Welcome to The Gulf Coast!
From the laid-back charm of Gulf Shores and the vibrant energy of Orange Beach, to the quiet coastal beauty of Fort Morgan and the natural serenity of Perdido Key, this is a destination for beach lovers, seafood seekers, and anyone craving a slower pace. 🏖️
Overview & General Tips
From the shores of Fort Morgan to the Florida edge at Perdido Key, a 1.5-hour coastal drive takes you through some of the Gulf's most charming beach towns—each with its own pace, personality, and reason to stay awhile.
Fort Morgan is a quieter area with open beaches, fewer restaurants, and minimal traffic. This tranquil spot is perfect for those seeking a more laid-back beach experience, away from the hustle and bustle.
Gulf Shores is a bustling, family-friendly destination with numerous restaurants, shops, and activities. Perfect for families with kids and teens, Gulf Shores offers a variety of attractions and a lively atmosphere. The town is known for its white-sand beaches and warm, welcoming community.
Orange Beach is more adult-oriented with upscale restaurants and the famous Florabama. It’s the spot for better dining and vibrant nightlife. This area caters to couples and groups looking for a mix of relaxation and entertainment, with plenty of opportunities for water sports and fine dining.
Straddling the Alabama–Florida line, Perdido Key has a laid-back, low-rise feel with a mix of state parks, hidden beaches, and waterfront condos. It’s less commercial than its neighbors, making it a favorite for nature lovers, snowbirds, and anyone craving a quieter coastal stay.
Did You Know? 🤔
Fort Morgan Peninsula is a naturalist’s dream: you can spot migrating birds, sea turtles nesting in summer, and even the endangered Alabama beach mouse.
Fort Morgan played a major role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War — it’s where Admiral Farragut famously commanded, "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!"
Perdido Key means "Lost Key" in Spanish — the name dates back to 1693 when Spanish explorers stumbled across the narrow stretch of hidden shoreline.
Orange Beach is considered one of the top spots on the Gulf Coast for deep-sea fishing, and hosts the annual Blue Marlin Grand Championship, known as "the greatest show in sportfishing."
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park is a top spot for outdoor adventures along the Gulf Coast. Stretching across 6,150 acres, it offers a mix of beaches, easy-access trails, kid-friendly attractions like the butterfly area, and picnic spots perfect for a relaxed day in nature.
👍 Highlights:
2 miles of unspoiled beaches, including the serene Romar Beach in Orange Beach
28 miles of scenic trails, perfect for walking, biking, or electric bike rentals
Beautiful Lake Shelby for kayaking, paddling, and fishing
Nature center with educational exhibits
Wildlife viewing opportunities (alligators, birds, butterflies)
Dog-friendly areas for a full family outing
Gulf Shores Public Beach
This is a must-visit spot for anyone heading to the Alabama coast, offering stunning white sands and turquoise waters just steps from Gulf State Park.
With calm waters, spacious picnic areas, easy beach access, and family-friendly facilities, Gulf Shores Public Beach is an excellent choice for a fun and easygoing day out with kids.
👍 Highlights:
Wide, soft sandy beaches perfect for relaxing
Clear waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing
Peaceful beachcombing and scenic walks during winter months
Unforgettable sunsets over the Gulf waters.
Convenient amenities: public restrooms, showers, picnic areas, pavilions, and boardwalks
Go Fishing
As the “Red Snapper Capital of the World,” fishing is an unmissable activity if you’re heading to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach.
The Gulf waters offer high chances of hooking a big catch, including Redfish, Speckled Trout, Amberjack, Kingfish, and of course, Red Snapper. The best part? There are fishing options for both beginners and pros to enjoy.
Whether you’re teaching little ones how to cast or just soaking up the sun while waiting for a bite, fishing here is a laid-back, family-friendly way to spend the day.
👍 Highlights:
Try your hand at charter fishing, pier fishing, surf fishing, or even kayak fishing
Hop on a Party Boat Fishing trip for a lively group experience
Top fishing spots: Little Lagoon, Gulf State Park Pier, Cotton Bayou Public Pier, and Dixey Bar
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re looking for a wild slice of coastal Alabama, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be. It’s all about quiet beaches, winding trails, and wildlife galore.
The trails are easy, the wildlife is exciting for kids, and the peaceful beaches make it a perfect low-key day out with the whole crew.
👍 Highlights:
Spot sea turtles, migratory birds, and the rare Alabama beach mouse
Explore scenic trails like the Pine Beach Trail and Jeff Friend Trail
Relax on untouched beaches without the crowds
Wander through marshes, dunes, and maritime forests
Orange Beach Waterfront Park
Nestled against Wolf Bay, Orange Beach Waterfront Park is all about soaking in great views and engaging in relaxing activities.
With plenty of space to play, fish, picnic, and even get a little artsy, this is a fantastic all-ages outing where everyone can find their happy place — including your furry friends, thanks to some pet-friendly paths and areas within the park.
👍 Highlights:
Scenic walking paths and a peaceful fishing pier
Seven picnic shelters with grills — perfect for a lazy afternoon cookout
A fun playground packed with slides, swings, and climbing areas for the kids
Gorgeous sunsets over Wolf Bay
The Coastal Arts Center nearby, offering art classes, workshops, and local exhibitions
Alabama Point East Beach
Providing over 6,000 feet of wide beach for nature lovers, Alabama Point East Beach is the perfect spot in Orange Beach to swim in warm emerald water and admire the stunning coastal landscape and wildlife from boardwalks cutting through sand dunes.
With tons of space to splash, play, and picnic — plus easy boardwalk access — it’s a fun, easygoing beach day not only for families, but also for solo travelers, and couples.
👍 Highlights:
Over 6,000 feet of wide, sandy beach perfect for swimming and beachcombing
Scenic boardwalks through beautiful sand dunes
Great views of Perdido Pass Bridge (and bonus: surfer-watching!)
Family picnics, dolphin sightings, and laid-back vibes
Epic sunsets
Cotton Bayou Beach
Tucked right between condos and main roads, Cotton Bayou Beach feels like a hidden little slice of paradise in Orange Beach. It’s easy to get to — and even easier to love.
It’s low-key, easy to access, and has all the basics you need for a relaxed family beach day — just pack some snacks, sunscreen, and you’re good to go.
👍 Highlights:
Soft white sand and clear, swimmable waters
Easy access with a small parking lot (get there early!)
Restrooms and outdoor showers for quick clean-ups
Laid-back vibe, great for sunbathing and beach strolls
Right off Perdido Beach Boulevard — super convenient!
Shell Beach
Shell Beach in Orange Beach is a small, quieter stretch of coastline near Perdido Pass that's ideal if you're looking to avoid the crowds. It's more of a hidden gem, popular with locals and those in the know.
Its calm waters and abundant seashells make it an ideal spot to play and explore. The beach's serene atmosphere offers a relaxing environment for parents, while the opportunity for shell collecting and sandcastle building provides endless entertainment for kids.
👍 Highlights:
Tucked just east of Perdido Pass Bridge — great views of boats and the waterway
Calmer, less crowded atmosphere compared to larger public beaches
Ideal for beachcombing and watching marine traffic
Limited parking and amenities, so it's best for a quick stop or a peaceful walk
Close to popular fishing spots and scenic lookout areas
Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island
The Mobile Bay Ferry offers a relaxing 40-minute ride between Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan, complete with stunning views and a chance to spot dolphins along the way. Once in Dauphin Island, you can enjoy a mix of history, nature, and adventure — making it a fascinating day trip.
👍 Highlights:
Visit Fort Gaines, a well-preserved Civil War fort with original cannons, tunnels, and panoramic views of Mobile Bay
Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is also great, with interactive exhibits and touch tanks showcasing local marine life
Dauphin Island Public Beach boasts family-friendly vibes, soft sands and gentle waves
Perdido Key State Park
Perdido Key State Park is a serene coastal gem offering quieter, pristine beaches where you can experience some of the most untouched landscapes of the region. The park's gentle surf, clean facilities, and educational wildlife viewing make it an excellent choice for a family-friendly beach day.
👍 Highlights:
Nearly 2 miles of white-sand beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling
Boardwalks providing access to the beach while protecting the fragile dune ecosystem
Opportunities for surf fishing, with species like redfish and pompano commonly caught
Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, perfect for family outings
Habitats for endangered species such as the Perdido Key beach mouse and nesting sea turtles
Historical & Cultural Attractions
South Baldwin Community Theatre
South Baldwin Community Theatre (SBCT) is a beloved local institution in Gulf Shores offering a vibrant mix of performances that showcase community talent and creativity.
If you're traveling with young kids in tow, the theater offers family-friendly productions and programs designed for young artists, so everyone can enjoy the creative spirit of this cultural gem.
👍 Highlights:
The theater presents a diverse lineup of plays, musicals, and special events throughout the year
SBCT's Young Artist Series provides opportunities for young performers to shine on stage.
The theater has received accolades such as "Best Local Theater" and "Best Youth Theater" in recent years.
Orange Beach History Museum
It’s always a good idea to understand a bit of the local history of the place you’re vacationing — it will make you experience the destination with renewed eyes. With that said, a visit to the Orange Beach History Museum is something you should definitely include in your Orange Beach bucket list.
No matter if you're visiting solo, with your partner, or with the entire family, the museum is a relaxed, engaging spot where kids and adults can explore at their own pace — and the quirky artifacts make history feel anything but boring.
👍 Highlights:
Housed in a beautifully preserved century-old schoolhouse
Exhibits focused on Native American history and the area’s fishing heritage
Fascinating artifacts like a 500-year-old dugout canoe, 1800s textbooks, antique typewriters, and WWII memorabilia
Friendly, knowledgeable staff who love sharing local stories
Free admission
Fort Morgan Historic Site
Fort Morgan has stood as the guardian of Mobile Bay since 1834. This military site and National Historic Landmark played significant roles in the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and both World Wars. You can tour the fort and its museum, which features weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and soldiers' items.
Traveling with kids? They'll love visiting the fort, too. Fort Morgan offers an educational and engaging experience for everyone. The little ones will have a blast exploring the fort's nooks and crannies, and the site's open spaces are perfect for a family picnic. Just be prepared for uneven terrain and bring sun protection for outdoor areas.
👍 Highlights:
Explore the star-shaped fort’s tunnels, barracks, and artillery batteries
Visit the on-site museum showcasing artifacts from the Civil War and beyond
Enjoy panoramic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf
Participate in seasonal reenactments and living history events
Access nearby beaches and picnic areas for a full-day outing
👉 Fort Morgan offers an educational and engaging experience for everyone. Kids will love exploring the fort's nooks and crannies, and the site's open spaces are perfect for a family picnic. Just be prepared for uneven terrain and bring sun protection for outdoor areas
Shopping & Entertainment
The Wharf
The Wharf is Orange Beach's ultimate entertainment hub — a lively district packed with activities, shopping, and fun for the whole family. If you want to experience the energetic side of the coast, this should be on your bucket list.
👍 Highlights:
Local boutiques featuring coastal gifts, fashion, and specialty items
Wide selection of bars and restaurants to suit every taste
Arena the Next Level Arcade with interactive games like Laser Tag and Bazooka Ball (perfect for kids and adults)
Mini-golf course and a state-of-the-art movie theater for laid-back entertainment
Ride the iconic Wharf Ferris Wheel — the tallest on the Gulf Coast — for sweeping views
Frequent events, concerts, and festivals bringing extra excitement to the area
Dolphin and sunset cruises departing from The Wharf Marina
SanRoc Cay Marina
Like The Wharf, this is another waterfront hotspot in Orange Beach that seamlessly blends shopping, dining, and entertainment, but it feels more off-the-beaten-path. Here, you can enjoy a more local retail experience, with residents often opting for a more relaxed, less crowded atmosphere.
👍 Highlights:
Explore a variety of unique shops offering everything from stylish beachwear and handcrafted jewelry to home décor and gifts
Enjoy a diverse culinary scene with waterfront restaurants such as Louisiana Lagniappe and Gulf Shores Steamer, serving up fresh seafood and Southern specialties in a relaxed atmosphere.
The marina provides well-equipped docking facilities and offers various water-based activities, including deep-sea fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and diving excursions. Reel Surprise Charters is one of the prominent operators based here.
For relaxation and pampering, visit Serenity at the Beach, offering a range of services from massages to hair treatments
The Track
Enjoy go-karts, mini-golf, and other family-friendly attractions at The Track in Gulf Shores. This amusement park offers a range of activities for kids and adults alike, making it a popular destination for families.
👍 Highlights:
Experience the excitement of multiple go-kart tracks, including the elevated "Wild Woody" track, which spirals up three and a half stories before a thrilling descent
Enjoy a round of miniature golf on a creatively designed course, suitable for the whole family
Engage in water battles with bumper boats equipped with water cannons, perfect for cooling off on warm days
For thrill-seekers, the Skycoaster offers a skydiving-like experience, soaring up to 110 feet in the air
Waterville USA Waterpark
Since 1986, Waterville USA has been Gulf Shores' go-to for nonstop family fun — a blend of waterpark thrills, classic amusements, and relaxing corners to recharge.
👍 Highlights:
17 water slides, a lazy river, and a massive wave pool
Popular rides include the Dune Racer and FlowRider (perfect for wannabe surfers!)
Water playgrounds with sprays, geysers, and cannons just for younger kids
Dry attractions: go-karts, mini-golf, a roller coaster, and a high-tech arcade
Indoor escape room for a cool break from the sun
Cabana Cove with shaded lounges and food service for a laid-back break (book in advance)
On-site food and retail options for snacks, meals, and souvenirs
Food & Dining
Fish River Grill, Gulf Shores
Fish River Grill is a beloved local spot in Gulf Shores, known for authentic Southern-style seafood and hearty burgers in a laid-back setting.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood Favorites: Cajun Crawfish Pistol Basket, Gulf Shrimp Platter, Large Bayou Seafood Basket
Burgers: River Burger, Bleu Cheese Bacon Burger, Hurricane Burger
Southern Classics: Homemade hushpuppies, classic po'boys
Drinks: Spicy Bloody Mary, Bushwacker, Redneck Piña Colada, and Margaritas
Extras: Kids' menu and light appetite options available
The Cove Bar and Grill, Gulf Shores
The team at The Cove Bar and Grill is dedicated not only to serving great food but also to creating a festive and joyful atmosphere where customers can enjoy pool tables and live music.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Signature Dishes: Tuna Nachos (with wontons, tuna, spicy mayo, eel sauce), Stuffed Avocado, Cajun Chicken Waffles
Comfort Food Favorites: Customizable burgers, sandwiches, wraps, tacos, and steaks
Drinks: Great selection of brews and cocktails
Extras: Pool tables and live music nightly. This is also one of the few places in Gulf Shores open past midnight
Original Oyster House, Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores residents have been enjoying the offerings of the Original Oyster House since 1983, making it a total local institution and one of the oldest family hotspots on the coast.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood Favorites: Oysters (prepared several ways), award-winning homemade seafood gumbo, cheesy grits with blackened shrimp
Desserts: World-famous Peanut Butter Pie
Extras: Fresh daily salad bar and handcrafted cocktails
Sunliner Diner, Gulf Shores
What about a hint of the good old jukebox nostalgia? Step back in time to the 1950s at the Sunliner Diner, a diner that captures the essence of American dining culture when things were simpler and communities were closer.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Breakfast & Lunch Favorites: Steak & Eggs, Eggs Benedict, Tuna Melt
Sweet Treats: Strawberry Sundae, Key Lime Pie, and old-school milkshakes
Extras: Rock and roll soundtrack and retro decor perfect for fun photos. They're also known for their friendly, fast service, and reasonable prices
Moe's Original BBQ, Orange Beach
Despite being a growing chain with multiple locations across Alabama, Moe's Original BBQ continues to serve outstanding food without compromising on quality and flavor. Their finger-licking Alabama-style barbecue and sandwiches are highly popular among locals.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
BBQ Favorites: Alabama-style pulled pork, ribs, and sandwiches
Sides: Mac and cheese, baked beans, and classic Southern fixings
Drinks: Famous Bushwhackers
Extras: Outdoor picnic tables, relaxed coastal vibe, live music and daily specials. Moe's is just steps from the beach — perfect for a casual meal with a salty breeze
Big Fish Restaurant & Bar, Orange Beach
First-timers may hesitate to try Big Fish Restaurant & Bar because it's located in a strip shopping center with an unassuming exterior. However, upon stepping in, they discover an elegant and sophisticated setting that serves exceptionally fresh seafood dishes, along with steaks, pastas, and sandwiches.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood Specialties: Grouper Special, Blue Crab Claws, Sesame Seed Seared Ahi Tuna
Sushi Bar: Wide selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi
Other Favorites: Beef Tataki, customizable catch (sauteed, bronzed, blackened, grilled, or fried)
Extras: Classy, sophisticated setting perfect for dates or family gatherings. Their
charming courtyard with a wood-burning fireplace is perfect for cozy evenings.
Bon Temps Poboys, Orange Beach
Specializing in authentic Cajun cuisine, Bon Temps will transport you to Louisiana through their fantastic Creole dishes.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Cajun Favorites: Louisiana Boiled Crawfish, Creole-style po'boys
Other Hits: Well-crafted burgers and sandwiches, homemade seasoned fries
Extras: Small, laid-back setting perfect for a quick, flavorful meal
Oso at Bear Point Marina, Orange Beach
A local gem, Oso at Bear Point Marina boasts a splendid dining space with captivating marina views. The menu's diversity ensures there's something for everyone.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood, Tacos, & Burgers: Gumbo, Fish Taco, Parmageddon Oyesters, and Fried Crab Claws. Their burgers are also very popular among patrons.
Fresh Picks: Salads, vegetarian options like Caesar and summer salads, stuffed potato, and chips & dip trio
Drinks: Papa Oso cocktail
Extras: Outdoor seating with stunning sunset views, spacious indoor seating ideal for groups, and live music from local bands and singers
Sassy Bass Island Grill, Fort Morgan
Sassy Bass Island Grill offers a relaxed beachfront dining experience in Fort Morgan, serving hearty, freshly made meals in a laid-back, welcoming setting.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Available daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays
Fresh Picks: Strawberry and Almond Salad, Bacon and Bleu Cheese Quesadilla, Pineapple Boat
Classics: Generous sandwiches, burgers, pizzas. The Beach Burger and Grouper Reuben are unmissable
Signature Dish: Po' boys with customizable seafood fillings (shrimp, fried oyster, crawfish, or fish)
Extras: Open kitchen design with beach views, generous portions and a friendly, casual vibe.
Kiva Grill, Fort Morgan
Located at Kiva Dunes Resort, Kiva Grill is a go-to spot in Fort Morgan, serving up Southern favorites, fresh seafood, and one of the best brunches around.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Southern Classics: Big Southern breakfasts like Biscuits, Gravy & Eggs, Cajun Benedicts, and Shrimp & Gouda Grits
Seafood Specials: Daily fresh seafood options. Favorite options include Steamed Shrimp, Shrimp Po-Boy, Mahi Platter, and Seafood Combo Platter
Extras: Full coffee and beverage bar
Extras: Spacious porch with beautiful golf course views, friendly service and a relaxed, upscale vibe.
Tacky Jack’s, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan
With three locations on Alabama's Gulf coast, Tacky Jack’s is a waterfront favorite known for its fun, laid-back vibe, fresh seafood, and lively marina views — a true must-visit for a casual meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the coast.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood Treats: Tacky Shrimp, Steamed North American Snow Crabs, Crab Cake, Steamed Reds, Oyster Platter, and much more
Extras: Outdoor dining with sea breezes and beautiful marina views, and karaoke nights at Jack’s Bar (Thursdays and Saturdays)
The Flora-Bama, Perdido Key
Dubbed the "World’s Most Famous Beach Bar," The Flora-Bama is the ultimate beach bar experience — blending seafood, live music, and legendary coastal energy since 1964.
🍽️ Menu Highlights:
Seafood Favorites: Oysters McClellan, Cajun Oysters, Butter Parmesan, All-American Nachos, Gulf Fish Po'Boy, Fried Gulf Fish Basket, and Gulf Shrimp
Extras: Live music every night featuring regional and national acts, scenic beach views, on-site store with clothing, souvenirs, and Flora-Bama merch.
Bars & Nightlife
The Hangout is a lively beachfront spot that shifts from family fun by day to a vibrant nightlife scene after dark. With live music, DJs, dancing, and games like foosball and ping-pong, it’s a top place to soak up coastal energy.
Their drink lineup keeps the good vibes flowing, with favorites like the Blueberry Mojito, Peachy Beachy, Whiskey Mule, Frozen Margarita, and the classic Bushwacker.
Big Beach Brewing Company, Gulf Shores
Big Beach Brewing Company is a Gulf Shores favorite, offering a wide range of craft beers in a laid-back, beachy setting. It’s a great spot to relax, meet locals, and catch some live music.
Must-tries include the Hundred Daze IPA, Bahama Mama Tiki Sour, Hot Pink Lemonade Sour, Amy Honey Basil Wheat, and Rod's Reel Cream Ale. Check their calendar for fun extras like trivia nights!
MudBugs Pub is a laid-back, lively spot where Southern hospitality shines. Along with a solid lineup of beers, cocktails, and local bites, it’s a go-to for live music, karaoke, pool tables, and plenty of friendly competition.
If your perfect night out involves catching the game with a cold drink, MudBugs has you covered with nine big TVs and a crowd that knows how to have a good time.
Icehouse Tap Room, Gulf Shores
Icehouse Tap Room is a locally loved Gulf Shores hangout and a dream for beer fans, with 24 taps pouring everything from sours and stouts to local brews.
After dark, the waterfront deck turns into a lively spot with live music, great drinks, and sunset views — made even better with happy hour specials. Hungry? Their menu has plenty of tasty bites to keep you going.
The Wharf, Orange Beach
The Wharf is also a perfect spot for a night out. This beloved destination is home to hot spots like Sandshaker and Island Time Daiquiris — two of the best choices for late-night fun in Orange Beach.
At Sandshaker, you can try the original Bushwacker while singing your heart out during karaoke or dancing the night away with live music and DJ sets.
If you’re a daiquiri fan, head to Island Time Daiquiris, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks while listening to fantastic live performances or catching your favorite game on one of their big screens.
Tiki & Raw Bar by Barometer, Orange Beach
Tiki & Raw Bar by Barometer is a go-to nightlife hangout with a chill, tropical vibe — ideal for kicking back and having a good time. Known for its fresh seafood and raw bar selections, the spot also serves up a playful lineup of tropical cocktails and crisp, refreshing drinks.
As the sun sets, the energy picks up. The tiki-style decor, upbeat music, and waterfront views create the perfect atmosphere to relax and catch up with friends. Don’t miss their standout drinks — the Pain Killer, Tiki Rita, and classic Daiquiri are crowd favorites.
8 Reale, Orange Beach
Looking for something off the radar? This stylish speakeasy in Orange Beach is tucked behind a vault door and delivers a one-of-a-kind, Prohibition-style experience with a modern edge.
Expect plush seating, live piano, and perfectly crafted classics like Espresso Martinis, Moscow Mules, and Cosmopolitans. Feeling adventurous? Just tell the bartender your go-to spirit and let them surprise you.
Cocktails are on the pricier side, but the vibe is worth it.
Note: You’ll need a secret code to get in — check their socials for clues hidden in the caption (it usually comes with a hashtag).
Practical Info
Best Time to Visit 📅
Spring (March – May): Warm temps, fewer crowds — perfect for beach days, festivals, and outdoor adventures.
Summer (June – August): Peak season — prime beach weather but expect big crowds and higher prices.
Fall (September – November): Warm water, thinner crowds, great rental deals — an underrated season for the Gulf Coast.
Winter (December – February): Mild weather, cheapest rates, super quiet beaches — great for a peaceful getaway.
👍 Tip: The Gulf stays swimmable into October, and fall offers the best mix of good weather and fewer crowds.
Weather & What to Pack 👒
Spring/Fall: Light layers, swimsuits, flip-flops, and beachwear.
Summer: High-SPF sunscreen, hats, sandals, bug spray (especially for evening walks or marshy areas).
Winter: Light sweaters and jackets for cooler nights, comfy walking shoes for beach strolls and nature trails.
Year-Round: Always pack reef-safe sunscreen — the sun can be strong even in winter.
Getting There & Around 🚗
Nearest Airports:
Pensacola International Airport (PNS): Closest major airport — about a 45–60 minute drive to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, and Perdido Key.
Mobile Regional Airport (MOB): Another nearby option, about a 1–1.5 hour drive.
Transportation:
Rental Car: Highly recommended — you’ll need it to explore beaches, restaurants, and parks easily.
Bike Rentals: Great for riding along coastal trails, especially in Gulf State Park and Perdido Key.
Uber/Lyft: Available but can be limited in Fort Morgan and some Perdido Key areas — best to have a car.
Parking: Public beach parking is available but fills up fast during peak season; arrive early or check if your rental has private parking.
Let the sea breeze lead the way — happy adventuring on the Gulf Coast!
If you're chasing sunshine, stunning views, and nonstop fun, the Gulf Coast will provide you with unforgettable experiences. ☀️
With years of experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we at Vacation Homes Collections are experts in crafting unforgettable experiences. When you stay with us, all you need to do is soak in the coastal beauty and let it whisk you away — because it surely will!
