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When red tide is present, a sign will be posted to inform the public and provide information. [DOC 13KB]

Example of Red Tide sign [DOC 13KB]


Red Tide

Main Administrative Office

Protect yourself and family against Florida Red Tide exposure. Please read signage when you go to area beaches. Not all beaches are affected. Conditions can change daily. Check the Mote Marine twice daily Beach Conditions Report at https://www.visitbeaches.org/ or call 1-941-BEACHES

Red Tide Observed Effects at Monitored Beaches
LocationDateCell Count /L
Longboat Key01/13/20250
Bird Key Park01/13/20250
North Lido Beach01/13/2025500
Lido Beach (Casino)01/13/20250
South Lido Park01/13/2025N/ABeach Closed
Siesta Key01/13/20250
Turtle Beach01/13/2025500
Nokomis Beach01/13/202516,000
North Jetty01/13/202513,000
Venice Beach01/13/202525,000
Service Club Park01/13/202522,500
Venice Fishing Pier01/13/202518,000
Brohard Beach01/13/202539,000
Caspersen Beach01/13/2025N/ABeach Closed
Manasota Beach01/13/202528,500
Blind Pass01/13/202542,000Beach Closed

Table Data Last Modified: Wed Jan 15, 2025 10:15:41 EST

DescriptionKarenia brevis cells/LPossible Effects (Karenia brevis only)
Not present in background0 - 1,000None Anticipated
Very Low> 1,000 - 10,000Possible respiratory irritation; shellfish harvesting closures > 6 cells/mL
Low> 10,000 -< 100,000Respiratory irritation; possible fish kills and bloom chlorophyll probably detected by satellites at upper range.
Medium> 101,000 -< 1,000,000Respiratory irritation and probably fish kills
High> 1,000,000As above plus discoloration

Table Data Last Modified: Thu Nov 14, 2024 11:30:41 EST

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Red tides have been documented along Florida's gulf coast since the 1840’s.

  • The Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, produces a toxin that may kill marine animals and affect humans.
  • A red tide bloom is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (plant-like organisms).
It is important to realize that many people still enjoy the beaches during red tides. Respiratory irritation and dead fish are not always present.People may experience respiratory irritation (coughing, sneezing, and tearing) when the red tide organism is present along a coast and winds blow its aerosol onshore.
  • People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions are advised to avoid red tide areas.
  • Generally, symptoms are temporary.
  • Swimming in waters with red tide is safe for most people.
  • However, red tide may cause some people to suffer from skin irritation and burning eyes.
  • If you experience irritation, get out of the water and thoroughly wash.
  • For more information regarding red tide, visit our Links to our Partners 
A Red Tide Rack Card [PDF 2.36MB] with useful facts and tips about red tide is available.