LOW HAZARD
Peligro bajo
Generally calm conditions — swim with usual caution.
Condiciones generalmente tranquilas; nade con precaución habitual.
Enjoy A Fun and Safe Beach Trip
Famed for its soft white sand, emerald-hued waters, and a carefree, easy-going atmosphere, Pensacola's beaches have long been a favorite, family-friendly beach destination that locals cherish and newcomers embrace.
To ensure our beach remains pristine and is enjoyed by everyone, here are a few tips to guarantee everyone has a great time, stays safe and respects our beach community.
Know The Beach Flag Colors
The beach flag system helps you stay aware of surf and water conditions. Since things can change throughout the day, it’s a good idea to take a quick look beforehand. Stay informed and enjoy your time on the beach.
MEDIUM HAZARD
Peligro medio
Moderate surf and/or currents — swim with extra caution.
Oleaje y/o corrientes moderadas; nade con precaución adicional.
HIGH HAZARD
Peligro alto
High surf and/or strong currents — swimming is not recommended.
Oleaje alto y/o corrientes fuertes; no se recomienda nadar.
WATER CLOSED
Agua cerrada al público
Water closed — no swimming or wading in the Gulf.
Agua cerrada; no está permitido nadar ni caminar en el Golfo.
STINGING MARINE LIFE
Vida marina peligrosa
Jellyfish, Portuguese man o’ war, etc. are present — exercise caution.
Presencia de medusas y carabelas portuguesas; extreme la precaución.
Note: Absence of flags does not assure safe waters. Surf conditions can be deceiving.
See The Current Flag Conditions
Stay safe before you swim. Pensacola Beach Lifeguards update beach flag conditions daily to help you know the surf and current risks.
Understand Rip Currents
If Caught in a Rip Current
- Relax — rip currents don’t pull you under.
- Don’t swim against the current.
- Swim out of the current, then head to shore.
- If you can’t escape, float or tread water.
- If you need help, yell or wave for assistance.
More Information: weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent, usla.org
General Safety
- Never swim alone. / Nunca nade solo.
- If in doubt, don’t go out. / Si no está seguro, no entre.
- Swim near a lifeguard. / Nade cerca de un salvavidas.
- Know how to swim. / Aprenda a nadar.
Life Guards
Water Quality & Conditions
KNOW THE RULES
Adult beverages are allowed on the beach. Glass containers, underage drinking and public drunkenness are not. Illegal drugs and driving under the influence will not be tolerated. Laws and ordinances will be strictly enforced, for everyone’s safety. Wherever you’re staying, please be respectful of your neighbors and keep your noise level in check. Motorized vehicles, generators, grills, fires and any open flames are prohibited on the beach, as well.
Leave Only Your Footprints
Rule of thumb: If you brought it to the beach, carry it back with you.
Tents, umbrellas, chairs and other beach gear are not allowed to be left overnight on the beach. Trash cans are provided near all beach entrances, and you are asked to fill in any holes you may dig in the sand.
May through October is sea turtle nesting season. Here are a few tips to ensure their safety:
- GO DARK - When walking the beach at night during turtle season, remember to use a red flashlight. Sea turtles and hatchlings are less likely to be attracted and disoriented by red lighting. Also, remember to turn out your room lights.
- TURTLE ETIQUETTE - Don’t touch or harass a nesting sea turtle or baby hatchlings as they leave their nest. Watch quietly from a distance and never shine lights or use flash photography, which could disorient them.
- FILL IT IN and KNOCK IT DOWN - Fill in large holes, knock down sand castles and other obstacles to leave the beach flat for nesting sea turtles.
- LEAVE NO TRACE BEHIND – Remove all tents, canopies, furniture, toys and other obstacles from the beach every night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring for a safe day at the beach?
For an ideal beach day, bring sunscreen, a hat, floaties for children, an umbrella, plenty of water, and snacks.
How can I check Pensacola Beach conditions before I go?
Check our beach webcams, flag conditions, and water quality before you leave for a beach trip!
Do Pensacola beaches have trash cans?
Pensacola’s beaches have trash cans in the parking lots! Make sure not to leave anything but footprints on the beach.
What should I do if I encounter marine life at the beach?
Pensacola has plenty of beautiful marine life, but for their safety and your own, it’s important that you admire from a distance.
How can I keep the beach clean while I'm there?
Leave only your footprints! Don’t leave anything on the beach, and if you see trash, pick it up!
