Best Western Pool Gulf Shores

Girlfriend Getaway

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Whether you're renewing friendships or taking the stress out of everyday life, there's no better place for a girlfriend’s getaway than Alabama's Beaches. Grab your gals and cameras and prepare for an unforgettable girls' trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Before planning your itinerary, it's best to book your lodging in advance. Beach accommodations abound along the Alabama Gulf Coast and many offer girlfriend getaway packages. Hotelscondos, and beach houses each have unique advantages. Look for amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, pools, tennis courts, on-site dining, and spa services.

Ideas for a Girls' Beach Trip

Girlfriends relaxing on the beach under an umbrella in Orange Beach
1

Hit the Beach

Hit the Beach

Sinking your toes into the sand is a must-do activity at the beach. Grab a beach chair or claim a piece of sand with your towel and enjoy the sun-kissed skies and pristine waters of the Alabama Gulf Coast. If you don't have beach gear, you can conveniently rent chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and more beach necessities from local outfitters that will deliver right to the shoreline. Get some great exercise with walks down the coastline or a fun beach game, or relax with a refreshing cocktail and a good book. Whether you choose to unwind or play, you'll love spending time on our sugar-white sand beaches.

Popular public beaches with amenities such as bathrooms, boardwalks, and showers include Gulf Place, Cotton Bayou, The Pavilion, and Alabama Point. If you and your girls are looking for a quieter spot to relax, accesses like Shell Beach, Romar Beach, and Lagoon Pass Park offer more secluded spots. 

girlfriends dining at zeke's waterfront restaurant in Orange Beach
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Dine at Our Local Restaurants

Dine at Our Local Restaurants

Alabama's Beaches have more restaurants than you can imagine and certainly more than you can visit during a weekend trip. With all the tempting food and tasty drinks, you may need to extend your getaway to a week-long vacation! Start your day with mimosas and Bloody Marys at a local brunch spot, then enjoy a scenic lunch at a waterfront restaurant. Round out your evening with a celebratory dinner at a fine-dining restaurant for coastal cocktails and unforgettable dishes. Whether you're in the mood for seafood or steaks, craft beers or coffee, you'll have a great selection of fabulous restaurants to make your vacation delicious.

Girlfriends sipping cocktails at Gulf Babe Wine Co. wine bar at The Wharf in Orange Beach
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Sip Together

Sip Together

Nothing beats grabbing a cocktail or two with your best gals, and on Alabama's Beaches, you'll find plenty of fantastic spots to catch up over drinks. Try the insta-worthy concoctions at Gulf Babe Wine Boutique, connect over a bottle of wine at Lauria's by the Beach, or enjoy colorful cocktails at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas. If you're looking to dine while you drink, discover the best happy hour spots in the area.

Women shopping at a local boutique at San Roc Cay shopping center in Orange Beach
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Shop Til' You Drop

Shop Til' You Drop

You can't go on vacation without picking up a new coastal outfit and a few souvenirs, so you can take the beach home with you. If the shopping bug bites you and your crew, you're in luck. Our area is home to outlet stores, specialty boutiques, art galleries, and even more places that will tempt even the pickiest of shoppers. A few noteworthy spots include The Wharf and SanRoc Cay, where you can find beachwear, jewelry, home decor, specialty food, and more! Turn your shopping spree into a full girls' day

Rosé private cruise boat in Orange Beach
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Book a Cruise

Book a Cruise

What better way to experience our beautiful waterways than on a cruise? You and your girls will love riding the waves together and catching the sunset. Choose from sailing adventures, dolphin cruises, and private charters. For a unique experience, book a ride with Cruisin' Tikis or Hammock Time Tiki Tours and float on a charming tiki bar boat. Many of these cruises are also BYOB so that you can sip your favorite spirits while aboard.

Women kayaking along the back bays in Orange Beach
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Hit the Water

Hit the Water

There's no shortage of fun here in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, as you'll discover plenty of exciting and relaxing watersports. Try paddleboarding or kayaking on the calm back bays and take in the beautiful scenery. If you're up for something a little more adventurous, soar above the shore on a parasailing excursion or fly across the waves on Jet Skis.

Friends enjoying a beachfront picnic by Beachside Blankets in Orange Beach
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Have a Beach Picnic

Have a Beach Picnic

Gather your girls for an unforgettable beachfront meal by planning a picnic. Grab snacks and drinks from local stores or pick up a to-go order at your favorite restaurant and take it to the beach. For an upscale, hassle-free experience, book a picnic with Beachside Blankets or Southern Charm Picnic Co., and let the pros set up a gorgeous spread for you. These photoworthy and low-stress picnics are perfect for celebrating a birthday, engagement, or graduation!

bushwacker cocktail at Flora-Bama beach bar
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Hop on a Bushwacker Shuttle

Hop on a Bushwacker Shuttle

Bushwackers are the unofficial drink of Alabama's Beaches, so it's customary to have at least one while you're visiting. If you can't decide where to order this iconic creamy concoction, take a ride on Surfside Shuttle's Bushwacker Tour. This bus tour will take you to four different local bars and restaurants, where you can try a variety of bushwackers without worrying about driving.

Women receiving a head massage at Serenity Spa in Orange Beach
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Enjoy a Spa or Wellness Experience

Enjoy a Spa or Wellness Experience

If this girls' trip is all about relaxing, book a session at a nearby spa in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. You and the girls will love unwinding together during a massage, facial, or manicure. After all, a beach trip should leave you feeling refreshed and recharged!  

People enjoying live music by the beach at Coastal Orange Beach waterfront restaurant
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Catch Live Music or Have a Night Out

Catch Live Music or Have a Night Out

Live music is an essential part of the coastal culture on Alabama’s Beaches, and there’s nothing like listening to talented musicians while enjoying fresh cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. While here, dine at a Gulf Shores or Orange Beach restaurant with live music to elevate your meal. If you’re looking to do more than tap your toes, grab drinks at a beach bar or local dive.

Girls' Beach Trip FAQs

What is the best month for a girls' trip to Gulf Shores?

Late April through May and mid-September through October are perfect for a girls' beach getaway as the weather and water are comfortable and crowds aren't as heavy.

Where are the most 'Instagrammable' spots for group photos?

Our beautiful area has plenty of Instagrammable restaurants, photo-worthy spots, and unique murals that make for perfect photo backdrops.

What should I pack for a girls' beach trip on Alabama's Beaches?

Sandals, swimsuits, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves at the beach. Check out our packing list to make sure you bring everything you need for a beach vacation!

Explore Rentals on Alabama's Beaches

Whatever your vacation style, Alabama’s Beaches have the perfect spot for you. Start planning by choosing your dates and group size, and explore the best vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, comfortable places to stay in Orange Beach, or the charming rentals of Fort Morgan. With verified listings, secure payments, and real support, there are plenty of reasons why you should book with us.

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Sydnie Lee

Visit Alabama's Beaches Content Specialist

A Gulf Coast native and Travel Marketing Professional, Sydnie is Alabama's Beaches Content Specialist (AKA taste tester and destination researcher.) She spends time visiting restaurants, attractions, activities, and events in the area to get the inside scoop on all things happening in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan.

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