Double red flag at Destin today, and the surf here is the worst on the coast — the water is closed. Southeast to south winds are running 15–30 mph with a treacherous 9.8-ft sea state, driven by Tropical Storm Bertha's development in the Gulf.
Is It Safe to Swim at Destin Today?
No. Double red means the water is closed, and at 9.8 ft Destin has the most severe waves of the three beaches today. Rip current risk is life-threatening per the National Weather Service, and a Coastal Flood Advisory means low-lying lots, parks and roads near the beach may see flooding. Do not enter the water, and stay well back from the shoreline — even standing at the water's edge is risky in these conditions.
Full Conditions Breakdown
| Condition | Reading |
|---|---|
| Beach flag | Double Red — water closed |
| Water temperature | 84°F |
| Air temperature | Low 80°F / High 86°F |
| Wind | SE-S at 15–30 mph |
| Wave height | 9.8 ft |
| UV index | Moderate |
| Chance of rain | 70% daytime, 20% nighttime |
Destin Tides Today
| Tide | Time | Height |
|---|---|---|
| High tide | 5:31 AM | 0.67 ft |
| Low tide | 5:02 PM | 0.06 ft |
7-Day Outlook
Thursday stays breezy with lingering showers and scattered thunderstorms, though wave heights gradually diminish through the morning. Friday improves with partly cloudy skies, decreasing rain odds, and winds moderating to 10–20 mph. The extended forecast points to gradual recovery through the weekend, with wind and seas declining back toward typical summer conditions by early next week.
The National Weather Service has placed local coastal areas under a Tropical Storm Watch until further notice due to the development of Tropical Storm Bertha in the Gulf. A High Surf Warning is in effect until July 23 at 6:00 AM CDT, a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect until July 23 at 10:00 AM CDT (flooding of lots, parks and roads, with only isolated road closures expected), and a Rip Current Statement covers Navarre Beach, Pensacola Beach and Destin until July 24 at 6:00 AM CDT. Building surf is creating life-threatening water conditions. Double-red flags are flying at all three beaches today — the water is closed to the public.