They are generally stronger in the surf zone, so remember this when you're paddling out. Although they're more of a nuisance than a serious threat, longshore currents can be dangerous if you're near a pier, rock or jetty. If you're in a longshore current and are having trouble getting past the surf zone and see yourself approaching a large structure, exit the water immediately and walk back up the beach. The last thing you want to do is get caught between a hard place and the impact zone. Rip currents .
Rip currents are the most dangerous current for any beachgoer.
They can be an asset or a major threat to your safety, depending on how you understand them. As broken waves wash toward shore, they carry a lot of water with them. The water pools up next to the beach and forms a longshore current on the inside. As the water moves up or down the beach, it will often funnel back out to sea in the deeper spots. This swift current goes straight out through the surf zone and dissipates once it's beyond the break.