Orange Beach Lifeguards Urge Safety As Fourth Of July Weekend Brings Crowds To The Water

OBA Staff • July 4, 2026

Terry Cove, Cotton Bayou, and Old River are among the areas with idle-speed rules in effect

The Fourth of July Holiday is a Busy Boating Weekend in Orange Beach

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Surf Rescue lifeguards are prepared and on duty to keep beachgoers and boaters safe during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The holiday weekend draws large crowds to the sugar-white sands and waterways of Orange Beach, Alabama. Officials urge residents and visitors to take a few simple steps before heading out. Staying aware of beach and water conditions can help prevent accidents and injuries over the holiday weekend.

Orange Beach Surf Rescue shared several safety reminders for anyone planning to enjoy the beach or the water. Officials advised beachgoers to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and during their time on the sand. Heavy boat traffic is expected throughout the day, and officials are asking everyone to stay alert on and near the water. Sunblock is also strongly encouraged to protect skin and help visitors enjoy the beach without discomfort.

For those heading to the beach, Orange Beach Surf Rescue encourages everyone to "BEach SAFE—KNOW BEFORE YOU GO." Residents and visitors can sign up to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777. Those who prefer to call can reach the Daily Beach Report at 251-981-SURF (7873) for up-to-date weather and surf conditions.

With Red Snapper season in full swing and the holiday weekend underway, waterway traffic is expected to be especially heavy. Orange Beach officials are asking all boaters and watercraft operators to follow No Wake and Idle-Speed rules throughout the area. These rules apply to several waterways, including Terry Cove, Cotton Bayou, and Old River.

Knowing and following the No Wake and Idle-Speed zones is critical to keeping all boaters and swimmers safe during one of the summer's busiest weekends. Maps and more information about the No Wake Zone rules in Orange Beach are available online at www.orangebeachal.gov/No-Wake-Zone-Maps. Officials say that following these rules helps protect not only boaters but also everyone sharing the water this holiday weekend.

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