Beaches are the perfect escape. Relaxing in the warmth with the sound of the waves is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
But hold on! Before heading to the beach on vacation (especially abroad), it’s a good idea to check what’s allowed and what’s not.
Some countries have surprisingly odd laws that you definitely wouldn’t expect! Here are 10 things that are illegal on the beach, and you absolutely need to know them!
1. Taking Some Sand Home
Sometimes, when a vacation is so good, you want to take home some souvenirs to keep the beautiful memories alive.
Some people might have a brilliant idea: why not take some sand or a few seashells home?
What you probably don’t know is that in many countries, it’s illegal to take sand home from some beaches. For example, this is true in South Carolina and in Italy.
Remember that the act is punishable by law, so it’d be a good idea to check the laws in the state you’re visiting before deciding to take anything!
This law exists because tourists were taking too much sand, causing damage to the marine environment.
2. Throwing a Frisbee
Especially if you are in a group, it’s nice to have some fun on the beach with some games. However, be careful because some may be forbidden.
Some beaches prohibit throwing frisbees and footballs, including Bethany Beach in Delaware and Ocean City Beach in Maryland.
The reason is probably safety-related, so before packing a frisbee for a day at the beach, check the state laws for activities that are allowed.
3. Digging a Hole in the Sand
Playing in the sand is one of the most fun parts of going to the beach (especially for kids).
But before digging a hole, you might want to think twice. At some beaches, it’s banned to dig a hole in the sand, and if you do it unknowingly, you’ll have to fill it again before leaving.
Some beaches don’t prohibit it but instead put restrictions on it. For example, they’ll allow you to dig a hole, but it can’t be deeper than two feet. On top of that, some beaches ban the use of metal shovels, so you’ll have to dig by hand!
Obviously, it’s a matter of safety. Even if you’re in a country without a specific law, it’s always best to fill in any holes you’ve dug before leaving.
4. No Bathing Suit
Topless sunbathing may seem tempting, but more often than not, it’ll get you in trouble.
Most beaches in the US and around the world prohibit being nude or topless, so if you intend on taking off your swimsuit, check the local laws first.
You need to look for beaches specifically designated for this purpose. Usually, you’ll find signs indicating that the activity is allowed in that particular area.
5. Singing in a Swimsuit
Who would’ve thought you could get in trouble for singing while wearing a swimsuit?
Well, on some beaches in Florida, you could. If you’re planning a karaoke beach session with your friends, double-check the beach laws in your state.
For example, in Daytona Beach, music or noise that can be heard from more than 50 feet away is illegal. Some private beaches will allow it, though.
6. Playing Pinball
In South Carolina, you can’t play pinball at the beach unless you’re 18 or older.
Since pinball is a game of chance, it falls under gambling laws, so some states have age restrictions to prevent minors from engaging with it, similar to slot machines.
It’s true that modern pinball is purely an arcade game, but the outdated gambling laws are still there.
7. Using Chemical Detergents
It’s quite uncommon to use chemical detergents at the sea. However, some people want to wash their things before leaving.
At most beaches, it’s illegal to use soap or detergents because they’ll mess with the water’s chemical balance.
A lot of detergents contain phosphates, which are associated with growing algal blooms and killing aquatic life.
There are special ocean-friendly soaps available that won’t harm the environment. However, once again, make sure to check the local beach regulations before using them.
8. Feeding Birds or Animals
Feeding birds on the beach is seemingly a harmless activity that you can enjoy, well that’s not always true!
A lot of beaches in the US prohibit feeding birds and wildlife, mostly in the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast area.
Feeding native wildlife may disrupt their natural behaviors, and if everyone feeds them, they’ll become dependent on human food.
So, if you see a bird or animal strolling by on the beach, fight the temptation to give it food! This applies to many of the beaches that were ranked among the top 10 in 2025. You can find the full list by clicking here.
9. Selling Goods
I doubt you had plans to sell goods at the beach, but this one is still worth mentioning!
In Miami, it’s illegal to sell anything on the sidewalks of beaches, and it’s punishable by up to 30 days in jail.
That includes fruits, ice cream, popcorn, soda water, candy, peanuts, or any food products. The law’s purpose is to protect the beachgoers from any disruption.
10. Smoking
Cigarette butts are among the most common forms of beach litter, so it’s only fair that smoking be banned.
Though it’s still not banned in all countries, a lot of beaches ban smoking, including some Hawaiian beaches.
Before lighting up a cigarette, it’d be wise to check if the state laws allow it. Some beaches have specific areas if you wanna smoke.
Cigarette butts are the most commonly found items during beach cleanups worldwide, contributing significantly to environmental pollution
Also read the 10 essential things everyone forgets to bring to the beach and the 7 countries where you can afford to retire by the beach.
