Sauna, Swell & Staying Safe in the Sea
When there’s swell running, the sea asks for respect. Waves change the game, even the small ones. So here’s what you need to know before heading in.
Posted on Tue 19 Aug 2025 · by Danny
Stay Shallow – Ankle to Knee Depth is Plenty
If there’s any swell at all, defo don’t go past your waist. That’s the rule.
Why? Because it’s where you still have solid footing, and if a wave bowls you over, you can stand up and reset. The RNLI’s advice is the same: stay within your depth, especially in moving water.
Waves Have Power (Even Little Ones)
Never turn your back on the sea. Watch the waves rolling in for a good 60 seconds or longer as you walk down the beach just to notice their behaviour. .
Dumping waves break hard and fast in shallow water and can knock you over.
Surging waves push up the beach- so what you thought was a safe shallow spot can suddenly increase in depth due to a surging wave.
Both can catch you out in an instant – even ankle-deep water can trip you up when the sea’s on the move.
If You Get Knocked Over – Float to Live
Let the wave subside and then try to find your footing- if you have followed our guidance then you should find your feet.
If you cannot find your feet swim in with the waves, the waves will push you in.
If you feel like you are in trouble:
The RNLI’s lifesaving mantra is simple: Float to Live.
Lean back, spread your arms and legs.
Focus on your breathing.
Signal for help if you need it.
The waves will push you in usually when there is swell running.
Fighting the sea only burns energy. Floating buys you time and calm.
Rip Currents – Invisible but Powerful
Rips are sneaky. They don’t look dramatic, but they can pull you away from the shore quickly.If you feel yourself dragged out:
Don’t fight it head-on.
Float, let it carry you, then move sideways (parallel to the beach) until free.
Wave and shout for help if needed.
DO NOT SWIM DIRECT BACK TO SHORE YOU WILL GET TIRED
Know Before You Go
Take sixty/ seconds or longer before you enter: Notice while you are getting changed.
Where are the waves breaking?
How strong does the swell feel?
Can others stand comfortably at knee depth?
If the sea feels too powerful, it’s absolutely fine to skip the dip. Being out in the cold air is fine.
Golden Rules for Every Dip
Never swim alone.
Keep dips short – cold + swell tires you out quickly.
Don't take your eyes off the waves.
Final Word
When there’s swell, ankle knee depth is your limit. You’ll still get the hot-cold magic, the buzz, the reset – without getting dragged into trouble. Respect the sea, listen to your body, and enjoy the dip for what it is: a gift.