News Flash

As we hit the Labor Day weekend and move into the “off season” at local beaches, here are a few reminders for visitors to Buckroe Beach:

• After this holiday weekend, there will be no lifeguards on duty until next spring, when the season re-opens on Memorial Day weekend. When there are no lifeguards, you swim at your own risk, so be especially careful. Also, do not climb on rocks in the bay, as the slippery, uneven terrain is especially dangerous.
• The handicap wheelchair service across the sand and the restrooms at the lifeguard shack will also close after the Labor Day weekend. The Buckroe Comfort Station restrooms will remain open sunrise to sunset throughout the year.     
• This is still a time of year when pets are not allowed at Buckroe.  Starting on Friday, Sept. 16,  pets will be allowed on the beach (as well as on the boardwalk and in the park). They must be on leashes, and we ask that you clean up after them. Pets will be allowed on the beach until May 14.    
• Do not bring things to the park that might be released into the air and potentially end up harming wildlife in the bay.  This includes kites, balloons, lanterns, luminaries, drones, confetti, rice, streamers, etc.    
• Other items harmful to a natural environment are also not allowed, such as styrofoam coolers or containers. Do not bring items that may cause a hazard or damage to park grounds such as grills, deep-fryers, campfires, unauthorized vehicles, golf carts, dune buggies, etc.
• Bikes, rollerblades, skates, scooters and pedal cars are allowed only on the bike path. Marijuana and alcoholic beverages are not allowed. Potentially dangerous items that may get blown by strong winds are not allowed in the park, such as umbrellas, tents and canopies.  Umbrellas are allowed on the beach behind the lifeguard stands, but they must be anchored deep in the sand. 
• Fishing is allowed and welcomed on the James T. Wilson Fishing Pier open 24/7 through the end of the year, closed only Thanksgiving Day and Christmas. It is not permitted near the public swimming areas, on the shoreline or off the observation pier.  Canoes, kayaks, jon boats, pedal boats and rafts are not allowed in or near the swim zones. 
• The recent hot weather has brought a dramatic increase in the number of jellyfish in the water.  Lifeguards can provide first aid this weekend, but remember, after Labor Day there will be no lifeguards so bring your own first aid.
• Beginning Monday, Sept. 12, there will be no parking on grass lots bordering Point Comfort Avenue for overflow.  Shuttle bus service from Jones Middle School will end for the season after Labor Day, though it will be available on Saturday, Sept. 10 for the Buckroe Improvement League’s Arts in the Park event.     
• Please remember to take your trash to one of the many receptacles in the park and along the boardwalk before you leave.  There are also receptacles near the parking area.  Please do not leave diapers, buckets and toys in the sand, or discard coolers and umbrellas. These items cannot be picked up easily by the beach sweeper.
• Any questions should be directed to the City’s Citizen Contact Center at 311 in Hampton, or 757-727-8311.