With its sugar-white sands, emerald-green waters, and serene coastal island atmosphere, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to Pensacola Beach, FL, for an emerald coast beach getaway. However, while you’re having fun, it’s important to prioritize beach safety to ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible. Portofino Island Resort is a pearl tucked within Pensacola Beach and is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself with an onsite spa, premium dining options, Adventure Cove Water Park, and Seasonal Adventure Packages. Enjoy a range of spacious and elegantly appointed Pensacola Beach condo rentals, each with its own private balcony offering breathtaking waterfront views. A beach getaway at Portofino Island Resort is one you will cherish for many years to come.
Have a Fun and Safe Trip With These 5 Beach Safety Tips
1. Check the Weather Forecast Before Heading to the Beach
Get ahead of the weather by checking the Pensacola Beach weather forecast for possible thunderstorms, high winds, and any other adverse conditions that could impact your beach visit. You can also view the beach conditions forecast for the Pensacola Beach area on the National Weather Service website.
2. Be Aware of Rip Currents While You’re in the Water
An important part of beach safety is knowing how to handle rip currents that are common in the Gulf of Mexico, the East Coast, the Great Lakes, and the West Coast. If you are caught in a rip current, don’t panic and try to swim back to shore. Rip currents are too strong, and you will exhaust yourself. Instead of fighting it, swim parallel until you can get out of the rip current, then swim back to the shore at an angle.
3. Sun Protection Is an Essential Part of Beach Safety
Shielding your skin from UV ray damage is essential to proper beach safety. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF protection (30+), even on cloudy days. You should also look for sunglasses with 100% UV protection and consider wearing clothing and swimwear with built-in UPF protection. You can find lists of sun protection products with the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation on their website.
4. Respect the Local Wildlife While You Visit Their Homes
Pensacola Beach is home to various wildlife, including sea turtles, and it's important not to disturb them or their habitats by following local guidelines for beach conservation. You can visit the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center to learn more about the local marine wildlife from their exhibits and fun activities such as the Shark Tooth Treasure Hunt and Painting Tortoise Tracks with Safari, the African Spurred Tortoise.
5. Stay Hydrated as You Soak up the Emerald Coast Beaches
Soaking up the sunshine on the Florida Emerald Coast beaches is refreshing and fun. However, staying hydrated is crucial for beach safety. Some beginning signs of dehydration include headaches and, well, feeling thirsty. Some signs of dehydration becoming life-threatening are rapid breathing and heart rate, confusion, and fainting.
Follow these beach safety tips for a beach getaway you’ll cherish forever at Portofino Island Resort!