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...

Raise a Glass: Big Beach Brewing Company Celebrates National Beer Day
By OBA Staff April 7, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores has a lot to offer — white sand, warm water, and a brewery that locals and visitors keep returning to. Big Beach Brewing Company is located at 300 E. 24th Ave., right in the heart of town. It holds the title of the southernmost brewery in Alabama. And on National Beer Day...
Foley Main Street Asks Residents To Shape The Future Of Downtown
By OA Staff April 7, 2026
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley Main Street has launched a new survey to help shape the future of Downtown Foley. The survey is open to residents, workers, and visitors. It collects community input to guide economic development and attract new businesses. Organizers say the results will influence which new businesses move
Orange Beach City Hall
By John Mullen April 7, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Orange Beach is moving forward with its effort to sell the Orange Beach Center at The Wharf. The city is looking to develop a civic center on the south side of Canal Road, across from the city property that includes the Senior Center, library, Coastal Center for the Arts, and Waterfront...
Sandy Toes, Rock Climbing Walls & So Much More: Your Gulf Coast Week Starts Here
By Jessica A. Taylor April 6, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — This week on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the atmosphere is a perfect mix of laid-back and lively—the best of both worlds. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood by the water, looking to enjoy a fun-filled karaoke night, seeking a place for the kids to burn off some energy indoors, or...
Gulf Shores City Hall
By John Mullen April 6, 2026
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – As the day for opening closes in, Gulf Shores is considering several moves toward completion of the new Gulf Shores High School complex. Coming before the council are two additional message boards, data and athletic training space improvements, moving a lot line, and conveying the property..
Foley City Hall
By John Mullen April 6, 2026
Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – To jumpstart a program to revitalize Orange Street, Foley is considering hiring a design firm to help plan changes on the downtown street. The firm will help the city plan on lighting for the area as well as make plans for utility relocation.
Foley and ALDOT Team Up to Improve Safety at Miflin Road Crossing
By Guy Busby April 5, 2026
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is proceeding with plans to upgrade the Miflin Road intersection on Alabama State Route 161 (Foley Beach Express). The Alabama Department of Transportation approved a $2 million grant for the project, which is located in southeast Foley. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the improvements will...
Orange Beach Mayor And City Council To Hold Public Town Hall Meeting
By OBA Staff April 5, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon and the City Council are inviting the public to an upcoming Town Hall Meeting. The event will give residents a chance to hear directly from city leaders about what is happening in the community. Officials say anyone with concerns or questions is encouraged...
Orange Beach Kicks Off Five-Week Walking and Running Program this Monday
By OBA Staff April 4, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Parks and Recreation has launched a new community fitness challenge called 3 Miles Strong. The program is designed to encourage residents to stay active with a simple, self-paced format. It lasts for five weeks and welcomes walkers and runners of all skill levels.
Orange Beach Police Department Unveils New Patrol Vehicle Design
By OBA Staff April 4, 2026
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Police Department has unveiled a new look for its patrol vehicles. The department recently showcased redesigned graphics featuring a modern style with coastal-inspired elements. Officials said the updated appearance reflects the character of the beachside community.
Show More