Beaches stretching the length of Ft Desoto are subject to rip tides and rip currents as are all beaches any where. Best preparation is to talk about it with everyone in your party and what to do in the event of being caught in one which is to swim parallel to the beach either north or south. These are very rare events but they do happen so prepare. We're much more likely to get a sunburn but we know what to do about that with hats, shirts, sunglasses and sunscreen!
Rip Current Information Rip currents can threaten any beach, and are not exclusively a Pinellas County problem. Rip currents can occur as a result of conditions from hurricanes, tropical storms, cold fronts and thunderstorms bringing in stronger waves and currents which will break soft sandbars and cause rip current conditions. It is important for beach visitors to monitor weather reports to know when rip currents are more likely to form. Beach Safety Tips to Avoid Rip Current Dangers: Rip currents are likely to be strongest in areas around jetties and channels where water flows in and out during tide changes. Beach visitors can speak with lifeguards about conditions before entering the water. On Pinellas County beaches colored flags will be displayed to alert the public when dangerous conditions are present. Pinellas County has lifeguards present on Fred Howard Park, Sand Key Park and Fort De Soto Park beaches from late March/early April until the week of Labor
Plenty of shallow water. As in ankle deep. Occasionally signs flags are posted by the shelter pavillions. Nothing like the east coast rip wise. If overly concerned purchase the waist co2 life preserver and take a noodle in the water.
It's probably one of the best beaches in the state. You will find rip currents on any Beach.
Not real sure. I didn't see any public beaches at the park. I'm sure there is at the campground area.
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