Navigating Memorial Day Weekend Beach Crowds in Popular Coastal Destinations

The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program has issued a swimming advisory for Jockey’s Ridge Soundside Access at Nags Head due to high levels of enterococcus bacteria, which is an indicator of fecal matter. While the advisory is not a beach closing, signs have been posted warning people not to come within 200 feet of the area. Other sites at beaches along the Carolina coast have precautionary advisories due to stormwater discharge areas, which can contain pollutants and cause adverse health effects. Swimmers should be aware of the possible risk.