Coastal Codes
on Alabama's Beaches
You may have heard of the Coastal Codes of Alabama’s Beaches in our ads or videos. If you haven’t, don’t worry. These codes aren’t strict rules you need to memorize. Our Coastal Codes are a playful way of describing how life naturally unfolds in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. These so-called “rules” are really shared moments and habits visitors (and locals) quickly fall into once they arrive on our shores.
What the Coastal Code Means for Alabama’s Beaches
When visiting Alabama’s Beaches, guests tend to slow down and fall into the rhythm of coastal life – most often, without even trying. That’s just the natural effect of vacationing on our beaches. In other words, visitors enter “vacation mode” when arriving. Things like leaving your flip flops on the boardwalk, slurping fresh raw oysters, and waving at dolphins in the water come instinctively while on the Alabama Gulf Coast. These codes are experienced, not followed.
Everyday Coastal Code Rules in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
While there is no set number of Coastal Codes, here are a few. You may already follow these codes without realizing it, and you might even come up with a few of your own while you're here.
- Ice cream is sometimes called dinner.
- Accept it, you’re coming back with sand in your suitcase.
- If you forget what day it is, stay one more to figure it out.
- Never leave a basket of crab claws unattended.
- Beach naps count as research.
- It’s totally acceptable to wear a bib when having a seafood boil.
- There’s no such thing as too many times on the waterslide.
- Bushwackers always taste better before noon.
- Fresh Gulf shrimp are better when shared...with no one.
Coastal Code Rules You Might Already Recognize
You may be familiar with some of these rules from either our videos or your own time on our shores. These Coastal Codes allow us to share the unique culture of Alabama’s Beaches through short, memorable rules that capture everyday beach moments we all love.
Rule # 87: Summer isn't Really Summer Without a Beach Trip
From sugar-white sand and warm Gulf waters to family-friendly attractions and waterfront dining, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach make it easy to plan a summer vacation everyone will love.
Rule #88: The Best Summer Plans are the Ones You Don't Overthink
In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, family beach days unfold naturally. Enjoy morning swims in the Gulf, afternoons building sandcastles, and evenings enjoying fresh seafood and coastal sunsets. Explore outdoor activities and some of our fantastic attractions, too.
Come Experience It for Yourself
Ready to experience these Coastal Codes for yourself? Imagine your own unique beach experiences and start planning a visit to Alabama’s Beaches. From listening to the waves, showing off your skills on the grill, and racing towards the water, there are plenty of codes for everyone to follow. You’ll get it when you get here.
Alabama's Beaches
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.
