Know the rules before day-tripping to the beach in Grand Bend: Lambton Shores mayor

Summer 2021 is shaping up much different from the summer of 2020 and that has things getting nearer to normal on the Grand Bend strip.

“People are ready to get out after a year-and-a-half of COVID,” said Bill Weber, Mayor of Lambton Shores.

With the province now firmly into Step Three of its reopening plan, the mayor says beach-goers should brush up on the rules before stepping foot on the sand.

“No sports, no tents, no barbecues, no glass, alcohol is not allowed on the beach, nor is smoking, nor are dogs,” said Weber.

Take sports, for instance; Weber says pandemic rules around distancing on the beach have changed but it doesn't mean the rule ends up being any different.

“Because if the beach is full and because there just isn't room for people to be throwing a football,” he said.

If there's one rule being broken most often right now, Weber says it's likely the ban on alcohol. He says if you want to throw back some beach brews, the area patios will be more than happy to have you.

“The bottom line is we hope that people use common sense and common courtesy, care about others and others' space,” Weber said.

When it comes to beach capacity, Weber says they don't count people it's mostly just limited by the availability of legal parking spots.

As for a vaccination requirement, he says there isn't one but, again, 'common courtesy.'

“Every one has had the opportunity to get vaccinated and we hope that people that come have done that,” said Weber. “Again, it's respect for others and showing safety and concern for others.”

You can find a full list of the rules and more here.