Be Prepared for a Busy Beach Season.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Spring break is in full swing, Easter is right around the corner, and with local events scheduled to take place, Volusia County Beach Officials are expecting to be busy at the beach in the coming weeks.

According to a release, in anticipation of the busy weekend and with COVID-19 being an ongoing concern, beachgoers are encouraged to access the beach in less-populated areas and continue following CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Suggested vehicle access ramps include Milsap Road and Harvard Drive in Ormond Beach; Williams Avenue and Hartford Avenue in Daytona Beach; and Botefuhr Avenue, Minerva Road, Florida Shores Boulevard, Van Avenue, and El Portal Street in Daytona Beach Shores. View the full list of vehicle access ramps at volusia.org/beachdriving.

With potentially rough surf, Beach Safety will fly the red flag and have lifeguard towers fully staffed. The county always emphasizes that people swim in front of a staffed lifeguard tower. The potential for rip currents this weekend is high, swimming in front of a lifeguard stand is recommended.

 “People think that after a few days of rough surf, the shift to calmer waters means they don’t have anything to worry about, but Mother Nature can be tricky,” said Beach Safety Interim Director Andrew Ethridge. “In actuality, the shifting currents cause inconsistent sandbar patterns and holes beneath the surface, which can easily trip up or pull-out unsuspecting swimmers. That’s why it’s so important for even experienced swimmers to make sure they’re near a staffed lifeguard tower.”

Fun in the sun is always encouraged on Volusia County beaches, but alcohol, glass containers, and pets are prohibited. Vehicles must remain in designated driving areas only while obeying the speed limit. Trash and recycle cans are placed at regular intervals along the beach and roving carts will canvass the area to assist with the collection of garbage. Do your part to keep the beach clean!