Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a special place with beautiful white sandy beaches and clear blue water. It’s perfect for everyone – from families looking for fun places with lots to do, to those who want quiet spots to relax and listen to the waves. We have 12 amazing beaches to explore, each with its own charm. Let’s see what makes these beaches awesome and find the best one for your adventure by the sea.
1. Gulf Shores
With its soft white sand and inviting blue waters, Gulf Shores is a family favorite. Enjoy the convenience of picnic areas, restrooms, and summer lifeguards, alongside nearby restaurants and shops. It’s a vibrant community hub that captures the spirit of Alabama’s coast. Notably, Gulf Shores hosts the long-running Hangout Music Festival each May, attracting music lovers to its beaches. For the best experience during the festival, arrive early to enjoy the beach before the crowds.
2. Orange Beach
Imagine stepping onto miles of beautiful white sandy beaches in Orange Beach, ready for fun activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. You can take a special dolphin cruise to see these playful animals up close. With pretty sunrises and lots of places to eat and stay, Orange Beach has something for everyone. The waters here have the largest man-made reef program in the U.S., letting divers explore an amazing underwater world. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to find your own peaceful spot along the coast.
3. Dauphin Island Public Beach
A quiet getaway with the peaceful Audubon Bird Sanctuary, perfect for nature lovers to see many kinds of birds. Take a quick ferry ride to this calm island, which is an excellent place for birdwatching because many birds stop here on their way across the Gulf of Mexico. Visit in spring or fall when the birds are migrating for the best birdwatching in the island’s relaxing atmosphere.
4. Fort Morgan
This place lets you explore an old star-shaped fort from over 150 years ago. The fort played an important part in the Civil War, adding a historical touch to your beach trip surrounded by natural beauty and peaceful shores. It was a key location during the Battle of Mobile Bay, a major event in the Civil War. The fort frequently holds reenactments, giving you a chance to experience history come to life by watching scenes from the past.
5. West Beach
Enjoy six miles of peaceful coastline at West Beach in Gulf Shores. With fewer amenities, you’ll have more of the beach to yourself, perfect for a relaxing day just soaking up the sun and listening to the waves. Known for its beautiful sunsets. Unlike crowded areas, the peace and quiet here makes the evening colors even more gorgeous. Stay until dusk to experience a stunning Alabama sunset.
6. Cotton Bayou Beach
This is nestled among Orange Beach condos. It offers easy access, parking, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for a hassle-free beach day. You can also have a beachside cookout as the beach has BBQ grills.
7. Perdido Key State Park
Don’t miss the serene beauty of Perdido Key State Park, nestled between Florida and Alabama. It’s a haven for nature lovers with untouched beaches, conservation efforts, and dunes that shelter wildlife, including endangered sea turtles. If you’re here from May to October, join a guided turtle walk to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
8. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
For a truly peaceful experience, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge’s beaches offer a quiet retreat. ‘Bon Secour’ means ‘safe harbor,’ which reflects how it protects wildlife and visitors. It’s one of Alabama’s last undeveloped coastal areas. Follow the Pine Beach Trail to see beach and forest scenery.
9. Romar Beach
This less-crowded beach in Orange Beach offers easy access and parking for those seeking quieter white sands without too many people. An early morning visit allows serene beach vibes and the best parking spots.
10. Gulf State Park
It has two miles of unspoiled beaches, a fishing pier, and picnic areas, making it ideal for family outings. The park’s vast space allows diverse activities. The pier is the second longest on the Gulf of Mexico, providing fantastic fishing and views. You can buy a fishing license there to try catching dinner!
11. Fairhope Municipal Beach
Located on calmer Mobile Bay, Fairhope Municipal Beach offers a different vibe with its pier, fishing opportunities, and stunning sunsets. The surrounding artistic community adds cultural flavor. Fairhope is known for its vibrant arts scene and bay views. The town’s First Friday Art Walk lets you enjoy local art after beaching.
12. Alabama Point East
Discover the hidden gem Alabama Point East near Perdido Pass Bridge, featuring scenic rock jetties perfect for fishing or coastal views. With easy access and parking, it’s a peaceful spot to watch dolphins in the morning.
