Survival Guide Series
Do THIS, not THAT!
A guide to beachin’ like a pro during your next trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast.
It’s time to hit the road and head to Alabama’s Beaches for a long-awaited vacation! Your bag is packed, your crew is ready and it’s time to start beaching with the best of them.
To help you become the real MVP of your group, we've mapped out a list of things to do and not to do when you visit. By the end of your trip, your friends may think you were a coastal local in a past life!
Swimming at the Beach
DO THIS:
Before hitting the beach, make sure you know which color flag is flying. Each color means something different and can be a lifesaver when recommendations are followed. Just like team colors, these flag colors are important, each flying for a reason. For beach conditions in Gulf Shores, call 251-968-SURF (7873). For beach conditions in Orange Beach, call 251-981-SURF (7873). Sign up to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777.
NOT THAT:
Do not just start swimming without checking the flags. Red and double red flags mean the water could have hidden rip currents and other dangers that are not visible from the shore. Also, be sure to never go into the water alone. A buddy system is necessary for a safe and enjoyable time in the water.
Dining at the Beach
DO THIS:
Plan meals before your trip! Taking the time to research restaurants and dining options in advance not only allows for more time to enjoy your day on the beach, but it also helps with budgeting during your vacation. Our social media fans are the best of the best, and they know the scoop on where to dine. Dive into a few of our Fan Fave categories for some of the best places to experience succulent seafood, beautiful outdoor dining, breakfast for champions, family-friendly eats and finger-licking-good barbecue. Looking for a night in AND a delicious meal? Many of our restaurant sponsors offer on-the-go dining, making it possible for you to call, place an order, walk up to the door, grab your food and go – and some will even BRING IT TO YOU!
NOT THAT:
Trying to decide on a place to eat at the last minute can lead to frustration, longer wait times and a hungry group. Don’t assume that everyone can or will eat the same things. Some of our restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan and allergy menus. Knowing where they are is another reason thinking ahead comes in handy. Check out our wide selection of sponsors for ideas ahead of time!
Activities on the Beach
DO THIS:
Alabama's Beaches boast a host of beach activities. Build a sandcastle, play beach volleyball, walk, swim and relax. But always remember to leave only footprints behind. Do your part by picking up all your trash AND belongings before you leave the beach. At dusk, city crews begin to gather and discard anything left behind, helping keep our beaches clean and safe as part of the Leave Only Footprints initiative.
NOT THAT:
Do not dig deep holes or leave trash behind. Both can cause harm to people and precious wildlife. Alabama's Beaches are nesting grounds for several species of endangered sea turtles. They come ashore at night during nesting season to lay their eggs, but deep holes can prevent them from returning to the water and, therefore, result in injury or even death. Winds and waves can sweep trash into the Gulf of Mexico, causing harm to fish and all other creatures in and around the water. Deep holes and trash (especially sharp items) could also harm beach visitors.
Now that you know a few dos and don’ts for when you visit Alabama's Beaches, put that knowledge to use for the best vacation ever!
