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.
Cosmo's Restaurant & Bar
Off the beaten path on Canal Road in Orange Beach, Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar is far from ordinary. Serving fresh...
The Hangout
The Hangout is the place for great food and family fun. Come enjoy live entertainment, relax around the fire pit...
Luna's Eat & Drink
Fresh seafood meets soulful, Southern goodness at Luna's Eat & Drink in Orange Beach. This unique blend of coastal fare...
Icehouse Tap Room
Icehouse Tap Room is a locally owned and operated Tap House in the heart of Gulf Shores with an amazing...
Tacky Jacks - Gulf Shores
Tacky Jacks Gulf Shores, located in Gulf Shore’s new Waterway Village District, offers great food and spirits and beautiful views...
Fish River Grill #3
Fish River Grill is the original seafood restaurant in Baldwin County, serving authentic southern-style seafood. We are famous for our...
The Catch
The Catch is a laid-back Seafood Grill and Bar offering a perfect blend of casual beach vibes and fresh coastal...
Shrimp Basket of Orange Beach
Since 1993 the Shrimp Basket has been a family favorite in Orange Beach. Our seafood restaurant is one of the...
Island Time Daiquiris
We are a New Orleans-style daiquiri bar. Our relaxed sports bar has a tropical theme and offers fruity cocktails and...
YoHo Rum and Tacos
YoHo Rum & Tacos and the Boat Bar in Orange Beach offers the freshest tacos, signature entrees with a coastal...
Tacky Jacks - Orange Beach
Traveling Media Exclusive Offer Welcome to Tacky Jacks, where the views are always free and the good times are guaranteed...
Tacky Jacks - Gulf Shores
Traveling Media Exclusive Offer! Welcome to Tacky Jacks, where the views are always free and the good times are guaranteed...
Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar
The Flora-Bama Lounge and Package is a Gulf-front oyster bar, beach bar and Gulf Coast cultural landmark, touted as America's...
Pirate's Cove Marina & Restaurant
Since 1957, we have been serving locals and visitors of the Alabama Gulf Coast. We are famous for our signature...











