When you’re walking along the beach and spot an area where the waves look unusually calm—where water seems darker and smoother while surf crashes nearby—it might seem like a perfect place to swim. But that quiet patch could actually be a rip current, a natural ocean flow that moves water swiftly away from the shore.

Though they don’t always look dangerous, rip currents are one of the most common safety concerns for beachgoers around the world. They often form near sandbars, jetties, or piers, where water that’s pushed inland by waves needs a way to return to the sea. That returning water funnels through a narrow path, creating a current that may appear calm on the surface but moves much faster than the surrounding surf.

These currents can be hard to spot if you don’t know what to look for. Signs include darker areas in the water, a break in the pattern of incoming waves, foam or debris moving seaward, and water that looks smoother than its surroundings.

Rip currents can move quickly—sometimes faster than even the strongest swimmers. But the good news is, they are usually quite narrow, and understanding how to respond makes all the difference.

If you’re ever caught in a rip current:

Stay calm and avoid swimming directly back to shore against the current.
Float, tread water, or swim parallel to the beach to get out of the current’s path.
Once you’re free of the current’s pull, swim at an angle back to shore.
If you feel tired, wave and call out for assistance—lifeguards are trained to help in these situations.
How to stay safe before entering the water:

Swim at beaches with lifeguards whenever possible.
Check beach safety flags and posted signs for any current warnings.
Ask lifeguards or locals about conditions that day.
Keep an eye out for water patterns that seem different or unexpected.
By staying alert and informed, you can enjoy the ocean with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or visiting the beach with family, knowing what to watch for and how to respond helps ensure every beach day stays fun, safe, and memorable—for all the right reasons.