Ah, the 1970s. Oil prices were high, jobs were scarce and America was nearing the end of a long war. 

Not much has changed in 40 years, least of all America’s love afair with its beaches. From Malibu to Miami, we continue to hit the sand for low-key relaxation in the sun. 

It’s Throwback Thursday, so lets look back at that love affair with these photos from the U.S. National Archives.