Beach Flag Warning System

The beach flag warning system has been in place since 2005 when the state of Florida enacted it into law.  The five flags are meant to represent the level of danger of the water and surf conditions in the nearby area.

The most hazardous conditions are represented by a double red flag, which also indicates that it is illegal to get into the water.  The red flag indicates a high level of danger; followed by yellow which indicates a medium level of danger; followed by green which indicates the lowest level of danger.  The purple flag indicates dangerous marine life, which generally means jellyfish or algae.  For more information, be sure to speak with the lifeguard nearby.

For current beach conditions and flag updates, text “FLAG” to 31279

Double Red Flag
Double Red Flags

Water Closed, all water activity is prohibited.

Red Flag
Red Flag

High Hazard, knee deep limitation

Yellow Flag
Yellow Flag

Moderate Surf/Currents

Green Flag
Green Flag

Calm Conditions

Purple Flag
Purple Flag

Dangerous Marine Life

Walton County Beach Rules

  • No swimming or wading on days when a double red flag is flying
  • No dogs on the beach, unless resident with a valid permit during approved hours
  • Personal belongings left on the beach overnight will be removed and discarded
  • Be sure to fill in any holes dug in the sand so others do not get injured
  • Removal of sand, vegetation or Gulf water is prohibited
  • No glass containers on the beach
  • Stay off the dunes
  • No charcoal grills are permitted on the beach, propane grills may be permitted if 16" x 20" or smaller
Gulf-Waves-2

Rip Current Safety

Gulf-Waves-2

What is a Rip Current?

Rip currents are fast flowing channels of water that extend from close to the shoreline through the surf and past the breaking waves.  They can generally reach speeds of 1 to 2 feet per second.  A rip current does not pull you under the water, it pulls you out, away from the shore.

Rip currents are areas in the surf where the waves are not breaking.  They’re generally darker color and “choppier” than the surrounding water.

What to do if You Are Caught in a Rip Current

  • Stay calm, don’t panic or swim against the current
  • Relax, float with the current until it dissipates
  • Swim parallel to shore and back in