THE OUTER EDGE

Even on the hottest day of the year, Southern California offers an endless expanse of cool ocean water to slip into and under. A blue-green escape from the real world lapping miles of sand. There for anyone. Free for the taking.

We do love our beaches. Enough of us pack up cars, coolers, friends and family on summer weekends and head toward the water that the freeways clog, beach parking lots fill, tempers flare, and the Pacific Coast Highway settles a few inches just to accommodate the weight of all those SUVs.

The beach holds such promise of a day well spent that most of us forget there’s more to do than secure a plot of sand, a cache of food and drink, and enough sunscreen--SPF 15, please--for everybody.

So do the beach thing, indulge, swim, surf and burn. We won’t bother you with the obvious. When it comes to Boogie boards, Rollerblades, bikes and bikinis, you’re on your own.

But when you’re in the mood for something else, consider the possibilities: Take an hour or so and drift across the water on a bright purple water taxi for the grand price of $1. Drop in on a surfboard swap meet packed with vintage surfers and boards. Tow the rope and enjoy the meal at the annual Hindu/Krishna parade. Check out a really big screen at an outdoor film festival. See what 20 bucks and a little patience will buy you at an all-you-can-eat beach barbecue.

Don’t just spend a day at the beach. Explore its outer edges. There are more than a few fringe benefits to be found.