What our beach ratings mean

Ratings belong to The Beach Database. They are editorial assessments, not scraped review averages, government ratings or permission to enter the water.

Activity suitability

Activity scores use the existing 1–5 scale, with higher values indicating stronger suitability for that activity. Criteria differ by activity. For surfing, existing profile labels distinguish a limited practical destination, a conditions-dependent break, a regular beach-break option and a stronger local option. This explanation does not rescore any beach or impose a new universal rubric. Read the activity’s explanation, hazards, permitted locations and sources. A high surf rating does not mean good waves or safe conditions today. A low rating does not establish that an activity is legally prohibited.

Crowd meter

1 = very quiet; 2 = laid-back; 3 = moderate; 4 = lively/busy; 5 = very busy. Higher means more activity, not a better beach. These are typical atmosphere estimates, not measured attendance or live occupancy. Parking pressure, holidays, season and the selected entrance can change the experience.

Unrated and disputed

Missing evidence stays unrated. Unknown is not zero, and a closed or restricted destination can be not applicable. Numerical ratings do not override unresolved access, identity or safety issues. The evidence and scope displayed in each section matter more than the number alone.

Research methodology · Suggest a correction with supporting evidence