21/08/2026
BEACH DRIVING:
There’s nothing quite like dropping your tyre pressures, engaging 4x4 and following the coastline with nothing but sand and sea ahead. But beach driving demands respect. Get it wrong and you can damage your vehicle, the beach and yourself.
Before you hit the sand:
Know the tide. Check tide times before you leave and never assume yesterday’s route will be safe today. Give yourself plenty of room to turn around or retreat.
Lower your tyre pressures. Softer tyres give you a larger footprint and help the vehicle float over soft sand. The correct pressure depends on your vehicle, tyres and load, so know your setup before you go.
Keep your momentum. Soft sand rewards smooth, controlled driving. Avoid sudden acceleration, harsh steering and unnecessary stopping. If the sand starts getting deeper, slow down before you lose momentum.
Use the right mode. Engage 4x4 and low range when the terrain and your vehicle require it. Know your vehicle before you find yourself buried in sand.
Carry recovery gear. A compressor, rated recovery points, recovery boards and suitable recovery equipment can make the difference between a quick recovery and a very long day.
Read the beach. Watch for wet sand, soft sections, rocks, washouts and changes in the terrain. Never blindly follow another vehicle’s tracks.
And most importantly, only drive where vehicle access is legally permitted. Coastal dunes and beaches can be extremely sensitive ecosystems, and driving outside designated routes can cause lasting environmental damage. SANParks, for example, prohibits driving on beaches and closed tracks in areas such as Namaqua National Park. (SANParks)
The goal isn’t to conquer the beach. It’s to travel through it without leaving a scar.
Prepare properly. Drive responsibly. Enjoy the coast.
