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Rude Behaviors To Avoid At The Beach

Beach Blanket Battles

Sigh. I'm not sure what it is, but we're all guilty of claiming 'our' space in public. Sometimes it's harmless, but there are those who take things to the extreme by making sure no one gets remotely close to a space they're interested in. We've definitely seen this in parking lots, but it can at the beach too.

If you feel like you don't want someone close to you on the beach, don't be petty by positioning your beach blanket in a way that doesn't leave room for them. You can either verbally express that you'd like space, or you can try to find a spot that's not crowded.

You and other visiting beach goers don't actually own the beach, so try not to act like it.

The Loud Music Hog

I don't know too many people who dislike music. It's something that unites people from all walks of life (hello, have you been to a Taylor Swift or Beyoncé concert), having an almost transcendent effect.

However, this doesn't mean that people on the beach want to hear your summer playlist when they might be trying to relax. Also, you don't want to be that person who has no regards for kids if you're listening to something that's on the more explicit side. We know that kids will be introduced to a number of things, but don't be an a-hole just for the sake of "living your life."

Unless there's an actual approved beach party going on, it's best to pop in your Airpods to avoid disturbing others.

The Inconsiderate Splashers

Splashing in the water brings out everyone's inner kid, but everyone might not appreciate being splashed if they're trying to sunbathe, read a book, or just...in general. Some people might be forgiving, but it could irritate others.

As a courtesy, move your splash war away from large crowds so that you're not disturbing others.

Heavy Smokers

You're an adult who can do whatever they want, I know. The thing is that people don't always want to smell the residue of someone smoking while they're trying to relax.

Never mind the fact the people may want to smell fresh air, but you also don't know who could have asthma. I'm sure you don't want to be the person who accidentally triggers someone's asthma attack from your second-hand smoke.

Parents Who Let Their Kids Do Destructive Things

I'm a parent who has a busy body for a toddler, so I get that kids need to burn excess energy. However, it doesn't hurt to teach them how to be considerate of others. There's nothing cute or funny about letting your kids disrupt a volleyball game that's not theirs, or smash someone's sandcastle just for fun.

If it helps, try to come up with fun activities the entire family can do together. You can build your own sandcastles, fly kites, or even go on a beach scavenger hunt!

People Who Ignore Their Dog's Poop

Every living thing has to use the restroom at some point, so no one's gonna be mad that your dog has to do their business. The issue is that some people refuse to pick up their dog's poop in public for whatever reason.

If you willingly let your dog go to the bathroom on the beach and pretend like you don't see it, that's pretty annoying. I'm sure whoever's going for a stroll on the sand won't appreciate stepping in a fresh (or old) pile of poop. Just pick it up and toss it out, okay?

Parents Who Leave Their Kids Dirty Diapers On The Beach Or In The Ocean

I don't have much to say about this except please spare everyone. I don't know why people continue to do this, but it's unsanitary and extremely uncool. Find a trash can to dispose of their diapers or see if you can change them in a nearby restroom, but please don't subject others to your child's waste.

Excessive PDA

Freedom of speech is one of those things that people can really try to take too far — especially when it comes to PDA. If you're headed to the beach to have a handsy makeout session with your S.O., don't. No one wants to see (or hear) the two of you getting hot and heavy while they're trying to relax. Leave that for a hotel room or the beach house you're staying at.

Versailles, France

When many people think of Versailles, they think of just the Versailles Palace — but there's so much more that this sweet town has to offer! I recommend opting to stay day or two rather than just coming down from Paris to see the Palace. The city itself is made up of so much rich history, beautiful attractions, and small businesses that you must see. Some recommendations: Check out the The Royal Opera for a beautiful experience, Le Village des Antiquaires for thrifting and shopping, and La Buvette for some of the best French food and delicious wines! Also would highly recommend staying at the Waldorf — neighboring the Palace — for an incredible luxury experience!

Tivoli, Italy

Only a short train ride from Rome, Tivoli is the most perfect destination, covered in the most gorgeous Roman ruins with waterfalls on every corner. The entire town was way more memorable than Rome, especially . Check out Ristorante de Sibilla for a full 360 view of this stunning city while eating under a 300+ year old temple for an evening. I had dinner here on Thanksgiving a couple years ago, and it was the best food — and Thanksgiving — I've ever had! Also while in town, you must check off Villa D'este, a stunning 16th century villa that takes up over 8 acres of gardens. You'll feel royal in this must-see little town near Rome!

Deià, Spain

On the island of La Palma, this small yet beautiful city is beloved by so many celebrities — and with good reason. It's known for its privacy, giving R&R to the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Beyoncé! Plus, it's absolutely gorgeous, with all its beautiful ocean views and architectural history. Grab a sangria, and relax by the ocean in this perfect, Spanish island town! And if you're looking for somewhere to stay, La Residencia is a great choice!

Senlis, France

A recent delay out of Charles de Gaulle airport left me stranded, and the only place available for a last-minute stay was in a beautiful, medieval city called Senlis — just 30 minutes outside of Paris. Although I was totally jet-lagged and incredibly tired from traveling, this city lifted my spirits given how kind and helpful everyone was. The shops are delightful, and the Sunday market is truly remarkable — the entire city turns into a farmers's market and shuts down every street so that you can peruse and shop. There's also a lovely cathedral in town (pictured above) that's almost 1000 years old that you definitely need to visit, too! I love this place, and would highly recommend it if you're looking for a more affordable and authentic city to stay in outside of Paris.

Shere, England

Remember that cute, adorable English small town that was featured in The Holiday where Cameron Diaz falls in love with small-town cutie Jude Law? Yep, this is that city. Every bit of the charm that you see in the movie translates to real life — it's just that gorgeous! Barnett Hill Hotel is a great place to stay to really capture all this European town's appeal. Live out your rom-com dreams with this sweet, small town!

Eze, France

My number one favorite small town award goes to... Eze! This South of France town wins because of its medieval, from-another-world charm! It's so stunning, that it actually made it into the movie, The Bucketlist. Plus, Walt Disney liked to vacation here, so you know it's good! It's a town on top of the hill that dates all the way back to 2000 BC with a panoramic view of the ocean. I stayed at Chateau de la Chevrê d'Or, which I would highly, highly recommend. Stay here for the best breakfast views of the ocean, shop around the town of Eze, and see the sights! A 100/10 city — totally my favorite!

Cernobbio, Italy

Lake Como is one of my favorite places in all of Europe, and my favorite small city on the lake has to be Cernobbio. I stayed at Villa d'Este (a different one than Tivoli), and it was the most gorgeous hotel with top notch service to make you feel like royalty. The city itself is different from the luxurious hotel, with a quaint, charming vibe that doesn't try too hard.

The people and the food are also spectacular! Try Trattoria del Vapore for the best truffle pasta, stop at Poletti for incredible pastries and iced coffee, and visit the town's wine shop for the best and most affordable local wines. Counting down the days until I can be back in this sweet town.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired to make Rivendell from Lord of the Rings based on this beautiful town. Nestled away in the Swiss mountains, is this adorable town filled with nature's most beautiful sites. Waterfalls around every corner and vast mountains makes this town perfect for a sweet, relaxing escape away in nature. If you need somewhere to stay, Hotel Silberhorn is a lovely choice! This one is being added to the bucket list immediately!

Le Beausset, France

Le Beausset is another town tucked away in the South of France near Provence. I'm not sure why it's not more well known, but it's the most prime location in the middle of the beach and Provence wine country, so you have the best of both worlds. You can stop into town for their weekly markets, or simply enjoy the varying chateaus in the area. I opted to stay at Le Beausset-Vieux, a charming house with the most delightful chefs who will cook you a free Michelin-star-worthy breakfast. Highly recommend this European destination for it's quaint and charming energy!

Ghent, Belgium

Ending our small-town list with this incredible city in Belgium that offers amazing night life, markets, and architecture that is simply to die for! The town may be small, but the buildings and architecture are anything but! There are cathedrals and museums that are hundreds of years old, and they're a must-visit while you're in town. Plus, they have a nightlife centered around 1000s of beers to choose from. Sounds like a good time to me! Stay at the Hotel Pillows Grand while you're enjoying this European destination.

Djerf Avenue Summer Field Top

How could we talk about Scandi summer style and not mention the Scandinavian style icon herself, Matilda Djerf? She's the queen of the effortlessly cool style that we're talking about. This top is one of their new pieces, and it's just perfect to throw on with a pair of shorts and ballet flats for the summer. I've purchased so many items from this brand, and every single piece is so high quality! It'll definitely make you feel like a Scandi cool girl in no time. 100/10 for me!

Djerf Avenue Airy Midi Dress

Another amazing Djerf Avenue find! It's currently number 1 on my wishlist for Scandinavian girl summer given how versatile it is! I love the flowy, effortlessness of the dress, especially styled with dainty flats like above! This will make for the easiest outfit combo to throw on when you're in a hurry, but still want to look chic.

Pink Stripe Linen Shorts

Striped linen shorts are the #1 essential of mastering Scandinavian style! They're in practically every Scandinavian cool-girl's closet, and can be worn in a multitude of ways. With flats and a sweater, a matching set with Birkenstocks, the list goes on and on. A versatile essential for the summertime!

Havaiana Flip Flops

These flip flops are not only one of the most popular Scandi-girl shoes, but they're also insanely affordable! You may think, "But these are just basic flip flops?" And while yes that is true, they're also just the perfect casual statement to add to a fancier look. Scandi girl aesthetic is all about comfort and looking effortlessly cool, so if you're wearing something traditionally more fancy like a maxi dress, then throw these on to add the signature Scandinavian style to it!

Topshop Linen Button Down

Another incredibly versatile piece is a linen button down. You can throw it over so many outfit options like a dress or linen pants or even as a cover-up like above! This is a staple to take an outfit to the next level, adding an additional layer or dimension to an otherwise simple look.

Birkenstock Boston Clogs

You may think that these are more of a fall and winter shoe, but scandi girls love these for the summer! I have to say that I agree as well. I wear these everywhere in the summer. I wear them with matching shorts and button down sets, or to the beach, or even sometimes with denim skirts! They're also insanely comfortable so definitely add this to your "minimalist wishlist."

Abercrombie Linen Pant

Pajama style is seriously taking off right alongside the rise of Scandi style — and that's because they were the ones to revolutionize it! Really though, pajama sets in public are so in, and I'm here for it! I love these exactly styled how they are above with a white tank (another Scandi basic), flip flops, and a straw bag!

Canvas Tote Bag

Scandi girls are always on the go, so they're always carrying a classic, tote bag to carry everything they need! I love this stylish option from Amazon for under $20. You can use it as an everyday accessory, or as a beach bag, in typical Scandi fashion.

Oval Sunglasses

The perfect accessory to every Scandinavian outfit? You guessed it, oval sunglasses. These ones from Amazon are so affordable so you can get the Scandi girl look on a budget. They come in black and — my favorite — brown leopard!

Petal & Pup Linen Set

Scandi girl summer is all about linen. It's breezy, easy, and so comfortable. Bonus points if it comes in a matching set like this one does! You can pair this cute set with your oval sunglasses, tote, and Birkenstock clogs!