Guide to Enjoying Orange Beach Responsibly

R. Ken Cooper • March 22, 2024

Beach Etiquette for Orange Beach Visitors

Cotton Bayou Beach

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – As the summer season approaches, residents and visitors alike to Orange Beach need to remember the importance of preserving the natural beauty and safety of our beaches. Orange Beach has put out the beach rules as a reminder. These rules are designed not only to protect our unique coastal ecosystem but also to help ensure that everyone has a safe and pleasant experience. Whether you're planning a serene day under the sun, a leisurely stroll along the shore, or a boating experience, familiarizing yourself with the beach regulations is a step toward responsible and respectful beach usage. 


Let's all contribute to making our beaches a welcoming and pristine environment for generations to come.


1. Are fireworks and/or bonfires allowed on the beach?

Open flames of any kind are strictly prohibited by City Ordinance.


2. Are tents allowed on the beach?

Tents and sunshades are allowed north of the Mean High Tide Line as represented by posted signage.


3. Are vehicles allowed on the beach?

Only authorized government vehicles and beach maintenance vehicles are allowed on the beach.


4. Can I launch a jet ski from the beach?

Beaching or launching personal watercraft from Gulf beaches is prohibited by City Ordinance.


5. Can I take my dog to the beach?

For health and wildlife disturbance reasons, dogs are not allowed on Gulf Beaches. As an alternative, Unleashed in Orange Beach, our community dog park, or The Dog Pond at Lake Shelby in the Gulf State Park both offer you a great place to enjoy with your companion. Learn more information on the Unleashed Dog Park page.


6. Is alcohol allowed on the beach?

Drinking alcohol is allowed on the beach but glass containers are strictly prohibited.


7. Is fishing allowed on the beach?

Fishing is allowed on the beach but chumming and/or shark fishing is prohibited.


8. Is metal detecting allowed on the beach?

Metal detecting is allowed on the beach but the City respectfully requests that holes be returned to natural grade following the investigation.

Share this article w/ Friends...

By OBA Staff November 26, 2025
Third Freestanding Emergency Room Built By Ascension Sacred Heart In Six Years
Boat Owners Can Register At Homeport Marina For December 13th Event
By OBA Staff November 26, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — After the sun goes down in Gulf Shores, the magic is set to begin on the Intracoastal Waterway. LuLu’s will once again host the LuLu’s Lighted Christmas Boat Parade, sending a dazzling fleet of decorated boats into the night on the Intracoastal Waterway. Organizers describe the view of...
Superintendent Highlights Success Challenges And Community Strength
By OBA Staff November 26, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach City Schools is preparing for a week of rest and reflection as the community enters Thanksgiving break. District leaders say the pause is a chance for families, students, and staff to slow down and appreciate how far they have come together. The message going into the...
Flora-Bama to Host Locals Membership Launch Party
By OBA Staff November 25, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Flora-Bama is inviting area residents to gather for a special locals appreciation event focused on its membership program. The coastal venue plans to combine live music, complimentary food, and member perks into a single afternoon. Organizers say the celebration is designed to thank peo
Photo by World Atlas
By OBA Staff November 25, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Saying the are snakes in a park located near swampy water it a bit like saying there are sharks in the gulf. Yet, World Atlas, one of the largest publishing resources in geography and other topics, highlighted the Gulf State Park on their list of snake-infested parks in the U.S..
Aspiring Actors/Actresses Can Reserve Audition Appointments for Local Production
By OBA Staff November 25, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The City of Orange Beach is preparing to bring a popular Disney story to the local stage. Expect Excellence Theatre will present “Disney’s Frozen – The Broadway Musical” at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center. The production will feature both named roles and an ensemble cast.
Foley Organization Launches The Sharing Shed to Support Community Groups
By OBA Staff November 24, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — A new community resource in Foley will help local nonprofit and civic organizations access event equipment at no cost. Lee Charities announced the opening of The Sharing Shed, which will provide free tables, chairs, tablecloths and pop-up tents to qualifying groups. The program aims to reduce rent
Orange Beach Surf Rescue 2025 Lifeguards
By OBA Staff November 24, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Surf Rescue is already looking ahead to the summer of 2026 and is inviting new applicants to try out as Beach Safety Lifeguards. The agency is calling on strong swimmers and runners who are interested in protecting beachgoers. Organizers say the tryouts are the first step...
Celebrate Thanksgiving Week the Gulf Coast Way
By Jessica A. Taylor November 24, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As Thanksgiving week arrives, there’s plenty to be grateful for on the Alabama Gulf Coast, where days ahead are filled with holiday excitement and coastal charm. There are numerous ways to celebrate, explore, and spend quality time with family and friends. From ice skating and visiting...
Alabama State Parks Launch Parks for People Food Drive
By OBA Staff November 23, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Alabama State Parks Division is asking visitors to help neighbors in need through a new initiative called Parks for People. The effort is a statewide food drive that focuses on communities around Alabama State Parks. Organizers say the goal is to connect outdoor recreation with service to o
Show More