity to lounge on these captivatingly magnetic sands!

When describing sandy landscapes, it is crucial to paint a vivid picture in your reader’s mind. By incorporating sensory details and using descriptive language, you can transport your audience to the breathtaking beauty of sandy shores. Here are some techniques to infuse life into your sand descriptions:

  • 1. Appeal to the senses: Engage your reader’s senses by describing the texture of the sand – is it powdery, fine, or gritty? Highlight the scent of the ocean breeze as it mingles with the salty sea air. Captivating your reader’s senses creates a more immersive experience.
  • 2. Evoke emotions: Describing the sand in a way that elicits emotions can create a deeper connection with your readers. A phrase like “the golden sand shimmered under the sun, inviting you to feel its warmth beneath your toes” sparks feelings of comfort and tranquility.
  • 3. Use vibrant comparisons: Enhance your descriptions by drawing comparisons to relatable objects. For instance, you could compare the color of the sand to “pale vanilla” or liken its texture to “sifting through a thousand crushed pearls.”

By employing these techniques, you can revitalize your descriptions of sandy landscapes and transport your readers to coastal paradises. Remember to be creative and let the sand come alive in their minds, enabling them to feel the warmth, smell the sea, and hear the gentle whisper of the waves in the distance.

Q: What is the importance of describing sand in creative writing? A: Describing sand in creative writing can add depth and realism to your storytelling. It helps create vivid imagery and transports readers to different settings, whether it’s a tropical beach or a desert landscape.

Q: How can I effectively describe sand in my writing? A: To describe sand effectively, use sensory language to engage readers’ senses. Focus on the texture, color, temperature, and even the sound of sand to make your description come alive on the page. Be specific and pay attention to small details that can enhance the overall atmosphere of your writing.

Q: What are some ways to capture the texture of sand in descriptive writing? A: To capture the texture of sand, consider its graininess, roughness, or smoothness. You can compare it to other familiar textures, such as silk, granulated sugar, or even the rough skin of a lizard. By using descriptive adjectives and similes, you can effectively convey the unique properties of sand.

Q: How does the color of sand impact descriptive writing? A: The color of sand plays a significant role in setting the scene in creative writing. Whether it is white, golden, or even black, the color of sand can evoke different emotions and moods. For example, white sand may convey a sense of purity or tranquility, while golden sand can symbolize warmth and paradise.

Q: How can I describe the temperature of sand in my writing? A: Describing the temperature of sand can help readers experience the scene more fully. You can convey warmth by mentioning the hot sand beneath one’s feet, or alternatively, describe the coolness of sand in the shade. By incorporating the temperature element, you can accentuate the overall atmosphere of your writing.

Q: Is it important to describe the sound of sand as well? A: Absolutely! Incorporating the sound of sand can make your writing even more immersive. Describe the crunching sound underfoot as someone walks on dry sand, or the gentle swishing sound of sand slipping through fingers. By including auditory details, you engage another sense and make the scene feel more realistic.

Q: How can I avoid generic descriptions when writing about sand? A: To avoid generic descriptions, focus on using unique and specific details. Instead of simply stating “the sand was white,” you could describe it as “powdery white sand, so fine that it slipped right through my fingers.” By using more descriptive language, you make the description more engaging and memorable.

Q: Are there any pitfalls to avoid when describing sand in creative writing? A: One common pitfall to avoid is overusing cliches or generic phrases. Aim to create original descriptions that paint a vivid picture in readers’ minds. Additionally, be cautious of excessive description that might slow down the pace of your writing. Strike a balance between providing enough detail to engage the reader, while keeping the story flowing smoothly.

Q: Can you provide some examples of effective descriptions of sand in creative writing? A: Certainly! Here are a few examples: 1. “The sand, warm as freshly baked bread, cushioned my every step as I strolled along the beach.” 2. “Golden grains of sand shimmered under the scorching sun, creating a radiant tapestry as far as the eye could see.” 3. “As the wind whispered through the dunes, the fine sand rose and fell like dancing tiny diamonds in a desert waltz.”

Q: Any final tips for mastering the art of describing sand in creative writing? A: Practice observing sand in real-life situations , paying attention to its various characteristics and how it interacts with the environment. This practice will help you develop a keen eye for detail, enabling you to describe sand more authentically in your writing. Remember to engage the reader’s senses and use language that is unique, specific, and evocative.

In conclusion, mastering the skill of describing sand in creative writing is a powerful tool that can take your prose to new heights.

Join the Club: Creative Writing Club Explained

How to Write G in Block Letters: Stylish and Clear Writing

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities.

Welcome to Creative Writing Prompts

At Creative Writing Prompts, we believe in the power of words to shape worlds. Our platform is a sanctuary for aspiring writers, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone. Here, storytelling finds its home, and your creative journey begins its captivating voyage.

© 2024 Creativewriting-prompts.com

Descriptive Essay about the Beach, How to Guide, Examples

Published by gudwriter on January 4, 2021 January 4, 2021

Descriptive essays can be time consuming to do all of the research and the actual writing can be tricky, especially if the topic chosen is something you are particularly not passionate about. If you lack time to complete your essays or assignments, you can buy college papers for sale online at Gudwriter and guarantee yourself a good grade.

Elevate Your Writing with Our Free Writing Tools!

Did you know that we provide a free essay and speech generator, plagiarism checker, summarizer, paraphraser, and other writing tools for free?

Descriptive Essay about the Beach

A descriptive essay about the beach is one of the write ups you may be required to come up with in your English learning courses. It’s about giving a vivid depiction of your encounters at the seashore. In our previous post about how to write a descriptive essay, we explained the need for students to paint the picture of the object in the readers mind. The main objective is to make the audience feel as if they were involved in the experience. Read on essays based on different types parenting style samples.

This kind of writing will inspire you to explore your linguistic prowess as well as imagination. The success is achieved if your audience resonates with your words. To make this possible, you need to have ‘thoughts that glow’ as well as ‘words that flow’.

If you’re required to write a descriptive essay about the beach, there are things you should put to consideration. This post is all about helping you get a grade A in such an assignment.

Tips on Writing the Best Descriptive Essay

  • Have experience about the beach. It’s critical that you get conversant with what you are writing about. If you haven’t visited the seashore, try reading widely about the experience. Or, grab a documentary movie.
  • Keep your statements clear and concise. Vague information may not only be confusing but also boring.
  • Describe every aspect of the beach. Write about the weather, water, soil, sound, smell, sky, horizon, sun, flora and fauna. You can also talk about the people at the beach. Don’t forget your feelings.
  • Have a logical organization. You can choose to pick a theme for every paragraph. Or, you can keep a chronological flow. Also, be sure to have an introduction and conclusion paragraph.
  • Remember to review your work after writing.

Free Descriptive Essay Samples About the Beach

Last summer, I had the chance to visit my aunt at her coastal home. The octogenarian , I have to admit, lives in one of the world’s most serene places. The beach is a fantastic phenomenon and the fun that comes along with it is overwhelming. Two weeks into the visit, my cousins took me to the seashore, and I just couldn’t get enough of it. I fell in love with the splashing waters and cool breeze. I hated that evening would come and we’d have to leave the blissful sensation of the beach. I nonetheless promised myself to make the most out of the short time we would spend there.

We set out early in the morning with our cameras and light shorts. A light breeze blew and it took my soul with it. I felt like I was in a whole new world. The wind brought fresh air to my nostrils and I just couldn’t help but pump as much as I could. It not only filled my lungs with rejuvenating oxygen, but also my mind with a hope of having the best day of my life. My ears weren’t left behind either. It’s like the fresh air was singing melodious blues as we walked. I was sure experiencing something I’d never experienced before.

We arrived on our scooter right on time for the rising sun. Never in my life had I seen such a majestic view. We’d left home early on right before the sun would mark its territories. And, apparently, our cameras were getting the best work they’d had for years. Towards the east, the sky was literally burning. The first rays were already throwing their warmth across the sky. They were doing just like cheerleaders would do during an NFA match. Or, better still, like the escort guards from the Secret Service do before the Head of State arrives.

The rays did their job pretty fine. They were yellow and glittered like the flames of an enormous camping bonfire! While the sky was showing its beauty, the sea was glittering and reflecting back. It was as if they were partners colluding to welcome a big guest. The yellow glare made our photography interesting and every shot was worth it.

The sun finally hit the surface. The ground acknowledged its presence and started glittering. The tiny sand particles shed silver lights all over the beach. The sweet rays caressed my skin and I now understood why everyone at the seashore liked to expose theirs. It was a gentle warmth, I have to say!

My excitement was rejuvenated. But I couldn’t possibly beat the birds. They shouted with a wild joy. They jumped up and down. I saw several of them chase after sea creatures. It was marvelous watching the birds dive into the water and suddenly shoot up into the sky like rockets. No sooner had we joined them into the diving than people started coming out of their homes. The shore was flocked now. Some came for entertainment while others were looking for fishing grounds. It was a beehive of activities I tell you.

When evening came, it was yet another scenery in the sky as the sun dived into horizons of the sea. People started going back to their homes and the birds gradually became silent. The evening breeze blew, bringing another refreshing smell of the salty water to my nostrils. Waves of water splashed onto the coral reefs as the tides took new positions. The fishermen set out their nets as if their day was just beginning. Suddenly, my aunt was calling. She knew we were having too much fun, and that we’d possibly get late.

Explore a descriptive essay sample about a person written by our team of experts.

Sample 2: A Day at the Beach

We arrive at the seashore at day break. Bright yellow rays of the sun greet us. Their golden mien reflects on the surface of the water. The sun – the main guest – hasn’t arrived yet, but the beach is well lit already. The blue cloudless sky is overly yellow towards the east, which alerts that the sun will be ruling the day beginning soon. A breeze blows by, filled with a refreshing smell of the salty sea water. It gets me reminiscing about my childhood. I get nostalgic of molding magnificence with the sea sand. But today is another day altogether. I’m far older, with a wife, a son, and a daughter. Today is their day. I am just a companion.

The sun is now in full control of the seashore and its effects can be felt by everyone. It’s warm, and the air is filled with moisture from the sea. The ground is mildly warm, and the fine sand particles are glittering like scattered pieces of silver. I can’t help but keep getting strands of my hair off my sight as the wind blows them wildly. My wife’s case is more serious. But she looks gorgeous at the beach and seeing her playing with my kids makes me feel how quick I’ve grown and transformed. I look back at my childhood with a reassuring gaze as I watch my two bundles of joy run alongside their mother in the warm sand at the shore.

The birds stop singing now. Their entertainment about the new day is gone and they are focused on food search. It’s fun to watch them jump into the water, capture crabs and fishes, before darting into the air at electric speeds, like shooting stars.

My son is dying to swim. I know this side of the ocean isn’t crocodile- or shark-infested, but I still want to be sure. I remember that as young boys, we were so fond of swimming until when one day we saw a scary scaly rock moving on the water. It looked like a submarine that kept emerging and submerging. One boy yelled after he recognized it was a baby crocodile. I just feared reptiles and he saved us from what would be an end of an era for us. After confirming that it is safe to swim, I allow my kids to swim on one of the shallow waters around us.

I notice I am not the only one who cares about my children. A few yards away, a kingfisher is already teaching her chicks how to get food. They descend from the palm tree at the edge of the sea. The baby kingfisher can’t swim but her mum is doing all she can to offer the help. I also take a snap of a school of dolphins. They are far from the beach but with the help of my binoculars, my wife and I enjoy the glamor of seeing them jump up and take dives as they chase a boat.

It’s evening now. My family is happy that they have had as much fun as they’d hoped for. We’ve already eaten roasted fish from the lake for lunch. The beach, flocked with swimmers and sunbathers a few moments ago, is now getting less busy. Fishermen are starting their night shifts. The sun is already diving into the horizon of the water, leaving behind a huge yellow light. Birds start to sing again. It’s time for me to drive my family back home.

The beach is the place I go to whenever I need to relax and forget about all the hustles of life and just enjoy myself. As usual, my last visit to there was a memorable one. Already in my beach attire, a draught blew across the sea sweeping away with it my spirit. The sun split its way through the scattered cumulus clouds as if it was shying away from giving some light. As I took in a breath of fresh air, my nose was tingled by the smell of the salty sea. A mine field of corals made up the beach sand, with an abundance of multicolored sea shells. A bed of blankets was however formed by the sand at the same time. Like my previous visit, this visit was promising to be one filled with immense joy and relaxation.

My heart somehow pounded like a drum-set of an orchestra from the way the beach sand flowed onto my feet and tickled my toes. The feeling was delicate especially given that the sand grains were so fine it was almost impossible to see them through the human eye. The sea waves soothed me through a dulcet lullaby thus drawing me closer to them as I reminisced my childhood. It was like they were giving me an invitation with wide open arms. However, my feet would not oblige at this time because they were penetrated by the frigid waves. So, I just sat down with my head raised to the sky as I watched the sun stretch out and make its way across the sky.

The warm sun rays gradually glowed as minutes passed by, reaching down to me and giving me a shining streak of light as if to tell me, “Hey, hold my hand!” I received an immediate boost of excitement as the blazing light pierced through my cold skin. Tracing its way up the sky, the sun distributed its light to everything it could lay its sight on. Birds flying across the sky trying to claim it for themselves were singing sweet melodies with high spirits into my ears. From the sun rays, the sky turned into an illuminated shimmering blue color from a dark misty indigo one. The scattered rainless clouds that were initially blocking sun rays melted away into thin air and gave way for the water to heat up.

I slowly made my way to the edge of the beach once again and immersed my toe into the now swiftly heating up water. I hastily withdrew it as it felt like it was melting away into the sea in spite of having been numb before. The pungent smell that came from decayed algae filled the air and my acidic stomach responded by turning to its side. I could hear the sounds of fish that were possibly calling for attention from under the sea. I could at the same time tell that the fish were afraid of the sea creatures that were hungrily preying on smaller water creatures for lunch. This was a survival tactic, I could tell.

As the evening was drawing, people poured onto the beach to enjoy the serenity and perfect weather. Children ran up and down as laughter filled up every corner of the beach and people even played beach football and volleyball. The day was finally coming to an end and one by one, people started leaving slowly after what had been a day full of excitement. It was unfortunate that as much as I had wanted to continue staying on the beach and continue undergoing this memorable experience, my turn to go home finally came. I left with a heart filled with happiness and peace and a tired body and promised myself that I would go back there as many times as I would be able to.

Instructions; Write an essay of 2 double-spaced pages which achieves two goals:

  • Discuss what your ideal beach might look like.  What would your ideal beach look like?  What elements would it include? Consider things such as the physical environment, the social atmosphere, the socio-cultural composition, availability of services, population (or absence thereof), quality of the water or surf, location, climate, political composition, language, ethnicity, or any other quality you might consider important. Answered on top

Some ideas for THEME.  This is a suggestive list.

  • Design your ideal beach.  This beach might draw on elements of existing beaches or be entirely fictional.

Explore some of the interesting descriptive topics that wll give you brilliant ideas.

Essay about the Beach

Diamond beach is what most people would call “a little paradise or a piece of heaven on earth.” The spectacular, flawless white beach stretches with no limit for the eye as it goes across the ocean so amazingly. Just by gazing at the endless sands, as the sun’s rays rest on the waters freshly emerging from their resting place, anyone would be astounded by the beauty of nature. The clouds timidly exposed as the sky beams blue making it obvious that this would be a beautiful day. It is not hard to hear the ocean whisper its promises for the day due to the serenity of diamond, as the graceful sounds of songbirds light up the morning mood. The reigning feeling is that of a soothing calmness that makes life difficult for an iota of gloom. Nature seems to be passing across the message that a great day filled with happiness and devoid of mishaps should be expected.

The smell of fresh air taking you away from all the hustles and bustles of a polluted environment in an ordinary day is nothing you would want to miss. In a world where air pollution has become so rampant, I believe allowing everyone to experience the fresh breeze would be a great lesson for conserving our ecosystem. The freshness and tranquility of the atmosphere at Diamond beach defines a habitable ecosystem that every living thing deserves to experience. Being at this beach makes you appreciate that this world is truly a beautiful place. You forget all your worries as your mind sinks into the serenity making you want to live forever. It is one place that reminds us to appreciate life and conserves the beauty of nature. It directly talks to us to acknowledge that life does not have to be first-paced all the time. It makes the importance of taking time off to real and unwind become so real and necessary.

Diamond beach is a rare and precious place to be. I know millions of beaches exist globally, but none is like the diamond beach. The light kisses from the coastal breeze, the smell freshness, the purity of the sand, and the crimson beauty of water is out of this world. Regardless of whichever angle you may view the beach from, you will not miss noticing the splendor of this natural feature. Every step in the beach leaves fine-grained sand shifting as if paving the way for the next step you take. With every motion forward, you feel like you are walking on freshly fallen snow. The only difference is that the crystalline white blanket bequeathed by the winter normally is cold but on the beach, it is warm thanks to the sun rays.

During the day, you cannot fail to notice a change in the cute sand particles as they form a golden reflection from the sun. It appears as if the sun rays are trapped inside the unmelting sand crystals forming the beautiful yellow golden color. Interestingly, upon picking the sand gravels, they rest on your palm like diamond crystals illuminating a white color between your fingers. Despite the midday heat, being at the beach at this time is an opportunity to witness its brightness entirely. The fact that it is conserved as a private beach adds to its numerous advantages and lessens congestion giving everyone a chance to connect with nature undisturbed. It is almost impossible not to notice the ocean at this point of the day. It waves curl up and down, rolling in white tipped shapes, spreading like fine silky laces over the beach. The way they softly crash on the beach or violently splash their waters overboard is simply stunning. The gentle sound that emanates from their contact with the beach makes the feeling even more fulfilling.

If the ocean were a person, I would describe it in many ways. It would be at one point introverted, calm, still, graceful but at another point extroverted, throwing waves aggressively, outgoing and interactive. The behavior of the ocean cannot be described as noisy despite all the commotion that appears to be going on. Only slight wave sounds that a keen soul would hear. I think the ocean has many secrets it would share with people if it could talk. For me, its silent sounds take me back to a time of reflecting and appreciating life. They give new meaning to life. With every turn of the wave that comes and goes, I remember we are all passing by in this world, and the best thing to do is appreciate what we have, before the next wave takes over. For a moment, I am lost in thoughts when a palm leaf drops on my silky dress and brings me back to reality.

It is almost impossible to go on discussing diamond without describing the splendid physical environment that surrounds the beach. The physical environment of the beach is superb. The first thing that I notice as I focus my attention on the beach is the relaxation mood. People from all age groups can be seen on beach seats with colorful costumes and fluffy towels. I guess they are just from enjoying a swim. On that note, I should not forget to state that lovers of swimming will enjoy being in Diamond. The water temperature is never hot or cold but perfect for a swim. Small adorable children in white costumes appear like angels creating sand castles as others run across to float kites on the cool breeze. The teens are frolicking with beach balls having a time of their lives as the young adults cuddle, hold hands, and share special moments while taking a walk along the shoreline.

A few meters away a particular group of people can be seen excluded for religious reasons. As I draw my focus to that group, I realize that they are having an outdoor yoga class. What a great place to connect with your internal senses and spirituality. Diamond is definitely the place to be for yoga especially during morning or evening hours. There is little interruption and the silence is just what you need. Upon inquiring from one of the yoga instructors, I am told that the classes have been going on for a while in the same spot. According to the instructor, people have found peace in their lives since they started visiting Diamond beach for yoga. If you love yoga, you have found a recreation and a spiritual connection site.

Diamond beach stands out in the Caribbean Island of modern beach houses giving the inhabitants a panoramic ocean view. The mastermind behind the exterior was Chad while Davis studio aided with the interior and Enzo the landscaping to give an elegant piece of artwork. The prowess and architectural expertise is incredible as everyone who walks to the beach never fails to notice the splendor. Attractive colors that allow calm and light are a perfect complement to the beach which is bright during the day. The Hi-tech beach houses which have been designed in the latest architectural designs are similar, all having balconies facing the sandy beach. From the balcony, you enjoy seeing the spectacular ocean view as lounges of water cover up the entire place. Those living or visiting Diamond enjoy beautiful weather which cannot be described as sunny or humid. It is just perfect.

Serving the visitors, tourists, and locals in the beach is the Diamond hotel. It’s shaped like a diamond and is an exquisite place to be if you plan to spend a few days on the beach and do not live nearby. They offer great room services and maintain a high level of hygiene and cleanliness with excellent customer care services. The rooms are ample and spacious with perfect temperatures and an excellent view of the beach. You get to enjoy free internet connection, music system, and laptops for use while you enjoy visiting the beach. The rates are cost-friendly as the hotel packages cater for people from all age groups. If you have toddlers, you should not worry as there are special cots and nurses to attend to children. If you have special needs, the staircase and special rooms have been modified to meet them. The reception, ambiance, and hospitality of the hotel will make you stay longer. Recreational activities are available with a fully-serviced gym for fitness, spa, massage, and beauty parlor to make you gorgeous as you go out. Besides the remarkable fitness and beauty services, there are spectacular mouthwatering and finger-licking delicacies to choose from. The food is freshly served upon placing an order while alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are also in plenty. In general thus, visiting Diamond beach is a memorable and magnificent experience. Getting a chance to interact with the lovely, friendly Caribbean people and share in their rich dance culture could even make you want to change your nationality.

Grab a special chance to receive the highest quality, professional and affordable essay writing service provided by true professionals. We have a team of certified writers ready to help students struggling with their homework.

Gudwriter Custom Papers

Special offer! Get 20% discount on your first order. Promo code: SAVE20

Related Posts

Free essays and research papers, artificial intelligence argumentative essay – with outline.

Artificial Intelligence Argumentative Essay Outline In recent years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the rapidly developing fields and as its capabilities continue to expand, its potential impact on society has become a topic Read more…

Synthesis Essay Example – With Outline

The goal of a synthesis paper is to show that you can handle in-depth research, dissect complex ideas, and present the arguments. Most college or university students have a hard time writing a synthesis essay, Read more…

spatial order example

Examples of Spatial Order – With Outline

A spatial order is an organizational style that helps in the presentation of ideas or things as is in their locations. Most students struggle to understand the meaning of spatial order in writing and have Read more…

The Essentials: Mindy Kaling spills on running to Beyoncé, her favorite Sharpie and success

Multi-hyphenate Mindy Kaling shares her favorite writing tools, how she spends time with her kids (and finds peace) and what's on her running playlist for USA TODAY's weekly series, The Essentials.

In a new series, USA TODAY’s The Essentials , celebrities share what fuels their lives.

Never have I ever been able to spill Mindy Kaling 's secrets for creating and staying sane while doing it — until now.

The actor/screenwriter/author/director/producer is celebrating her 20th year in the biz after launching her career at 24 as the only female writer on " The Office " writing staff in 2004. Since, Kaling has written three books and created/co-created TV comedies like " The Mindy Project ," " Never Have I Ever " and " The Sex Lives of College Girls ." Kaling is also mom to daughter Katherine, 6, and son Spencer, 3.

Here's what the good Dr. Mindy Lahiri has ordered to keep Kaling firing on all cylinders.

Dolly Parton spills on Cowboys cheerleader outfit, her iconic look: 'A lot of maintenance'

Kaling's precise tools required for writing

Being creative each and every day is absolutely crucial for Kaling. "That to me as a comedy writer is so vital," she says.

"Not only does it replenish me creatively, but also it pays the bills," she says with a laugh.

Kaling is particular about the tools she uses to get her job done. She outlines her stories with the help of index cards and Sharpies, which she's used since her days on "The Office," in which she played the witty as she was self-involved Kelly Kapoor. "I'm more of a visual learner than I thought I was because I really need to see a story's beginning, middle and end," says Kaling, a fan of Sharpie's Creative Markers and Paper Mate Inkjoy Gel Bright! Pens .

Why she mastered all aspects of her craft

Kaling acknowledges the challenges of being a writer. "It's hard to make a good living doing it, and I've only had success by creating my own stories, which I know everyone has said," she says.

Kaling benefited from "learning things that I didn't want to learn," like filming and editing. "I didn't want to do that. I just wanted to be a writer, and then I found out that wow, those are other tools for storytelling."

"So I had to edit, direct, act. These were not the things I wanted to do, and I found so much joy from being forced to do them."

Mindy Kaling's workout routine includes 'therapy' of running, jogging

Movement is a must for Kaling , who loves jogging and running.

"I think that really takes the place of — honestly, even therapy," she says with a laugh. "I find it incredibly joyous to do that."

Her jaunts last more than an hour, and she's jamming to tunes to pull her through.

"If I cannot listen to music, I think it's so tedious," she says. "I'm that insane person that will listen to one song nine times in a row 'til it goes from something where I'm like, 'Oh, this is interesting. Do I like it? Do I not?,' to then it's a jam that I have memorized."

She's constantly looking for new music to jazz up her workouts and is currently spinning Beyoncé’s "Texas Hold ‘Em" and English bands like Depeche Mode. She needs tracks that are upbeat "because when it's slow, I become slow. And when it's fast, it makes me want to run or jog faster."

Valerie Bertinelli talks dating, new cookbook and 'wistful' thinking about Eddie Van Halen

The beach is her form of meditation

Kaling and her kids frequent Malibu's stunning oceanfront.

"We have a little place on the beach," she says. "I was never someone growing up that was a beach person, but I do think when I go for a walk on the beach it's the closest I get to meditating."

Kaling relishes the sweet sound of silence

With all that Kaling has going on, she finds herself craving moments of quiet.

"I like silence more than I used to as a kid, or even as someone in my 20s," she says. "It used to make me nervous, and now I look forward to it."

At work she collaborates with eight people in her writers' room and 150 on set, she says. And at home she gets to enjoy her kids whom she describes as "wonderful, loud creatures." So retreating to a place where she can find stillness is key. "It helps me with my work," Kaling says.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

IMAGES

  1. Beach Writing Prompt

    creative writing examples about the beach

  2. Have your students write to your Summer Beach prompts at the end of the

    creative writing examples about the beach

  3. Describe Beach Setting Creative Writing Planner Activity

    creative writing examples about the beach

  4. 2 models of descriptive writing. An empty beach and a crowded beach

    creative writing examples about the beach

  5. Descriptive Writing About a Beach Essay Example

    creative writing examples about the beach

  6. At the beach By Superb 7

    creative writing examples about the beach

VIDEO

  1. BEACH Caption Ideas for you Part 1 🏖️✨

  2. 10 lines on Beach in English

  3. Beautiful day at the #Beach

  4. रचनात्मक लेखन अनुच्छेद लेखन |(Creative writing paragraph writing) (Hindi Grammar) |Six Class

  5. Creative Beach Video Idea 💡 Tutorial? 🤭

  6. ESL Kids Vocabulary: At The Beach!

COMMENTS

  1. How to Describe a Beach in Writing (21 Best Tips & Examples)

    While summer brings in crowds and vibrant energy, winter might render the beach desolate, with only the bravest souls venturing out. Describe these shifts to add depth to your narrative. 6. Sunlit Spectacles. The magic of a beach often unfolds during the golden hours.

  2. Descriptive Short Story: The Beach

    Enjoy this descriptive short story about the beach. As the sun shines happily on the cool, rippling surface of the sea, cars drive towards the nearest parking space like they would never have another chance to see this exquisite scene. Children are the first out, and they run frantically towards the sea, as if competing for a gold medal.

  3. Creative Writing Inspiration and Ideas: 10 Beach Writing Prompts

    Beach Creative Writing Ideas. A walk along the beach is just what a writer needs to clear their heads of daily tasks, relax them, and release their imagination and ideas. Many studies have shown that a walk on the beach lowers stress and blood pressure, boosts mood and has many positive effects on mental health.

  4. Beach Description Essay: Descriptive Writing about a Beach in Summer

    Description of a Beach. The beach appears to be alive and joyful with the presence of the natural vegetation. There are evergreen plantations both along and inside the beach. Images of buoyant seaweeds can be seen along the shore. Palms trees are seen to stand tall along the beach, dancing to the tune of the breeze emanating from the waters of ...

  5. Unleashing Creativity: Inspiring Beach Story Ideas for Every Writer

    The possibilities are endless, from heartwarming tales of summer romance to thrilling adventures of beachside mysteries. The beach can also be a transformation, discovery, or conflict setting. It's a canvas where human experiences intermingle with nature's drama, offering a rich tapestry of story ideas waiting to be woven. Contents show.

  6. How to Write a Beach Scene

    Here are some words you can use: C. Smell: Seaweed/saltwater Feel: Humid sea air Gritty sand Cool water. D. Feelings: Relaxing Calm Quiet Peaceful Gentle. II. Use metaphors, similes and color to breathe life into your scene. The ocean is an aqua blue, the sand is pale yellow, and the sun is a fierce, hot yellow.

  7. 47 Free Ocean Writing Ideas to Inspire » JournalBuddies.com

    27 Fabulous Describing the Ocean Writing Ideas. I could taste the salt in the air and knew I had to get to the ocean to…. The lapping waves…. The hypnotic motion of the ocean…. Describe the beauty of the ocean and how it makes you feel. The ebbing tide was…. I was hypnotized by the water because of its….

  8. Free Creative Writing Prompts #54: Beach

    Free Creative Writing Prompts: Beach. 1. You are standing on the edge of the sand right before your feet are hitting the water. You stare out into the ocean. Write a story about the many thoughts going through your head. 2. Write a story about a child building a sand castle and talking through the entire story of the medieval town he is creating.

  9. How to Describe a Beach…Brilliantly

    A "beach read" is usually a light, fun book with a summer vibe. It doesn't have to be literally set at the beach…but it doesn't hurt. A lot of people love being at the beach, and a book can provide a fast, cheap, easy escape to a beautiful place…a virtual vacation. Books with beach settings aren't just for summer any more, either.

  10. 39 Beach Writing Prompts & Beach Story Ideas » JournalBuddies.com

    25. Write a story about going to the beach with your best friend. 26. Write a story where you find a beachside souvenir shop that isn't what it seems. 27. Write a story where you move into a new home on the side of the beach. 28. Write a story where a character finds an unusual item in an underground cave at the beach.

  11. Beach

    Beach - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing. Beach. - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing. Rocks of barnacle crown and seaweed garland adorn the beach as titan crowd. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, May 2, 2023 . A chorus of sun-warmed grains sings the melody of the beaches right into my core.

  12. A Day at the Beach

    When Vanessa's husband and Melanie's father had left them unexpectedly, Vanessa and Melanie had bonded even closer to fill the empty gaps and the hole in their hearts for a husband and a father. He had woke up one morning not wanting to be married any longer. He needed his 'freedom and space' he had told Vanessa.

  13. Coastal Inspirations: Describe Seashells Creative Writing

    A: Creative writing about seashells involves using vivid and poetic language to describe their physical characteristics, such as the texture, color, and shape. Additionally, writers may delve into the emotions or memories that these shells evoke, creating a more profound and personal narrative.

  14. The Beach [writing prompt]

    PRACTICE. Write about the beach. Write for fifteen minutes. When you're finished, post your practice in the comments section. And if you post, please comment on a few pieces by other writers. Photo by Vince Alongi. Here's my practice: On Friday evening, he arrived at the house and immediately got Amber on her leash and went out to the beach.

  15. Descriptive Writing: The Beach: [Essay Example], 716 words

    Descriptive Writing: The Beach. The beach is a place of relaxation, peace, and tranquility for many people. Its vast expanse of sand, the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore, and the gentle sea breeze create an atmosphere that is both invigorating and calming. In this essay, we will explore the sensory experiences and the beauty ...

  16. How to Describe a Beach in Writing (Tips + Examples)

    How to Describe a Beach in Writing | Learn beach vocabulary while I show you how to describe a beach with many tips, examples, words, and phrases. You'll be ...

  17. Creative Writing: to Walk on The Beach

    Walking on the beach is a simple yet profound experience that has captivated humans for generations. The feeling of warm sand beneath your feet, the sound of crashing waves, and the vast expanse of the ocean stretching out before you all contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility. This essay will explore the creative potential of walking on ...

  18. Beach Themed Writing Prompts

    Whether you live near the coast or far inland, nothing says "summertime" like the beach! Gather your kids around the table for some summer writing fun, using these beach themed writing prompts as a jumping-off point. They'll love creating imaginative stories, planning menus for a doll's tea party, or choosing a new home for a crab. 1.

  19. By the Beach

    Now it's your turn: Choose from one of the following prompts. Or make up your own prompt about finding something of interest on the beach. 1. What did Phil Harris find in the wooden box in the bay? Write your ideas. 2. Compare Phil Harris's find to Pandora and her box in ancient Greek mythology.

  20. 10 Words to Describe Sand on a Beach

    It makes the beach look more inviting and magical, evoking feelings of joy and happiness. The golden sand of a beach can set a romantic or peaceful scene. It can also give an illusion of wealth such as in a novel where a character is seeking treasure on the dunes. 2. Coarse Definition. Granular, gravelly; having rough-edged texture. Examples

  21. Sands of Creativity: Mastering the Art of Describing Sand in Creative

    In creative writing, describing sand effectively can transport readers to exotic beaches or desert landscapes. By capturing its texture, color, and movement, writers can infuse their stories with a sensory experience that is both vivid and engaging. Let's dive into the art of painting with words, mastering the delicate grains of sand.

  22. Beach Scene

    Beach Scene - Descriptive Writing. The frothy, blue-green salt water crashes into the setting sun reflected. shoreline in waves, then gently rolls up to the increasingly rising tide line. The wave stops as it reaches the tide line and slowly rolls back into the. churning ocean water. This relaxing rhythm of continuous lapping waves is.

  23. Descriptive Essay about the Beach, How to Guide, Examples

    Remember to review your work after writing. Free Descriptive Essay Samples About the Beach Sample 1. Last summer, I had the chance to visit my aunt at her coastal home. The octogenarian, I have to admit, lives in one of the world's most serene places. The beach is a fantastic phenomenon and the fun that comes along with it is overwhelming.

  24. Mindy Kaling on her kids, Sharpies and running to Beyonce

    Dolly Parton spillson Cowboys cheerleader outfit, her iconic look: 'A lot of maintenance'. Kaling's precise tools required for writing. Being creative each and every day is absolutely crucial for ...