Flag Descriptions

Beaches have adopted a flag system to give beachgoers an idea of how safe or unsafe the beaches may be. These are changed daily and set by either local tourism boards, park services, or lifeguards. Each flag has a different meaning which we will explain below. The flags are an indicator of either water current strength, wave/surf intensity, and marine life.

This indicates a safe environment characterized by minimal to no waves and weak current strength. These are going to be the best conditions for smaller children.

This indicates moderate surf and/or water current conditions. You should exercise caution when going in the water especially if you are not a strong swimmer.

This indicates strong and dangerous surf and/or water currents. While you can still go into the water, you should be extremely cautious. It is not safe for either children or weak swimmers. 

This indicates extremely dangerous conditions. The beaches are closed to swimming with double red flags and it is illegal to go into the water. Doing so puts your life at great risk even if you are an extremely strong swimmer.

This indicates an abundance of marine life is in the area. Triggers for this flag could include sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, or a high amount of fish. If you click on the purple flag, a comment tab will appear prompting you to say what marine life prompted the flag.

This flag is posted alongside the categories mentioned above as it doesn't tell you about the water conditions. This flag is sometimes a dark blue in certain places across the country.