This is called the wind radii or extent of tropical storm and hurricane force winds. If the tropical storm force winds reach out far from the center, then with each passing rain band, the winds will increase- eventually to sustained tropical storm force. It is at this point when evacuations need to be completed and all other preparations as well. Obviously the beach will be closed and swimming will not be allowed. This is a good thing because the rip-currents will be powerful.
Some surfers like to take advantage of the anomaly of high waves.
If the hurricane is making landfall at night, then the situation is a lot different. Notice on the photo below how the clouds are illuminated by the lights of the mainland. This will be the case until the wind picks up enough to knock out the power. More to come.