Sand Potatoes at the Beach?

Question

Can anybody tell me why some people go to the beach where it's cooler than in town, put up big umbrellas, but on sweat shirts, look all sour and never go near the water?

Answer 1

Because the beach is for everyone? I don't go into the water, but I still enjoy collecting seashells, making sand castles and watching the people surfing.  

I find being at the seashore relaxing and calming. Anything wrong with that?

FTR I've gone to beaches from Victoria, BC, Canada to Rosarito Beach, Mexico and I've NEVER seen anyone putting up any umbrellas.

Answer 2

:):) For you Freesumpin -  a view from the other side?

At the Beach - by Lost Again

Why do I come and sit in the sand

When I hide my face from the rays of the sun

Umbrellas go up to hide my pain

No longer am I the center of fun.

The body of yesterday is no more

I cover in sleeves to cover my shame

The beach balls no longer come my way

The shadow of my life has busts into flame

I stare out upon the crimson waves

Being lulled by the sound of the ocean roar

My life replays itself to me

I am alone again once more. :):)

Answer 3

I don't understand it either.

Maybe they just go to get out of the house and be around others in a relaxed atmosphere.

It is not unusual to go to the beach and not go in for a dip.

The attraction lies in the sand in your swimmers;

the noisy families (who plonk themselves on top of you); having to watch your belongings from walk-by-thieves;  the heat stoke you invariably suffer from;  the sun-blisters which appear before you return to the car;  the peeling of your skin for weeks and vacuuming the car free of sand once home.

Don't get me started on the sand in your washing machine!

I must be one of those sour people you mention, except I don't have an umbrella.  I could possibly buy one on the beach. lol

EDIT: Awesome answer above.