Gulf Shores boasts some of the finest US beaches with sugar sands and warm waters. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) ranks them among the cleanest, offering ample activities near Gulf Shores Alabama hotels.
The NRDC tests waters nationwide, rating beaches for cleanliness and monitoring. Of 13 five-star beaches for safety and water quality, Gulf Shores Public Beach and Gulf State Park Pavilion stand out (see NRDC ratings here). To earn NRDC “superstar” status, beaches must meet:
- Less than 5% of water samples exceeded standards in 2010, 2011, and 2012.
- Less than 5% of samples exceeded standards in 2012.
- Advisories posted without re-sampling.
- Closings/advisories online and at the beach.
- Water quality monitored more than weekly.
Little Lagoon Pass Beach earned four stars, monitored biweekly, just shy of five stars.
Why It Matters
“Beach safety is key, and clean water prevents illness like rashes or gastroenteritis, especially for kids. Staying indoors due to sickness can ruin a family vacation at our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach condos.”
Most violations stem from bacteria from waste or stormwater runoff, causing more closures in unprepared areas. Gulf Shores prioritizes water quality, proud of its 5-star beaches.