- April 25, 2024
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from: Volusia County Beach Safety
With the Labor Day holiday comes the unofficial end to summer. And while the warm temperatures will stick around, the long weekend is often the last big hurrah for the beach season. But along with fun in the sun, busy beach days also bring more people, leading to increased risk of incidents in the water, infractions on the sand, and litter. And so, as with all summer holidays, Volusia County is reminding both residents and visitors how to have a safe, enjoyable holiday at the beach.
Vehicle ramps will open no earlier than 8 a.m., and all vehicles must exit the beach before 7 p.m. Early morning high tides are not expected to have a significant impact on vehicle beach access. Portions of Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach are experiencing soft-sand, causing select sections of beach to be designated four wheel drive only. Parking is also available at one of the county’s many off-beach parking lots.
With rip currents an ongoing threat throughout the week and into the weekend, the safest way to enjoy the water is always in front of a staffed lifeguard tower. And with the sun and heat of summer also comes afternoon thunderstorms, which often include lightning. Beachgoers are reminded that rumbles of thunder mean it’s time to seek shelter indoors.
With turtle season in full swing, leaving the beach cleaner than you found it is more important than ever. Beachgoers should flatten sandcastles, fill in holes, and take chairs and equipment with them at the end of their visit, as these are obstacles for nesting sea turtles. Always stay clear of marked sea turtle nests.
Do your part to properly dispose of trash this weekend, whether it’s in one of the 1,500 trash receptacles placed along the beach, or by packing it up and disposing of it at home. Trash bags are available upon request at all tollbooths and roving carts will canvass the beach to assist with the collection of garbage.
While fun in the sun is encouraged on Volusia County beaches, alcohol, glass containers and pets are prohibited. Vehicles must remain in designated driving areas and observe the speed limit.
The best way to stay up-to-date with everything beach related is to download the new Volusia Beaches app, available for free on the Google Play and iTunes App stores. The new app provides real-time updates on the status of beach ramps and staffed lifeguard towers, as well as beach conditions, off-beach parking and more.
For more information, follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter or visit www.volusia.org/beach.
