In the early 20th century, people at the beach adhered to strict social norms of modesty and decorum, with activities focused more on leisurely wading and socializing than on swimming or sunbathing. Attire was cumbersome, often made of heavy wool, and covered most of the body, a stark contrast to modern beach culture.
Beachwear was heavily dictated by the era's focus on modesty, with fashion evolving from full-coverage garments in the 1900s to slightly more streamlined, though still substantial, suits by the 1920s.
Despite the restrictive clothing, the beach was a popular social destination. Once on the sand or by the water, people would gather for picnics, gossip, flirt, and stroll along the promenade. Below is a collection of 45 candid snaps of people at the beach from between the 1920s and 1940s:
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