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...

Orange Beach Lady Makos are Six-Time State Champions- Photo by Brent Williams, Wolf Bay Media
By John Mullen May 30, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Just about every time Shane Alexander thinks about his softball team’s incredible run, another point of history seems to reveal itself. Like the fun fact that only one percent of high school athletes experience the thrill of a state championship. In any sport.
Foley Alabama Fire Station 4 Location
By Guy Busby May 30, 2026
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The City of Foley is moving ahead with plans for a fourth fire station. The project would provide better coverage on the city's north side. City leaders now have the land and are beginning the design process. Current plans call for the station to be designed in 2026 and for construction to begin
Legendary Marine Gulf Shores
By R. Ken Cooper May 30, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Sea Glass Initiative announced the return of the Salty Shuffle Charity Poker Cruise. This local fundraiser will benefit Baldwin County residents in need. Organizers expanded the event this year to boost participation. Participants can now join by water or on land.
Flora-Bama National Recognition
By R. Ken Cooper May 29, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A beloved bar on the border of Alabama and Florida has once again captured the nation's attention. Flora-Bama has been named one of the Top 10 Best Beach Bars in the United States by the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. The honor places the Gulf Coast landmark in the same conv
South Baldwin County Theatre in Gulf Shores
By R. Ken Cooper May 29, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — South Baldwin Community Theatre (SBCT) is kicking off the summer with something a little different. The Gulf Shores theater company is staging an original play by a local playwright. The production, titled "Livin' and Comin' Back," tells the story of a Southern family on one very big day in
Alabama Shrimping Season Reopens
By R. Ken Cooper May 29, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has announced the opening of shrimping season in state waters. The change allows shrimp harvesting in several coastal areas. Officials said the opening complies with state law and established regulations. The announcement applies
National Hamburger Day on the Gulf Coast
By R. Ken Cooper May 28, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — National Burger Day has arrived! Although the Alabama Gulf Coast is renowned for its top-notch seafood, both locals and visitors know there are plenty of fantastic burger spots to satisfy any craving. Remember to cast your vote for the top burger in the area at BestBurgersGulfShores.com and
Four rising high school seniors will work as summer interns for the city of Foley.
Interns are Zoya
By Guy Busby May 28, 2026
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Four high school students have been selected as summer interns for the City of Foley through the Baldwin County Utilities Internship Program after a rigorous, competitive selection process. Welcomed at a ceremony hosted by Baldwin County Preparatory Academy, these students are participating in th
Tacky Jacks Lunch & Learn
May 28, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Tacky Jacks is bringing back one of the Alabama Gulf Coast's most popular summer traditions. The restaurant's 14th Annual Summer of Fun is returning to both its Gulf Shores and Orange Beach locations. The series features a packed lineup of free, family-friendly events each week. Kids and a
Flashover Training for Fire Fighters
By R. Ken Cooper May 27, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Fire & Rescue has taken a major step to protect the men and women who serve on the front lines. On Tuesday, the OBFD took delivery of a new flashover simulator, a high-tech training tool designed to prepare firefighters for some of the most dangerous situations they face on th
Show More