Beach Access Guide: Best Public Beach Spots in Orange Beach & Gulf Shores

By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida

Living along the Gulf Coast is more than just owning a home—it's about embracing the lifestyle that surrounds it. One of the top questions I’m asked as a local real estate advisor is:
“Where can we easily access the beach?”

Whether you’re searching for a peaceful escape, a convenient spot near your condo, or family-friendly (and pet-conscious) access points, there’s a place for everyone. From Orange Beach to Gulf Shores and beyond, here’s my personal guide to the top beach access locations near our coastal communities.

It’s centrally located—just minutes from Orange Beach real estate opportunities I often showcase.

Romar Beach – Gulf State Park

6.8 miles east of Hwy 59

Though smaller and without facilities, Romar Beach offers a more laid-back, less crowded feel. There’s limited free parking—so I recommend arriving early or walking if you’re staying nearby.

Gulf State Park Pavilion

6 miles east of Hwy 59

This is the most amenity-rich beach access point in Orange Beach. If you love comfort and convenience, you'll find:

• A large shaded pavilion

• Air-conditioned restrooms and private showers

• Snack bar and outdoor fireplace

• Generous parking, including RV access

It’s perfect for a full day on the sand without sacrificing comfort.

Gulf Shores Public Beach Access Points

Gulf Place (Main Public Beach)

Where Hwy 59 meets the Gulf

The iconic heart of Gulf Shores beach life. Here you’ll find:

• Three open-air pavilions

• Picnic areas, restrooms, showers

• Full-time beach attendants

This area stays busy—so show up early for prime parking and beachfront seating.

2nd to 13th Street Access Points

Each of these neighborhood beach spots west of Hwy 59 offers something a little different:

• 2nd Street: Restrooms, showers, covered pavilion with picnic tables

• 4th Street: Pedestrian-only—ideal if you're staying nearby

• 5th Street: Parking on both sides of the boardwalk (near Bahama Bob’s)

• 6th Street: Boardwalk with shower and accessible restroom

• 10th Street: Parking across the street with restrooms/showers

• 12th & 13th Streets: Beach access with facilities, 13th has dune walkover

These are fantastic options for homeowners and guests looking for less crowded access points close to local neighborhoods.

Lagoon Pass Beach

2.9 miles west of Hwy 59

Located near Lee Callaway Bridge, this access point offers:

• Restrooms and outdoor showers

• A peaceful setting with water views on both sides

• Ideal for sunset walks and fishing

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach

12295 State Hwy 180 (Fort Morgan Rd)

For a more natural and secluded coastal experience, Bon Secour is a hidden gem. You’ll find:

• Beautiful untouched shoreline

• Wildlife sightings

• No facilities—just raw, coastal beauty

Park along Mobile Street and take a short walk over the dunes.

Final Thoughts from Meredith

Whether you're planning to visit or live full-time on the coast, easy and enjoyable beach access is part of what makes Gulf Coast living so special. I love helping homeowners and buyers find real estate that matches their coastal lifestyle—from walkable beach cottages to condos near Cotton Bayou or homes with RV parking near Gulf State Park Pavilion.

 Looking for property near one of these beach access points?
Explore available homes and condos at www.searchthegulf.com, your local resource for all Gulf Coast listings.

Let’s find the perfect home where the beach is always within reach.

Search Coastal Alabama Homes and Real Estate For Sale, $900,000 - $1,000,000

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$995,000

341 Olde Park Court, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,686 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386471

RE/MAX Paradise

$995,000

6630 E Quarry Drive, Elberta

4 Beds 4 Baths 3,350 SqFt Residential MLS® # 386131

Brett R/E Robinson Dev OB Main: 251-981-6180

$995,000

28107 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit D906, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,796 SqFt Residential MLS® # 385758

Caribe Realty, Inc. PHONE: 251-747-1232

$995,000

404 Peninsula Boulevard, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 4 Baths 4,262 SqFt Residential MLS® # 384533

Edgemon Properties

$995,000

450 S Breakers Lane, Gulf Shores

5 Beds 6 Baths 3,130 SqFt Residential MLS® # 383102

LPT Realty, LLC

$995,000

29209 Perdido Beach Boulevard Unit 101, Orange Beach

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,591 SqFt Residential MLS® # 381956

RE/MAX on the Coast

$995,000

841 Inlet Circle, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 4 Baths 2,826 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380932

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

$995,000

926 Inlet Circle, Gulf Shores

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,574 SqFt Residential MLS® # 380927

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

$994,500

↓ $500

1609 Makaira Drive, Foley

4 Beds 3 Baths 2,386 SqFt Residential MLS® # 379328

RE/MAX of Orange Beach PHONE: 251-979-9198

$990,000

↓ $200,000

County Road 8, Gulf Shores

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 382040

Ryals Realty Services, Inc allanikitina@ryalsrealty.com

$990,000

↓ $100,000

County Road 8, Gulf Shores

0 Beds 0 Baths 0 SqFt Land MLS® # 381870

Ryals Realty Services, Inc allanikitina@ryalsrealty.com

$990,000

Peninsula Boulevard Unit 4, Gulf Shores

3 Beds 3 Baths 2,242 SqFt Residential MLS® # 377764

RE/MAX of Gulf Shores

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