Mitch deals with budget cuts that could take lifeguards off the beach. With their jobs jeopardized, everyone decides to volunteer as civilian lifeguards. At the same time, David and Julia are having a romantic time on the beach but lose an engagement ring in the water. Matt and Summer save the young couple from drowning.

Stephanie's feelings deepen for her Coast Guard partner, Scott. Matt rescues a young woman from the ocean and tries to get her reacquainted with her dying father, but she refuses. She's actually a con artist and involves Matt in her scam.