Planning a beach day in Palm Beach? Watch out for tar balls!
As of Saturday, February 8, 2025, sticky black blobs washed up on the shore along the public beaches on Palm Beach. Though a nuisance as they can make quite a mess, they’re not dangerous, and the beaches remain open.
Tar balls, formed by offshore oil production or natural seepage, haven’t been seen in Palm Beach for years—likely since the 2010 BP spill. So, it is curious what has caused their appearance now.
If you get stuck with a tar ball on your hands or feet, use Vaseline or baby oil to clean up. They can be a little messy, but don’t let them spoil your fun in the sun.
