The Flag Warning System on Pensacola Beach
The color flags flying at Pensacola Beach are surf warning flags. You’ll find them in a few spots: south of the Bob Sikes Toll Bridge, by the Casino Beach Pavilion, at the Gulf Fishing Pier, a mile east of Portofino Island Resort, and at Park East, Park West, and all lifeguard towers.
GREEN FLAG
You can expect to see a green flag present at the beach on the optimal beach day — clear skies, calm waters, minimal winds. Feel free to enjoy the full aspect of the water today whether that be swimming, floating, paddleboarding, or boating.
Green means go, and you can expect a perfect day at the beach!
YELLOW FLAG
If a yellow flag is present at the beach, you can be sure to expect two things — wind and waves. The surf will be moderately choppy, so make sure to exercise caution while in the water.
Wave enthusiasts, these are the perfect conditions for you, just make sure you are playing it safe and not exercising reckless behavior.
RED FLAG
Just like all red flags, beach red flags indicate something to avoid or take extra notice of. You can expect high surf and/or strong currents usually due to high weather activity out in the greater Gulf of Mexico. Getting in the water is not encouraged and is often prohibited by lifeguards who are present to avoid personal harm or injury that could lead to drowning.
Most Pensacola Beach locals opt for sitting on the beach and enjoying the sights of the mighty water while also keeping a safe distance away.
DOUBLE RED FLAG
If you thought one red flag meant extra safety, then get ready for DOUBLE red flags. Swimming and wading during double red flags in the Gulf of Mexico is prohibited on Pensacola Beach. You don’t want to play around during these conditions. The waves can reach new heights and dangerous riptides have the ability to pull swimmers of all calibers out into the gulf.
Unless you are a storm chaser, a double red flag day means no fun is to be had. It’s better to practice common sense and stay safe to enjoy the beach another day!
PURPLE FLAG
Purple flags are flown when jellyfish, Portuguese man o’ war, and other stinging marine life are present. You don’t want to get caught unaware by any of these guys! Exercise caution when in the water and/or along the shoreline.
While swimming is still allowed when a purple flag is flown, you will want to keep a keen eye for any stinging creatures present to avoid an unpleasant experience.
One Last Thing to Remember!
Just because there aren’t any flags doesn’t mean the water is safe, so always trust your instincts when deciding to swim. Remember, only strong swimmers should head into the Gulf of Mexico!
Exercising safety is one of the key ways to make sure you have the best time visiting Pensacola Beach! Be sure to check out our Beach Report web page to get a glimpse of the conditions when making your next travel plans.
