How to Get to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Whether by car, plane or ferry, it’s easy to travel to and get around in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

By Car

Our beaches are in close proximity to two major interstates: I-10 and I-65.

Cities like Atlanta, Memphis, Nashville and Houston are all within a day’s drive of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. And, we are just a few hours away from cities such as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Birmingham and Jackson. EV charging is also available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Highway 59

From I-10, take exit 44. This roadway takes you through several communities, including the City of Foley, home to the OWA Amusement Park and Tanger Outlets. For a faster alternative and fewer stoplights, visitors can choose the Beach Express route.

Baldwin and Foley Beach Express

For a fast and efficient drive to the beach, take the Baldwin Beach Express. The Beach Express Toll is open to all vehicle types, including large RVs. Originating at exit 49 on I-10, the roadway leads you right into the heart of Orange Beach at Canal Road. A toll is required at the southernmost end of the Beach Express, just before crossing the bridge into Orange Beach. For information about rates and payment options, visit the Beach Express website.

The Beach Express makes it quick and easy to cruise down to our coastal white sand beachside for a weekend vacation. From 1-10, take exit 49 for the Baldwin Beach Express. View the video to learn more about the road trip here.

Many of our area lodging partners limit the number of parking spaces available for an individual rental unit. If your party has multiple vehicles, you may have to park some cars offsite. We suggest you contact your lodging provider to see if they offer alternative parking locations at no cost. If they cannot provide a parking location, several paid parking locations are available.

By Air

If flying is more your speed, we have several nearby options to get to the Gulf.

Most major airlines service Mobile Regional and Pensacola International Airports.

Mobile Regional Airport is located in Mobile, Ala., less than a two-hour drive from the beach. Served by most major airlines, they offer several daily non-stop flights.

Pensacola International Airport is about an hour away in Pensacola, FL. They also offer non-stop flights from many major cities, including several seasonal flights for spring and summer.

Gulf Shores International Airport is located just two miles north of the beaches in Gulf Shores, and primarily serves private charters and corporate jets for business and leisure travelers.

Many flights are seasonal and are subject to change. Please contact your airline for updates and other information.

Ferry Transportation

The Mobile Bay Ferry connects SR 193 on the west side of Dauphin Island with SR 180 at Mobile Point on the east side of Fort Morgan.

Ferry departures vary by season. Visit HMS Ferries or call 251-861-3000 for the most up-to-date information.

Loading on Dauphin Island is at 111 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Loading on Fort Morgan is at 110 State Hwy. 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Getting Around

Now that you’ve arrived, whether by car or plane, there are many ways to get around within the destination.

Mobile Regional Airport
•   Avis: 251-633-4743
•   Budget: 251-633-1231
•   Dollar: 251-634-1231
•   Enterprise: 251-968-6290
•   Hertz: 251-633-4000
•   National: 251-633-4003

Gulf Shores
• Enterprise: 251-943-3888

Pensacola International Airport
•   Avis: 850-433-5614
•   Budget: 850-432-9744
•   Dollar: 850-434-5432
•   Hertz: 850-432-2345
•   National: 850-432-8338

There are plenty of local taxi and shuttle companies that are available anytime, day or night, for your convenience. Both Uber and Lyft also operate in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

If you’ve haven’t finished planning your vacation or weekend getaway, it’s never too late! Explore our list of things to do, vacation rentals, restaurants and more to get the most out of your stay.