Beach Safety Guides

Everything Florida beachgoers need to know about water quality, bacteria testing, and staying safe in the water.

Is It Safe to Swim After Rain in Florida?

Learn why swimming after rain can be risky, how long to wait, and which areas are most affected by stormwater runoff.

5 min read

Understanding Beach Water Quality Advisories

What do Florida beach advisories mean? Enterococcus testing, DOH thresholds, health risks, and how to read water quality results.

6 min read

Cleanest Beaches in Florida (2026)

Which Florida beaches have the best water quality? Rankings based on 12 months of DOH bacteria testing data.

5 min read

How Florida Tests Beach Water for Bacteria

How the Healthy Beaches Program works, what CFU means, how samples are collected and analyzed, and what the results mean.

5 min read

Can You Swim During Red Tide in Florida?

What is red tide, how it affects swimmers, health effects of Karenia brevis, and how to check current conditions.

6 min read

Best Beaches for Families in Florida (2026)

Family-friendly Florida beaches ranked by water quality, calm water, and safety — with tips for swimming with kids.

5 min read

Florida Beach Safety Tips

Essential safety tips covering rip currents, jellyfish, sun protection, beach flags, lightning, and water quality.

7 min read

Gulf Coast vs Atlantic Coast Beaches

Which Florida coast has better water quality? Compare bacteria levels, risk ratings, and beach characteristics.

5 min read

Florida Beaches with the Clearest Water

Where to find the clearest, most turquoise water in Florida — from the Emerald Coast to the Keys.

5 min read

Florida Beach Water Temperature by Month

When is it warm enough to swim? Water temperature by month for Gulf Coast, Atlantic, and the Keys.

5 min read

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida

Which Florida beaches allow dogs? Leash rules, water quality tips, and the best beaches for bringing your pup.

5 min read

Florida Beach Parking Guide

Free vs paid parking at Florida beaches. State park fees, metered spots, and tips for finding parking.

4 min read

Best Spring Break Beaches in Florida (2026)

Top beaches for spring break with water quality ratings, crowd levels, and seasonal water temperature.

5 min read

Best Shelling Beaches in Florida

Where to find the best seashells in Florida — Sanibel, Marco Island, Captiva and more.

5 min read

Beach Safety During Hurricane Season

How hurricanes affect water quality, when it is safe to return to the beach after a storm, and seasonal risks.

5 min read