Panama City Beach's Flag System

Safety should always be a top priority when swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. In Panama City Beach, color-coded beach flags are in place to keep the public aware of sea conditions at all times.

    Double Red – Danger! Water Closed to Public
    Single 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 (Usually Jellyfish)

*Absence of Beach Flags Does Not Assure Safe Waters.

Remember, double red means stay out of the water – you can be arrested for ignoring this warning. A single red flags means “knee deep is too deep.” The best swimming conditions are on a “Green Flag Day,” as the locals call it – when the water is calm and clear.

Stay aware, and have fun!

For more tips on staying safe at the beach, check out our Beach Safety page.