Watch Visual Stories
Helpful Tips & Knowledge About Alabama's Beaches
Share the Beach
Share the Beach was founded by the Alabama Coastal Foundation in 2005 and is Alabama's sea turtle conservation program that works to protect sea turtles and their nests. It follows the US Fish and Wildlife Service's protocols under the endangered species recovery permit. Volunteers patrol the beach, educate the public and school groups, conduct late-night observations, and assist with supply and equipment preparations. These efforts help ensure the protection of sea turtles.
Do Not Disturb Marine Wildlife
If you spot marine life in the wild, it’s important to realize that human contact can cause trauma and disrupt their natural behaviors. Stay at least 50 yards from these animals and move slowly away if they show signs of disturbance. Refrain from feeding, touching or swimming with wild marine life, and don’t forget to put your boat’s engine in neutral when they are nearby. Don't worry. Snapping a few pictures from a safe distance won't disturb them!
Leave Only Footprints
Around fifteen years ago, community leaders realized we had a serious problem. The sea turtles weren’t nesting like they used to and the harmony of our local sea life and wildlife were imbalanced. We were met with a challenge on how to balance beach fun for people with a healthy ecosystem for wildlife. Together, our two communities, area business and concerned citizens organized in 2007 to create a beach sustainability program to protect our valuable natural assets. In 2015, the Beach Litter program was added to further protect the health and safety of the beach, surrounding waters, animals and, of course, beachgoers. Below are the beach rules and regulations established to help protect & maintain Alabama's Beaches.
Recycle
Recycle when possible and use reusable products such as grocery bags and water bottles. This is an easy way for you to help keep our community healthy. The less garbage that goes into landfills, the better.
Keep Pets Off The Beach
While pets are welcome at many places in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, they are prohibited from our beaches. If you want to bring your four-legged friend along to your vacation adventures, check out all of the pet-friendly spots in the area.
Avoid Using Bright Lights at Night
Avoid flashlights or flash photography at night, as the light can disorient the turtles. Stop by one of our Welcome Centers to get stickers to cover your phone flashlight or hand-held flashlight.
Ecotourism in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach remains a beautiful and fun destination for tourists and residents alike as a result of continued sustainability and ecotourism initiatives.