For those planning to spend their Fourth of July soaking up the sun on St. Johns County's beaches, you're in luck. The county is dialing back on the holiday traffic with a free shuttle service to help beachgoers get to the sand without the stress of parking nightmares. According to the St. Johns County's announcement, shuttles will run from July 4 to July 6, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to various beaches including St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier, Mickler's Landing Beachfront Park, and Vilano Beach.
The shuttle spots, distributed across different locations like St. Augustine Beach City Hall and Cornerstone Park aim to provide a hassle-free experience for residents and visitors alike. The St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, St. Augustine Beach Police Department, and St. Johns County Marine Rescue are joining forces to patrol the beaches throughout the holiday weekend, ensuring a safe environment for everyone. Lifeguards will also be on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., keeping an eye out for any potential risks in the water.
Furthermore, on-beach driving will be allowed during specific hours, from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., but drivers are expected to stay within the designated driving lanes. Since beach driving conditions are subject to change, beachgoers are advised to keep informed about the daily status by following the @SJCBeaches on Facebook and X, or by using the SJC Connect mobile app for the most current updates.
While prowess on the surf can feel invigorating, safety is paramount, so keep an eye out for beach flags that reveal water and surf conditions – or the absence thereof. According to St. Johns County's instructions, "The absence of a flag does not mean there is no danger." If you're unsure about the local conditions, it's always best to check with a staffed lifeguard tower before taking a dip.
For those eager to get more details on the free shuttle service, as well as beach safety rules and regulations, make sure to visit the County's website prior to your beach outing.
