MIAMI BEACH, Florida – Nearly a year after some Florida spring breakers refused to let the coronavirus interrupt their parties and sparked a wave of lockdowns, this town is bracing for a new crop of revelers.
While many colleges have canceled spring break to prevent students from congregating at vacation destinations, officials expect a large influx here in the coming weeks. Flights and hotels are cheap. Brutal winter storms in much of the country left people longing for an escape. And Florida pandemic rules for bars and nightclubs are more lenient than those in many states.
“We could have a really outsized spring break at a time when the last thing we want is big rallies,” said Mayor Dan Gelber, a Miami Beach Democrat. He cited public health experts’ concerns that crowds like this could trigger another wave of Covid-19 cases.
Bars, restaurants and clubs will be open with a capacity of as much as 50%, as the city cannot close them under an executive order from the state. But Miami Beach – a barrier island known for its stylish hotels and vibrant nightlife – has a zero-tolerance policy. Officials have tightened restrictions from February 22 to April 12 and expect peak activity in March. They have also launched an ad campaign urging young people to take a responsible vacation.
More police officers and staff are on patrol to enforce measures, including a midnight curfew and a ban on alcohol and boomboxes on the beach. Music in locations should not exceed the ambient noise level. Beach patrols ensure that groups maintain a social distance and wear masks if necessary.