- States:
- Alabama
Coastal Alabama is known for its beautiful beaches, but there’s a lot more to see and do.
The great thing about Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, is that you can speed up or slow down at any time. In this southeastern U.S. beach destination, wander along the powdery soft sand of the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, go on a sunset cruise or search for the tastiest seafood. It’s all up to you.
All the Ingredients for a Family Getaway
Leave the land behind for awesome excursions on the water. Join a deep-sea fishing charter, see playful dolphins on an afternoon sightseeing cruise or kayak in serene waterways. Plenty of outfitters are available to supply you with all the equipment you’ll need. Discover the wonders of nature at Gulf State Park. Walk or bike paved trails, reel in fish from the picturesque pier or stroll the beach.
People of all ages will find fun diversions at The Wharf dining and entertainment complex. Catch a touring band at the amphitheater, go shopping, see a movie or ride the Ferris wheel. Waterville USA is another spot made for family fun in the sun. Giant slides, wave pools, go-karts and relaxing cabanas are hallmarks of this colorful water and amusement park.
Kids playing on the soft, white sands of Gulf State Park
Sun-Kissed Entertainment Venues
You can’t visit Alabama’s Gulf Coast without stopping by the Flora-Bama Oyster Bar & Restaurant, an Orange Beach honky-tonk landmark known for its drinks and mix of music on five stages. Drop by The Hangout, a beachy hub for a bevy of bands and fun events in Gulf Shores. The kids will especially love the games, magic and sing-alongs at the Pirates & Princesses breakfast. At Lucy Buffett’s Lulu’s, listen to more live music and eat delicious seafood, including snapper, shrimp, crab and oysters. Order kid-friendly fare for your young ones as they occupy themselves in a sandy play area.
Beachfront entertainment destination The Hangout, a popular spot for food, music and events
Diving into Local Favorites
Time your visit right and you can soak up local culture at lively outdoor events, including the National Shrimp Festival in October, Festival of Art in March and Hangout Music Festival in May. Plan to follow the area’s seven food trails to seek out everything from burgers to seafood such as oysters, crab and shrimp. Must-taste Gulf Coast delicacies include bread pudding, key lime pie and gumbo.
Work off those calories by playing a round of golf at more than a dozen diverse golf clubs. From the secluded Kiva Dunes and waterfront Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club, it’s easy to find a championship course to play. End your trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach with a relaxing massage or pedicure at the Spa at The Beach Club.
Gorgeous setting of the award-winning Kiva Dunes Golf Course in Gulf Shores
Getting There
Fly in to either Pensacola International Airport (PNS) or Mobile Regional Airport (MOB), then rent a car to drive about an hour to reach Alabama’s Gulf of Mexico beaches.
