Your Guide to International Coastal Cleanup Day ꞏ Sept 20 Palm Beach County
Every September, International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICC) brings millions of volunteers together across the globe to remove trash from our stunning beaches, unique coastal ecosystems, waterways, and shorelines. South Florida—blessed with miles of beautiful coastline, vibrant marine life, and a thriving tourism industry—is at the heart of this movement and hits close to home. It’s a powerful statement that our community values a healthy environment and is willing to take action.Whether you’re in Palm Beach County, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or the Keys, opportunities abound for residents and visitors to roll up their sleeves and make a difference, right here in your own neighborhood. Beyond just picking up trash, these cleanups highlight the need to address larger environmental issues such as plastic pollution, microplastics, and marine debris that threaten wildlife and coastal communities.On Saturday, September 20, 2025, you can be part of this global movement right here in your own backyard. Whether you’re a seasoned beach warrior or a first-time volunteer, there’s an event for everyone. We’ve compiled all the details you need to join an event near you, along with a handy guide on what to wear and what to bring to make your cleanup a success.
Why Coastal Cleanups Matter in South Florida
South Florida’s coastlines are more than just sandy beaches—they’re the lifeblood of the economy, a sanctuary for marine wildlife, and a playground for families, boaters, and divers. Yet, our shores face mounting threats:
- Plastic Pollution: Single-use plastics like bottles, bags, and straws often end up in the ocean, harming sea turtles, fish, and seabirds.
- Microplastics: Even after breaking down, plastics remain as microscopic particles that contaminate the food chain.
- Storm Debris: With hurricane season bringing high winds and surges, debris often washes ashore.
- Tourism Impact: Millions of visitors each year mean extra pressure on beaches, parks, and waterways.
According to the Ocean Conservancy, over 20 million pounds of trash were collected during past cleanups. In South Florida, local volunteers have made a massive difference by focusing on hot spots like Lake Worth Beach, Biscayne Bay, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Where to Join International Coastal Cleanup in South Florida
Here are some of the best opportunities to get involved in south Florida:
1. Palm Beach County – Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful
- Website: kpbcb.org or https://www.keeppbcbeautiful.org/
- Contact: (561) 686-6646
- Locations: Beaches, parks, and waterways throughout the county.
- Accessibility: Many events are family-friendly and ADA-accessible
2. Miami-Dade County – VolunteerCleanup.org
- Website: VolunteerCleanup.org
- Contact: info@volunteercleanup.org
- Special Note: Miami hosts hundreds of micro-cleanups year-round, especially in Biscayne Bay.
3. Broward County – Ocean Conservancy Partnerships
- Info: Ocean Conservancy Events
- Hot Spots: Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood Beach, Dania Beach
4. Florida Keys – National Marine Sanctuary
- Contact: (305) 809-4700
- Activities: Both shoreline and underwater cleanups for divers and snorkelers
Your Guide to Palm Beach County’s Coastal Cleanup Events
- Boca Raton
- Spanish River Park | 8:00 AM
- Address: 3001 North State Road A1A (or N Ocean Blvd), Boca Raton, FL 33431
- Phone: No specific number
Join fellow volunteers to clean both the beach and the intracoastal mangrove habitats. It’s a fantastic way to protect two vital ecosystems at once! They’ll have free t-shirts for early birds, and community service hours are available. Space is limited, so be sure to call (561) 544-8606 to reserve your spot.
- Red Reef Park | 8:00 AM
- Address: 1400 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432
- Phone: No specific number
Hosted by the 2Day4Tomorrow foundation in partnership with the City of Boca and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, this cleanup focuses on protecting sea turtle nesting sites. Help remove harmful plastics and debris to ensure our nesting mothers and hatchlings have a safe environment. Community service hours are offered here as well.
2. Delray Beach- Sandoway Discovery Center | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Address: 142 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483-6718
- Phone: 561-274-7263
Lend a hand at this popular Delray Beach spot. The event runs for two hours, and volunteer service hours will be awarded. Be sure to check with them about their required volunteer waiver, especially if you are a minor.
3. Jupiter- Ocean Cay Park | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Address: 2188 Marcinski Road, Jupiter, Florida 33477
- Phone: No specific number
Partnering with Friends of Jupiter Beach and Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, Inc., this cleanup covers a 2.5-mile stretch of beach. Expect a great community vibe with breakfast, drinks, and even free prizes! Arrive early to sign in and get your supplies.
3. Lake Worth Beach- Lake Worth Beach Park
- Address: 10 S Ocean Blvd, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460 | 8:00 AM
- Phone: No specific number, can try this: 561-533-7313
Celebrate with The Beach Bucket Foundation at their 40th annual cleanup event. Join a dedicated team and help clean the shoreline that so many in our community enjoy.
4. North Palm Beach- John D. MacArthur Beach State Park | 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Address: 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr, North Palm Beach 33408
- Phone: 561-624-6950
- Only state park in Palm Beach County
- Access the park by driving east on PGA Blvd in Palm Beach Gardens, go south on A1A and park is on the left. Or access the park by driving east on Blue Heron Blvd, go north on A1A, drive north of Singer Island on N Ocean Blvd or A1A, and the park is on the right.
- Team up with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful for a morning of environmental action. Your efforts will be rewarded with free park entry and a t-shirt if you arrive early. It’s a great opportunity to explore one of Palm Beach County’s true natural treasures.
5. Singer Island- Ocean Reef Park | 7:30 AM
- Address: 3860 North Ocean Drive, Riviera Beach, Florida 33404
- Phone: 561-881-3940
Starting bright and early, this event provides gloves, bags, and all the necessary cleaning supplies. Just bring your passion for a clean beach!
What to Wear for the Cleanup
Staying safe and comfortable is key to having a great cleanup experience. The Florida sun can be intense, and a beach environment has its own unique hazards.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp shells, glass, or other hidden debris. Think sturdy sneakers or water shoes. No flip-flops!
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for sturdy sneakers] or [Affiliate link for water shoes]
• Comfortable Clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable clothes that cover your arms and legs to protect against the sun.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for lightweight UV protective long-sleeved shirts] and [Affiliate link for breathable pants]
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget your shield against the sun’s rays!
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for wide-brimmed sun hat], [Affiliate link for sunglasses], and [Affiliate link for reef-safe sunscreen]
What to Bring for a Successful Cleanup
While many events provide supplies, coming prepared ensures you have a smooth and sustainable cleanup.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in the Florida heat. Bring a reusable bottle to fill up and avoid single-use plastics.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for reusable water bottle]
• Reusable Gloves: Bringing your own durable gloves can offer better protection and comfort.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for durable reusable work gloves]
• Reusable Collection Bag or Bucket: Help reduce the plastic footprint of the cleanup by bringing your own reusable bucket or bag.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for reusable bucket] or [Affiliate link for reusable bag]
• Hand Sanitizer: A good idea for cleaning up after handling trash.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for hand sanitizer]
• Insect Repellent: For events near mangroves or wooded areas, bug spray can make a big difference.
o Recommended: [Affiliate link for insect repellent]
A Few More Tips Before You Go
- Check with organizers: Event details can change, so it’s always a good idea to confirm details with the individual event host.
Safety first: Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re near the water. Never handle hazardous materials like syringes; notify a site captain immediately.
Mind the dunes: Stay off the dunes and out of sensitive vegetated areas to protect these fragile coastal habitats.
Bring a friend! A cleanup is always more fun and efficient with a partner.
Making a Difference, One Piece of Trash at a Time
Every piece of plastic, every discarded bottle, and every stray wrapper you remove from our shoreline contributes to a healthier, more beautiful Palm Beach County. By participating in International Coastal Cleanup Day, you’re not just cleaning a beach—you’re protecting wildlife, preserving our natural beauty, and inspiring others to do the same.
Beyond One Day: How You Can Help Year-Round
International Coastal Cleanup Day is just the start. You can continue protecting South Florida’s coast by:
- • Choosing reusable over disposable (bags, bottles, straws).
• Joining monthly cleanup groups through VolunteerCleanup.org.
• Advocating for local plastic bans and sustainable tourism.
• Supporting eco-conscious businesses.
Every small act makes a difference in keeping South Florida’s waters clean and safe for future generations.
Final Thoughts
South Florida’s beaches are more than postcard-perfect—they are essential to our environment, economy, and way of life. International Coastal Cleanup Day offers a chance for everyone—residents, snowbirds, and tourists alike—to give back to the very shoreline that gives us so much.Grab your gloves, hat, and wide-brim hat, bring your reusable bottle, and join the movement this September 20th. Together, we can keep our coasts thriving, beautiful, and sustainable.We can’t wait to see you out there on September 20th!
