What Do The Flags Mean At The Beach?
- Avery Daniels
- Dec 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
The water in Destin and 30A may look like paradise, but the flags on the sand tell the real story of what’s happening beneath the surface.
Beach Flag Color Meanings
Black Beach Flag Meaning
Destin & 30A do not use black flags in their official beach warning system. If you were to see one, it is likely from a different region’s guidelines or a surfing designation.
White Beach Flag Meaning
A white flag is not part of the standard U.S. beach warning flag system. On many Florida beaches, a small white flag may mark a sea turtle nest.
Blue Flag At Beach Meaning
A blue flag is not a safety or surf condition flag in the U.S. Instead, the blue flag refers to an international eco-certification awarded to beaches and marinas that meet high standards for:
Water quality
Environmental protection
Safety and services
Sustainability practices
Orange Beach Flag Meaning
On certain busy beaches, festivals, or beach events, an orange flag may mark a designated reunification point where:
Lost children are taken
Families can reconnect
Beach staff or security stay stationed
An orange flag can also mark equipment or hazard markers.
A Few More Clarifications...
What Do Yellow Flags Mean at the Beach?
Medium Hazard
Moderate surf or currents
What Do Red Flags at the Beach Mean?
High Hazard
Strong surf and dangerous rip currents
What do double red flags mean at the beach?
Water is closed to the public
*Extremely hazardous conditions. Swimming is illegal when double reds are flying!
Where To Check Today’s Beach Flag Color
For Destin
The official beach-safety page of Destin Fire Control District “Beach Warning Flags” page: Destin Fire Control District+1
The city’s public beach information page for Destin: cityofdestin.com
For phone/text updates: residents/visitors can text “BEACH” to 44144 for daily beach-flag updates: Destin FWB+1
For Miramar Beach + South Walton
The official site of South Walton Fire District (SWFD): hiddendunesdestin.com+2Solely Beachfront+2
For phone/text updates: you can text “SAFETY” to 31279 for daily flag updates covering South Walton beaches (Miramar included): hiddendunesdestin.com+1
FAQs
What do the different beach flag colors mean?
Green: Low Hazard
Yellow: Medium Hazard
Red: High Hazard
Double Red: Water Close to the Public
Purple: Marine Pests
Is swimming allowed under double red flags?
NO! Entering the water is illegal when double red are flying and puts onlookers as well as the swimmer(s) themselves at a high risk.
Why does Miramar Beach change flags so often?
Surf and safety conditions along the Emerald Coast can shift rapidly due to wind speeds and currents as often as hourly. Please pay attention!
What do yellow and purple flags together mean?
Ouch! Yellow and purple beach flags suggest that there are stinging marine life and the water conditions are moderately hazardous. Feel free to go into the water, but expect stronger-than-normal currents and possible jellyfish or other small sources of sting in the Gulf. Use extra caution and be mindful with children.
Beach Flag Color Meaning & Next Steps
Whether you’re moving to 30A or simply dreaming about it, settling into the Emerald Coast lifestyle is all about slowing down, embracing the community, and learning the rhythms of life by the Gulf. From understanding beach safety to discovering the best local spots, we’re here to help you feel comfortable from day one. And, if you’re considering making a move or thinking about selling, The Locals Group is your trusted resource!
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