Beaches - Frequently Asked Questions
Swimming safety
Water sports are a big part of the South Australian way of life. Please read the information below before swimming.
Some beaches display red and yellow flags, which mark the safest part of the beach to swim. They also mark the area constantly under surveillance by lifesavers/lifeguards. Read about patrolled beaches on the Surf Lifesaving SA website.
Q: What are the swimming conditions like?
South Australian beaches vary from calm waters to rough surf. For your safety, swim at a beach patrolled by surf lifesavers. If you have a question when at a patrolled beach, do not hesitate to ask the lifesaver. They are trained to help you.
Q: What is a rip?
A rip is a current of water that flows strongly out to sea. After waves have broken and run to the shore, the accumulated water then moves away from the shore through a pathway of least resistance, usually the deepest point. This moving pathway is called a rip.
Q: Where do rips occur?
Rips occur along almost all stretches of beach, in and around rocks, breakwalls or any permanent fixture in the ocean. The larger the waves, the stronger and larger the rips. Most seaward-running rips normally end not far beyond the level of the breaking waves.
Q: What do I do if I get caught in a rip?
Side currents can cause people to be washed off safe swimming areas where waves break on sandbars. Staying calm is essential. Do not swim directly against the rip. Only strong swimmers should attempt to swim at an angle across the rip.
At patrolled beaches, it is best to request assistance by raising a straight arm and calling out for help. Floating and conserving energy is important until help arrives. Struggling against a rip is a quick way to exhaustion and a step closer to panic and tragedy.
Surf Life Saving South Australia
Read more on the South Australian Surf Life Saving website. It includes fact sheets, language translations and more safety tips.
Things to do
Here are some great ideas and useful links for your South Australia holiday.
What's on
There are plenty of events in South Australia. Here are some ideas you might like.
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