The Beach Flags in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, designate the water conditions for that day. It is incredibly important to check them before entering the Gulf of Mexico.
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Beach Flags Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
I can't stress enough how important it is to look for the beach flags and understand what they mean before entering the Gulf of Mexico.
We are Gulf Shores locals who spend a lot of time on our local beaches. They are our happy places to relax, walk, and savor living on Alabama's Gulf Coast.
That said, it can also be incredibly nerve-wracking to see people running into the water on double red flag days.
I wanted to make sure that everyone has the information they need to safely spend time on the beach, swim in the Gulf when it is safe, and know how to get the most up-to-date information.
We were recently interviewed by Fox10 News about the dangers of riptides.
Tammilee has some tips. One of the biggest is to pay attention to the flags.
"If it's double red, never go in the water. If you're walking the beach right now, you can tell where the storm surge has come in and there's a much bigger pool of water than it normally is. It's just not a weekend to tempt fate. I know it's Fourth of July weekend, and it's everybody's holiday, but be safe. Think safety first,"
Beach Warning Flags - What they mean by color!
You will find the beach flags posted at all public beach access areas in the corporate limits of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, along with in Gulf State Park.
If you are staying at a condo or hotel with beach access make sure to check for the current flag status before entering the water.
Flag color can change during the day as surf conditions change! We like getting the text alerts so we know if there are any changes.
Please make sure you know the beach warning flag system and check current beach conditions!
If there is an absence of beach flags make sure to check for online updates. Even in calm conditions it i important to be aware of any hazards.
Respect the power of the Gulf!
Green Flag - Low Hazard
You will not see a green flag in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area but you may see them outside of our beaches.
Yellow Flag - Medium Hazard
Moderate surf or currents!
The Gulf of Mexico is open for swimming and wading but there may be moderate surf or currents.
Purple Flag - Marine Pests are present
Exercise caution; marine pests are present.
Purple flags may be present with red or yellow flags!
Marine pests can include dangerous marine life! Yes, there are sharks in the Gulf of Mexico and they can be present near the beach.
We have not had any issues in our area but it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings.
Keep an eye out for jellyfish on the beach when walking if purple flags are present. They can be blown up on the beach depending on conditions.
Trust me it does not feel great to get stung while walking.
This can also include stingrays and other marine life.
Red Flag - High hazard
High surf and/or strong currents! Red Flag = Knee deep is too deep!
Double Red Flags - Gulf water closed to the public!
It is illegal to enter the Gulf of Mexico within the city limits of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach when 2 red flags are flown!
PLEASE DO NOT ENTER THE WATER! I know I just yelled in caps lock but I have seen way to many people this summer ignore the beach flags and head into the water.
We have already had multiple drownings along the Gulf Coast this summer. I know you are here on vacation but please do not put your life in danger for a few minutes of swimming.
There are pools and other areas to explore that are safer than the Gulf when there are double red flags.
How to check daily Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Beach Flags
There are a few different ways you can get the daily beach report including:
Look for flags - Check to see what color the beach flags are before you walk onto the beach. The same beach flag warning system is for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Daily Text Messages - Sign up to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777. At the end of your vacation, opt out of the text alerts by texting STOP.
For additional weather alerts and warnings for the local area, text ALERTBALDWIN to 888777. At the end of your vacation, opt out of the text alerts by texting STOP.
Call for Beach Flag Updates - For beach conditions in Gulf Shores, call 251-968-SURF (7873).
For beach conditions in Orange Beach, call 251-981-SURF (7873).
How to spot a Rip Current
Rip currents are narrow channels of water that move quickly away from shore. They can happen at any time. Rip Currents can be present on a sunny clear day and a rainy windy day!
One of the easiest ways to spot a rip current is to look for gaps between the waves. A small patch of calm water surrounded by waves is often a rip current.
Rip currents are prevalent when the waves crash perpendicular to the beach rather than at an angle.
How to escape a Rip Current
If you find yourself pulled into a rip current the most important thing to do is to stay calm. Fighting the current can cause you to tire quickly.
Swim parallel to the shoreline to become free from the current. Once you are away from the current move back towards shore.
If you are unable to break free of the current you should float or tread water until the current weakens and you can swim towards the shore.
If you feel that you can not reach the shore try to draw attention to yourself. Call or wave for help.
Beach Lifeguards and Beach Patrol
Beach Lifeguards and Beach Patrol are normally present between March and September. They ARE NOT PRESENT from October through February.
The lifeguard stands have large numbers on them. If you have trouble on the beach or need to call for assistance and don't know where you are located you can give them the lifeguard stand number as a reference point.
Currently, there are no lifeguards available in the Fort Morgan area.
Gulf Shores Lifeguard Towers
- Tower 1 - East State Park Pavilion
- Tower 2 - West State Park Pavilion
- Tower 3 - Gulf State Park Lodge
- Tower 4 - Lighthouse Condo
- Tower 5 - East Gulf Place
- Tower 6 - In front of the Hangout
- Tower 7 - Gulf Place
- Tower 8 - West Gulf Place
- Tower 9 - 6th Street
- Tower 10 - 10th Street
- Tower 11 - 13th Street
- Tower 12 - South side of Callaway Pass/Lagoon pass
Orange Beach Lifeguard Towers
- Tower 1 - Shell Beach
- Tower 2 - Alabama Point
- Tower 3 - Cotton Bayou East
- Tower 4 - Cotton Bayou West
- Tower 5 - Orange Beach Resident Beach near CoastAL
- Tower 6 - Romar Beach
Gulf Shores Beach Rescue Lifeguard Season Stats
The Gulf Shores Beach Rescue team consists of 36 seasonal lifeguards, 6 full-time lifeguards, and 4 beach rangers. They staff 12 lifeguard towers and diligently patrol 10 miles of shoreline-actively monitoring 6 miles and promptly responding to calls across the remaining 4 miles west of the Little Lagoon Pass.
2025 Beach Rescue Lifeguard Season by the Numbers:
- Prevention: 61,094 - Educating and preventing tragedy before it happens
- Rescues: 136 - Removal of a victim from the water who would not be able to make it to shore without assistance
- Major Medical Aid: 74 - Anything from fractures to cardiac arrest (usually requires transport).
- Minor Medical Aid: 7,329 - Simple bandaging, jelly fish stings, etc (usually doesn't require transport).
- Enforcement: 21,492 - Education and enforcing city ordinances.
- Contacts: 175,374 - Interactions with the public.
- Missing Person: 74 - Lost or found individuals separated from their family or party.
- Wildlife: 63 - Injured animals
Attendance: 6,028,897 - Rough estimate of the volume of beachgoers.
Beach Safety Tips
Sunscreen - Please make sure you are prepared for the blazing Alabama Gulf Coast Sun! Even when going out to lunch and sitting outdoors. I say this from experience. We enjoyed a 2 hour lunch with friends outside and I didn't think about how my shirt was cut during the meal. I definitely realized it later that night when I was red hot and oh so sunburned.
Sunglasses and a hat are also a good idea!
The summer sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. These peak heat hours are no joke on the gulf coast. Shade is your friend whether that is with a beach umbrella or taking a break for lunch.
Water - Bring water with you and be prepared for the heat!
Know your limitations!
Even if you have been a lifeguard in the past the Gulf waters can be dangerous! Don't overestimate your swimming abilities and end up in danger.
Make sure people know you are in the water - If you are swimming someone needs to know you have entered the water and to keep an eye out for any issues. Never swim alone!
Don't rely on floats or boogie boards to keep you safe - You can be pulled out in a rip current while sitting on a giant pink flamingo floatie! Please do not rely on floats or toys for safety.
Supervise children closely - PLEASE make sure kids are told to not run into the water without telling someone they want to swim.
Weather - Check current local weather reports from the National Weather Service and local news for the Alabama coast.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Public Beach Access Points
There are multiple Gulf Shores' beaches access points depending on where you are staying in town or if you want to explore new areas.
Gulf Place (Gulf Shores) - Gulf Place is the main hub of the Gulf Shores Public Beach! This must-visit beach has sugar white sand, volleyball courts, a kid's playground, and so much more.
Cotton Bayou (Orange Beach)- This gorgeous section of beach is part of the Gulf State Park beach area. It offers outdoor showers, accessible boardwalk, restroom, and epic beach access.
Gulf State Park Fishing Pier - There is easy beach access near the pier with a large paid parking lot.
Gulf State Park Pavilion (Gulf Shores) - The beach pavilion has air-conditioned restrooms, private showers, a snack bar, shady areas, and so much more!
Romar Beach (Orange Beach) - Part of the Gulf State Park beach area this beach is located near Phoenix V and Seaside Beach Club. Parking is available.
Alabama Point East (Orange Beach) - Part of Gulf State Park beach area this beach is located .3 miles east of Perdido Pass Bridge and has a great wide beach along with sand dunes, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Shell Beach (Orange Beach) - Gulf State Park beach area on Perdido Beach Boulevard across from The Caribe resort. There is a portable restroom and parking available.
Branyon Beach Access (Gulf Shores) - Located at the intersection of Highway 182 and Campground Road this beach area has limited parking.
Gulf Shores 4th Street Public Beach (Gulf Shores) - This beach is accessible from the pedestrian crossing beach access.
Gulf Shores 5th Street Public Beach (Gulf Shores) - There is a boardwalk to the beach, free parking on the north side and also on the south side of Bahama Bob's.
Gulf Shores 6th Street Public Beach (Gulf Shores) - There is a boardwalk to the beach, outdoor shower, and a handicapped-accessible restroom at this beach access point.
Gulf Shores 12th Street Public Beach (Gulf Shores) - There is no parking at this beach access point. Restrooms and showers are available.
Gulf Shores 13th Street Public Beach (Gulf Shores) - This beach access point has free parking along the street, showers and a restroom.
Lagoon Pass Beach (Gulf Shores) - This beach access point has a fishing pier, outdoor showers, a water fountain.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach - Parking is located along Mobile Street off of Fort Morgan Road. This beach access point does not have facilities but offers great wildlife refuge access. There are facilities at the refuge office when it is open.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tours
These are some of our favorite tours available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
Dolphin Tours - Book a dolphin cruise here
Check out our experiences on Hammock Time Tiki Tours, Explorer Dolphin Cruise, Southern Rose Dolphin cruise, Cruise OB (Orange Beach), Sail Wild Hearts, Sunset Sail and Dolphin Tour, and the Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruise.
Slingshot Rentals - Use code GULFJOURNEY To save 10% off a Slingshot Rental with Gulf Coast Rental Co in Orange Beach
Pontoon Boat Rentals - Enjoy cruising the waters of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach on a Pontoon. Check out the pontoon boats with slides for extra fun. Book your Boat Rental Here
Parasailing - Check out the epic views as you parasail in the Gulf of Mexico. Look for wildlife and you float high above the water. Book your Parasailing Trip Here
Jet Ski Rentals - Jet Ski Tours and rentals are a great way to explore the back bays of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Book your Jet Ski Rental Here
Click here to see all of the top rated tours and activities available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Additional Gulf Coast Articles
What's new in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach - Check out all of the new restaurants, hotels, and more in town.
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Restaurants with a Water View - Check out these great restaurants that offer a water or beach view.
Best Sunrise spots in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - All of the best places to view sunrise.
Best local coffee shops in Gulf Shores - Grab your favorite coffee or tea at one of our favorite local coffee shops.
Best Burgers in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores - List of the best burgers in the area.
Best pizza in Orange Beach - The best Orange Beach Pizza Restaurants for delivery or dine in.
Best free things to do in Gulf Shores - Check out the local playground, public beach access points, and so much more.
Things to do in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach when it Rains - Don't let a little rain ruin your trip to the Gulf Coast! These activities are perfect for rainy days
Make sure to check out our January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December Event Guides for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Lodging
If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations. We have personally stayed at each of these lodging options (except Margaritaville, coming 2027!):
Use code GULFJOURNEY at checkout with Spectrum Resorts and Beachball Properties for an exclusive discount!
🏖️ Beachball Properties - Vacation houses and condos throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount. Book with Beachball Properties
🏖️ The Beach Club Resort and Spa (Fort Morgan) - Beachfront condos with amazing amenities, a spa, and the incredible Coast Restaurant on-site. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book The Beach Club
🏖️ Turquoise Place (Orange Beach) - Our favorite resort in the area! Luxury amenities, epic Gulf-front views, and stunning condos. Truly unforgettable. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book Turquoise Place
🏨 The Tides Hotel (Orange Beach) - Gorgeous beachfront hotel with a great breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and top-notch customer service. Book The Tides
🏨 Island House Hotel (Orange Beach) - Right on the beach with epic views from every room. Book Island House
⛺ Timberline Glamping (Orange Beach) - Stay in an amazing glamping tent with a private bathroom, right next to Gulf State Park. Book Timberline
🏨 The Lodge at Gulf State Park - Beachfront Hilton hotel in Gulf State Park offering epic views, sustainable practices, and great on-site restaurants. Book The Lodge
🏨 Springhill Suites Orange Beach - Located next to The Wharf with a gorgeous pool. Perfect location for shopping and dining. Book Springhill Suites
🔜 Margaritaville Resort Orange Beach (Coming 2027) - The highly anticipated Margaritaville resort is coming to Orange Beach! The first phase opens in 2027 and will include beachfront cottages, bungalows, condos, pickleball courts, and an entertainment district.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama, and so many more!
We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, and more.
Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!
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