Beach-Day Checkpoint
This is the fast-read checkpoint before you load the cooler, haul the chairs, and head for the beach. Start with the official Southwest Florida summary, then verify on the FWC maps before you go.
In Southwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was not observed. For additional information, view the Southwest Coast report and map .
Beach plans are easier to keep when Southwest Florida reports say red tide was not observed, but the daily sampling map is still the last check before you go.
The official weekly PDF report covering the Southwest Florida region.
The FWC image map tied to the Southwest Florida summary.
The daily FWC sampling map for the last eight days of observations.
The statewide image map associated with the current official report.
March 13, 2026
Next scheduled update: Friday, March 20
Over the past week, the red tide organism, Karenia brevis , was observed in nine samples from Northwest Florida and one sample from Florida’s East Coast. Bloom concentrations (>100,000 cells/liter) were not observed. We continue to use satellite imagery (USF and NOAA NCCOS) to help track nearshore and offshore conditions.
Short-term (3.5 day) forecasts provided by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides predict western to northwestern movement of surface waters and variable subsurface transport from Bay County to Wakulla County. Between Jefferson County and northern Monroe County, northwestern surface movement and minimal subsurface transport are predicted.
Treat the Southwest Florida summary as your first filter, not your only one. If the day still looks promising, check the daily sampling map before you leave because conditions can shift between the bigger scheduled reports.
Marco Island Weather
Add wind, heat, and general beach comfort context before making the same-day call.
Marco Island Tide Chart
Layer in tide timing if shelling, boating, or a long shoreline walk is still on the table.
Low Tide Guide
If the beach still looks possible, use the best low-tide windows to pick your moment.
Marco Island Activities
Pivot quickly to tours and non-beach plans when the water setup looks less inviting.
Yes. It is built from the public Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission status page, and every key section links back to the official report or map.
Check the daily sampling map last. It is the fastest way to see whether the broader weekly summary still lines up with what is happening right now.
No. It is a favorable sign, but beach comfort can still shift with wind, surf, weather, and how sensitive your group is to irritation.
