Coronavirus: Which Florida beaches are open again?
A decision was taken on Friday to open a small selection of Florida's beaches in the north of the state again but certain restrictions still remain in place.
Speaking to the media on Friday, Florida state governor Ron De Santis confirmed that approval had been authorised for certain state beaches and parks to reopen but only in a safe manner.
North Florida beaches were the first to open following recent shutdown as a measure to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus.
Here’s a message to Floridians who are fighting every day to combat #COVID19.
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) April 15, 2020
We can, and we will, get through this together. https://t.co/BBOXa4zDCD
In an address, Lenny Curry (Mayor of Jacksonville) stated that said Duval County beaches were set to reopen on Friday afternoon but with restricted hours. The beach can only be used however for: walking, biking, hiking, fishing, running, swimming, surfing and walking pets.
The beaches will be open from 6 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m and a later social media posted from the City of Jacksonville reminded citizens that sunbathing was prohibited with gatherings of 50 or more people outlawed and all beach users requested to practice social distancing.
We remain under a State and local safer at home order. Limited access to beaches/ parks is for recreational activities only. No chairs, coolers, sitting/groups congregating. Public safety workers will break up groups. Use these spaces responsibly. Don’t ruin this for everyone https://t.co/eiZZpGVhNP
— Lenny Curry (@lennycurry) April 17, 2020
South Florida and Miami Beach
Florida officials were recently criticized for leaving beaches open during part of the spring break period last month. Most counties closed their beaches in response or kept them open under very restrictive conditions. Other more high-profile beaches in South Florida — including Miami Beach — were closed by state order and remain so.
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