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Common Ground News

Are Gulf Shores beaches safe?

Author

Christopher Snyder

Updated on February 20, 2026

Are Gulf Shores beaches safe?

The beaches in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan opened last week to excited beach goers. Melvin Shepard, Gulf Shores Beach safety officer said, “The lifeguard staff reported nearly 100,000 people on the beaches since they re-opened. There have been no issues to report.”

Also question is, are Gulf Shores beaches open for swimming?

Beaches. The City of Gulf Shores Beach Safety Division strives to provide the best beach experience for all residents and visitors year-round. The City provides seasonal lifeguard services between March and October and encourages the public to swim at the protected public swimming areas when lifeguards are present.

Likewise, is Gulf Shores Alabama Safe? All of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is safe.

Beside above, is the water clear in Gulf Shores?

The water in gulf shores is not quite as clear as destin, But the water is beautiful. Here is a link to a couple of pictures I took in gulf shores of the water. The weather has a lot to do with how clear the water is, If it is stormy, the water is less clear.

What are the beaches like in Gulf Shores Alabama?

And Yes, the BeachThe Alabama Gulf Coast has 32 miles of pristine white beaches. There's volleyball, picnic pavilions, restrooms, showers, beach bars such as The Hangout, and nearby shopping. There is a small parking fee charged at the Main, West 2nd Street, West 6th Street, and Little Lagoon beaches.

Is the Gulf safe to swim in?

Yes, it is completely safe to swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Very rarely do we experience red tide or any other issues. You may want to look up on the local websites for the area to make sure that there isn't any "Red Tide" in the area. Other than that it is safe.

Is the Gulf safe to swim in 2019?

Despite Bacteria Scare, Local Waters Generally Safe For Swimming. OCEAN CITY — Despite a handful of regional and national incidents of Vibrio bacteria infections, the chances of contracting the so-called “flesh-eating virus” locally remains remote although some common-sense safety tips should be observed.

Can you swim in Orange Beach?

Orange Beach, Alabama, is on the Gulf of Mexico, offering white sand beaches perfect for local festivals, boating, fishing, water sports, swimming and the relaxing pace of this southern vacation destination. Public beaches line the waterfront, each offering its own special blend of beach experiences.

Is Gulf Shores Alabama A good place to retire?

Gulf Shores is a beautiful coastal city and is considered by many as an ideal place to retire because of its compactness and cleanliness. The city thrives on a real estate and tourism based economy and is home to some of the best beachfront condos, hotels, vacation homes and apartments.

What color are the flags in Gulf Shores today?

City of Gulf Shores - Municipal Government
We're flying YELLOW & PURPLE FLAGS on #GulfShores beaches again today! The presence of yellow flags indicates moderate surf and/or currents, while purple flags represent dangerous marine life is present (in this case stingrays).

What flag is it in Gulf Shores?

Red Flag – High hazard. High surf and/or strong currents. Yellow Flag – Medium hazard. Moderate surf and/or currents.

Why is it called Orange Beach?

Creek Indians inhabited the area long before the arrival of Europeans. In addition to an active fishing community, the area was also known for farming, which leads to how Orange Beach got its name, as orange groves were once common on the Alabama coast.

What is the best time of year to go to Gulf Shores Alabama?

The best times to visit Gulf Shores are March through May and September through November. Travelers can take advantage of these sweet spots outside the busy (and more expensive) summertime and enjoy swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, which still offers pleasant temperatures in the late spring and early fall.

Which is nicer Orange Beach or Gulf Shores?

Orange Beach is nicer and a little more expensive. The restaurants are better in Orange Beach but more choices in Gulf Shores. Gulf Shores tends to get more snowbirds and spring breakers than Orange Beach. There are more things to do, and in closer proximity, in Gulf Shores.

Is Destin or Gulf Shores better?

Although Destin is usually a “drive to” destination due to its proximity to Atlanta, Birmingham, and Nashville, it also has better airport access than Gulf Shores.

Which is better Gulf Shores or Pensacola?

The area is a bit bigger than Pensacola so there are more hotels and condos which may make it a little busier. There are beach shops, good restaruants and activities to enjoy close by in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach too. Both areas are wonderful for families.

Is it warm enough to swim in Gulf Shores in April?

From April to May, the weather is terrific. The high temperature hovers around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and by late spring, the ocean is warm enough for swimming.

What is the nicest beach in Alabama?

The 15 Best Beaches in Alabama for 2018 - Tripping.com
  1. West Beach – Gulf Shores.
  2. Fort Morgan Beach – Gulf Shores.
  3. Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (Gulf Place) – Gulf Shores.
  4. West End Public Beach – Dauphin Island.
  5. Dauphin Island Public Beach – Dauphin Island.
  6. Cotton Bayou Beach.
  7. Gulf State Park – Gulf Shores.
  8. Florida Point Beach – Alabama.

Why is the water brown in Gulf Shores?

There is a certain amount of algae laden detritus that is important to the filter feeders, such as jelly fish and oysters. Aside from the erosion, plants decompose along the river banks and produce tannins that make the water appear brown or green.

Which Gulf Coast beach is best?

10 Best Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit
  • Gulf Shores, Alabama. Gulf Shores, Alabama provides a peaceful beach escape for vacationers along the Gulf Coast.
  • Destin, Florida.
  • Siesta Key, Florida.
  • West Ship Island, Mississippi.
  • Galveston Island, Texas.
  • South Padre Island, Texas.
  • Marco Island, Florida.
  • St.

What is Gulf Shores known for?

Gulf Shores, Alabama
This resort community is known for its bright white beaches and soothing warm water. Daytime activities include scenic cruises, dolphin-watching and hiking. A great place for families, Gulf Shores has The Track, a family recreation center with bumper boats, and also the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

What is Gulf Shores Alabama known for?

Gulf Shores, Alabama. This resort community is known for its bright white beaches and soothing warm water. Daytime activities include scenic cruises, dolphin-watching and hiking. A great place for families, Gulf Shores has The Track, a family recreation center with bumper boats, and also the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

What is the crime rate in Gulf Shores Alabama?

42 per one thousand residents

Is Gulf Shores affected by red tide?

GULF SHORES — The Alabama Department of Health says that red tide has been found in water samples taken near Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Red tide has caused many issues for Florida's coast over the summer, with large-scale fish kills and noxious odors taking over beaches from Miami to Pensacola Beach.

Can you swim in Gulf Shores in March?

Thanks to all the snowbirds that come down during the winter, Gulf Shores does not shut down in the off season like some other resort towns. It will still be a bit cold in March - too cold for swimming in the Gulf - but it is nice for beach walking or sunbathing on the right day. Many condos also have indoor pools.

How much does it cost to live in Gulf Shores?

Trevino Dr
COST OF LIVINGGulf ShoresUSA
Housing112.4100
Median Home Cost$259,800$231,200
Utilities98.4100
Transportation76.9100

Does Alabama have white sand beaches?

There are multiple beautiful white sand beaches along the Gulf Shores in Alabama, and these shores are not small by any means; it is a 32-mile-long stretch of sandy beaches and pearlescent waters.

Can you swim in Gulf Shores in December?

With uncrowded shorelines and beautiful weather, winter is one of the best times to visit Gulf Shores. Many of our first-time guests ask us if you can swim in Gulf Shores in December. The average temperatures range from the low 50's to mid 60's during this time of year, which is a bit too chilly for swimming.

What kind of sharks are in the Gulf Shores?

– Yes, shark sitings like last week's are common, as many shark species make their home in the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, our friend Captain Scott at Little Lagoon Guide Service consistently spots bull sharks, blacktips, and Alabama spinner sharks among others.

Is Orange Beach Water clear?

We prefer the easier to get around less traffic of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area now. We are currently in Orange Beach. The water is more green than blue like in Destin. It is still clear in most areas and visibility to about 5 feet today.

What beaches have the clearest water in Florida?

Wondering which beach in Florida has the clearest water? The following areas are more likely to have clear water on any given day: northwest Florida beaches in and around Panama City Beach, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Pensacola; southwest Florida beaches on Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and Siesta Key.

Can you swim with dolphins in Gulf Shores Alabama?

There are no swim with the dolphin attractions in Gulf Shores.

What color is the sand in Gulf Shores?

Our sand is softer and finer than you see on most other beaches around the world. That's the result of pure, white quartz crystal that washed down from the Appalachian Mountains and was deposited in the Gulf of Mexico. According to Dr.

What beach in Florida has the clearest water?

However surveys for the clearest water in Florida consistently rate The Emerald Coast as Number One. This esteemed title of clarity includes Destin, Miramar Beach, all the picturesque coastal villages along South Walton's Scenic 30A and Panama City Beach. The water here along our coast is usually “swimming pool clear”!

What is there to do in Gulf Shores Alabama today?

Top Attractions in Gulf Shores
  • Gulf State Park. 1,326 reviews.
  • Gulf State Park Fishing Pier. 1,077 reviews.
  • Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. 1,554 reviews.
  • Gulf Shores Public Beach. 406 reviews.
  • Gulf Shores Welcome Center. 454 reviews.
  • Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. 261 reviews.
  • Big Beach Brewing Company.
  • Fort Morgan Road Trail.

What are the best beaches on the Gulf Coast?

10 Best Gulf Coast Beaches to Visit
  • Gulf Shores, Alabama. Gulf Shores, Alabama provides a peaceful beach escape for vacationers along the Gulf Coast.
  • Destin, Florida.
  • Siesta Key, Florida.
  • West Ship Island, Mississippi.
  • Galveston Island, Texas.
  • South Padre Island, Texas.
  • Marco Island, Florida.
  • St.

Can you swim in Gulf Shores in May?

Yes, it's usually delightful in May in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. The highs should be in the low 80s and the water temperature in the mid 70s. This is one of our favorite times to be at the beach!

Are there alligators in Little Lagoon Gulf Shores?

Typically the Alligators frequent the canal areas near Hwy. 59 (both sides), the eastern part of little lagoon, and in Lake Shelby. They are more of a threat to dogs, raccoons, and things living in the water.

Where can I see dolphins in Gulf Shores?

Dolphins are actually small whales and the most common type of dolphin found along the Alabama Gulf Coast is the bottlenose dolphin. They can be seen just off shore in the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay and in the back bays that surround Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

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