Watch the wave pattern, particularly where waves break. Waves typically break at different locations, however, so an area offshore where many waves are continually breaking could be a sign of a riptide. Watch the area closely. If the water is calm just after the waves break, a riptide is likely in that area.
Watch the ocean for changes in water color. A riptide often has a slightly lighter or darker color than the water around it.
Watch for debris in the water, such as seaweed, foam or driftwood. If the debris gathers in a particular area rather than floating freely, a riptide is likely.
Watch for choppy water. Riptides form only when waves are breaking nearby, so choppy water means an increased risk of riptides. Be especially cautious of choppy water that forms near a large object in the water, such as a sandbar, jetty or pier. Riptides almost always form in such areas.
Watch for flags warning of riptides. Many places post flags to alert swimmers of dangerous surf. A yellow flag means strong currents and to be cautious of riptides. A red flag means very strong currents and that only very strong swimmers should enter the water.
