Newport Beach Lifeguard Tips - #2 Check with a Lifeguard

The beaches of Newport Beach are some of the finest on the west coast attracting millions of local residence and tourists each year. Many of our Newport Beach vacation rentals are located on the beautiful waterfront or just a short walk away. The Newport Beach lifeguards protect all of these beach goers on 6.2 miles of ocean and 2.5 miles of bay beaches. When entering the beach for the first time, always check with a Newport Beach Lifeguard to alert you to the surf conditions and anything else you may need to know about the particular part of the beach that you are visiting. Your Newport Beach Vacation Properties Vacation Planner may have informed you a little, but a lifeguard will know the ever-changing conditions and help you take any necessary precautions while enjoying the ocean waves.

365 days a year, the lifeguards of Newport Beach are dedicated to ensuring safety and providing customer service to the visitors on the beach, boardwalk, piers, and in the ocean. The Marine Operations Division provides the City of Newport Beach with the highest level of lifeguarding services and is recognized as an Advanced Agency by the United States Lifesaving Association. 

Special Usage Areas

• May 1 - October 31:  The area between Tower 40 and Tower 44 is a designated Blackball area. No surfing or skimming during these months.  
  
• May 1 - October 31:  Floatation devices are prohibited at The Wedge from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Body surfing only. No bodyboards, surfboards, or skimboards. 

Lifeguard Flag System

It is vital to understand the Newport Beach colored flag system when spending a day at the beach. Flags will be displayed on the lifeguard tower visible for everyone to see. 
     
Green     -  Small waves. Rip currents may be present                

Yellow    -  Moderate conditions. Larger waves. Rip currents are present    

Red         -  Hazardous conditions. Large waves. Expert ocean swimmers only!  

Blackball - No surfboards or skimboards due to crowds. Bodyboards are ok, except at the Wedge.   

Read more water safety and Newport Beach vacation rental tips 

Published on Tuesday, August 9, 2016