Extend Your 2026 Soccer Tournament Trip
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
After a high-energy soccer tournament, you need a beach break. Alabama’s Beaches are the perfect destination for a laid-back and restorative family vacation in a beautiful Southern setting. The area offers travelers a safe and clean environment to unwind and enjoy the slower pace of coastal life. Extend your big trip with a beach vacation and explore the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Don’t worry! You can still keep up with all the action at local bars and game-day restaurants while enjoying your much-needed getaway.
Easy Transfers from Major Tournament Host Cities
Alabama’s Beaches are an easy-to-reach destination from several tournament host cities in the Southeast and Midwest, thanks to well-connected highway systems and regional air travel. We’ve even put together a road trip playlist for you to listen to as you make your way from these bustling cities to our relaxing, coastal setting.
From Atlanta
From Atlanta
The drive from Atlanta to Alabama’s Beaches is approximately 348 miles and typically takes between five and six hours in normal traffic. The best way to travel is to take the direct route along I-85 South to I-65 South. There are plenty of great road trip spots along I-65 to stop and stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and experience more of the South’s unique and diverse culture. Nearby airports in Pensacola (PNS) and Mobile (MOB) also offer direct flights to and from Atlanta and are only about an hour away.
From Houston
From Houston
A typical trip from Houston to Alabama’s Beaches is about a 520-mile journey and takes around eight hours to complete. Be sure to check out this Texas road trip itinerary with all the best pit stops to break up the journey! Texas travelers can also fly from Houston to nearby airports, such as Pensacola International, then drive about 1 hour to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
From Kansas City
From Kansas City
Soccer fans in Kansas City can easily reach the beach with a nonstop flight on Allegiant Airlines from Kansas City International (MCI) to Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). These affordable and quick flights are about two hours long and land only a few miles from the shoreline, making them the most convenient way to travel to Alabama’s Beaches from the Midwest.
Trade Stadium Crowds for Sugar-White Sand on Alabama’s Beaches
Alabama’s Beaches offer a refreshing contrast from the large tournament host cities, as things move a little slower on the Gulf Coast. With miles of beautiful beaches, gorgeous natural landscapes, and fresh Gulf seafood, soccer fans will have the opportunity to unwind and recharge after witnessing this exciting and unforgettable tournament.
Relax on Alabama’s Pristine Beaches
Relax on Alabama’s Pristine Beaches
32 miles of sugar-white sand and glistening turquoise waters line the shorelines of Alabama’s Beaches. The squeaky sand boasts the soft texture of fine quartz, while the warm Gulf is ideal for swimming and watersports. Beach activities include building sandcastles, soaking up the sun, splashing and swimming in the surf, enjoying long walks along the shoreline, watching mesmerizing Southern sunsets over the Gulf, and taking long beach naps.
Discover Fun Family-Friendly Adventures
Discover Fun Family-Friendly Adventures
When it’s time for some family fun, there are plenty of incredible things to do for both kids and adults. On the water, families will enjoy unique experiences like dolphin cruises, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing charters, and scenic boat tours. These activities offer guests memorable and exciting ways to explore the local waterways. On land, our area also boasts one-of-a-kind attractions, including a historic Civil War fort, a thrilling waterpark, a go-kart track, and a zoo with hands-on animal encounters.
Stay in a Beach House with Gulf Views
Stay in a Beach House with Gulf Views
Whether you’re traveling with your significant other, friends, family, or even solo, there’s a place for you on our beaches. Alabama’s Beaches offers a wide range of lodging options, including beach houses, condos, hotels, and resorts, many of which are waterfront. Accommodations such as condos and beach homes are ideal for families and groups, as they include multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and shared living spaces. Many rentals also offer amenities such as direct beach access, balconies, pools, and scenic Gulf views. These accommodations will enhance your beach vacation and provide even more opportunities to recharge.
Enjoy Laid-Back Coastal Seafood Dining
Enjoy Laid-Back Coastal Seafood Dining
The dining scene along the Alabama Gulf Coast is unlike anywhere else. Dining experiences range from casual seafood spots and local eateries to fine-dining restaurants. The star of the show is the freshly caught Gulf seafood, including shrimp, oysters, fish, and blue crab. Seafood restaurants in the area serve these specialties, and many more delicious dishes, and many spots offer waterfront views, live music, and outdoor seating. Pair your meal with a refreshing coastal cocktail or decadent Southern dessert for an unforgettable coastal lunch or dinner.
Reconnect with Nature on Scenic Trails
Reconnect with Nature on Scenic Trails
The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Visitors can experience the area's unique flora and fauna at places like Gulf State Park and Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Both sites have hiking trails where visitors can spot wildlife and enjoy a scenic, quiet environment. Gulf State Park also boasts paved biking trails for those who want to explore on two wheels. Guests will love connecting with nature in these wondrous outdoor spots.
Sydnie Lee
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.
