While I agree that a few A-holes ruin it for the majority, I've also found that when I've brought alcohol to places where it is not allowed (ie. beach, or park) along with a solo cup, as long as we were low-key, we've never been bothered. I get that technically we are at risk for a ticket, but it has always boiled down being respectful and behaving. Worst comest to worse, I think an officer or ranger would ask that you put it away. Can't imagine getting locked up for having a beer. It's a shame that it's come to this. Crazy that I have to break the law to have a couple of beers on the beach in 2014!