You cannot beat a day at the beach, soaking up the sun, relaxing with a Gulf breeze while the kids play in the sand, and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. Spending the day at the beach is fun, but you should be aware of the beach conditions and monitor them throughout the day.
The most important thing you can do is understand the meaning of the beach flags flying at major public beach access points and monitor them. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have a Flag Warning system to make visitors and locals aware of the water conditions. Surf and current conditions are monitored regularly throughout the day, and the flags are current indicators of beach safety.
Yellow flags represent moderate surf conditions. Red flags are a real warning sign and an indication there are high surf and strong currents present. If a double red flag is flying, it is illegal to enter the Gulf of Mexico. When a purple flag is flying along with any other color, there is dangerous marine life, like jellyfish and Portuguese Man O' War, both are capable of delivering uncomfortable and painful stings.
Remember that the absence of red flags does not assure safe conditions. Learn the meaning of the Flag Warnings and obey them so you can play it safe at the beach.
For current surf and current conditions, call:
Gulf Shores: 251-968-SURF (7873)
Orange Beach: 251-981-SURF (7873)