Finals are in full-swing and graduation is almost here, which means summer and beach vacations are right around the corner.

Over the weekend, I visited a friend who lives in Wilmington. As we were lying on the beach, she commented that the family a few yards away was "doing everything you don't want someone to be doing when you're trying to relax on the beach." She also told me this would be a good idea for "those lists you write for Odyssey."

So, here I am—trying to make sure you can walk, talk, and act just like a local during your next beach trip.

1. Don't feed the seagulls

Besides being obnoxiously loud and concerningly aggressive, according to my friend, these birds have a terrible habit of pooping on innocent sunbathers. Her advice? Leave the bread at home, and entertain your toddler with a sandcastle instead.

2. Clean up your trash

This should be intuitive, but apparently, it's not. PSA: this may be your weekend getaway, but others (people and animals) live here year round. Respect the space you occupy.

3. Don't smoke

There's nothing like trying to relax on the beach while also attempting to hold your breath because the person three feet away just lit their cig. (This includes the cotton candy-smelling vape crap.)

4. Disperse yourself

Besides becoming shark bait, what's so appealing about congregating with 200 other people and splashing around at the pier?

5. Don't swim or lay out by the surfers

He's trying to hang 10, not get your digits. Look cute from afar.

6. Leave the umbrella at home

Um. DANGER.

7. Again, don't feed the seagulls

If you want friends, you'll skip this tourist activity.