Why Alabama Beaches Rank Among Gulf Coast’s Hidden Gems

Just west of Florida’s famed Emerald Coast, beaches of white sand as soft as baby powder stretch toward the Gulf of Mexico’s sparkling turquoise waters. Where does this happen? Well, it’s just another day on the Alabama beaches.

Alabama Beaches Overview: Gulf Coast and Orange Beach

Gulf Coast and Orange Beach

Alabama’s beaches frequently rank among top U.S. beaches, they are still one of the Gulf Coast’s hidden gems. With Florida to the west, the Alabama Gulf region attracts vacationers who enjoy Southern hospitality, friendly people and lots to do. The Gulf Shores-Orange Beach has won accolades for its beach-loving vibes, including most underrated U.S. destinations, best Southern beaches and most charming towns in America.

Things to Do

The top Alabama beaches feature Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, two popular beach towns. They offer vacation amenities that keep visitors coming back, such as pristine sugar-like beaches, action-packed water sports, fresh-water and deep-sea fishing, championship golf courses, fresh seafood, delicious dining, boutique and novelty shopping, nature preserves and magnificent sunsets.

In addition, nine championship golf courses are located close to area beaches and vacation rentals. Golfers will find a choice of beautiful courses designed by some of the sport’s legendary players. Golfers can test their game at Cotton Creek or Cypress Bend, Craft Farm’s two Arnold Palmer-designed courses, or hone their strokes on courses designed by Jerry Pate, Bruce Devlin and Earl Stone. Each of the area’s courses is distinctive and challenging, providing golf fans with challenges.

Alabama Beaches Events

The outdoors and beach scenery aren’t the only reason to vacation in Alabama’s beaches. The area also hosts several events throughout the year that celebrate music, food and fun. From shrimp festivals to country music jams, vacationers have a blast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Must-sees include:

  • Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party and Flora-Bama Interstate Mullet Toss
  • Gulf Coast Hot-Air Balloon Fest
  • Hangout Music Fest
  • Wharf Uncooked and Drink Fest
  • National Shrimp Festival

Get an in-depth look at these top Alabama beach festivals. Explore these Gulf Coast gems and learn more about the Alabama Beaches region.