CAPE PALMS PUBLIC ACCESS
Gulf County, Florida
Last Updated: 10/4/2026, 6:00:30 AM
Active Weather Alerts
Flood Watch issued October 4 at 2:34PM EDT until October 5 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of southeast Alabama, including the following areas, Geneva and Houston, Florida, including the following areas, Calhoun, Central Walton, Coastal Bay, Coastal Franklin, Coastal Gulf, Coastal Jefferson, Coastal Wakulla, Gadsden, Holmes, Inland Bay, Inland Franklin, Inland Gulf, Inland Jefferson, Inland Wakulla, Jackson, Leon, Madison, North Walton, Northern Liberty, South Walton, Southern Liberty and Washington, and Georgia, including the following areas, Baker, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Calhoun, Colquitt, Cook, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Irwin, Lanier, Lee, Lowndes, Miller, Mitchell, Randolph, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Turner and Worth. * WHEN...Through Monday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Additional rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are forecast for most of the area with locally higher amounts of up to 6 inches possible through Monday, especially along the Emerald and Forgotten Coasts. Another area of concern is across south-central Georgia where locally heavy rainfall since Friday afternoon has primed the region more so than the rest of our area, so it wont take as much rain to cause flash flooding. Across the flood watch area, very high rain rates due to the tropical air mass may lead to flash flooding, especially in urban and poor drainage areas. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Rip Current Statement issued October 5 at 1:32PM EDT until October 6 at 5:00AM EDT by NWS Tallahassee FL
* WHAT...Dangerous rip currents. * WHERE...Walton, Bay, Gulf, and Franklin County Beaches. * WHEN...Through late tonight. * IMPACTS...Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
Current Water Quality Status
Water quality is good for swimming and recreational activities.
Is it Safe to Swim?
No Current Advisory
Based on the latest testing, water quality meets acceptable standards for recreational use.
General Safety Tips
- Always check current conditions before swimming
- Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall when bacteria levels may be higher
- Don't swim if you have open wounds or compromised immune system
- Shower immediately after swimming in natural waters
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure
Recent Water Quality History
| Date | Enterococcus Level | Status | Advisory |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9/28/2026 (Latest) | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 9/21/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 9/8/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 9/1/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/24/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/17/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/10/2026 | 10 | Good | ✅ No |
| 8/3/2026 | 1 | Good | ✅ No |
| 7/29/2026 | 1 | Good | ✅ No |
| 7/20/2026 | 31 | Good | ✅ No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vibrio and how can I avoid it?
Vibrio is a type of bacteria that lives in warm seawater. To avoid it, do not swim with open wounds, and avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish. If you get a cut while in the water, wash it immediately with soap and clean water.
How is the water quality tested at the beach?
Water quality is typically tested for enterococci (a type of fecal indicator bacteria) and sometimes E. coli. Samples are collected and analyzed in a lab. The results help determine if the water is safe for swimming.
What does an ‘advisory’ for water quality mean?
An advisory means that recent tests have shown high levels of bacteria in the water, which can increase your risk of illness. It is recommended to avoid swimming or wading until the advisory is lifted.
Is it safe to swim after it rains?
It is generally recommended to avoid swimming for at least 24-48 hours after heavy rainfall. Rain can wash pollutants and bacteria from the land into the water, temporarily increasing health risks.
What do the different colored lifeguard flags mean?
Green flag: Low hazard, calm conditions. Yellow flag: Medium hazard, moderate surf/currents. Red flag: High hazard, strong surf/currents. Double red flag: Water is closed to the public. Purple flag: Dangerous marine life spotted.
What should I do if I see a jellyfish?
If you see a jellyfish, it’s best to avoid it. Even beached jellyfish can sting. If you are stung, rinse the area with vinegar if available, and carefully remove any tentacles with a towel or tweezers. Seek medical attention if you have a severe reaction.
Are sharks a common threat at Florida beaches?
Shark attacks are very rare. To reduce your risk, avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, don’t swim alone, and avoid wearing shiny jewelry. Most sharks are not interested in humans.
Can I get sick from swallowing beach water?
Yes, swallowing water contaminated with bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness (stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting). Try to avoid swallowing water while swimming.
How can I protect marine life while at the beach?
You can help protect marine life by properly disposing of your trash, not feeding wildlife, and keeping a safe distance from animals like sea turtles and nesting birds. Also, use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs.