Beach Rentals & Refreshments of Volusia County: Local Legacy and Service on the Sand
Volusia County’s beaches are known for their golden sands, warm surf—and for the friendly, familiar faces that have served locals and visitors alike for generations. Behind the umbrella-lined shorelines and food stands is Beach Rentals & Refreshments of Volusia County (BR&R), a locally operated organization that manages a network of 38 small businesses working together to preserve the long-standing tradition of beach concessions in the region.
A FAMILY OF BEACH VENDORS
“We consider ourselves a beach family,” said Melanie Nordstrom, president of BR&R, who has spent over 20 years working on the sand alongside her husband, a veteran vendor of 32 years.
BR&R isn’t a single company—it’s a community. Many of its vendors are multigenerational, some having served the beaches for over 40 years. Known as “veteran vendors,” these long-standing businesses offer more than just snacks or beach chairs—they provide continuity, history, and a unique charm that’s become part of the beachgoing experience. Vacationers often return year after year, looking for the same vendors they’ve built relationships with over decades. Nordstrom’s mission is clear: “My goal is for all vendors to have longevity.”
KEEPING IT LOCAL
In 2009, Volusia County Beach Rentals was created to manage beach equipment rentals. At the time, food vendors operated under a separate contract. That changed in 2017 when the county combined all services under one contract, which BR&R was awarded. By 2022, Nordstrom had stepped into the role of president, forming the newly named Beach Rentals & Refreshments of Volusia County. Today, BR&R proudly represents local vendors across Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, and New Smyrna Beach.
Without BR&R’s leadership, the concession system could have been consolidated under a corporate bidder—creating uniformity and stripping away the individuality that gives each stand its flavor.
“Each business brings its own identity,” said Nordstrom. “From hot dogs and burgers to açai bowls and gourmet paninis, there’s no one-size-fits-all here.”
“It’s important to give back to the beach that gives so much to us.”
GIVING BACK TO THE SHORE
Community is at the heart of everything BR&R does—especially when it comes to protecting the local wildlife that shares the shore. During sea turtle nesting season, which runs from May through October, select vendors participate in a special donation program benefiting the Friends of the Marine Science Center, a nonprofit organization based in Ponce Inlet. This volunteer-driven group supports the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles and shorebirds treated at the Marine Science Center. Over the past four years, BR&R vendors have donated roughly $10,000 annually to support conservation medicine, marine education, and ongoing wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
PLANNING A BEACH BASH? THEY’VE GOT YOU COVERED
Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, wedding, or company picnic, Beach Rentals & Refreshments of Volusia County makes beachside events effortless and memorable. Their network of local vendors can provide everything from shaded seating and tables to delicious food and fun activities. If you’re dreaming of a seaside celebration, visit the “Events” tab at BeachRentalsVC.com to get started. Simply fill out a quick form and a team member will connect you with the right vendors for your needs—making your special day as breezy as the ocean air.
THE VENDOR EXPERIENCE
Interested in becoming a beach vendor? BR&R welcomes aspiring concessionaires to apply online at BeachRentalsVC.com. Click “Join the Team” to submit your vision, along with a business plan. With opportunities still available, the organization is always looking to support locals who want to bring fresh, creative concepts to the shoreline.
