A beach vacation is the perfect time to rest and recharge solo or enjoy the sun and sea with family, friends, or a significant other. However, like any trip, a beach vacation is best when you’re fully prepared. Strong surf, marine pests, or swimming in the wrong area could lead to trouble. To stay ahead of potential hazards, you can check beach warning flags which tell you pertinent information about current beach conditions.

What Do Different Beach Warning Flags Mean?

1. Red Flags

If you see a red flag when entering the beach, stop. One red flag means that high surf or strong currents are present. Don’t let children go in the water, and you shouldn’t enter the ocean yourself unless you’re a strong swimmer. Even then, be extremely cautious and only go into the water if necessary.

Two red flags mean that the water is closed for public use. This signal is reserved for the most dangerous surf and current conditions.

2. Yellow Flags

Yellow flags indicate moderate surf or currents. There’s potential for rip currents, undertow, or high surf, but conditions aren’t life-threatening. Stay out of the water if you’re not comfortable with your swimming abilities, and have children wear life vests. Swimming when a yellow flag is flying requires extra caution. 

3. Green Flags

When you see a green flag flying at the beach, it means conditions are calm and clear, and it’s safe to swim. However, remember that hazards still exist, and nature is unpredictable. Be cautious and aware when swimming in the ocean, and keep an eye on kids. 

4. Purple Flags

The surf and currents may look calm, but under the water could be a different story. If you see a purple flag flying on its own or with another flag, that means potentially dangerous marine life have been spotted. That includes jellyfish, stingrays, sharks, or algae. Beaches typically don’t close when a purple flag is up, but remember that you are swimming at your own risk. This flag may also be dark blue, depending on what color flag that beach uses.

5. Other Flags

Many beaches use flags that are specific to their region or purpose. A flag with red over yellow  means that a swimming area has lifeguard supervision. A black-and-white checkered flag indicates a surfing area where swimmers are prohibited. Similarly, a yellow flag with a black circle at its center means that surfboards and other non-powered watercraft like kayaks or rafts are not permitted.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach vacation, let the experts at Sunset Properties help. Sunset Properties is a locally-owned and operated beach rental company that has been serving the Gulf Shores, AL area since 2001. Find the perfect home for your next beach vacation by calling (251) 543-1370, or start your rental search on their website.