As the harsh Hamilton winter comes to an end, it’s difficult not to fantasize about the warm months ahead. Our minds are understandably consumed with dreams of berry picking, hiking, soaking up the sun, swimming, barbecuing and many more summer pastime activities. However, I struggle to understand how going to the beach is a fan-favorite adventure. People praise the weekend beach getaways, but I think it’s overrated.
Tagging along on a trip to the beach are fears of the unknown sea, pesky seagulls, irritating sand granules and uncontrollable coastal winds. The beach never fails to resurface my anxieties about drowning in the choppy current or scary underwater creatures. Northeast beaches tend to have rough waves and the sound of them crashing against the shore serves as a constant reminder of the possibility of being swept away by them. In these waters, you cannot simply float freely and relax because there is a constant fight against the current.
Additionally, the ocean is infested with scary creatures. Sharks, jellyfish, stingrays and crabs roam the ocean floor waiting to attack their next victim. These creatures have the potential to cause irreversible damage, and although sightings of the animals may be rare, the thought of intruding on their land only evokes more fear.
Outside of the trouble in the ocean, there is nothing more annoying than the greedy seagulls. A simple rustle of a chip bag signals these diabolical birds to come swooping in. There is no such thing as a peaceful eating experience on the beach with the seagulls who fail to understand that humans do not want to share their snacks.
Instead of planning another beach day that never quite works out, organize an adventurous day at the lake or a relaxing poolside retreat. The lake offers endless fun — and safe — possibilities. The concerns about rough water cease to exist at the lake because the water ripples gently, appearing as placid as glass. Kayaking, boating, tubing and paddleboarding are far more reliable activities on the lake, never taking a turn for the worst like they could at the beach. The lake inhabits diverse wildlife, but it is incomparable to the monsters waiting to attack the beachgoers.
Pivoting to a more accessible aquatic location, a pool day presents the ultimate opportunity for relaxation. Whether it’s in a friend’s backyard or at a local center, the pool provides even more of a worry-free environment. The pool’s consistent current, temperature and overall atmosphere fosters continuous summer fun. At the pool, there is no energy wasted on fighting off sea creatures or the rip current, granting more time and energy to take advantage of the aquatic activities. Along with the absence of harmful currents and animals, the chlorinated water also prevents any dangerous substance or organisms from hurting the pool-goers. The crystal clear, filtered-to-perfection pool water is free of seaweed, broken shells and dirty ocean debris. In my opinion, the pool’s controlled and pristine environment fosters uninterrupted peace and joy.
Likewise, swimming is not everyone’s forte. Sitting poolside in those heavenly recliner chairs is unbeatable in comparison to the low-lying beach chair or a towel covered in sand granules. Enjoying these relaxing opportunities allows for a perfect summer day — absent of the obstacles at the beach.
I admit that it would not be summer without aquatic adventures, but there is obviously a better way to spend the sunny summer days. Flee from the overcrowded, rowdy and unsafe beaches to have a relaxing afternoon at the pool or the lake. No need to waste your time this summer with beach trips when you can soak up the sun and the water without attacking critters or rapid waves. With the Hamilton winter coming to a close, daydreams about those trips to the pool and lake consume all my thoughts. Whip out the calendar and mark it up with lake and pool trips. This summer, escape the hassle of those beach trips and take the time to rest by the pool or the lake.
