No expert, but I think it depends on tides and what comes in? One of my favorite beaches and have experienced both stones and no stones on different days...same with smell, but that happened just once and was enuf to turn around and head for a different beach. But even with the stones, they always seem to be very smooth,, not a cutting your feet type. Just need to go in more slowly so as not to slip on them. But I love dozing and listening to the tinkling, soothing sounds from the calm waves rushing over them!😎😴