What Type of Trip are you Planning?
Whatever your vacation style, you’ll discover it all in the laid-back coastal lifestyle of the Alabama Gulf Coast. Select from the options below to help plan your perfect vacation.
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Discover Your Perfect Vacation on Alabama's Beaches
Build Memories that Last Their Lifetime
If you’re ready for some family vacation fun, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are ready for you. Families with kids of all ages love to spend time here! Alabama's Gulf Coast has beaches with miles of sugar white sand, clean waves lapping and coastal breezes in the air. Beyond the beach, you’ll find so many amazing outdoor activities, and much more to see and do. Amusement parks, Gulf State Park, bicycle trails, golf, historic sites and shopping are only the beginning. Embark on a Foodie Getaway on Alabama Beaches to taste some of Alabama's best eats. Take a look at our blogs about how to spend your vacation.
The first step in planning your visit to Alabama’s beaches is to order our free 2024 Vacation Guide! This guide is filled with vacation inspiration, including area activities and attractions, dining spots, lodging options, and more.
Getting Here
Whether by car, plane or ferry, it’s easy to travel to and get around in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Weather
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach lie in the southern subtropical area of North America, where mild temperatures greet visitors year-round. Gulf breezes temper the typically hot summer weather, and spring and fall days are warm with cool evenings.
Here, you’ll find daily weather updates and the Coastal Marine Forecast.
Where to Stay
Those who have not yet vacationed along Alabama’s beaches may not know that our 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches span two cities. While both offer pristine beaches, an array of activities and attractions, and more restaurants than we can name, you might choose to stay in one city over the other for several reasons.
What To Pack
Check out our what to pack list to ensure you are ready for your beach vacation to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Several local companies rent chairs, umbrellas, and beach toys. Many will even set up and take down the equipment for you, so all you have to do is enjoy a day by the water.
Beach Trip FAQs
If you’re visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for the first time, you may have several questions about the area, and we have answers! Before you travel to our sandy shores, look at these frequently asked questions about vacationing on Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
FAQs, just for you.
Things To Do
The Alabama Gulf Coast has it all! From relaxation to adventure, you'll find something special here for everyone in the family. Experience the Gulf Coast today!
Event, plus, Vacation? Yes, Please!
Check out all of our events, including food and music festivals, concerts and more when you are planning your vacation!
Beach Report and Safety
Before heading out to the beach, check for current beach conditions. Learn how to practice responsible tourism by familiarizing yourself with the beach rules & regulations.
Sign up for daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777.
Or call 251-968-SURF (7873) for Gulf Shores, or 251-981-SURF (7873) for Orange Beach daily beach conditions.
Visit our Welcome Centers
We've got seasonal area experts, coupons and more at our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Welcome Centers.
Call or text us at 800-745-SAND (7263) or send us an email at [email protected].
Planning Something Special?
Let us help you find the correct information.
