- January 20, 2025
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by: David Hunt
Community Information, Marketing Specialist
With clear weather and calm surf forecasted for the weekend, Volusia County’s Beach Safety Division is expecting big crowds. As residents and visitors make plans, beach safety has some tips to ensure a safe, stress-free and fun experience.
The safest place to enjoy the water is always in front of a staffed lifeguard tower.
“We can’t stress enough the importance of swimming in front of a staffed lifeguard tower," Deputy Chief Tamra Malphurs said. “From rip currents to jellyfish, our lifeguards are on duty to identify dangerous situations and help keep you safe.”
Vehicle ramps will open no earlier than 8 a.m., and all vehicles must exit the beach before 7 p.m. Midday high tides are not expected to impact beach driving significantly.
For real-time updates on the status of vehicle access ramps, staffed lifeguard tower locations, beach conditions and other helpful information, download the free Volusia Beaches app from the Google Play or Apple App store.
May 1 marks the start of turtle season, and leaving the beach cleaner than you found it is more important than ever. Beachgoers are asked to 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 and do not leave trash on the beach because it can attract predators. Trash and recycle cans are placed at regular intervals along the beach, and roving carts will be canvassing the beach to assist with the collection of garbage. Environmentally friendly bags are available upon request at toll booths and from the beach litter team.
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 splash pad feature at Sun Splash Park, 611 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, is out of service until further notice.
An excessive amount of Sargassum seaweed has washed ashore. As it begins to break down, it emits an odor. Although it may be stinky, it serves a purpose, collecting windblown sand and helping to restore lost beach elevation naturally.
