Red flag at Destin Beach today. Water sits at 79°F with southeast winds at 6-13 mph and 2.4 ft seas — the biggest surf of the week. Rain chance is up at 47%, so check the radar before heading out. Air warms to a high near 83°F with a low near 76°F overnight. The combination of bigger surf, gustier wind, and a soaking-rain risk all support the cautious flag setting. East Pass should still be workable for charters who plan around the rain windows.
Is It Safe to Swim at Destin Beach Today?
The Red flag means high hazard — strong surf and/or currents are present, and rip current risk is high. Even with the modest 2.4 ft wave height, the red flag points to underlying hazards lifeguards are watching closely — rip currents, possible thunderstorm activity, or other localized risks. The safest call is to stay out of the water today or stick to wading at the shoreline near a staffed lifeguard stand. Keep an eye on changing conditions and check with lifeguards before considering anything more.
Full Conditions Breakdown
| Condition | Reading |
|---|---|
| Beach flag | Red — high hazard, strong surf and currents |
| Water temperature | 79°F |
| Air temperature | Low near 76°F / High near 83°F |
| Wind | SE at 6-13 mph |
| Wave height | 2.4 ft |
| Chance of rain | 47% |
Destin Beach Tides Today
| Tide | Time | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Low tide | 2:14 AM | –0.05 ft |
| High tide | 3:40 PM | 0.67 ft |
Solunar Rating
According to solunar theory, today is a good day for fishing — fish activity is forecast to remain elevated. See today's full fishing report for the best windows and what's biting. With a red flag at the beach, fishing from the pier or East Pass charter may be the safer call than wading.
7-Day Outlook
Today (Friday, May 22): Red flag, SE wind 6-13 mph, 2.4 ft seas, water 79°F. High near 83°F with 47% rain chance.
Saturday: Mostly sunny skies with highs climbing to 79°F and light to moderate southeast winds.
Sunday: Partly cloudy conditions with highs near 80°F and continued southeast flow.
Monday: Cloudier with highs around 81°F and developing south to southwest winds.
Next week: Typical late-May patterns with variable conditions and occasional rain chances mixed in.
Today is the unsettled day of the stretch — the weekend looks calmer and clearer for Crab Island runs.
Red flag day — stay out of the water or stick to the shoreline near lifeguards. The 47% rain chance and 2.4 ft surf mean conditions could change quickly. East Pass charters should plan around rain windows. Solunar is strong, so it's a good fishing day if you fish from a safer vantage point like the pier or a charter.