7 Steps to Have a Summer Fling

Nine out of 10 women are open to friendly overtures at the beach, according to our poll of 2,257 women. So she's mostly naked and willing to engage, which helps explain why 72 percent have had a summer fling. Your game plan . . .

1. Set Your Stage

Don't strut like a peacock, but if there's higher ground, stake it out so you're seen. Use a solid-colored blanket—women subconsciously associate stripes and patterns with children, says Marc Salem, a body-language expert.

2. Meet Her Needs

Bring sunscreen, water toys, sports gear, a cooler of water bottles, and shade. You'll be a greater source of aid and comfort than the lifeguard is.

3. Go au Naturel

"If it looks like you showered and gelled your hair to go to the beach, it comes across as desperate," says Brittany Besler, a surfer and former lifeguard. Don't sweat your physique: 68 percent of the women polled said being confident is more important than being ripped.

4. Wait Your Turn

Don't intrude while she's sunning. Instead, say hello at the concession stand, suggests Kate Wachs, Ph.D., the author of Relationships for Dummies. That was the top spot for approach, our poll revealed. Next best: as she's taking a walk.

5. Decode Her Bikini

A Day-Glo thong means she's starved for attention. "Women in one-piece suits are more sophisticated and less frivolous," says Ava Cadell, Ph.D., author of Confessions to a Sexologist. Boy shorts and tankinis mean she wants to show off but is a bit insecure about her body.

6. Flatter Her Figure

Eight out of 10 women said they'd like a compliment about their body. Just "not too specific," says Jamie Dunn, a lifeguard in New Jersey. Best move: Try a nonsexual compliment during a volleyball game.

7. Group-Think

Women are rarely alone at the beach. Approaching a trio is your best bet—there's enough company so they won't feel threatened, but they're open to newcomers. If you find a coed beach party, befriend the men by joining a game, Wachs says. Once you've blended into the party, you're free to start chatting up the women.