In parts of the United States where the coronavirus outbreak is serious enough, there has been talk of closing down beaches. Florida in particular has been pointed out due to the fact that young revellers on Spring Break have descended on the state from all over the country against the advice of the authorities.
A beach on a sunny day, in my opinion, is a virus' nightmare. You have the sun's lethal UV rays for one, but you also have the sea salt, and the heat generated on the sand. The virus has nowhere to hide. Sunbathers wear minimal clothing, hence most of their bodies are exposed to the disinfecting effect of the sun. They would often periodically immerse themselves in very salty water. It's the perfect place to be during a virus outbreak like COVID-19!
The problem with this though, is still social distancing. See, the above scenario only works well on relatively quiet and secluded beaches. If you're lucky enough to find non-touristy spots, then by all means take advantage. The problem with crowded beaches in Miami is that people are often so close together, often even touching each other.
The other issue is what's attached to the beach - the cafes, bars, game rooms, casinos, restaurants, playgrounds, e.t.c. That's where most of the problem lies. In essence, it makes the beach no different to a busy city centre where viruses can spread unimpeded and very quickly.
Beaches themselves are not bad, in fact, quite the contrary. If you find yourself on a quiet sunny coast, you're not under house arrest, then you couldn't be anywhere better to get away from the virus.
How are things where you live? Are you under house arrest yet?
Peace & Love,
Ade虂