Best Sunrise Spots
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
There's no better place to watch a sunrise than Alabama's Beaches. The vibrant colors and gorgeous views of the Gulf make the sunrises in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan unlike any other. While there's no bad spot on our island to view the sunrise, we've highlighted a few of the best places to catch this beautiful spectacle. Grab a cup of coffee and head to one of these spots to start your morning with an incredible view.
Best Places to Watch the Sunrise on Alabama's Beaches
The Beach
The Beach
Of course, the beach is one of the best spots to watch the sunrise, and our destination has 32 miles of shores for you to choose from. The view of the sun slowly rising and glistening onto the water is quite a sight to see. We suggest taking a stroll along the sand east, so you can face the sun as it rises. Public beach accesses like Alabama Point, Shell Beach, the Pavilion, and Lagoon Pass Park are ideal because they offer less obstructed views than other access points.
Gulf State Park Pier
Gulf State Park Pier
You don't have to be an angler to appreciate the Gulf State Park Fishing & Education Pier. This pier is one of the longest on the Gulf Coast and provides fantastic views. Open 24/7, it offers sightseers a wonderful place to watch the sunrise or sunset. You may even spot some local wildlife and marine life while there. The pier has bathrooms, paid parking, and a concession stand. Admission is $3.
Orange Beach Waterfront Park & Pier
Orange Beach Waterfront Park & Pier
If you're looking for a peaceful place to set up a beach chair and watch the sunrise without worrying about crowds, head to Orange Beach Waterfront Park. This waterfront park sits on the canal and features a beautiful pier. This area is equipped with bathrooms, parking, and benches. It's also pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the sunrise too.
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
How about an early morning run or bike ride through Gulf State Park to begin your day? With 28 miles of paved trails and several entrance points, there is a lot to explore within the park and plenty of spots to stop and watch the sunrise. In some parts of the park, you won't have the same unobstructed view as you would at the beach, but the sunlight shimmering through the tall oak trees and illuminating the area's natural wonders is an unforgettable sight.
Bear Point Harbor
Bear Point Harbor
Sitting on the bay, Bear Point Harbor is nestled on the very east end of the island. Because of this, it is a spectacular location to watch the sunrise. You can walk along the marina or sit at the end of the boardwalks and let your legs dangle as you take in the breathtaking views. Parking is available onsite and is free.
Kayak & Paddleboard Sunrise
Kayak & Paddleboard Sunrise
Pack your paddles and hit the back bays for a relaxing morning workout with a view. Kayaking and paddleboarding are two fabulous ways to start the day and catch the sunrise as it gleams over the water. Our area is home to 22 launch sites and plenty of local outfitters that deliver equipment to your accommodation or launch point.
Tips for Watching the Sunrise
Watching the Sunrise in Winter vs. Summer
Watching the Sunrise in Winter vs. Summer
Because of daylight savings, the sunrises on Alabama's Beaches vary throughout the year, so check your weather app for the daily sunrise time. When watching the sunrise in the summer and fall, we suggest wearing light, comfortable clothes. The sunrise is earlier in the winter and early spring months, and the mornings can get pretty chilly. It's best to wear a jacket and pants. However, these colder months bring the most vibrant sunrises to our beaches.
Sunrise Times & Weather
Sunrise Times & Weather
Be sure to check when the sunrise is each day so you don't accidentally miss it. Weather can alter how visible the sunrise is. We advise you to check the weather before heading out to watch the sunrise and don't go to the beach during severe weather.
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.
Golden
It’s no secret that sunrises and sunsets on Alabama’s Gulf Coast are spectacular. Grab your coffee and start the day by watching the sun emerge from the Gulf of Mexico or take in a Gulf Shores and Orange Beach sunset. Those vibrantly colored hues of red, yellow, pink and orange make you stop and take it all in. You can catch a gorgeous sunset up and down the coastline.
During the summer months, the sun actually sets over the bay behind the shoreline instead of over the Gulf. In May, the sun sets behind the beach resorts. There’s nothing quite like it.
