The sugar-white sand and emerald-colored water of our pristine beaches provide a great place to have fun, but be aware that dangerous currents are sometimes present. It is imperative that you heed the warnings of our flag system. We want you to have fun but please, swim safely.
Surf conditions can be deceiving. There can be dangerous currents even on calm days. Call for the latest surf advisory at Pensacola Beach (932-SURF) and the Gulf Islands National Seashore in the protected areas.
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| Green: Low Hazard, calm conditions, exercise caution |
Yellow: Medium Hazard, moderate surf and/or currents |
Single Red: High Hazard, high surf and/or strong currents conditions |
Double Red: Water Closed to Public |
Purple: Dangerous Marine Life |
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No Flag: No lifeguard on duty. Surf condition advisory not available.
Emergency Actions
If an emergency occurs in an area not covered by a lifeguard, call 911. It's always safest to "Swim With The Lifeguards". Look for guards before setting up your towels and umbrella. Want more advice from our local life guards? Meet the lifeguards of Pensacola Beach. Read our blog post from our expert blogger: Council Vaughn veteran lifeguard.
Rip Currents
Rip currents are narrow channels of water flowing out past the surf zone that can pull even strong swimmers into deep water beyond the offshore sand bar.
If caught in a rip current, do not panic! Try to escape a rip current by moving sideways across it; parallel to the shore. If the current is too strong, let it carry you further away from shore and it will weaken. Then swim back to shore at an angle away from the rip current.
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