Gulf Shores, Alabama – Complete Visitors Guide
Gulf Shores, Alabama is one of the most beloved vacation destinations on the Gulf Coast, known for its sugar-white beaches, emerald waters, family-friendly attractions, delicious seafood, and warm Southern hospitality. Travelers come from all over the country to experience its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, laid-back vibes, and vibrant coastal nightlife. Whether you're planning a family beach trip, a romantic getaway, or a week of exploring Alabama’s coast, Gulf Shores offers an outstanding mix of attractions, scenery, and local charm.
This Visitors Guide covers everything you need to know before planning your stay at a Gulf Shores Vacation Rental — including things to do, weather, restaurants, beach access, FAQs, packing tips, and more.
1. Why Visitors Love Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores is a destination that appeals to every type of traveler. Visitors love coming here for its uncrowded beaches, miles of soft white sand, and calm Gulf waters perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing under an umbrella.
Nature lovers enjoy the proximity to Gulf State Park, an expansive area filled with hiking and biking trails, freshwater lakes, wildlife, and eco-adventures like Segway tours and guided nature walks. Families appreciate the many kid-friendly attractions such as the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Waterville USA waterpark, mini-golf, and dolphin cruises. Food lovers are drawn to Gulf Shores for its fresh Gulf seafood, local oyster houses, and family-owned restaurants.
The atmosphere is casual and friendly, the scenery is stunning, and the activities are endless — making Gulf Shores one of the Gulf Coast’s most enjoyable spots.
2. Things to Do in Gulf Shores
Below are some of the top activities visitors enjoy, all located close to central Gulf Shores.
1. Gulf State Park
Address: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance from Gulf Shores: 2.5 miles
This beautiful park spans more than 6,000 acres, offering hiking trails, bike rentals, Segway tours, beaches, lakes, wildlife viewing, and the Gulf State Park Pier — one of the longest on the Gulf Coast.
Distance from Gulf Shores: 2.5 miles
This beautiful park spans more than 6,000 acres, offering hiking trails, bike rentals, Segway tours, beaches, lakes, wildlife viewing, and the Gulf State Park Pier — one of the longest on the Gulf Coast.
2. The Hangout Gulf Shores
Address: 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 0.1 miles
A famous beachfront dining and entertainment venue featuring live music, events, games, and an unbeatable location right on the sand.
Distance: 0.1 miles
A famous beachfront dining and entertainment venue featuring live music, events, games, and an unbeatable location right on the sand.
3. Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Address: 20499 Oak Rd E, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 3.2 miles
Known as “The Little Zoo That Could,” this attraction features animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family fun.
Distance: 3.2 miles
Known as “The Little Zoo That Could,” this attraction features animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family fun.
4. Waterville USA
Address: 906 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 1.3 miles
A waterpark and amusement park with slides, wave pools, go-karts, and mini golf. A perfect rainy-day or sunny-day activity for kids.
Distance: 1.3 miles
A waterpark and amusement park with slides, wave pools, go-karts, and mini golf. A perfect rainy-day or sunny-day activity for kids.
5. Historic Fort Morgan
Address: 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 22 miles
A legendary Civil War fort offering tours, exhibits, and stunning views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf. Great for history lovers.
Distance: 22 miles
A legendary Civil War fort offering tours, exhibits, and stunning views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf. Great for history lovers.
6. The Wharf at Orange Beach
Address: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL
Distance: 7.8 miles
A popular entertainment district with shopping, restaurants, Ferris wheel, live concerts, and the marina.
Distance: 7.8 miles
A popular entertainment district with shopping, restaurants, Ferris wheel, live concerts, and the marina.
7. Dolphin Cruises & Fishing Charters (Multiple Providers)
Departure Point: 27500 Perdido Beach Blvd (approx.)
Distance: 6–8 miles
Gulf Shores is known for its dolphin sightings and deep-sea fishing opportunities. Many charters offer sunset tours and family excursions.
Distance: 6–8 miles
Gulf Shores is known for its dolphin sightings and deep-sea fishing opportunities. Many charters offer sunset tours and family excursions.
3. Gulf Shores Weather – Month-by-Month Overview
Gulf Shores enjoys a warm coastal climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
Winter months (December through February) stay mild, with high temperatures in the low to mid-60s, lows in the 40s, and Gulf water temperatures in the low 60s. Sunshine is common, though light rainstorms occasionally move through. This season is ideal for peaceful beach walks, fishing, and exploring Gulf State Park.
Winter months (December through February) stay mild, with high temperatures in the low to mid-60s, lows in the 40s, and Gulf water temperatures in the low 60s. Sunshine is common, though light rainstorms occasionally move through. This season is ideal for peaceful beach walks, fishing, and exploring Gulf State Park.
Spring (March through May) is one of the best times to visit, with highs rising from the low 70s in March to the low 80s in May. Water temperatures warm from the mid-60s to the mid-70s, and sunshine becomes abundant. This season is perfect for swimming, boating, biking, and family activities.
Summer (June through August) brings classic Gulf Coast weather: highs around 88–92°F, warm evenings in the mid-70s, Gulf water temperatures reaching 82–85°F, and long sunny days. Summer also brings scattered afternoon showers, but they typically pass quickly. It's the most popular beach season thanks to the warm water and lively atmosphere.
Fall (September through November) offers gorgeous weather, with highs in the low 80s in September dropping to the low 70s by November. Water temperatures remain warm into late October, and rain chances decrease. Many travelers consider fall to be the ideal time to visit due to comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
4. Five Closest Restaurants to Central Gulf Shores
Here are five popular restaurants closest to the main Gulf Shores beach area near East Beach Boulevard.
1. The Hangout Gulf Shores
Address: 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 0.1 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, American, live entertainment
Distance: 0.1 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, American, live entertainment
2. Pink Pony Pub
Address: 137 E Gulf Pl, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 0.2 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, burgers, Gulf-front bar
Distance: 0.2 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, burgers, Gulf-front bar
3. Sea-N-Sud’s Restaurant
Address: 405 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 0.4 miles
Cuisine: Classic Gulf seafood, beachfront
Distance: 0.4 miles
Cuisine: Classic Gulf seafood, beachfront
4. Original Oyster House
Address: 701 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 1.0 mile
Cuisine: Oysters, seafood platters, Southern coastal cuisine
Distance: 1.0 mile
Cuisine: Oysters, seafood platters, Southern coastal cuisine
5. LuLu’s Gulf Shores
Address: 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL
Distance: 2.0 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, live music, family-friendly
Distance: 2.0 miles
Cuisine: Seafood, live music, family-friendly
5. How to Access the Beach
Gulf Shores offers multiple public beach access points, all clearly marked with signage. In the central beach district:
- Public parking areas are located along East and West Beach Boulevard.
- Boardwalks and dune walkovers provide direct access to the sand.
- Wheelchair-accessible ramps are available at select locations.
- Some condo communities have private walkways for direct beach access.
Visitors should follow posted rules, including no glass containers, keeping off the dunes, and observing flag-warning systems for water safety.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is there to do in the Gulf Shores area?
Gulf Shores offers beaches, Gulf State Park, The Hangout, Fort Morgan, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Waterville USA, fishing charters, shopping, and live music.
2. What local restaurants or bars have a HAPPY HOUR?
Popular happy hour spots include The Hangout, Bahama Bob’s, Pink Pony Pub, and LuLu’s. Hours vary by season, so check daily specials.
3. Are there alligators in Gulf State Park?
Yes — Gulf State Park is a natural habitat for alligators. They are usually found near freshwater lakes. Visitors should observe from a distance.
4. What are things to do with children when it rains?
Top rainy-day options include Waterville USA’s indoor attractions, The Factory trampoline park, mini-golf arcades, movie theaters, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
5. Are there any pet-friendly beach areas & restaurants?
Yes — while Gulf Shores Public Beach has restrictions, nearby Fort Morgan Beach and some bayside parks allow dogs. Many restaurants with outdoor patios are pet-friendly.
6. What information is there about the amenities at Gulf State Park, like Segway tours and bike rentals?
Gulf State Park offers Segway tours, bike rentals, kayak rentals, fishing, hiking trails, guided nature programs, and beach access points.
7. What are the best areas to stay to enjoy beaches and nightlife?
East Beach near The Hangout and West Beach near Gulf Place offer the best mix of nightlife, restaurants, and quick access to the beach.
8. What are the rules of the beach for having tents, umbrellas, etc.?
Tents must stay behind marked lines, umbrellas should not limit lifeguard visibility, and items cannot be left overnight. Follow posted daily rules.
9. Are there pet-friendly rentals in the area? How do I find them?
Yes — many Gulf Shores rentals allow pets. On ECBYO.com, use search filters to choose Pet-Friendly options to view available homes and condos.
10. Where do the locals eat seafood?
Locals love places like Sea-N-Sud’s, Original Oyster House, Acme Oyster House, and Bahama Bob’s for fresh Gulf seafood.
8. Packing Checklist for Gulf Shores Visitors
Beach Essentials
- Beach towels
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Aloe vera
- Beach chairs or rentals
- Umbrella or tent
- Cooler with drinks
- Beach toys for kids
- Sunglasses & sun hat
Clothing
- Swimsuits
- Flip-flops
- Lightweight outfits
- Evening wear for restaurants
- Light jacket (spring/fall evenings)
Electronics
- Phone chargers
- Camera or GoPro
- Power bank
- Bluetooth speaker
Food & Condo Supplies
- Coffee & filters
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Laundry pods
- Ziplock bags
Optional Items
- Fishing gear
- Bikes
- Beach wagon
- Snorkel gear
Start planning your Gulf Shores Vacation today!
