Need a beach getaway with sugar-white sand and Southern charm? Head to Gulf Shores! Located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores offers relaxing beaches, family fun, nature preserves, and fresh Gulf seafood. Whether you're sunbathing, kayaking, or dancing at a beachside festival, Gulf Shores combines laid-back vibes with coastal adventure.
Gulf Shores, AL Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak or zipline at Gulf State Park – Paddle scenic waterways or soar over Lake Shelby in this 6,500-acre outdoor playground.
- For History Buffs: Explore Fort Morgan – Discover a historic Civil War fort with self-guided tours and panoramic views of Mobile Bay.
- For Shoppers: Browse The Wharf in nearby Orange Beach – Enjoy boutiques, live music, dining, and a giant Ferris wheel at this waterfront shopping village.
- For Couples: Watch the sunset from the beach – Stroll the soft white sands or dine with ocean views at a cozy beachfront restaurant.
- For Families: Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo – See lemurs, sloths, and more in this modern zoo known as “The Little Zoo That Could.”
Best Time to Visit Gulf Shores, AL
The best time to visit Gulf Shores is from March to May and September to November. These seasons offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and ideal beach conditions. Summer is great for family vacations but can be busy, while winter is quieter and still mild.
How to Get to Gulf Shores, AL
- By Car: Gulf Shores is accessible via Highway 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway) from I-10 or I-65.
- By Plane: The nearest major airports are Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), both about 1–1.5 hours away.
- By Shuttle/Car: Rental cars or shuttle services are recommended to get around the area once you arrive.
Where to Stay in Gulf Shores, AL
- The Lodge at Gulf State Park – Eco-friendly beachfront resort offering access to trails, the beach, and a sustainable restaurant.
- Best Western on the Beach – Family-friendly hotel with a beachfront pool and direct sand access.
- Beach Houses & Vacation Rentals – Great for groups or extended stays with ocean views and full kitchens.
Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores, AL
⮕ Explore Miles of Nature and Trails at Gulf State Park
From hiking and biking to beach lounging, this coastal gem has it all.
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A must-see on your weekend getaway, Gulf State Park is a 6,500-acre park located along the Gulf of Mexico between Highways 59 and 161 that is managed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
The park offers 2.5 miles of public beach areas, along with areas of marshland and forest habitats and the day-use Lake Shelby, Little Lake, and Middle Lake.
Kayaks and paddleboards may be rented for use on Lake Shelby, and fresh and saltwater fishing is permitted.
Nearly 500 campsites are available for overnight use, along with three dozen rental cabins and cottages. Other public facilities include a historic casino, a 5,000-square-foot swimming pool with a splash pad, an 18-hole golf course, and a nature center.
Address: 20115 Alabama 135, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, Phone: 251-948-7275 ext. 2128
⮕ Cast a Line or Catch a Sunset at Gulf State Park Fishing Pier
A favorite for anglers and photographers alike—with Gulf views that never disappoint.
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Gulf State Park Fishing Pier was reconstructed in the wake of its demolition by 2004’s Hurricane Ivan and offers brand-new features such as an indoor concession seating area, a retail tackle shop, and wheelchair-accessible rail fishing opportunities.
The 1,540-foot pier offers more than 2,400 feet of fishing space, making it the Gulf of Mexico’s largest public pier.
Comfort stations are offered along the pier’s mid-section, and fishing licenses are available for purchase on site.
Other amenities include a souvenir shop and signs detailing the area’s native fish and wildlife. Children under the age of 11 may use the pier for free with paying adult admission.
Address: Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, 20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
⮕ Soak Up the Sun at Gulf Shores Public Beach
Sugar-white sand, warm waves, and plenty of space to unwind with the family.
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Gulf Shores Public Beach is located at the dead end of Highway 59 into the Gulf of Mexico and is available for day use for visitors. The beach’s main parking lot requires a nominal daily fee, though free parking is available on streets surrounding the beach area.
Three open-air pavilions are provided for visitors, along with a picnic area and onsite restrooms and showers, including handicap-accessible facilities.
Beach attendants are staffed at the site, and outdoor boardwalks are provided along the city’s 5th, 6th, and 13th Streets. Visitors should note that the beach is a very popular spot during peak summer months and are recommended to arrive early to find prime parking.
Address: Gulf Shores Public Beach, W Gulf Pl, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ If You’re a Nature Lover, Wander Through Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
A peaceful escape with dunes, wetlands, and trails teeming with birds and coastal wildlife.
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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge spans 7,157 acres spread across five units within Mobile and Baldwin Counties. The refuge is located directly west of the city of Gulf Shores along the Fort Morgan Peninsula and provides an important feeding and resting area for more than 400 species of native and migratory birds. The refuge was established in 1980 and features the Fort Morgan, Little Dauphin Island, Little Point Clear, Perdue, and Sand Bayou units, which together comprise one of the Gulf Coast’s largest undeveloped regions. Protected beachfront, scrub forest, marshland, and swampland habitats are maintained throughout the refuge, which is also home to a number of endangered and threatened wildlife species. Four visitors trails are offered in the refuge’s Perdue unit, spanning a total distance of five miles.
Address: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, 12295 Alabama 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, Phone: 251-540-7720
⮕ Get Wild (in a Good Way) at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
A hands-on zoo experience with lemurs, sloths, and charming animal encounters.
© Courtesy of Aggi Schmid - Fotolia.com
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo originated as the private Zooland Animal Park refuge operated by Gulf Shores resident Joey Ward, which was opened to the public in 1989. Following a series of hurricanes in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including 2004’s Hurricane Ivan, the zoo gained a national profile as the “Little Zoo That Could” due to its appearance on the Animal Planet series of the same name, which focused on its animal relocation and reconstruction efforts following the hurricanes. Today, the zoo is home to more than 500 native and exotic animals, including species such as leopards, tigers, monkeys, lions, and macaws. Attractions include a reptile house, petting zoo area, and aviary, with animal encounters and keeper talks offered periodically throughout the day. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Map
⮕ Raise a Toast to the Coast at Big Beach Brewing
Craft beer, live music, and a laid-back vibe just minutes from the surf.
© Big Beach Brewing
Big Beach Brewing was the vision of Jule and Jim Shamburger and is the state’s southernmost craft brewery, operating out of its open-air taproom facility at Orange Beach. 12 beers are available on draft at the brewery’s taproom at any given time, including year-round favorites such as Rod’s Reel Cream Ale, Small Town Brown Ale, Dixie’s Heart Irish Red, and Hundred Daze IPA. Non-alcoholic craft beverages are also tapped, including house-made lemonade. Fireplace seating is available, along with delivery service from a number of local restaurants. Public special events include live music performances and daily brewery tours, which embark at the top of each hour.
Address: 300 E. 24th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, Phone: 251-948-2337
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Make a Splash with the Whole Family at Waterville USA
Waterslides, go-karts, and mini golf deliver all-day thrills for kids and grown-ups alike.
© Waterville USA
Waterville USA is a 20-acre water amusement park located less than a quarter mile from the Gulf of Mexico. The facility was opened in 1986 as a family waterpark for the Gulf Shores community and has added a large number of additional family attractions in recent years, including a miniature golf course, escape house, and go-karting track.
As one of the Gulf Coast’s leading water parks, it boasts attractions such as the triple-drop Triple Dog Dare and enclose high-speed Jet Stream water slides, as well as a Dune Racer mat racing course, North Shore wave pool, and Crystal Waters lazy river.
Two children’s water play areas are also provided, including Wa Wa World and the climbing play structure Shrimp Boat Village. Dual admission is offered for the park’s water and land attractions, and birthday party packages may be reserved for young visitors wishing to celebrate their birthdays at the park.
Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy B, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
⮕ If You’re Curious About Coastal Culture, Stop by the Gulf Shores Museum
Local stories, hurricane history, and a charming butterfly garden round out the experience.
© Gulf Shores Museum
Gulf Shores Museum is housed within a historic early 20th century house relocated to the Gulf Shores region following 1979’s Hurricane Frederic that has served as a civic building since the 1980s.
Today, it houses a museum documenting the region’s civic and social history, which offers permanent and rotating temporary exhibits and seasonal special event programming. Major exhibits include the Portrait of a Fishing Village exhibit, which showcases the history of Lagoon Village in the 19th century, and the Drawing a Line in the Sand exhibit, developed in commemoration of the city’s 50th anniversary in 2007.
A butterfly garden is also offered seasonally, created in conjunction with the Gulf Shores Garden Club. During the summer months, children are invited to the museum for the History Rocks program, which focuses on a variety of cultural and historical topics.
Address: 244 W 19th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542, Phone: 251-968-1473
Where to Eat in Gulf Shores, AL
- LuLu’s Gulf Shores – Fun, casual waterfront restaurant owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister, with live music and a kids’ play area.
- Sea-N-Suds – Classic seafood shack right on the beach with steamed shrimp, gumbo, and sunset views.
- The Hangout – Big portions, beach games, and daily live shows in a colorful, sand-side setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- The National Shrimp Festival (October) – Celebrate coastal cuisine with food, music, arts, and crafts at this beloved beachfront festival.
- Hangout Music Festival (May) – Multi-day music fest featuring top acts performing right on the sand.
- Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Parade (February/March) – A family-friendly coastal spin on the classic celebration, complete with beads and music.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Gulf Shores, Alabama:
- Orange Beach (15–20 min) – Visit The Wharf, go deep-sea fishing, or lounge on wide, less-crowded beaches.
- Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge (20–30 min) – Explore quiet beaches, coastal dunes, and migratory bird trails.
- Fort Morgan (30–40 min) – Tour this historic fortress and catch the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island.
- Dauphin Island (60 min by ferry) – Visit the Estuarium, beaches, and historic sites on this laid-back barrier island.
- Weeks Bay Reserve (45 min) – Walk boardwalk trails and learn about coastal ecosystems at this hidden ecological gem near Fairhope.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Q: Where is Gulf Shores located?
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A: Gulf Shores is a hidden gem tourist town spanning 28 square miles along the Gulf of Mexico in Baldwin County.
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Q: What activities attract visitors to Gulf Shores?
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A: Visitors enjoy cruises, ocean fishing, relaxing on the beach, and world-class golf.
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Q: What are some notable attractions in Gulf Shores?
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A: Notable attractions include the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Waterville USA.
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Q: What events should visitors not miss in Gulf Shores?
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A: Don’t miss the Independence Day Celebration on the 4th of July and the National Shrimp Festival in October.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds before peak season. |
The Lodge at Gulf State Park – A sustainable beachfront resort with stunning views. |
Explore Gulf State Park – Hike, bike, or kayak through scenic coastal trails. |
Summer (June-August) – Hot and perfect for beach activities and family vacations. |
Turquoise Place by Spectrum Resorts – A luxury stay with oceanfront condos. |
Relax at Gulf Shores Public Beach – Enjoy soft white sand and clear waters. |
Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather, fewer tourists, and great seafood festivals. |
Perdido Beach Resort – A beautiful waterfront stay near Gulf Shores. |
Attend the Annual National Shrimp Festival – Experience fresh seafood, live music, and local art. |
Map:
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