- April 18, 2024
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by: Kate Sark
Community Information, Sr. Marketing Specialist, Volusia County
Independence Day traditionally makes for a busy beach weekend, and this year is expected to be no different. But inevitably, an increase in beach visitors often means an increase in litter. 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 canvas the beach to assist with the collection of garbage.
Vehicle ramps will open no earlier than 8 a.m., and all vehicles must exit the beach before 7 p.m. Late afternoon high tides are not expected to have a significant impact on vehicle beach access. In anticipation of the busy weekend, the beach approaches at Seminole Avenue, Rockefeller Drive, River Beach Drive, Boylston Avenue, Seaview Avenue and Zelda Boulevard will be open for vehicles. Parking is also available at one of the county’s many off-beach parking lots.
For the beach ramp information for July 2-5, click here.
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 means it’s time to seek shelter indoors.
Visitors are reminded to leave the fireworks to the professionals, or run the risk of serious repercussions. Use and/or possession of fireworks is prohibited on Volusia County beaches, and individuals in possession of fireworks on the beach will have fireworks confiscated and may be arrested. Senate Bill 140 regarding the use of fireworks on designated holidays does not apply to Volusia County beaches. Fireworks cannot be used on the beach, at beachfront parks or access points (including ramps and walkovers.)
Fireworks not only pose a great safety hazard, but they also deter nesting sea turtles from using the beach and create an enormous amount of trash that is extremely difficult to remove and is often ingested by sea life. Organized beach cleanups are planned from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at two New Smyrna Beach sites: Flagler Avenue Beachfront Park, 201 Buenos Aires St.; and Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave. For information on how to participate, contact [email protected]. Whether with a group or as an individual, volunteers are encouraged to walk their favorite stretch of beach Monday morning, July 5, and assist with collection and disposal of debris left from the weekend’s festivities.
With May 1 marking the start of turtle season, 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.
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.
For more information, follow Volusia County Beaches on Facebook and Twitter, visit www.volusia.org/beach or download the free Volusia Beaches mobile app.
