The Signature Drink
A visit to Alabama’s Beaches isn’t complete without sipping on the area’s signature drink: the Bushwacker. Known for its rich and creamy flavor, this boozy treat blends rum, coffee liqueur, crème de cacao, and coconut cream to create a dessert-like cocktail.
The History of the Bushwacker
Originally crafted in 1975 at the Ship's Store, Sapphire Pub in St. Thomas, the bushwacker made its way stateside thanks to The Sandshaker Beach Bar in Pensacola. Flora-Bama added its own twist to the bushwacker, helping it become a true coastal favorite. It’s the perfect balance of tropical flavors and creamy decadence, offering a sip of paradise in every glass and making it a must-try indulgence in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Best Bushwackers on Alabama's Beaches
Ready to try the best bushwackers in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan? Follow this three-day itinerary for the best the island has to offer! From a traditional bushwacker to desserts, the Bushwacker Trail will surely satisfy. Be sure to share your photos with us for a chance to be featured.
Fun Facts About Bushwackers
- The bushwacker was named after a visiting couple’s dog Bushwack, an Afghan Hound.
- It was originally crafted as a tropical twist to a White Russian.
- A bartender first created the drink in Ship’s Store in Sapphire Village on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands in 1975.
- Three-time World Champion, Bushwacker was named the number one bull in history by Professional Bull Riders.
- President Barak Obama tried a bushwacker when visiting Orange Beach in 2010 after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
- The original bushwacker recipe included Vodka, Kahlua, Dark Crème de Cacao, Coco Lopez (cream of coconut), a splash of Triple sec and milk
- Floaters are an extra shot added to the top of the drink. Peanut butter whiskey is a common bushwacker floater on Alabama's Beaches.
Restaurants Serving Bushwackers
Curious about where to try a bushwacker or what a bushwacker tastes like? Now’s the perfect time to explore the Gulf Coast’s top bushwacker spots to sip, sample, and savor this iconic drink like never before.
Curious about where to try a bushwacker or what a bushwacker tastes like? Now’s the perfect time to explore the Gulf Coast’s top bushwacker spots to sip, sample, and savor this iconic drink like never before.
The Hangout
The Hangout is the place for great food and family fun. Come enjoy live entertainment, relax around the fire pit...
Cosmo's Restaurant & Bar
Off the beaten path on Canal Road in Orange Beach, Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar is far from ordinary. Serving fresh...
YoHo Rum and Tacos
YoHo Rum & Tacos and the Boat Bar in Orange Beach offers the freshest tacos, signature entrees with a coastal...
Moe's Original Bar B Que
We were founded by three Bama boys who met at the University of Alabama. After opening several locations throughout Alabama...
Cactus Cantina on Canal Road
Come enjoy laid back Mexican food in a casual, fun atmosphere. We have the best food on the Gulf. Come...
Tee Off at the Wharf
Tee Off powered by Topgolf Swing Suite is a dining and entertainment venue that features golf-simulation games and a variety...
Tipsy Pelican Oyster and Daiquiri Patio Bar
It’s OFFICIAL!! Your new favorite outside oyster and daiquiri bar has arrived!Come help us break in YOUR NEW HANG OUT...
Tacky Jacks 2 - Fort Morgan
Traveling Media Exclusive Offer Welcome to Tacky Jacks, where the views are always free and the good times are guaranteed...
Zeke's Restaurant and Landing
Perfect for lunch or a romantic date night with a place for the kids to play safely. Located in Zeke's...
Cactus Cantina Orange Beach
Come enjoy laid-back Mexican food in a casual, fun atmosphere. We have the best food on the Gulf. Come try...
Lauria's by the Beach
Fine Wine, Premium Cocktails, Gourmet Cheese & Charcuterie Italian Beach Bar.
Cobalt the Restaurant
Come experience contemporary coastal cuisine at its best. Cobalt, the Restaurant, located in Orange Beach, features authentic dishes crafted by...
Cotton's Restaurant & Lounge
Since opening in 1985, we have served families, friends and visitors with choice steaks, cold water rock lobster and locally...
Shrimp Basket of Gulf Shores
It all began in 1993, when two local guys in Gulf Shores, Alabama decided to open a casual family-focused seafood...












