With a little preparation and planning, you'll be able to make the most of your beach experience. (Photo credit: Charlie Manz) RELATED LINKS Return to San Diego City Guide

While shark attacks are extremely rare off Southern California, San Diego's gorgeous beaches do harbor some potential dangers and annoyances of which visitors should be aware.

— First, except in the warmest summer months, water temperatures tend to be on the chilly side, so surfers, divers and others who plan to spend extended periods in the water should come equipped with an appropriate wet suit.

— Offshore storm surges, rogue waves and rip tides can pose a significant hazard. Never enter the water if you're unsure of local sea conditions, and if you're not a strong swimmer, avoid swimming at beaches with no lifeguards on duty. If you do find yourself being dragged away from shore, your best strategy is to swim parallel to the beach in search of calmer water where you won't have to fight the current to get back to dry land.

— Local beaches occasionally suffer from elevated levels of potentially harmful bacteria in the water, particularly following heavy rains that wash urban waste into the sea. County officials monitor coastal water quality and post warning signs at beaches that are deemed unsafe for swimming. Current updates are available online at www.earth911.org/WaterQuality or by calling the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health hotline at 619-338-2073.

— Finally, while San Diego has a relatively low crime rate overall, thefts do occur from beach blankets and from cars parked in beach parking areas. Keep your valuables out of sight, either locked in the trunk of your car or, better yet, in a hotel safe.