So you’d want to get your towel down early.

Garda Chief Superintendent Con Cadogan has confirmed that Gardaí will repeat last weekend’s strategy of turning motorists away from packed beaches.

Last weekend, a heavy Garda presence at beaches saw prospective sunbathers turned away at Garretstown, Garylucas, Sandycove, Inchydoney and Barleycove. Nobody who had already set up on the beaches was asked to leave, but those seeking to join in the fun were told to look elsewhere.

According to a report in Echo Live, Cadogan said: “We will be controlling capacity again next weekend – this is about putting safety first. We are asking people to act responsibly.

“We know the last 15 months have been tough for people and we are not here to spoil it for anybody.” However, if beaches are busy, those who are turned away are advised to enjoy a different amenity or go to a quieter beach.

Crowded beaches may not present as much of a problem this weekend, however, as Met Éireann is currently forecasting rain on both Saturday and Sunday. Still, with temperatures expected to be in the high teens we reckon that some will likely try their luck.