Are you ready for spring break? After a crazy year and cold winter, we’re all ready to get out and bask in the sunshine and white sand in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Following the Leave Only Footprints program is the way to make sure future generations will enjoy the same beautiful beaches we do today.
As you plan your spring break trip, please become familiar with the following tips and guidelines to ensure the beach experience is pleasant for you and other visitors.
- For shade, a large beach umbrella with a storage bag is much easier to carry, set up and take down than a large canopy or tent. If you opt for a canopy or tent, it cannot be larger than 12’x12′.
- For hours of continuous fun, pack drinks and snacks in a cooler with large wheels that will roll in the sand.
- When choosing your beach chairs, look for easy-to-carry styles with backpack-type straps. For those beaching it for just a short while, beach blankets or towels may be all you need.
- As with a wheeled cooler, a beach wagon with large wheels for rolling in the sand provides a convenient way to transport your gear to and from the beach. The collapsible versions don’t take up much trunk space.
- Please don’t litter. Stash an extra trash bag with your gear and be sure to pack out everything you take to the beach.
- Use boardwalks or marked paths when walking to the beach.
- Be kind to other beach visitors.
- Keep a safe distance from – and please don’t harass – the wildlife.
- Please don’t feed the seagulls or other coastal creatures.
- Remember, the Leave Only Footprints program prohibits leaving any beach gear on the beach overnight.
Take special note of these items that are not allowed on the beach at any time:
- Glass of any kind
- Large or deep holes
- Loud music
- Fires
- Pets
- Vehicles
- Trash
- Metal shovels
Each of our two island cities has their own rules and regulations that are slightly different during spring break than the rest of the year. Before making your reservations, it’s important that you check out the websites for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Our Leave Only Footprints program has been around since 2016 and has made an amazing difference in the appearance of our beaches and surrounding area. We know this will add to your enjoyment when you visit Coastal Alabama.