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Read -

Take the time to read a book, or flick through your favorite magazine. Alternatively, bring an e-reader or tablet with you. 

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Listen to music - Listening to music can be a great way to enjoy your time at the beach. Put a nice playlist together and enjoy the experience.

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Swim -

You can't do this at every single beach, especially if there's waves, but swimming is probably one of the best things you can do at the beach.

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Build something -

Unleash the sculptor in you. Build a sandcastle or make something with sand. You can also bury people to help them stay cool. 

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Beach soccer -

Many people love to play soccer on the beach. Especially if you're in Europe or South America, all you need is a soccer ball to make new friends.

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Water sports -

Try some water sports. Many beaches offer a wide range of options, so why not hop onto a Jet Ski and go for a ride?

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Take photos -

Capture that perfect sunset, the waves breaking, the sun reflecting on the water. Taking photos at the beach can be a great way to keep yourself busy.

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Get creative -

Write a letter, a poem, lyrics to a song, or just journal your thoughts. The beach can do wonders for your creativity!

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Surfing -

If you happen to be at a beach with waves, then surfing is a no-brainer. If you've never done it before, then it's the perfect time to take a class, jump in the water, and have some fun.

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Have a picnic - Eating at the beach can be great. Just make sure you bring light foods, something to keep your drinks cool, and a large towel.

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Frisbee - If you happen to go to the beach with friends, this can be a great way to keep busy. If you're on your own, why not approach someone? Surely you'll find people happy to play with you.

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Pick up shells -

You can find beautiful shells on the beach, so go collect some. This can keep you entertained for hours!

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Glass -

Keep an eye out for sea glass while you're collecting sea shells. You can make beautiful necklaces and bracelets with them.

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Stones -

The same goes for stones. These can be used in all sorts of crafts and even as decorative pieces for your home.

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Meditate -

The beach can be the perfect place to meditate. It will help you relax and enjoy nature.

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Play with your pet - If you have one, and the beach allows it, why not bring your animal to the beach? Dogs in particular love it!

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Meet new people -

Most of us are generally more relaxed and open when we're at the beach, so this makes it a great place to meet new people.

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Send a message in a bottle - Why not try your luck? You might even get a reply. You wouldn't be the first, that's for sure.

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Beach tennis - Another enjoyable way to spend your time at the beach. You'll be active and get an even tan because you'll be moving all the time. Win-win!

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Yoga -

If you've always wanted to try some of the more challenging yoga poses, then the beach can be a great place to give these a try.

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Beach volleyball -

Is there a net at the beach? Join a game of beach volleyball! Ask around to find other players.

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Fly a kite -

Is it too windy to lay down on your towel sunbathing? Well, it's perfect to fly a kite then. It's not easy at first, but believe us, it is fun!

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Sunbathe - Soak up some sun, top up your vitamin D levels, and get a nice tan. Just don't forget to use sunscreen and avoid sunbathing during the hottest hours of the day.

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Do your bit for the environment -

Is the beach cleanliness not to your satisfaction? Pick up a bag and collect all the trash along the beach. If you're lucky, more people will join you and the beach will be beautifully clean.

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Get a massage - Many masseurs offer their services at the beach. Make the most out of it and take your relaxation to the next level.

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Observe the local animals -

Go look for crabs, urchins, and other creatures. You can find really cool animals at the beach.

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Boardwalk -

Is there a boardwalk nearby? Go and explore, you'll probably find something interesting!

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Are you really, really bored? -

Count seagulls. Yes, just sit on the sand and count them. But because they're not sheep you won't fall asleep...or will you?

See also: Pink, green, purple: check out the world's most colorful beaches

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