tell the difference.
waves are going to come crashing in -- they cannot be stopped, so don't try. instead, plan accordingly. some people ride the waves into the beach while others get smashed by all that water. it's the same wave. what makes the difference is what you do about it.
if you build a castle in the sand, expect that it won't last. either the tide will rise and wash it away, or someone will step on it and smash it. if you want something to last, you need a better foundation.
if you sit on the beach, expect to get wet. (this also goes for water rides at amusement parks.) however, 