- November 4, 2024
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by: Kate Sark
Sr. Marketing Specialist, Volusia County Government
While the weather may not be quite as warm and sunny over the next few days, Volusia County still expects crowds at the beach.
This weekend, we will experience a midday high tide, which may cause the temporary closure of beach driving in some areas. Those wanting to reach the beach early should consider using one of the county’s many off-beach parking lots. If you prefer to drive onto the sand, download the free Volusia Beaches app for real-time updates on the status of vehicle access ramps, as well as other useful information, like staffed lifeguard towers and beach conditions.
In anticipation of the busy weekend, and with COVID-19 an ongoing concern, beachgoers are encouraged to access the beach in a less-populated area. Regular beach ramp backed up? Head north or south to a less-trafficked approach. 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 a full list of vehicle access ramps at volusia.org/beachdriving.
Beachgoers are encouraged to continue following CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Reduce contact with individuals outside of your group by refraining from gathering in crowds and respecting others’ space.
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. However, with the potential for rip currents this weekend, swimming in front of a lifeguard is more important than ever.
“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 Andrew Ethridge, Beach Safety interim director. “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.”
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. Trash and recycle cans are placed at regular intervals along the beach, and roving carts will canvass the beach to assist with the collection of garbage. Don’t be “shellfish”—do your part to keep the beach clean.
For more information, follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter, visit www.volusia.org/beach, download the Volusia Beaches mobile app on the Google Play or App Store, or call 386-239-6414.
