Alys Beach is taking a major step toward enhancing beach safety. Beginning March 1, 2025, the South Walton Fire District (SWFD) will provide professional lifeguard services for Alys Beach homeowners and vacation guests—marking a significant milestone in the town’s commitment to ocean safety.

This multi-year initiative, funded by the Alys Beach Neighborhood Association (ABNA) and finalized in February 2025, introduces a dedicated lifeguard tower within a previously unguarded stretch of beach.

“By creating this relationship with Alys Beach, we are increasing our footprint and improving our ability to provide coverage within a stretch of beach that was previously unguarded,” said SWFD Beach Safety Director David Vaughan. “A dedicated, staffed lifeguard tower means enhanced water supervision and public education for Alys Beach, as well as faster medical care and emergency response capabilities.”

The tower will be staffed daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the 2025 Beach Safety Season, which runs from March 1 to October 31.

This marks a historic addition for SWFD, as it extends lifeguard coverage into a seven-mile stretch of beach that has never had a tower before.

“That lifeguard’s primary responsibility will be to take care of Alys Beach’s residents and visitors through prevention and education,” Vaughan said. “They provide a high level of medical training, customer service, and are a steward of our community, as well as public safety.”

As beach season approaches, SWFD and Alys Beach encourage all beachgoers to swim near a staffed lifeguard tower and follow the beach flag warning system.

For more beach safety information, follow SWFD on Facebook and Instagram or visit swfd.org.