This story is from the launch edition of Eat Play Stay: Tasmania (formerly Tasmanian Travelways).
The beach is obviously a place that brings joy to so many people, but you also have to take it seriously.
Kimber Greenwood is a registered nurse and has been a lifeguard and swimming instructor for more than a decade.
She teaches water safety both in person and remotely, and she's also a mum of a child with special needs. This means she's exceptionally careful about water safety and loves sharing her tips to help families enjoy their holidays safely.
"I plan every water outing around my child's abilities, not their age. Talk through the plan before you arrive and choose calm, supervised spots."
"Whenever you can, swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags. Patrolled beaches are limited in Tasmania, so check the Beachsafe app before you leave to find the closest one, and see the day's conditions."
Ms Greenwood said drowning is fast and quiet, and it rarely looks like the splashing and shouting people expect.
"Something I have observed time and time again is that it almost looks playful, but can be differentiated as they will not make forward movement; they are vertical in the water; they do not respond when spoken to; and there is a ladder climbing motion often exhibited."
When it comes to your children, Ms Greenwood said that dressing them in bright colours is always best.
"This makes them highly visible both above and below the water. The best way to prevent drowning is to make it improbable that it occurs in the first place. By having children dressed in bright colours (think neon - yellow, green, orange or pink), they are much easier to keep track of near the water," she said.
"Assign one adult whose only job is watching the kids in the water, and swap that role regularly so attention never drifts. Phones down.
"Teach your kids what to do if they're caught in a rip: stay calm, float, and raise an arm to signal for help."
BEST BEACHES IN THE NORTH-WEST
One thing the North-West is in no shortage of is beaches, and spots to dip your toe in the great big blue. While the waters in Tasmania can be a little cool at the best of times, there is nothing better than a refreshing swim throughout the summer months.
We have taken a deep dive into the region's top swimming spots and compiled our top six picks for you to try.
Boat Harbour Beach
Boat Harbour Beach is known around the globe, and for very good reason. Located less than 30 minutes from Burnie, Boat Harbour is tucked into the hillside, creating a pristine and private beach haven. With pure, white sand and crystal blue water, the beach really is a patch of North-West paradise. While it can get crowded during the peak summer season, Boat Harbour Beach can be enjoyed year-round.
Forwards Beach
If you are looking for a quiet and mostly untouched beach spot, you are heading in the right direction with Forwards Beach at Rocky Cape. Nestled on the western side of the Rocky Cape National Park, Forwards Beach offers views of the rugged rock and natural reserve. Neighbouring Picnic Beach, also located in Pebbly Bay, and Hellyer Beach are other tranquil spots to take some time out.
Fossil Bluff Beach
About three kilometres west of Wynyard is Fossil Bluff Beach - a geological enthusiast's dream. Not only is it a great place to enjoy the beach and have a picnic, but at low tide the cliffs hold fossils within the layers of sandstone. But remember, don't take rocks, shells or fossils - instead, take a photo.
Hawley Beach
Switching to the other end of the Coast, Hawley Beach is one of the region's prettiest seaside communities. Boasting panoramic views of Bakers Beach and Narawntapu National Park just across the water, Hawley Beach encompasses several small beaches and swimming spots, such as Little Beach and Sankey Beach. With a large stretch of coastline to choose from, Hawley Beach has no shortage of spots for a walk, swim or sunbake.
Sisters Beach
It is an area known for its scenery and peaceful vibe, and Sisters Beach provides this in bucketloads. As the main beach area of the Sisters Beach township, it offers an expansive stretch of shoreline. Sisters Creek also runs into the main beach area off the East Boulevard entrance, adding another layer to its beauty.
Tatlows Beach
If you are chasing the Tasmanian small-town experience, Stanley should be near the top of your list. Everywhere you turn, there is something spectacular to feast your eyes on - whether that be the Stanley Nut or even Tatlows Beach. Marking the entrance into the town along the Stanley Highway, Tatlows Beach is a beautiful spot for a beach walk or swim, especially if you are lucky enough to visit on a day with little to no wind.
This story is from the launch edition of Eat Play Stay: Tasmania (formerly Tasmanian Travelways).