Southern Hospitality on the Sand: Etiquette for the Beach

On the Gulf Coast, we’re big believers that a little Southern charm goes a long way—even when your toes are in the sand and your biggest worry is whether to turn your chair toward the waves or the sunset.

Down here, we’ve got our own way of doing things—laid-back, friendly, and just a smidge sassy. Whether you’re staying in Gulf Shores, soaking up the scene in Orange Beach, or enjoying the quiet beauty of Fort Morgan, knowing a little beach etiquette can go a long way in helping you fit right in with the locals.

So pull up a chair (but not too close!), pour yourself a cold glass of sweet tea, and let’s chat about how to beach like a true Southerner.

Mind Your Space, Sugar

In the South, we don’t crowd folks—at the dinner table or on the sand.

Beach space is first-come, first-served, but that doesn’t mean you need to wedge your tent in like you’re lining up at the buffet. Leave a respectful buffer between your setup and your neighbor’s. Think of it as porch-sitting distance: close enough to say “Hey!” but not so close you can smell their sunscreen.

If you’re setting up a tent or canopy, just don’t block the view for folks behind you. Nobody wants to stare at the backside of a tarp when they came to see the Gulf shimmer.

Respect the Sand, Y’all

The beach might feel like a giant sandbox, but she’s a delicate lady underneath all that sparkle. From the sea oats in Fort Morgan to the turtle nests along Gulf Shores, our shoreline is full of life that needs a little TLC.

• Don’t dig deep holes and leave them behind—somebody’s toddler or grandma might take a tumble. Plus, sea turtles can get stuck in them.
• If you’re walking off with a bucket of shells, make sure nobody’s still living in them. Give the hermit crabs a fighting chance!
• Stay off the dunes. Those sandy hills topped with sea oats aren’t just for looks—they are nature’s way of keeping our beaches strong and steady.
• Checkout the awesome Share The Beach Initiative!

Leave It Better Than You Found It

Nothing says “I wasn’t raised in a barn” like cleaning up after yourself.

Bring your trash, snacks, and broken beach toys back with you—not because we’re watching, but because Southern hospitality includes the land we love. And besides, nobody wants to build a sandcastle next to a crushed soda can.

Most public beach access points in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores have trash bins nearby, so you’ve got no excuse, Beachballer. Learn More about the Leave Only Footprints Initiative.

Let the Waves Be Louder Than Your Playlist

We love music as much as the next crew—especially a little George Strait, some beachy Buffett, or a ‘90s throwback you forgot you knew all the words to.

But here’s the thing: not everyone came to the beach for a concert. If your speaker’s louder than the waves, it might be time to dial it back. Keep your tunes at a level that doesn’t drown out the breeze or the babies napping under umbrellas.

The Beach Ain’t Bourbon Street

It’s tempting to let it all hang out at the beach, but there’s a difference between comfortable and downright questionable.

We’re all about freedom down here, but when it comes to public beaches, modesty goes a long way. Think “I might run into my pastor” modesty, not “spring break in Panama City.”

Watch the Kiddos (and the Grown-Ups, too)

Kids were made for the beach—digging, splashing, chasing seagulls like it’s their job. But little ones can wander fast, and the surf can be sneaky.

Keep your eyes on your little ones, and make sure they know their boundaries. And while we’re at it, keep an eye on your grown-up crew, too. Heat and sun can get the best of anyone after a couple of cold ones. There’s no shame in a mid-day nap under the umbrella with a fan blowing.

Share the Shade… and the Smiles

We’re not saying you have to hug strangers (though we’ve been known to), but a simple “Howdy” or “Good morning!” goes a long way on the sand. If your beach neighbor needs help with their umbrella or their cooler’s wheels are stuck, lend a hand. That’s just how we do things around here.

You never know—you might strike up a chat that leads to a dinner recommendation, a new friendship, or even a shared sunset toast.

Know When to Call It a Day

We get it—you want to soak up every last minute. But when the sun dips low and your skin’s starting to match the boiled shrimp at Doc’s, it’s time to pack it up.

Be courteous about the end-of-day shuffle:

• Shake your towels away from people, not toward them.
• Smooth the sand behind you. Fill in any big holes and knock down the castle walls—it’s safer for night walkers and critters alike.

Don’t hog the hose or shower spigot—rinse off quick and keep it movin’.

Where Manners Meet the Tide

Being a good beach neighbor is a lot like being a good Southern host: thoughtful, kind, and just a little bit sassy. Whether you’re staying a weekend or all summer long, these little bits of beach etiquette help keep the Alabama coast as sweet as a slice of key lime pie.

So come on down, Beachballers. Settle into your chair, tip your hat to the waves, and remember: Southern hospitality doesn’t stop at the shore—it starts there.

And if you’re still looking for the perfect place to kick off your flip-flops, BEACHBALL PROPERTIES has just the spot—because we believe every stay should feel like home (but with better views and less laundry).

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson