EMERALD ISLE, N.C. (WNCT) -- From Apr. 13 until Sept. 15, 2025, people will have to pay by the hour to park at the West or East beach accesses in Emerald Isle. This signifies the beginning of the tourist season in the area, accompanying Spring Break. While this may upset some people visiting the town, the money goes toward things such as maintaining the beach access bathrooms and showers, keeping the parking lots safe and staffing lifeguards. Triad professors make the case for getting rid of pennies "The money that we receive from the paid parking actually offsets the cost of the Eastern and Western access," Director of Parks and Recreation for Emerald Isle Candace Dooley said. "So, surprisingly, with 20 lifeguards on staff all summer, seven per day, and then we ramp up during holidays and busy times as well, and have more guards on duty with five roving the entire beach. You can see them behind me most likely and so, it offsets the cost to have this USLA certified lifeguards on staff, and that is a very prestigious title to carry." In conjunction with paid parking beginning, the beaches will start to see more visitors throughout the fall. "It's time to ramp up for the busy season, and so we are fully stocked and ready to go," Dooley said. "Staff is coming on slow but sure, as we get into the busy season, but I can tell you they're already here. Spring Break is in full swing. We welcome them. We hope that everybody has a safe and enjoyable time here at the beach. It's also a reminder for Emerald Isle locals that they do have access to free parking passes for Spring and Summer parking season. Invasive bass species spreads from western North Carolina to Piedmont Triad "You will get a ticket if you do not pay for the parking when you enter in. But, residents do get free passes, so be sure and go to the police department and get your free pass," Dooley said. "If you are a taxpayer here on Emerald Isle, you are entitled to that." According to the town's website, parking is $4 per hour, with the maximum paid per day being $16. It will run seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ...read more read less