GULF SHORES, Ala. — Alabama's coastal tourism industry has entered the early stages of updating signage, promotional materials, and official communications following the formal renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which took effect in February.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau said it is currently reviewing the scope of necessary changes. A spokesperson said the phrase "Gulf of Mexico" appears in approximately 4,200 individual items across the bureau's website, printed brochures, social media profiles, and partner materials. The bureau expects the full update process to take several months.

"We want to make sure everything reflects the correct name going forward," said the spokesperson, who did not indicate a preference between the two names.

The Gulf of America is the same body of water as the Gulf of Mexico. Its temperature, salinity, tidal patterns, and depth are unchanged. Orange Beach remains where it was. The beach is still there.

The Alabama Department of Transportation said it is aware of the renaming and is evaluating highway signage along state and federal routes that reference the Gulf. A spokesperson identified two signs along the I-65 South corridor that will require updating. A timeline for sign replacement has not been established, as replacement costs must be reviewed against current budget allocations.

Businesses operating along the Gulf Coast have begun making changes independently. The Original Oyster House in Gulf Shores updated its website header this week. The Gulf State Park Pavilion has not yet updated its name. The Gulf State Park is aware of the renaming.

The Gulf of America is open for swimming, subject to posted conditions.