Swimming

 

Splashing in the surf and bodyboarding are two favorite activities along the beach.

NPS Photo/ Sue Wolfe

No lifeguard on duty: swim at your own risk.

Swimming and wading are allowed in the Gulf of America along North Beach, Malaquite Beach, and South Beach, and in the Laguna Madre at Bird Island Basin. The Malaquite Beach area near the visitor center provides ample parking, picnic areas, restrooms and showers.

Use caution when swimming and never swim alone. Strong currents flowing parallel to the beach, tides flowing to-and-from the beach, and sudden drop-offs in the ocean floor can be hazardous for swimmers and waders alike.

The Gulf of America is a natural environment. Hazardous marine life such as jellyfish and stingrays may be present.

 

Rip Current Risk

Rip current risk predictions along gulf beaches are updated daily by NOAA. Before heading out to the beach, check the current NOAA Surf Zone Forecast for the latest rip current risk.

 

Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

If Caught in a Rip Current

• Relax, rip currents don't pull you under.

• Don't swim against the current.

• Swim out of the current parallel to shore. Then swim to shore.

• If you can't escape, float or tread water.

• If you need help, yell or wave for assistance.

Safety

• Know how to swim.
• Never swim alone.
• If if doubt, don't go out.