GULF SHORES, ALABAMA: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR VISITORS AND RESIDENTS

Ah, Gulf Shores! This charming seaside town on Alabama’s Gulf Coast offers a mix of sandy beaches, warm Southern hospitality, and endless adventure. Whether you're planning a getaway or thinking of making Gulf Shores your new home, there’s no shortage of things to explore—from culinary gems and art galleries to top-notch golf courses and waterside excursions. Let’s dive into all that Gulf Shores has to offer!

1. Beaches: The Soul of Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores’ beautiful beaches are famous for their powdery white sand and inviting turquoise waters. The main Gulf Shores Beach, located along Beach Boulevard, is popular with locals and visitors alike, providing easy access to sandy shores, gentle waves, and a lively boardwalk lined with eateries and shops.

For those looking to escape the crowd, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers a pristine, natural landscape with hiking trails and bird-watching spots. West Beach, another quieter gem, provides a tranquil space for families and beachgoers wanting a more relaxed vibe.

2. Dining: Coastal Flavors and Local Delights

Gulf Shores offers a wide variety of dining experiences, from beachside casual to Southern comfort food and fresh Gulf seafood.

The Hangout: This iconic spot is known for its beachy ambiance, live music, and family-friendly atmosphere. Dig into seafood platters, juicy burgers, and tropical cocktails, all while enjoying the ocean breeze and live entertainment.
LuLu’s Gulf Shores: Owned by Lucy Buffett, sister of Jimmy Buffett, LuLu’s brings a fun, casual vibe with seafood favorites, live music, and waterfront views. Try their famous gumbo, fish tacos, and fried green tomatoes.
Flora-Bama: A local institution straddling the Alabama-Florida border, this legendary bar and grill is as much a music venue as it is a place to grab a cold drink and great food. Known for its famous “Bama Breeze” and mullet toss competitions, Flora-Bama is an essential Gulf Coast experience.
De Soto's Seafood Kitchen: A staple for affordable Southern cuisine, De Soto's offers dishes like crab claws, shrimp-stuffed potatoes, and fried green tomatoes in a cozy, laid-back setting.

3. Golf: Championship Courses and Scenic Fairways

Golfers are in for a treat with several beautiful courses near Gulf Shores, offering challenging play and beautiful views.

Craft Farms Golf Resort: This Arnold Palmer-designed resort features two 18-hole courses, Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend, surrounded by lush landscapes and serene lakes, perfect for golfers looking for a world-class experience.
Gulf Shores Golf Club: Dating back to 1967, this course combines Southern charm with challenging play across its 18-hole course. Towering oaks and water features create a scenic and relaxing environment for players of all levels.
Kiva Dunes Golf Course: Ranked among Alabama’s best public courses, Kiva Dunes combines the sport of golf with Gulf Coast beauty. Its private beach access is an added bonus, allowing for a perfect golf-and-beach day.

4. Boating, Fishing, and Marinas: Embrace the Coastal Waters

Gulf Shores offers abundant water activities, with boating and fishing being top pastimes. The town has several marinas and easy access to both the Gulf of Mexico and inland waterways.

Orange Beach Marina: Just a few miles from Gulf Shores, this full-service marina provides dockage, fishing charters, and a range of watercraft rentals. Known for its high-quality service, it’s an ideal starting point for a day on the water.
Gulf Shores Marina at Fort Morgan: Located near the historic Fort Morgan, this marina is perfect for both deep-sea and inshore fishing. Anglers can find local charters offering excursions for red snapper, grouper, and other prized Gulf fish.
Boating and Fishing Charters: Gulf Shores is famous for its fishing charters, which cater to all skill levels. Options range from inshore trips for speckled trout to deep-sea excursions for mahi-mahi and tuna. Dolphin cruises, sunset sails, and eco-tours are also popular choices for families and those looking to explore the scenic waters.
Waterways Community and Pedestrian Bridge: Gulf Shores is planning the development of the Waterways Community, a new neighborhood designed with waterfront living in mind. The proposed pedestrian bridge will make Gulf Shores more walkable, connecting various points of interest and offering a safe, scenic path for pedestrians and cyclists. This forward-thinking project will add even more charm and accessibility to the area, making it easier to explore everything Gulf Shores has to offer.

5. Attractions & Activities: From History to High-Adventure

Gulf Shores is packed with activities for all ages, from thrill-seekers to those looking for a relaxing day out.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo: Often called “The Little Zoo That Could,” this zoo features exotic animals, interactive exhibits, and up-close encounters. It’s a delightful family outing, especially for kids who love animals.
Fort Morgan: This Civil War-era fort is located at the entrance of Mobile Bay and offers a look into Alabama’s military history. Wander through tunnels, explore historic sites, and enjoy panoramic Gulf views.
Gulf State Park: Spanning over 6,500 acres, Gulf State Park is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and even camping. The park’s lake offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, while its beaches and trails make it ideal for wildlife watching and picnicking.
The Track Recreation Center: For family fun, The Track features go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats, and thrill rides. It’s a fun, amusement park-style day out for everyone in the family.

6. Arts & Culture: Embracing Gulf Shores’ Creative Spirit

Gulf Shores is rich in local art and culture, from galleries to creative workshops.

The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach: A nearby gem, the Coastal Arts Center showcases local artists’ work, from paintings to pottery and glass blowing. You can even try your hand at creating art through the center’s pottery and glass-blowing classes.
Gulf Coast Arts Alliance: Located in nearby Foley, this gallery is dedicated to showcasing works from local artists, including paintings, jewelry, and photography. Regular art markets invite visitors to connect with artisans and bring home unique souvenirs.
Local Festivals: Gulf Shores celebrates the arts through events like the National Shrimp Festival and Hangout Music Festival. Both festivals draw large crowds with live music, artisan vendors, and, of course, delicious Southern food.

7. Living in Gulf Shores: Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle

Living in Gulf Shores means embracing a laid-back lifestyle that revolves around the beach, community events, and outdoor activities. Residents enjoy the low cost of living, excellent schools, and an easygoing pace that’s perfect for families and retirees alike. The town is full of friendly locals and offers a range of housing options, from charming beach cottages to waterfront homes with panoramic Gulf views.

The development of the Waterways Community and the pedestrian bridge will enhance the sense of community, creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment and a close-knit feel. Gulf Shores is quickly becoming one of Alabama’s most desirable places to live, with a blend of small-town charm and coastal adventure.

Gulf Shores alabama

Questions and Answers

1. What are the must-visit spots for first-time visitors in Gulf Shores, Alabama?
Gulf Shores is packed with scenic and fun destinations. Start with the beautiful Gulf Shores Beach, which offers soft white sand and clear turquoise water. For nature lovers, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic spot for hiking and bird-watching. Dining at local favorites like The Hangout and LuLu’s Gulf Shores is a must, and don't forget a visit to the historic Fort Morgan for a bit of history with stunning bay views.

2. How does Gulf Shores compare to other Gulf Coast towns in terms of lifestyle and amenities?
Gulf Shores offers a unique blend of laid-back, beach-town living with a rich mix of activities, from water sports and fishing to arts and music festivals. Compared to other Gulf Coast towns, Gulf Shores is known for its family-friendly environment, great community feel, and amenities like parks, golf courses, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.

3. What are the most popular outdoor activities for residents and visitors in Gulf Shores?
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the extensive outdoor options in Gulf Shores. Popular activities include beach outings, fishing charters, boating, and water sports like paddleboarding. Gulf State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, and there are several excellent golf courses in the area for enthusiasts. Dolphin-watching tours and sunset cruises are also great ways to experience the Gulf’s natural beauty.

4. What should potential residents know about the cost of living and housing options in Gulf Shores?
The cost of living in Gulf Shores is fairly moderate, but it varies depending on location and proximity to the beach. Housing options range from charming beach cottages and condos to luxury waterfront properties. Gulf Shores offers diverse choices for those looking to buy or rent, but prices can be higher for properties closer to the water, which is something to keep in mind if you're considering a move.

5. How does Gulf Shores balance its relaxed, beach-town vibe with community events and local festivals?
Gulf Shores has a wonderfully balanced lifestyle that combines relaxation with vibrant community events. Annual festivals like the Hangout Music Festival and National Shrimp Festival attract visitors and locals, adding excitement to the laid-back atmosphere. The town hosts art markets, live music events, and food festivals throughout the year, creating a lively yet relaxed community vibe for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or considering making Gulf Shores your permanent retreat, this coastal town promises a memorable experience. Its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, amazing food, and water-based activities make Gulf Shores a true Southern gem. So, pack your bags or start house-hunting—Gulf Shores is ready to welcome you with open arms.

Meredith Amon is a local real estate advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She helps buyers and sellers navigate buying and selling real estate along the coast.