Staying safe while swimming in the sea
Published May 27, 2026 · ~5 min read
The sea is safe for most swimmers, but a few simple habits noticeably reduce the risk. This guide offers practical tips for safe swimming in the Adriatic — from judging the conditions to what to do in a current.
Judge the conditions before you go in
Before entering the sea, take a moment to look at the conditions. Strong wind, high waves and murky water are signs that it is better to wait. On unfamiliar beaches, check for sudden drop-offs, underwater rocks or strong currents. Swim at marked and, where possible, supervised beaches.
Sun and heat
The sun is strongest between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Use sunscreen, a head covering and drink enough water. Do not plunge into cold sea while overheated after a long spell in the sun — the sudden temperature difference strains the heart. Enter the water gradually.
Jellyfish, sea urchins and other marine life
There are no dangerous sea animals in the Adriatic, but encounters with jellyfish and sea urchins are possible. Rinse a jellyfish sting with seawater, not fresh water, and remove any remaining threads. To swim over a rocky bottom, wear sandals or water shoes to avoid sea urchins. If a spine stays in the skin, seek help.
Children and weaker swimmers
Never leave children unsupervised in or near the water, even briefly. For weaker swimmers, swimming vests are useful — not inflatable toys, which wind and current easily carry away from shore. Agree on a visible meeting point on the beach.
If a current pulls you out
If you feel a current pulling you away from shore, do not swim straight against it, as you will exhaust yourself. Stay calm, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then head back toward land. If you cannot get out, wave your arm and call for help.