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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Gulf Islands National SeashoreVisitors walk the white sandy beach on a clear summer day at Perdido Key.
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Gulf Islands National Seashore
Swimming
 
A national park lifeguard stands at the lifeguard tower while two safety flags fly in the wind. 
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A National Park Service lifeguard watches visitors in the Gulf of Mexico.

Because of the miles of shoreline and water access, opportunities to swim throughout the Seashore are numerous. However, it is better to swim in lifeguarded or designated swim beaches that are located at Johnson Beach, Langdon Beach and Perdido Key Area in Florida and at West Ship Island in Mississippi. Season for Lifeguards will end in September. For information on times please call 850-232-5883.

 

Lifeguards' Safety Tips:

Learn to swim.

Watch for beach safety flags and heed the warnings. During lifeguard season call  850-934-2600 for current Florida District flag conditions at Opal Beach, Langdon Beach, and Perdido Key Beach after 10:00 A.M.

  • Red over Red (two flags flying): Water closed to the public.
  • Red: High hazard, high surf and/or strong currents.
  • Yellow: Medium hazard, moderate surf and/or currents.
  • Green: Low hazard, calm conditions, exercise caution.
  • Purple: Dangerous marine life.

Swim near a lifeguard.

Never swim alone. 

Parents should always watch their children.

No Diving. Sandbars can be shallow. Feet first first time!

If you are in trouble, call or wave for help.

Follow all rules and regulations of lifeguard or local beach patrols.

Please No glass containers at the beach.

 

Additional Water Safety Tips

 
A NASA picture of the sun.
Sun exposure
Protect yourself
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A sign with a big blue arrow showing where to swim away from a rip current.
Rip Currents
Break the grip
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The arches at Fort Massachusetts are made of red and tan bricks.  

Did You Know?
Gulf Islands National Seashore's Fort Massachusetts, on West Ship Island 12 miles off the Mississippi coastline, was covered by the 30-foot storm surge from Hurricane Katrina on August 29, 2005. The fort has been reopened to the public.

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Last Updated: August 27, 2009 at 16:12 EST