How can I check for shorebreak hazards?

Choose a guarded beach and ask a lifeguard about hazards before entering the water.

What should I look for before approaching the water?

Survey the water from a safe, dry place before approaching it. Look for shorebreak, warning signs, and flags. A lack of signs does not mean that the water is safe. Stay alert because waves and water can change.

Shorebreak safety

Know shorebreak and stay away from its impact zone

Shorebreak is a wave that breaks directly on a steep shore. Its force can push a person against the sand and cause serious head, neck, or back injuries.

Sources checked August 20, 2026: NOAA Ocean Today Surviving Shorebreak (opens in a new tab) and NOAA Beach and Bay Safe quick reference guide (opens in a new tab) .

How to avoid shorebreak

Choose a guarded beach and ask a lifeguard about hazards before entering the water.
Survey the water from a safe, dry place before approaching it.
Look for shorebreak, warning signs, and flags. A lack of signs does not mean that the water is safe.
Stay alert because waves and water can change.

Source: NOAA Ocean Today Surviving Shorebreak (opens in a new tab) · Source: NOAA Beach and Bay Safe quick reference guide (opens in a new tab)

Shorebreak questions

What is shorebreak?: Shorebreak is a wave that breaks directly on a steep shore.; Source: NOAA Ocean Today Surviving Shorebreak (opens in a new tab)
Why is shorebreak dangerous?: Its force can push a person against the sand and cause serious head, neck, or back injuries.; Source: NOAA Ocean Today Surviving Shorebreak (opens in a new tab)
How can I check for shorebreak hazards?: Choose a guarded beach and ask a lifeguard about hazards before entering the water.; Source: NOAA Ocean Today Surviving Shorebreak (opens in a new tab)
What should I look for before approaching the water?: Survey the water from a safe, dry place before approaching it. Look for shorebreak, warning signs, and flags. A lack of signs does not mean that the water is safe. Stay alert because waves and water can change.; Source: NOAA Beach and Bay Safe quick reference guide (opens in a new tab)