Staff Answer
Jun 29, 2026 - 05:45 PM
Stay within marked navigational channels when instructed and learn the basic marker system before leaving the marina, because Orange Beach has shallow water outside established routes. When returning from open water toward a harbor or marina, the traditional rule is “red, right, returning,” but the Intracoastal Waterway also uses its own marking conventions, making local orientation particularly important around Orange Beach. Don't rely on memorizing one cute phrase and assuming every marker means the same thing everywhere. Have the rental company show you the permitted route, shallow areas, no-wake zones, and markers you'll encounter before departure.
