Why do you burn easier at the beach?
Why do you burn easier at the beach? AND YES, THE WATER DOES INTENSIFY THE SUN'S RAYS. And the reason you've been waiting to hear, confirmed — yes, the sun does reflect off of the ocean (or lake or swimming pool) and its rays are intensified as they reach your skin, making your more susceptible to a sunburn.
Why do you get more sunburn at beach?
A trip to the beach can also increase your risk of summertime sunburn because both sand and water reflect the sun back at you, per the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, increasing your UV load. (That's why you're also at risk of a sunburn when vacationing in snowy destinations — snow is reflective, too.)