Double red flags? No problem! 3 safe ways you can have a great time at the Gulf

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Beach vacations are supposed to be spent enjoying the sugar-white sand and emerald waters of the Gulf. So what do you do if the water becomes too dangerous to swim due to bad weather, rip tides and more?

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama to bring you some beach safety tips, plus three ways to have a blast, even when the water is closed.

Flag system breakdown

Alabama uses a color-coded warning flag system to give beachgoers an idea of water conditions before hitting the sand.

Here’s what each flag means:

• Yellow Flags: Moderate surf + currents—exercise normal caution
• Purple Flags: dangerous marine life in water (jellyfish, Man O’ Wars, sharks, etc.)
• Red Flags: high surf + strong currents—only strong swimmers should be in the water
• Double Red Flags: Gulf is CLOSED—no swimmers allowed in water

Flags are posted at most beach access points and lifeguard towers. Swimming in the Gulf during double red flags can result in a $500 fine and/or jail time.

You can also get alerts when surf conditions change by texting “ALBEACHES” to 888-777.

Rip currents—what you need to know

Rip currents are fast-moving streams of water formed by waves being pulled down and out faster than they can crash.

Scientifically, this is the correct term—but you might hear “rip tide” or “undertow” to describe the same phenomenon. Sandbar formation and tropical storm activity can increase the chances of one forming.

Rip currents can be deadly. Unfortunately, they often resemble calm spots.

Here’s what to do if you are caught in a rip current:

• Remain calm + try to float
• Don’t try to swim against the current—it will exhaust even the strongest of swimmers
• Swim parallel to the shore—the current will eventually release you + you can swim to land

The water is closed—now what?

Visit Tropic Falls at OWA in Foley

If you’re seeking an activity that lets you bob around and play in the water, consider a trip to Tropic Falls at OWA.

The 520-acre family fun park has a wave pool and surf simulator—plus tons of waterslides, roller coasters and an indoor arcade for those inevitable pop-up showers.

A more budget-friendly option is just outside the park in Downtown OWA. This vibrant spot is chock-full of unique boutiques, scrumptious restaurants and live entertainment.

• Location
  • Tropic Falls at OWA: 1501 S Owa Blvd, Foley, AL 36535
  • Downtown OWA: 100 N OWA Blvd, Foley, AL 36535
• Hours
  • Tropic Falls at OWA: Sunday-Thursday, 9AM-8PM | Friday + Saturday, 9AM-10PM
  • Hours in Downtown OWA vary by business
• Admission: Ticket prices start at $74.99
• More info

Check out escape rooms, virtual reality + more at The Wharf in Orange Beach

The Wharf is essentially a fair just steps away from the beach.

You’ll find a Ferris wheel, one of the biggest music venues on the beach and tons of seaside boutiques to browse. There are also plenty of great entertainment options for all ages.

Here’s a short list to get you started:

• The Axe Hole (axe throwing)
  • Address: 4830 Wharf Pkwy W Suite G-201, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  • Hours: Sunday, Wednesday + Thursday, 3-9PM | Friday, 3-9PM | Closed Monday + Tuesday
  • More info

• Breakout Orange Beach (escape room)
  • Address: 4776 Main St Suite L208, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  • Hours: 10AM-11PM, daily
  • More info

• Outer Limits VR
  • Address: 4700 Main St N-101, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12-9PM | Sunday, 12-6PM
  • More info

Make a splash at Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park

Is being in a natural body of water still calling your name? Check out Lake Shelby located at Gulf State Park.

It’s a freshwater lake and the perfect spot to swim when the Gulf is too dangerous.

While visiting Gulf State Park, you can check out the best recreational trail in the country, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.

Get daily alerts on surf conditions by texting “ALBEACHES” to 888-777.

During double red flags, there are plenty of ways to stay safe at the beach. What’s your favorite?

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