Officials hope Cocoa Beach erosion minimal from Sandy's surf

COCOA BEACH, Fla. — Around Cocoa Beach wind, rain, and waves kept most beachgoers away Friday.

"I now the rip is really bad right now and it looks dangerous, even though the waves are smaller than I expected," said beachgoer Martha Chevlin.

Brevard County Ocean Rescue officials said waves along the coast measured 12 to 15 feet as they rolled onto shore, where life guards posted a double red flag warning.

"We can only advise you not to go swimming when we have the double flag conditions like today," said Derek Swor, with Brevard County Ocean Rescue.

"That warning didn't keep everyone out of the surf.

"It's pretty strong. It's pulling us out and back.  As long as you're cautious, we're not worried about it," said Merritt Island resident Travis Marshall.

The county has already been out to evaluate the shoreline.

They said there are definitely signs of erosion.

But the area they were most worried about, the dunes along the beach, seem to be holding up well.

"The high tide was pretty extreme today. It's not as high as it's ever been. Any time the water comes up to the dune line you're going to have some sand move away," said Swor.

Brevard County Natural Resources officers said they hope the erosion damage won't be severe.

WFTV