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Beach Safety
Beach Warning Flags
When swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, safety should be your top priority. Franklin County, Florida uses color-coded beach flags to keep the public aware of sea conditions. Observe flag colors at each flag location before entering water. Absence of beach flags does not assure safe waters. Beach warning flags can be found at the following locations:
- 2 East Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, FL 32328
- 1860 West Highway 98, Carrabelle, FL 32322
- 1336 Alligator Drive, Alligator Point, FL 32346
Pets
Florida’s Forgotten Coast is home to some of the best dog-friendly beaches in all of the Sunshine State! Almost all of the beaches in Franklin County are pet-friendly (except Julian G. Bruce State Park beach.) St. George Island, Carrabelle Beach, Alligator Point, Dog Island and St. Vincent Island welcomes leashed and well-behaved pets.(Franklin County Ordinance)
Leave No Trace
The beaches of Franklin County, Florida are important turtle nesting sites. Each summer, threatened sea turtles migrate to our beaches to nest. Holes dug on the beach, and furniture left overnight can disorient and trap turtle hatchlings, and can hinder the females from coming ashore to lay their eggs. Remove your belongings and fill in any holes prior to leaving the beach. Franklin County’s “Leave No Trace” Ordinance is in effect for all of Franklin County, Florida beaches. Personal items such as tents, chairs, toys, umbrellas and coolers must be removed from the public beaches between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. All unattended items may be removed and destroyed. (Franklin County Ordinance)
No Glass Containers
Possession or use of glass containers on public beaches, parks or recreational areas prohibited.(Franklin County Ordinance)
Accessible Beach Pathways
Franklin County has three Mobi-mat® beach access mats that give wheelchairs, walkers and strollers an accessible pathway to the beach. Find these beach pathways at the following locations:
- 2000 Highway 98, Carrabelle, FL 32322
- 2 Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, FL 32328
- Dr. Julian G. Bruce State Park, 1900 E Gulf Beach Drive, St. George Island, FL 32328
- Bald Point State Park, 146 Box Cut Road, Alligator Point, FL 32346
Injured Animals
If you see an injured animal or suspect a crime against Florida’s Fish, Wildlife, or Natural Resources, you can call 888-404-3922. Cellphone users can call *FWC, #FWC, or send a text to tip@myfwc.com.
