Beach and Ocean Safety Guidelines for Fourth of July

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Date: Jun 25 , 2026

It is almost time for the biggest beach holiday of the summer - 4th of July is - and your Solana Beach Lifeguards would like to share some beach safety tips to ensure a fun, safe holiday weekend. 

Lifeguards will be on duty at Fletcher Cove from 8 AM to 8 PM and our towers on the beach will be open from 10 AM to 7 PM.  Lifeguard staff would like to share some ocean and beach safety tips to ensure a fun, safe holiday weekend. First and foremost, always swim near a lifeguard, preferably in the designated swim areas. Be mindful that we now have a steeper beach slope that leads to a quick drop-off into the ocean in some areas, this may lead to more shore break as well, so keep an eye on small children even if you are close to shore.

When on the beach, stay clear of bluffs, overhangs, and caves at all times.  Follow beach and park rules, which include prohibition of fireworks, bonfires in the sand (especially pallet fires), alcohol, glass, smoking, drones, and beach camping. Leashed dogs are allowed at Del Mar Shores and Tide Park beaches only. Lifeguards also want to remind beachgoers to refrain from digging deep holes to avoid sand entrapment.

On behalf of the Solana Beach Marine Safety Department, we hope you have a relaxing, fun, safe and memorable July 4th weekend. As you embark on your beach adventure, keep these guidelines in mind to ensure fun for everyone.

SUMMER BEACH & OCEAN SAFETY GUIDELINES

Prepare for a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration at the beach by keeping the following in mind:

Ocean And Beach Safety

  • Lifeguards at Fletcher Cove will be on duty from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
  • Towers on the beach will be open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
  • Beachgoers are encouraged to check in with Lifeguards before settling in for the day for ocean conditions and pertinent beach information.
  • Always swim in front of Lifeguards in the designated swimming area.
  • Be mindful of a steeper beach slope that leads to a quick drop-off into the ocean in some areas
  • Stay well away from the bluffs, overhangs, and caves at all times.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Reapply sunblock.
  • Ensure you bring shade (umbrellas/pop tents) for your group.

Beach and Park Rules

The following are prohibited:

  • Fireworks and sky lanterns
  • Bonfires are only allowed in fire rings. Hot coals are not allowed to be buried, they must be distinguished.
  • Alcohol
  • Glass
  • Smoking
  • Drones
  • Beach camping
  • Dogs are allowed at Del Mar Shores and Tide Park beaches only. They must be on leash at all times.

Keep Solana Beach Free of Trash

Do your part during this crowded season and July 4th weekend to help keep the City’s beaches clean and green. Please do not leave trash behind at the beach and be mindful of over-filling trash cans, as well as the color of the bin. Only throw recyclable items into the blue bins and non-recyclable waste into the black bins. Unsure about what goes where? Learn more about the EDCO Guidelines here.  

Tops have also been added to the trash bins at Fletcher Cove to encourage beach goers to pack out what they pack in, especially larger items. ‘Pack-in pack-out’ mentality helps protect the natural environment and preserves the beauty of Solana Beach for the entire community.  

We appreciate your commitment to visiting the beach responsibly this summer!