Alabama may have a small portion of the US Gulf Coast, but the state boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Gulf of Mexico. The Alabama Gulf Coast features pristine, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, making it an ideal vacation destination.
Here’s a list of the top six beaches in Alabama.
1. Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores is a world-renowned beach destination that offers visitors a one-of-a-kind beach experience. The town is home to 15 public beaches that are located near the bustling downtown area. These beaches are equipped with volleyball nets, picnic pavilions, and restrooms.
People using wheelchairs can also enjoy the sand and sun, thanks to the beach access mats installed by the city. The Gulf State Park Pavilion is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Visitors can enjoy a snack bar, private showers, plenty of shade, and air-conditioned restrooms.
The pavilion also has a large central fireplace that provides a cozy atmosphere during the winter months while still offering spectacular sunsets over the gulf. Gulf Shores is also home to many dining and entertainment venues, such as The Hangout, Souvenir City, and Shrimpy’s Grill and Golf.
2. Orange Beach
Orange Beach is another popular beach destination in Alabama. The city has three main beaches, Shell Beach, Alabama Point East, and Cotton Bayou, all of which are part of Gulf State Park. Cotton Bayou is the most popular beach among visitors as it lies conveniently off Perdido Beach Boulevard between a row of high-rise condominiums.
There is ample and free parking located near the beach. Orange Beach also offers visitors over a mile of white sandy beaches, picnic areas, and restrooms. The beach is also ideal for skimboarding.
3. Dauphin Island
Dauphin Island is a 14-mile-long barrier island that is the Sunset Capital of Alabama. The island has three public beaches, all of which are located off Bienville Boulevard. These beaches offer visitors plenty of fun in the sun and surf, beautiful gulf views, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
The main public beach is located next to the island’s middle school, while the East End Beach is dog-friendly and located in close proximity to the Historic Fort Gaines and the Alabama Aquarium. For a more secluded experience, visitors can head to the West End Beach.
4. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,000-acre wildlife refuge located along the Fort Morgan Peninsula. The refuge is home to over 350 species of birds and an impressive lineup of wildlife, including alligators, sea turtles, and deer. Visitors can access the refuge’s secluded beach via the Pine Beach Trail on Alabama Highway 180, which is a beautiful hike but requires visitors to carry their beach gear.
Alternatively, visitors can park for free at the end of the long and winding Mobile Street off Alabama Highway 180 and access the beach, which stretches east for almost two miles along the Gulf of Mexico. However, there are no lifeguards on duty at this beach, and visitors must swim at their own risk.
5. Pirate’s Cove
Pirate’s Cove is a bay-centric beach located on the north side of a bayou along a small strip of sandy beach just north of Orange Beach. The beach is located at a bar and grill that has been serving up some of the best burgers around for over 80 years.
The Cove is also dog-friendly, and visitors can dine inside or sit and people-watch from an outside table. Parking can be a challenge, but it is well worth the visit. Visitors can also park their boats at the Cove’s marina.
6. North Beach Park
North Beach Park is situated along the banks of Mobile Bay in the town of Fairhope. The park features a half-mile stretch of sand with gorgeous views of the relatively calm waters of the bay and the Mobile skyline on the opposite side. Visitors can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the bay.
The park also offers a 1-mile paved walking trail, a large duck pond with aerating water fountains, picnic tables with barbecue grills, playgrounds for the kids, and recently renovated restrooms. However, dogs are not allowed on the beach, and there is a fee for non-residents to use the beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
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