March 19 - Australian Beaches

I think that Australia must have some of the best beaches in the world. Am I biased?  Possibly so, but maybe you need to go there to make up your own mind.

Lyle and I really like walking on the firm wet sand of a long flat beach at low tide. I find it helpful when the beach is a familiar one. Then I can often walk alone without worrying about outcrops of rocks or unexpected water channels rushing out to the ocean. In fact, my friend Peter, who is completely without sight, walks the same beach every day at low tide. He says that it is relatively easy. If he goes too far inland, the sand becomes dry and if he goes too close to the water, his feet get wet.

I spoke with Peter about swimming in the surf. We agreed that this was a dangerous thing to do on one’s own. I find that I’m unable to see the waves as they come rolling towards me. I need my guide to let me know when I should jump up over the wave or whether I should dive under it. The push and pull of water can be very strong and its power shouldn’t be underestimated.

There are two pictures with this post. The first was taken from a headland overlooking Soldiers Beach. This is a perfect beach for walking at low tide. However, because the sand is so flat, the water at high tide can cover much of the sand. It’s good to check the tide listings before walking. In this picture I am standing in the foreground. 

The second picture is at Spoon Bay. This is a spot where I can be in the water alone. The waves are gentle and the bay is protected by a rock cluster. I feel reasonably safe here although Lyle always keeps a lookout to make sure I don’t get into difficulties.

Both of these locations are about one hundred kilometers north of Sydney.

Sue at Soldiers Beach

Spoon Bay