Alabama’s Gulf Coast might just surprise you with its sugar-white sands and warm, gentle waves. These inviting beaches in Alabama are perfect for family fun and relaxing beach days. I always find sunsets very special indeed.
Highlights:
Recommended Beaches in Alabama:
1. Orange Beach - 30 miles from Pensacola Airport
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Orange Beach, Alabama Gulf Coast, United States
Recommended For: Wildlife lovers, families, boating enthusiasts, and anyone seeking scenic beach relaxation with Southern charm.
What I Love: ♥ "From sea turtles nesting in the sand to sunsets over the bay, Orange Beach blends natural magic with Southern hospitality."
- Relax on miles of soft, powdered-sugar sand with sweeping Gulf views and peaceful surf.
- Explore the bayous, bays, and natural backwaters north of Perdido Pass via kayak or guided boat tour.
- Experience unique Gulf Coast adventures—from deep-sea fishing and dolphin cruises to rounds of golf and birdwatching trails.
Cost: Free public beach access; tour and rental prices vary.
Best time to visit: "I like to go from May to October for warm weather and fewer crowds."
Local tips: Visit at dawn during nesting season to increase your chances of spotting sea turtles. Look out for public wildlife programs and nature talks during the summer.
Distance: About 30 miles from Pensacola International Airport (roughly 45 minutes by car).
How to Get to Orange Beach: Easily accessible by car via AL-182. Limited regional shuttle services are also available from nearby airports.
Where to Stay: Orange Beach offers beachfront resorts, cozy vacation rentals, and family-friendly hotels—many with direct beach access and Gulf views.
Address: Orange Beach, AL 36561, USA
2. Cotton Bayou Beach
Location: Cotton Bayou Beach, Orange Beach, Alabama, at the intersection of Highways 182 and 161
Recommended For: Families, couples, casual beachgoers, and wedding photographers seeking a small, scenic, and easily accessible beach.
What I Love: ♥ "Cotton Bayou Beach is where Southern charm meets soft white sands—simple, cozy, and always picture-perfect."
- Relax and enjoy soft white sands just steps from the parking area with restrooms and showers nearby.
- Play in the shallow Gulf waters, making it ideal for kids while soaking up the vibrant beach vibes.
- Capture unforgettable moments—it's a favorite backdrop for wedding photos and special occasions.
Cost: Free access; limited public parking available.
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings during spring or early summer to avoid crowds and enjoy mild temperatures.
Local tips: Arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a good beach spot and parking. Pets are not allowed, so leave furry friends at home.
Distance: About 35 miles from Pensacola International Airport (approx. 45–50 minutes by car).
How to Get to Cotton Bayou Beach: Accessible via Perdido Beach Blvd. (Highway 182). Public beach access is clearly marked at the corner of Highways 182 and 161.
Where to Stay: Choose from nearby beach condos, resorts, or hotels in Orange Beach—many within walking distance of the shoreline.
Address: Cotton Bayou Beach, 26026 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach, AL 36561
Review:★★★★★ "The sand was soft, the water was warm. Although I heard otherwise from my friends, it wasn’t too crowded. It was the perfect spot to relax and watch the waves roll in. We got there early so parking was easy. There were some facilities. I just wish I’d packed a picnic!"
Romantic Beaches in Alabama:
3. Dauphin Island Beach
Location: Dauphin Island, Alabama – a peaceful barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico
Recommended For: Families, pet owners, couples, and nature lovers looking for a tranquil coastal escape with sandy beaches and community charm.
What I Love: ♥ "Dauphin Island is Alabama’s best-kept coastal secret—a serene stretch of powder-white sand, southern charm, and sunset serenades."
- Relax on miles of quiet beaches perfect for sandcastles, gentle wading, or unwinding under the sun.
- Play with your pets on the only dog-friendly beach in the area, stroll through shaded oak parks, or hit the public golf courses.
- Enjoy live music at the west end during summer evenings and explore offshore fishing adventures for a real Gulf experience.
Cost: Free access to public beaches, with modest fees for certain parks and attractions.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer are ideal, especially for families and music lovers catching the seasonal concerts.
Local tips: Bring your pets, pack a picnic for the shaded park areas, and check local listings for beachside concert schedules.
Distance: About 38 miles from Mobile Regional Airport (roughly 1 hour by car).
How to Get to Dauphin Island: Accessible via the scenic Dauphin Island Parkway (AL-193 S), crossing the Gordon Persons Bridge onto the island.
Where to Stay: Lodging options include beachfront vacation rentals, cozy inns, and pet-friendly stays near Bienville Blvd and the shoreline.
Address: Dauphin Island Beach, 1501 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
4. Fairhope
Location: Fairhope, Alabama – a quaint, bohemian town on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay
Recommended For: Families, couples, artists, and anyone looking for a peaceful coastal escape with Southern charm and beautiful waterfront scenery.
What I Love: ♥ "Fairhope feels like a storybook town where tranquil bay breezes, gentle waters, and stunning sunset views create an effortlessly charming vibe."
- Relax on small, quiet beaches north of the town pier, where kids can splash and play in calm estuarine waters.
- Picnic in the grassy park behind the beach, shaded by large trees and perched on a high bluff overlooking Mobile Bay.
- Wander through town to find artisan boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and friendly locals who embody the Fairhope spirit.
Cost: Free access to public beach areas and bluff-side parks.
Best time to visit: Spring and early summer offer ideal weather with cooling breezes; fall is also lovely and less crowded.
Local tips: Visit the Fairhope Municipal Pier around sunset for spectacular views, and bring a blanket for an impromptu bluff picnic.
Distance: About 47 miles from Mobile Regional Airport (approximately a 1-hour drive).
How to Get to Fairhope: From Mobile, take I-10 E over the bay and continue on US-98 E to scenic Fairhope Avenue.
Where to Stay: Quaint inns and boutique hotels line the historic streets, including options close to the beach and downtown district.
Address: Fairhope, AL 36532
Family Beaches in Alabama:
5. Florida Point Beach
Location: Florida Point Beach, just 3 miles east of Perdido Pass Bridge in Orange Beach, Alabama
Recommended For: Families, beach walkers, photographers, and those looking for either vibrant beach activity or quieter dune-backed spots.
What I Love: ♥ “A spectacular ribbon of soft, white sand lapped by glowing turquoise waters—it’s easy to feel like you’ve escaped to a private paradise.”
- Stroll the 6,000-foot-long shoreline to take in peaceful views or discover a tranquil spot among the dunes.
- Relax at the boardwalk and picnic areas equipped with outdoor showers for convenience after a dip in the sea.
- Swim in the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf—great for cooling off or splashing with kids.
Cost: Free beach access and parking
Best time to visit: Mornings for solitude; late afternoons for golden light and fewer crowds
Local tips: The western end near Perdido Pass can get crowded—head east along the dunes for a quieter experience.
Distance: About 8 miles from the center of Gulf Shores or just a short 3-mile drive from central Orange Beach
How to Get to Florida Point: Drive east on Perdido Beach Boulevard from Orange Beach and watch for signs to beach access just before the bridge.
Where to Stay: Many nearby vacation condos and beachfront resorts in Orange Beach put you within minutes of Florida Point.
6. Fort Morgan Beach, AL
Location: Fort Morgan Peninsula, extending west from Gulf Shores, Alabama
Recommended For: Nature lovers, solitude seekers, and couples.
What I Love: ♥ “The white-sand beaches stretch quietly under the sun with no crowds or noise—just you, the sea breeze, and nature at its most peaceful.”
- Unplug from the world on the secluded, pristine beaches framed by sand dunes and natural vegetation.
- Explore the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds and sea turtles.
- Visit the Fort Morgan State Historic Site and enjoy beach access at the very tip of the peninsula.
Cost: Beach access is free, though you may need to walk from marked parking areas. Fort Morgan Historic Site may charge an entry fee if you visit the fort itself.
Best time to visit: I like to go in the spring and fall for best weather and fewer visitors. Arrive early in the day if you want to secure a quiet spot and enjoy the golden light.
Local tips: Stock up on food, drinks, and gas before driving out—stores are at least an hour away. Bring sunscreen, water, and insect repellent, especially if you plan to hike nature trails in the refuge.
Distance: About 22 miles from central Gulf Shores, roughly a 40-minute scenic drive
How to Get to Fort Morgan Peninsula: Take AL-180 West from Gulf Shores. Look for signs for the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and continue toward the Fort Morgan Historic Site. Public access points are around 1.5 miles after the refuge's visitor center and at the peninsula’s end.
Where to Stay: Vacation rentals and small beach houses are available along the peninsula. There are also a few resort-style accommodations with private beach access.
Public Beach Access Points:
- Two access areas within the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
- An unnamed access point near the Fort Morgan State Historic Site
Unique Beaches in Alabama:
7. Gulf Shores Main Beach, AL
Location: Gulf Shores, Alabama, on the Gulf of Mexico
Recommended For: Families, beachgoers, water sports lovers, spring breakers, and nature enthusiasts
What I Love: ♥ “The quartz sand here is pure magic—soft, cool, and it squeaks under your feet!”
- Swim and sunbathe along 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.
- Play beach volleyball, join a surf session, or walk along the shore as the waves roll in.
- Discover the unique quartz sand, formed from Appalachian Mountain runoff—cool underfoot and famously squeaky!
Cost: Most beaches are free to access, with metered parking in some areas. Gulf Place offers restrooms, showers, and picnic areas for visitors.
Best time to visit: To enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds, plan your visit between mid-March and May or September to mid-November.
Local tips: Head to Gulf Shores Main Public Beach at Gulf Place for easy access, family-friendly amenities, and nearby beach bars and restaurants.
Distance: Just 10 miles from Orange Beach and under 55 miles from Pensacola International Airport
How to Get to Gulf Shores: Take AL-59 South (Gulf Shores Parkway) straight into the heart of town. Look for signs to Gulf Place and public beach access areas along West Gulf Place.
Where to Stay: Gulf Shores offers everything from family resorts and condos to budget hotels and beach cottages. Book early during major festivals.
Don’t Miss:
- National Shrimp Festival – Held every October, with food, music, and crafts on the beach.
- Independence Day Celebration – A dazzling beachfront fireworks show on July 4th.
8. Gulf State Park
Location: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama
Recommended For: Nature lovers, beachgoers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and RV travelers
What I Love: ♥ “Miles of sugar-white sand, a network of hiking trails, and lakeside cottages tucked in nature—this is coastal Alabama at its best!”
- Swim and sunbathe on 3 miles of pristine beach along the Gulf of Mexico.
- Fish from the shore or kayak the park’s calm waters—great for beginners and pros alike.
- Join park-led events like guided nature walks, geocaching adventures, and summer stargazing.
Cost: Beach access is free with park entry. Some activities and parking areas may have a nominal fee.
Best time to visit: Visit from April to May or September to early November for warm weather, fewer crowds, and excellent hiking and paddling conditions.
Local tips: Use the park’s official guide to find the best access points near the charming beach pavilion in Gulf Shores or from Orange Beach. Don’t miss the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail network that winds through nine distinct ecosystems.
Distance: Just minutes from downtown Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, and around 50 miles from Pensacola International Airport.
How to Get to Gulf State Park: From Gulf Shores Parkway (AL-59), turn east onto State Highway 135 to reach the park entrance and visitor center.
Where to Stay: Book one of the 20 cabins or 11 lakeside cottages located by the golf course, just a short drive from the beach. There’s also a full-service campground with RV hookups and tent sites.
Map: Gulf State Park, 20115 State Highway 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Location: Fort Morgan Peninsula, west of Gulf Shores, Alabama
Recommended For: Wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, hikers, conservationists, and photographers
What I Love: ♥ “Quiet coastal trails, rare wildlife sightings, and protected dune ecosystems make this a hidden natural gem on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.”
- Wander through beachfront and forested trails while spotting migratory birds and native wildlife.
- Watch for endangered species such as the Alabama beach mouse and sea turtles (green, loggerhead, and Kemp's ridley).
- Explore a mosaic of habitats, from coastal dunes and scrub forests to freshwater swamps and marshes.
Cost: Free. No entrance fees required.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are excellent for birdwatching due to peak migratory activity. Early mornings offer the best wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures for hiking.
Local tips: Bring binoculars and insect repellent. The Pine Beach Trail is one of the best for a scenic and accessible hike—don’t forget your camera for coastal and lagoon views!
Distance: About 12 miles west of downtown Gulf Shores, along State Highway 180.
How to Get to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge: Follow AL-180 W from Gulf Shores. The main entrance and Visitor Center are at 12295 Alabama 180. Look for signs marking the Perdue Unit parking area.
Where to Stay: Nearby Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan offer various accommodation options, including beachside rentals and family-friendly resorts.
Map: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, 12295 Alabama 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
10. West Beach
Location: West Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Recommended For: Families, beachcombers, and nature lovers.
What I Love: ♥ “Miles of pristine, less-crowded beach where the Gulf meets tranquil lagoons and wildlife thrives in protected dunes.”
- Relax on fine white sand beaches with fewer crowds than downtown Gulf Shores.
- Explore the scenic Little Lagoon. I enjoy birdwatching (or kayaking) in a peaceful environment.
- Spot endangered sea turtles and native beach mice near the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.
Cost: Free. Public access available along most of West Beach.
Best time to visit: Early morning or weekdays for the most peaceful experience; spring and fall offer mild temperatures and great wildlife activity.
Local tips: Bring your own umbrella and chairs as rentals are less common in this area. The Lagoon Pass Park on the western end offers easy access to both the Gulf and Little Lagoon.
Distance: About 2 miles west of central Gulf Shores via West Beach Blvd (AL-182).
How to Get to West Beach: From downtown Gulf Shores, head west on AL-182 (West Beach Blvd). Public beach access is scattered along the boulevard, with parking in designated areas near Little Lagoon and the Gulf.
Where to Stay: Choose from private beachfront homes, vacation rentals, and low-rise condos with gulf views, perfect for a quiet, relaxing stay.
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