Show All Answers

1. What are the current beach conditions?

Call: 251-981-SURF (7873). 

Text: ALBEACHES to 888777. 

Facebook: @Orangebeachsurfrescue. 

Online: https://www.orangebeachal.gov/170/Beach-Safety-Mollys-Patrol

2. What time does the beach close?

There is no closing time. However you should consider the following: Overnight camping is unlawful, Overnight swimming poses extreme dangers, and be mindful of our noise ordinance

3. Are there sharks in the water?

Yes! The Gulf is their natural habitat, we are the visitors! If you see one don't panic, slowly move towards shore without splashing, flailing, or making excessive noise. Most sharks stay offshore but occasionally they will swim closer. Avoid swimming in areas where schools of fish are present or seabirds are diving. If Lifeguards determine a shark is a threat to the public they can close the water to swimming.

4. What should I do for a Jellyfish sting?

As far as treating a jellyfish sting our suggestion is the “beach method” which involves no chemicals. Take a hard surface something like a credit card/room key and scrape against the effected area. The goal of this is to remove any remaining tentacles. Next take wet sand and pack it on top of the affected area and let it sit. This relieves stinging and adds a cooling effect. 

Realistically a jellyfish sting is very similar to a bee sting. Pain thresholds are different person to person and pain tends to last for 10-15 minutes. In the case of an emergency: person has difficulty breathing or breaks out in extreme hives all over the body call 911.

5. How long will the Jellyfish or Seaweed be present?

While it is nearly impossible to predicts this in the open water environment a few factors can help in removing jellyfish or seaweed from the swimming area: Strong winds, strong surf, strong lateral currents, or large storms. When the water is calm & stagnant there is very little to do. Remember this is the open water!

6. My items I left on the beach overnight are missing. Can I get them back?

Any beach equipment left unattended on the beach one hour after sunset until sunrise as defined by NOAA for Orange Beach, Alabama, each day will be deemed abandoned, and shall be disposed of accordingly and will not be returned. This includes tents, canopies, beach chairs, toys, etc. Please visit the Leave Only Footprints Campaign page to learn more.

7. Can I have a fire pit on the beach?

Any open fires or use of flammable items, including but not limited to charcoal or gas grills, torches, (e.g., Tiki torches, etc.), and/or fireworks are considered inappropriate and unlawful per Ordinance 2005-946

8. Can I fish from the beach?

Yes, but be respectful of others when placing fishing poles. Share the beach! It is however illegal to fish or target sharks by methods of chumming. Visit here for more info: https://www.outdooralabama.com/fishing.