midday
Almost without exception , they are tiny affairs , scarcely larger than the metaphorical bandbox . Each contains two rooms . During the very hot weather in January and February , the long , curving beach is alive with oddly dressed bathers and idlers . This is at midday only , when the sun is so hot and fierce that all work ceases for two hours or more . Though the sun is hot , the water is never warm . A dip in the surf is all that any one save the hardiest cares to take . They loll on the cool white sands , under improvised shelters made of boughs , or indulge in spirited games on the long level stretches .