Dad and kids on the beach in Gulf Shores

Must-Visit Places

in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Looking for things to do on your Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation? I’ve got nine fantastic spots that everyone in your group will love! The suggestions below are must-visit restaurants and attractions that you definitely should fit into your itinerary the next time you’re on Alabama's Beaches! These incredible beach spots rank high on my travel-loving family's list.

Best Beach Restaurants

Family dining outdoors at The Gulf beachfront seafood restaurant in Orange Beach
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The Gulf

The Gulf

The Gulf is one of the best eateries to lounge at the beach with a fresh coastal meal. Constructed from bright blue shipping containers stacked along the waterline, this casual beach restaurant is sprinkled with lounge chairs and tables in the sand. It’s up-scaled patio-seating, beach-bum style. While you can’t get into the water from the restaurant, you can enjoy the expansive Gulf views and watch boats passing by.

Friends dancing on the table at The Hangout beach restaurant in Gulf Shores
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The Hangout

The Hangout

Categorizing The Hangout as a restaurant just doesn’t cut it. More than a restaurant, it’s an experience. We can’t put our finger on the best part of this Gulf-front spot: the family-friendly DJ? Dancing on the table? Hourly foam pit? Live music? Great seafood? This trendy spot lives up to its name. It’ definitely a place you’ll want to spend time and hang out.

Family dining at LuLu's waterfront restaurant in Gulf Shores
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LuLu’s

LuLu’s

LuLu's is another wonderful waterfront restaurant that's one of my family's favorites. With an arcade, ropes course, and sandpit, waiting for a table has never been so much fun. The restaurant is renowned for its food allergy menu. Travelers with food sensitivities often find comfort in the wealth of gluten-free, shellfish-free, seafood-free, egg-free, soy-free, and dairy-free food items offered here.

Family dining at the Sea-N-Sunds seafood restaurant in Gulf Shores
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Sea-N-Suds

Sea-N-Suds

For those travelers who like small local, mom-and-pop spots, Sea-N-Suds is the place! Serving diners for more than 50 years, this seafood restaurant is casual dining at its Southern-fried best. The view from Sea-N-Suds is matchless, located right on the beach; you can wear your finest beach attire and no one will bat an eye.

Top Beach Activities & Attractions

Man riding a jet ski rental from Flora-Bama Marina & Watersports in Orange Beach
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Flora-Bama Marina & Watersports

Flora-Bama Marina & Watersports

If you want to explore the open waters sans guide, then Flora-Bama Marina & Watersports is your one-stop shop for the water equipment you’ll need! Located across the street from the Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar, you can end your long water day at what’s considered to be “America’s last great roadhouse” listening to some live music, offered 365 days a year.

Pirate Ship on Alabama's Beaches
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Fun Watersports & Cruises

Fun Watersports & Cruises

When you get the itch to explore the waters beyond the shoreline, get out on the water with some local guides. Cetacean Cruises, Coastal Kayak Rentals, and the Orange Beach Pirate Ship Cruise are all really great options!

Boy petting a lemur during an animal encounter at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
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Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Known as the Little Zoo That Could, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo may not be big, but it sure does leave a lasting impression. Their animal encounters are a favorite for visitors! We highly recommend their lemur experience!

Kids biking along the trail in Gulf State Park
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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Take a scenic ride through Gulf State Park's 28 miles of paved trails. During your adventure, visit the Nature Center, a living museum that houses live alligators and owls! Didn’t bring a bike with you on vacay? No worries. Rent one right next to the trail at Beach Bike Rentals or take advantage of the park's free bike sharing program.

Aerial view of Historic Fort Morgan attraction in Gulf Shores
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Historic Fort Morgan

Historic Fort Morgan

Located at the very west end of the island is Historic Fort Morgan, a battle site and historic landmark dating back to the 1800s that shouldn’t be missed. After exploring the fortified walls and batteries, make a stop at The Village Lawn, Gulf Shores’ only food truck court and family area! The Village Lawn is only open seasonally from May to September.

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