5 Ways to Organize a Successful Beach Clean-Up | Beachly Tips
Aloha, Beachly Tribe! If you find yourself here - then I think it’s safe to say you’re a lover of the beach. And for those of us that love sandy beaches and tropical vibes, there’s a million different reasons why. Whether it’s a walk on the sand, surf in the waves, or just a dip in the water on a hot Summer day - the beach has the power to make us all feel some sort of way. Right?
I’m here to share some of my favorite ways to not only love the beach, but genuinely care about it too. Because believe it or not, our favorite place to getaway is also an integral part of a greater ecosystem, and it is our responsibility to make sure that we keep it clean. Here is a great resource to start with if you’re interested in finding easy ways to help save the environment.
It might sound simple, but to coordinate, organize, and participate in a beach clean-up takes a lot of effort, thought, and work. What do you say? Are you ready to check out these 5 steps to organizing a successful beach clean-up? Let’s dive in!
Having a Heart for the Coasts
We love the beach for all the fun times and memories that come along with it - whether it's days spent soaking up the sun, splashing around in the waves with friends, or beach picnics and bonfires, you name it! But did you know the importance of our oceans goes far beyond the recreational fun we love to have there? The oceans are a crucial part of our ecosystem and have a monumental role to play in climate change. Actively taking a part in caring for beaches has the potential to mitigate some aspects of the climate crisis. And the best part? YOU can be a part in making a difference. Actually… as a part of Beachly, you already are!
How?
In our partnership with SeaTrees! We partnered up with SeaTrees this past Summer to give back to the ocean that keeps on giving to us. Together, we’ve joined forces to wipe out carbon footprints, restore kelp forests, and continue growing the ocean’s forest. Every Beachly box you purchase helps to support this effort in sustaining, growing, and caring for our ocean’s and the ecosystems that live within it.
Pssst! Did you know that coastal ecosystems don’t only consist of the ocean, but also bodies of water that surround the beaches? There are millions of organisms that live within these bodies of water. And although not always visible, the organisms, plants, and animals are a part of a greater ecosystem that ensures health, functionality, and filtration for the oceans.
Now for the fun part… are you ready to see all of our tips and tricks on how to organize a successful beach clean-up?
1. Choose the right date and time
I know what you’re thinking - but isn’t this obvious? Yes! But it’s so important - possibly one of the most important steps for coordinating your first beach clean-up.
Did you know?
The end of beach season is one of the best times to coordinate a clean-up? After a Summer-long of beach days, you can almost always bet there will be a lot of TLC needed along the shores. Which means Fall (right now!) is one of the best times to organize a beach clean-up.
And if you happen to miss the Fall season - the end of the weekend is always a prime time to head to the beach with all of your cleaning crew and proper gear. Sunday at sunset beach clean-ups? Count me in!
P.S. Don’t forget to check low tide vs high tide schedules. The most optimal time to clean the beach is during low tide. When the tide is low, visibility of trash and other left-behind materials will be high which makes it easier and more effective to clean!
2. Get official permission from your local beach authorities
The next step after locking in your prime date and time is obtaining permission from local beach authorities. This might be your local parks and recreation office or even asking a resident lifeguard how to obtain the proper permit for a beach clean-up. Depending on the size of your beach clean-up, you may or may not need to get permission. If it’s just you and a few gal pals, you’re likely okay without the permit. But if you’re organizing an event with 10+ people, it’s always best to consult your local beach authorities first.
3. Spread the word and recruit people your friends!
One of my favorite parts of organizing a beach clean-up is getting the word out and inviting friends and family! Depending on the size of your beach clean-up, you can post on local Facebook groups or spread the word in local businesses to get more people involved. You will be surprised how many people - friends, family, colleagues, and locals - are excited and honored to be a part of cleaning up local beaches.
4. Focus on the logistics
Now time for the logistics - this can be anything and everything from gathering supplies, getting snacks, coordinating timetables, delegating tasks, and (very important to remember) making sure you have first aid supplies readily available. This is an essential part in preparing for your event and requires a decent amount of time to plan accordingly.
5. Partner up with a local charity
Now that you have your date, location, supplies, and volunteers - it’s time to reach out to a local charity or non-profit organization. One of our favorite local beach charities is Heal the Bay. We’ve worked with Heal the Bay to help coordinate, organize, and support beach clean-ups and love all that they stand for! Another is SeaTrees - our current non-profit partner I mentioned a bit earlier in this article.
Both Heal the Bay and SeaTrees are focused on motivating people to work towards a better environment, nurturing our coastal ecosystems, and taking care of the environment.
Click here to learn more about Heal the Bay and click here to learn more about SeaTrees. We can’t wait for you to organize your first beach clean-up! Make sure to tag us on Instagram @beachly so we can see all the fun ways the Good Vibe Tribe is making a difference.
P.S. Not a part of the Beachly Tribe yet? Join today to support our initiatives and partnership with SeaTrees in helping to restore coastal ecosystems and kelp forests, one Beachly box at a time.
