Shopping Alabama Beaches: Guide to 8 Family-Friendly Spots
Whether visiting Alabama’s beaches for family vacation or quick retreat, everyone should make time to buy something special. From big-box retailers to locally owned boutiques, those shopping Alabama beaches find what they need to do just that. To guide travelers in the right direction, we rounded up eight top spots for shopping Alabama beaches. Check out the best places.
Shopping Alabama Beaches: Large Centers
Those looking for more than quick stops can shop ’til they drop at several shopping centers located in the area. From outlet stores to upscale boutiques, shopping Alabama beaches promises selection.
Outlet Malls, The Wharf, Outdoor Options
Find great deals on more than 120 brands and stores at Tanger Outlets in nearby Folly. This large outlet mall operates dozens of locations throughout the U.S., and offers big savings. The whole family will enjoy looking for apparel and clothing, accessories, gifts and much more.
At The Wharf, visitors find dozens of specialty shops and boutiques as well as entertainment options. The Wharf serves as a hot spot for dining, shopping, local events and houses a large Ferris Wheel. The open-air mall welcomes guests to explore stores selling everything from beachwear and sweets to specialty gifts. The area features two floors of shopping options as well as an onsite amphitheater, movie theater, and marina.
Stop by Sanroc Cay for boutique shopping paired with a coastal vibe. This entertainment center features over a dozen shops and restaurants as well as local businesses including a spa. To make a day of it, plan a family adventure with one of Sanroc Cay’s water activities. Located onsite, the marina welcomes guests to take fishing charters, try parasailing and get up close with dolphins.
Another top spot for shopping Alabama beaches is Pelican Place at Craft Farms. This outdoor mall features tropical landscape anchored by big-box stores such as Target and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Others include The Bag Lady, Little Monkey Toes, Hibbett Sports and Beach House Boutique. When it’s time to recharge, visit one of several restaurants that serve everything from sweets to international flavors. TO make it a full day, see the latest releases at Cobb theater.
Shopping Alabama Beaches: Souvenir Shops
One of the most iconic places for shopping Alabama beaches is Souvenir City Gulf Shores. Located outside the shop, a large shark greets visitors and dares them to enter the mouth where they take pictures and pick up snacks. Once inside, browse thousands of items, ranging from coffee mugs to apparel and home décor. In addition to traditional beach souvenirs, guests find handcrafted art, trinkets and special gifts. Souvenir City Gulf Shores stocks several brands, including Salt Life, Girlie Girl Originals and Southern Couture, to name a few.
Mainstream Souvenir Shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Located next door to Souvenir City, check out the Purple Octopus. This popular shop features a large purple octopus, perfect for more photo ops, as well as souvenirs, kiddie rides and a T-shirt factory. Inside the store, browse souvenirs including shells, handmade items, décor, and jewelry. Before leaving, order something from Yabba’s, the onsite ice cream and candy shop.
Island Outfitters operates several stores throughout the southeast, but the Gulf Shores location ranks high as a top place for shopping Alabama beaches. In addition to souvenirs, Island Outfitters has a large selection of clothing, sunglasses, beach toys and essentials. Guests are also welcome to rent bikes, beach umbrellas and chairs, providing everything families need for beach day.
With four locations in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it’s all about fun in the sun at Surf Style. This shop is a great place for beach clothing and Gulf Shores souvenirs, and ranks as a fun place to shop. In fact, kids have a blast playing outside in the splash area, which is lighted at night.
Looking for more fun activities? Check out 10 attractions in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Need accommodations? Browse a large selection of Alabama beaches vacation homes.