Want to drive on Delaware beaches? Here's what you need to know

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2 days ago

Cars frequently get stuck trying to drive on the Delaware beaches, especially in the warm months.
Low-sitting vehicles' wheels often spin before they can even get over the dune crossing, though it seems like most people get stuck right at the end of the dune crossing, blocking others from getting on the beach. Worst of all is when someone gets stuck or parks too close to the water and the ocean reaches their vehicle.
If your vehicle gets stuck on the beach, Delaware Natural Resources Police will not assist you. To avoid paying for a tow and becoming the laughingstock of the "Bad Drivers of Delaware" Facebook group, follow the advice below:
Before you even consider driving on the beach, know that you can only do it on designated state park drive-on beaches after getting a surf-fishing permit and, if it's a summer weekend or holiday, making a reservation.
Driving on the beaches is for surf fishing only. To avoid a fine, you have to be actively engaged in fishing (read: pole in the water, bait on the hook).
Surf fishing vehicles must be equipped with a shovel (or two), a jack, a board or similar support for the jack, a low-pressure tire gauge and a tow rope or chain. The speed limit on the beach is 15 m.p.h.
Violations of these rules can result in fines of $50 to $250 for first offenses and $100 to $500 for second offenses. You can learn all about Delaware's surf-fishing regulations here.
And in case it's not obvious: The closer the frame of your vehicle is to the sand, the more likely it is to get stuck. Lower vehicles, like sedans, are not recommended for driving on the beach.
Air pressure is the most important factor when it comes to operating a vehicle in the sand, according to Delaware Natural Resources Police Chief Wayne Kline. (Watch the video he narrated on this subject.)
The air pressure in your vehicle's tires must be reduced before going on the beach. Reduced air pressure makes your tires longer and wider, allowing them to gain traction on sand. A good starting pressure for the beach is 20 pounds, Kline said. When it's hot and dry and the sand is softer, you may need to go as low as 15 pounds. Any lower than that is not recommended.
A few rules of thumb:
If you're driving on the beach and take your foot off the accelerator, your vehicle should coast to a stop, Kline said. If it stops suddenly, you need to let more air out.
When driving on the beach, follow the tracks of other vehicles. That sand will be packed down and easier to drive on, Kline said.
If you must crest a crown, or a small hill created by waves, drive parallel to the beach and turn into the crest very gradually. A sharp turn into a hill will likely result in your vehicle getting stuck.
Dune crossings can be difficult because the sand is usually soft, and drivers sometimes have to stop for pedestrians and other cars, Kline said. Do your best to stay in the ruts of other vehicles and maintain speed. Give vehicles traveling uphill the right-of-way.
When leaving the beach, don't forget to fill your tires at the air pumps, which typically are located where the sand and blacktop meet.
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If your tires are spinning and your vehicle isn't moving, you're stuck. Stop pressing the gas pedal.
First, get out of the vehicle and air your tires down a few more pounds, Kline said. If that doesn't work, it's time to start digging.
Dig out under the frame of your vehicle until you can see daylight from all directions and dig wheel paths behind all four wheels. Be careful not to puncture your tires. You can use your jack to raise the wheels and place sand under them.
Since the sand behind your vehicle is already packed, it's easiest to back out when you're ready to try again.
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If you have to use a tow rope, don't use it to tow your vehicle but to snatch or jerk it, Kline said. The vehicle assisting you should accelerate quickly to jerk your car out of the sand.
What vehicle is assisting you? Well, you can phone a friend or ask someone nearby. If you're polite, most people are happy to help.
If all else fails, call a tow company and stay with your vehicle. If you don't arrange for it to be towed, police will.
Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on southern Delaware and beyond. Reach her at [e-mail] or on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: How to drive on the Delaware beaches