Along Atlantic Ocean beaches Union paniculata (sea oats) helps form dunes and prevent erosion, protecting the coastline from wind and storm surges. The tall grass also creates a welcome habitat for birds and loggerhead sea turtles.
During a quick trip to Pine Knoll Shores, NC last weekend the sea oats gleamed golden in the evening sun.
Union paniculata (sea oats) – 7:23 pm July 16, 2016
The next day, it was hard to leave the peaceful calm and rhythm of the water.
Ebb tide on Bogue Banks, a barrier island off the coast of North Carolina
What a beautiful photo. Is the beach always that empty?
It’s mostly crowded close to the tall condo resorts. This section has mostly private homes. I was at the retreat center and further out of the frame were dozens of kids in a day camp program!
I love the sea with its calming rhythm. Your photograph reminds me of the beach where we went to my friends wedding last year.
I love it also Christina. Helps me recharge. Gardening gets me part way, but there’s something about the ocean.
Aah, that looks so lovely Susie. There is nothing quite like the sea and an empty stretch of sandy beach. 🙂
So true Cathy. Miss it already.
Beautiful images and description! There’s something about the beach…
Thanks Beth. Yes, something about the beach. Once you’ve felt it you never forget.
The sea oats are beautiful. 🙂 It reminds of the miles and miles of wheat fields in Kansas.
I’ve not ever seen Kansas but this view also reminded me of wheat fields.
Beautiful views of the open ocean as well as the sea oats!
Thanks Kris. I walked in the water but didn’t really have a chance to swim.
Great photo of the Sea Oats. Coming from Australia I’m interested in the way Sea Oats help prevent erosion, don’t think I’ve seen anything quite like that here. Thanks for sharing.
Hi. I love the beach but not really an expert on the sea oats. The seed heads catch sand and help trap sand to build up the dunes. The roots are very deep and I think spread from rhizomes. But they do not withstand people walking on them so they are protected with laws and people are asked not to walk on the dunes.
Interesting. I’d say quite a few coastlines around the world need this kind of protection.
Beautiful sea pictures. What a wonderful coastline.
Thanks, I don’t get to the ocean much but really love it.
That first photograph is fantastic! The ocean is always fascinating (from land, on boats I get seasick).
Thanks, the ocean cleanses my old cobwebs, some of them anyway.