Watch your step: Tidepooling often involves navigating rocky surfaces that can be uneven and slippery. Plan your steps carefully, and note that seaweed can be extra slick. Getting up close to look for animals in tidepools and rock crevices may involve some bending and crouching over. Keep your center of gravity low, and consider using a hiking pole or walking stick to help keep your balance.
Slow down: You don’t have to go fast or far to observe plenty of cool marine biodiversity. Generally, the slower you go, the more you’ll notice—and the more rewarding the experience will be. You should always move at a pace that feels comfortable to you, regardless of what other tidepoolers are doing.
Be wave wise: Never turn your back on the ocean. Tidepools exist in a dynamic, unpredictable coastal environment: A series of smaller waves can be followed by a bigger one, and surprise “sneaker” waves can appear suddenly. Don’t get caught unaware!
Tidepool together: As with most other outdoor activities, it is always safer to tidepool with others. If you are going out alone, be sure that someone knows where you are and when you expect to be back.
