'"When fine salt particles are inhaled, they will fall on the airway linings and draw water into the airway, thinning the mucus and making it easier to raise, thus making people feel better," said Dr. Edelman.'

https://www.lung.org/blog/promising-placebo-salt-halotherapy...

There is salt in the air at the beach, so I'd stay away from the ocean if you think inhaling salt is a bad idea.