Things To Do
in Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, United States (coordinates: 30.2764, -87.7017) is a sun-drenched coastal town along Alabama's Gulf Coast known for its sugar-white sands and turquoise waters. It blends family-friendly beaches with casual seafood shacks, nature preserves, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Visitors can ride the waves, hike dune trails, explore historic forts, and savor freshly caught Gulf seafood at waterfront eateries.
The area serves as a gateway to landmarks like Fort Morgan, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and scenic coastal trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at Gulf State Park, where you can immerse yourself in the gorgeous scenery. Take a walk or ride a bike along the extensive trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the coastline and lush landscapes. Don't forget your camera—you'll want to capture the beauty of nature all around you.
After lunch, head to the beach for some sunbathing and swimming in the warm Gulf waters. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon building sandcastles or searching for seashells along the shore. You can also rent paddleboards or kayaks for a more adventurous experience on the water.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the spectacular sunset light up the sky. For dinner, treat yourself to one of the many beachfront restaurants that serve fresh seafood and local favorites. Afterward, take a stroll along the shore with the sound of waves crashing as your evening soundtrack.
Kick off your morning with a visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, where you can meet a variety of animals, including exotic species. Participating in daily animal encounters can provide you with unforgettable experiences. This small yet charming zoo focuses on conservation and education, making it a great outing for all ages.
Savor a leisurely lunch at a nearby café before heading to the tranquil waters of Orange Beach. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the sand, enjoying the waves, or trying out some beach games with friends or family. Don’t forget to stop by a local shop to pick up some souvenirs.
As night falls, get ready for an exciting evening at The Wharf, a popular entertainment district. Enjoy live music, boutique shopping, and a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Cap off the night with a ride on the Ferris wheel, offering spectacular views of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🎟️State park entrance / beach access (per vehicle) | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sugar-white beaches and warm water
- Abundant seafood and family-friendly activities
- Strong wildlife and nature access
- Relatively affordable coastal destination compared to some locales
- Summer crowds can be heavy and parking challenging
- Hurricane season can disrupt travel plans
- Some areas feel tourist-centric and expensive during peak season
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to bigger cities
Places to Visit in Gulf Shores
Visit one of these nice places.
Long pier with expansive gulf views—ideal for sunrise, sunset, and marine life photography.
Broad white-sand shoreline with blue-green water, perfect for wide-angle coastal shots and family portraits.
Historic coastal fortifications and lighthouse with dramatic ocean backdrops and coastal scenery.
Marshes, birds, and coastal landscapes with boardwalks—great for nature photography and wildlife.
Dune ecosystems and forested paths offering atmospheric, shaded nature photography opportunities.
Food in Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Southern staple featuring succulent shrimp served over creamy grits, often with a touch of andouille or a Creole sauce.
Must-Try!
Fresh gulf fish coated in a bold blackening spice and quickly seared for a flavorful crust.
Creamy soup with crab meat and a touch of crab roe, a Gulf Coast classic found in many seafood restaurants.
Crispy, lightly battered shellfish served with fries or slaw, a common casual option along the coast.
Spiced crawfish boiled with corn and potatoes during peak season, a festive, hands-on dining experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods, a great place to sample fresh regional fare.
Casual seaside stalls and pop-up vendors offering seafood baskets, fish tacos, and fried favorites along Beach Blvd.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings, polite behavior, and helpful attitudes are valued; small talk and smiles go a long way.
Respect quiet residential areas, follow posted rules, and be mindful of wildlife and dune preservation.
Safety
Tipping in Gulf Shores
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip around 15-20% at restaurants; round up for bar service and consider tipping guides or hotel staff for good service.
Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy for small vendors; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid, and busy with families on vacation; expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and strong sun—hydrate, use sunscreen, and book activities early.
Livelier but cooler days and fewer crowds; great for outdoor exploration and fishing; hurricane risk declines but stay aware of tropical activity.
Mild temperatures and cooler ocean air; some businesses have reduced hours, but beach walks and nature trips remain enjoyable.
Warm, blooming landscapes and active wildlife; ideal for hiking, coastal walks, and outdoor dining, with improving beach conditions.
Gulf Shores at Night
Hiking in Gulf Shores
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of nature trails through dunes, maritime forests, with boardwalks and wildlife viewing.
Quiet, marshy trails with birdwatching and coastal scenery.
Coastal trails with historic views and lighthouse photography.
Airports
How to reach Gulf Shores by plane.
Major regional airport serving the Gulf Coast to the west; access to Gulf Shores via I-10 and US-98.
Close airport with domestic flights; convenient for Gulf Shores via I-65/I-165.
Smaller regional airport northwest of Gulf Shores; useful for some seasonal routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families vacation here, especially during summer break.
A steady population of retirees drawn to the coastal lifestyle.
Tourism attracts seasonal staff and couples seeking weekend getaways.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Saltwater fishing charters and pier fishing are staples along the coast.
Casual games on public beaches and resort areas during summer.
Support for local college and high school teams is a big part of community life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gulf Shores.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer salads, veggie bowls, and vegetable sides; look for grilled vegetable dishes and sides like greens or corn; ask for menu modifications and confirm ingredients.
Many Gulf Shores restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; request tell staff about gluten intolerance, choose grilled or baked options, and avoid battered/ fried items when necessary.