a plate of crab claws at Coastal waterfront restaurant in Orange Beach

Must-Try Seafood

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Published on: November 11, 2025

If you want the real Gulf seafood experience, skip the chain restaurants and follow the locals. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are packed with restaurants, markets, and hidden gems where residents go for fresh, flavorful seafood. Explore the top seafood dishes that make dining on Alabama’s Beaches a true coastal tradition, along with where to taste them.

Best Seafood Dishes on Alabama’s Beaches

Royal Red Shrimp

Try royal red shrimp instead of lobster. Known for their bright red color and naturally salty, sweet flavor, these shrimp cook in half the time of other varieties. Locals love them sautéed, grilled, or lightly fried — just don’t overcook!

Blue Crab

Skip the snow crab and go for soft, sweet Gulf blue crab. Perfect for cracking open at the table or turning into a creamy crab dip. Locals often enjoy them fried, boiled, or in a seafood boil with plenty of seasoning.

Crab Claws

Pick crab claws instead of Alaskan king crab. These meaty morsels come from the ends of the blue crab’s claws and are commonly fried, grilled, or sautéed. Served with a side of dipping sauce, they’re a favorite appetizer among locals.

Gulf Fish plate with shoestring fries and Mac and cheese at Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails seafood restaurant in Gulf Shores

Catch of the Day

Ask for the fresh catch instead of salmon. While the fish varies daily, it’s always locally sourced and prepared to order — fried, grilled, or blackened. Fresh catch is the ultimate way to taste the Gulf.

a plate of oysters at The Steamer gulf shores seafood restaurant

Farm-Raised Oysters

Locals go for farm-raised oysters over wild ones. These are grown in Gulf waters, support the ecosystem, and taste amazing. Ask your server where the oysters come from — many restaurants source from local spots like Navy Cove or Admiral Shellfish.

Locally Loved Seafood Spots

Friends dining at The Gulf beachfront seafood restaurant in Orange Beach

Want to eat like a true local? Whether you’re dining out or picking up the catch of the day, Alabama's Beaches are full of local seafood spots residents swear by.

Seafood Markets & Take-Home Options

fresh fish filets at Blalock's seafood market in Gulf Shores

If you’d rather cook your own Gulf seafood feast or bring home a taste of the coast, visit these local seafood markets in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You'll find fresh fish, crab, shrimp, and more delicious offerings from the Gulf.

These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.