Advice Requested: Driving on the beach

Hi Tacomaworld,

Fairly new to off roading in general but have been to many local trails here in San Diego over the years. I wanted to ask if I'm overthinking an upcoming trip to meet up with friends at Oceano Dunes in central California. Being that I somewhat pamper and try to take very good care of my truck, the thought has crossed my mind to change plans and go on a different adventure where the elements are not as harsh. We are planning to stay there a couple of nights and camp out on the beach in the rigs. My concern is the ocean wind, salt, sand and introducing rusting. I know vehicles don't last forever but would like to keep this truck for as long as possible, in as best shape as possible. Has anyone who g has been to Oceano or something similar have any advice? Thanks in advance.

 

Don't park or drive it in/through standing pools of salt water or still wet sand, and plan to wash it thoroughly (probably more than once) over the course of the week or so after your trip. About all you can do.

 

As mentioned previously go to a local coin op car wash and pressure was the underneath of your truck a few times and you'll be fine

 

I would say go for it you only live once , plus on the bright side you and your truck can go to the spa

 

Here are some great tips on this thread. Have fun!

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/driving-in-sand-first-time-need-tips.277943/

 

Long term vehicle - and playing at the beach (salty water, salty sand) in a rust prone vehicle are inconsistent concepts...

Just pointing that out...

Salty sand goes EVERYWHERE. .

 

Been driving on dirt roads and camping on beaches in Baja for decades. No ill effects as long as you stay on the dry stuff. Air down to 20psi and you prolly wont even need 4x4.

 

In addition to what has been said: accidentally getting some salt on your vehicle isn't the end of the world. When the salt gets under cracks and chips with moisture is the issue. But, even then, once isn't going to kill you. As someone who lives in the rust belt, I can tell you that it usually takes a few years of nearly daily exposure to salt and brine every winter to start really causing issues.

The best thing you can do is be diligent about washing when you're done. Although, even if you didn't, I can't see how your truck wouldn't still last longer, looking way nicer, than what we have here in the rust belt.

 

I've lived right on the coast of NC, specifically the Outer Banks for the last 40 years. Had several vehicles over those years and never had one "rust out". But, I keep my vehicles clean, waxed and undercoated. Always wash the truck including the undercarriage after every trip to the beach. You don't have to be right on the beach to get the effects of salt water/air. I live a couple hundred yards from the ocean, when the wind blows off the water the salt in the air travels for miles inland covering everything. Wash your truck thoroughly and you'll be fine.

When you go on the beach, air down to 15-18 psi, use 4wd, go slow and if possible follow someone experienced in beach driving or follow in existing tracks. Be careful of really grainy sand, you'll get stuck in that stuff quickly if your not paying attention. Make sure you have a recovery strap and a shovel, and a couple "boards" to put under your tires if you get stuck. If you start to dig in the sand, don't keep digging yourself deeper until you're on your frame. Try going back and forwards to get out, or have someone pull you out. Worst thing you can do is panic and bury your truck. It's no big deal getting stuck, everyone who's driven in the sand has been stuck more than once. You'll have your friends with you to help you get unstuck or there will always be someone willing to help you, at least in my area there is. And most importantly, don't get in the salt water! Also, be respectful of the rules and regulations, it's a privilege to be able to drive on the beach.

Most of all, enjoy yourself and have fun! And take lots of pictures!

 

Huntington Beach Patrol doesn’t seem to worry about it.



https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/lifeguard-truck-huntington-beach.html?sortBy=relevant

 

Agreed. I clean my truck often because there is often sand in there.
Not to mention the sheets.

 

I'm on the beach several times a month. As stated, stay out of puddles and wash after every trip. Being in California, you don't have the luxury of afternoon storms so the wash may be more important. You will get sand everywhere. I can never remove it all.

 

whatever you do, just dont end up on the local news.

 

dont do this

 

park over a sprinkler when done,,, if you can still do that in Cali

 

Stay out of the water- trdGens electronics are delicate.

 

Leave the Taco at home, rent a Jeep and trash it!