Beaches

Alabama's Beaches

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Beach chairs and beach umbrella
Clear waters and white sand on the beach at Gulf Shores

Sugar-White Sand and Turquoise Waters

In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the name tells the story — miles of pristine white quartz sand washed by blue-green Gulf waters. These iconic beaches are what draw visitors from across the country year after year, offering the perfect setting for relaxation, family fun and unforgettable coastal memories. Whether you are spending the day building sandcastles, searching for seashells, taking a sunrise stroll or simply soaking up the sunshine, Alabama's Beaches provides a picture-perfect escape along the Gulf Coast.

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Fred's

Guide

Looking for the best public beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? Fred the Heron explores 10 of the top public beach access points along Alabama’s Beaches, from family-friendly favorites and scenic shoreline views to quiet stretches of sand perfect for relaxing.

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Beaches FAQs

Are dogs allowed on the beaches? Can I bring my dog to the beach?

Pets are not allowed on our beaches. However, our destination is home to many pet-friendly accommodations, parks, and attractions. 

What is the water temperature this time of year?

Gulf temperatures vary throughout the year. Learn about average weather and water temperatures for each month.

Can I bring a tent on the beach in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

All tents, canopies, and EZ-Ups must be placed behind the white Leave Only Footprints flags when set up on Orange Beach and Gulf Shores’ public beaches. Umbrellas are permitted anywhere along the shore.

Why is the sand so white on Alabama's Beaches?

The sand along Alabama's Beaches is softer and finer than what you see on most other beaches around the world. This is the result of pure, white quartz crystal that has washed down from the Appalachian Mountains and was deposited into the Gulf of America (formerly Gulf of Mexico).

How much does it cost to park at public beach accesses in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach?

Parking at Orange Beach (Gulf State Park) public beach accesses is $15 all day for personal vehicles. Gulf Shores public beach parking is $2 per hour from 6 am to 11 pm at lots north of Beach Blvd. Parking at lots south of Beach Blvd. is $3 per hour from 6 am to 11 pm.

Can I park overnight at public beach accesses?

Overnight parking is prohibited at all Orange Beach public beach accesses. Overnight parking in Gulf Shores is $4 at designated areas from 11 pm to 6 am. Overnight parking is prohibited after 2 am at beachfront lots and at Lagoon Pass Park.

Are there wheelchair-accessible beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Yes. Gulf Place, Cotton Bayou, and The Pavilion have accessible beach mats to help those with limited mobility reach the shoreline. 

Are there lifeguards at the beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Lifeguards are present at all public beach accesses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach from March through September. Always check the beach flags and surf conditions before entering the water, and never swim alone.

What am I allowed to bring to the beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Before heading to the shore, review the rules and regulations on what’s allowed on the public beaches. Leave pets, glass, tobacco, drones, fireworks, and large tent structures at home. Help keep our beaches pristine by practicing responsible tourism and leaving only footprints.

Are there lifejackets at the beach?

Alabama Point public access in Orange Beach offers free lifejackets for visitors to borrow while at this access. Be sure to return them to the rack before leaving the beach.

 

Coastal Code

#45

Bare feet are required beyond this checkpoint.

Know Before You Go

kids jumping into the water

Alabama's Instagrammable Moments

Use #VisitAlabamasBeaches to be featured on our website!

 

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Beach

Vibes

Discover Alabama’s Gulf Coast and visit Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. Enjoy warm sunshine, deep history and culture alongside unspoiled natural beauty. Walk along the 32 miles of white-sand beaches and find yourself in a state of serenity and relaxation.

Explore one of America’s hidden gem locations and you’ll realize why so many people return year after year to sink their toes back in the sand. You’ll never want to miss another Gulf Coast sunset after you see how spectacular they can be.

While you’re here, visit the Gulf State Park and Gulf Shores Public Beach with picnic tables, public restrooms, private showers, and more. Make sure you come prepared with your rentals so you can get in on the fun.

'Tis The Sea-Sun

Aerial view off Gulf Place public beach and The Hangout restaurant in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (Gulf Place)

Everyone loves Gulf Place Beach. This beach features plenty of things to do including sandy beach bars, eateries, beach boutique stores, pavilions, picnic areas, watersports, volleyball and beach hotels that let you stay and play. Highway 59 dead-ends at the main beach area, but there is public access up and down the coast. 

Gulf State Park Beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf State Park Beach

Gulf State Park offers a whirl of activities including boating, paddle boarding, fishing, from the Gulf State Park Pier, biking, golfing and camping. There’s even a play area just for dogs located at Lake Shelby on the park’s western end. From the main entrance at the Beach Pavilion in Gulf Shores, there are access points along Orange Beach (including Alabama Point East).

Cotton Bayou Beach in Orange Beach, Alabama

Cotton Bayou

Cotton Bayou is set at the intersection of Highways 182 and 161 in Orange Beach and also part of Gulf State Park. Cotton Bayou is small in size but big on amenities, including outdoor showers and ample free parking. This beach is located within convenient walking distance of the primary Orange Beach condominiums. 

Visitors enjoying the jet ski rental.

Shore Excursion

Some beach goers plant their towels, open a good book and start working on the ultimate tan. Others like to stir things up with parasailing, kayaking and excursions to nearby islands. If you’re staying close to shore, a flood of beach equipment rentals will be on hand – beach bikes, buggies, beach wheelchairs, paddle boards, surf and skim boards and all kinds of flotation devices. Many companies offer delivery and pick-up service.

Beach Safety Flags at the Lifeguard Tower

Beach Safety

When visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it is important to remember beach safety and to be respectful of animal's natural habitats. Don’t forget the sunscreen before venturing out in the warm Alabama sunshine. Take care when exploring the sand. You might happen upon a sea turtle nest or a tiny bird’s nest. Please keep off the sand dunes. They preserve natural habitats. Take nothing but pictures and leave only footprints. Observe and obey the beach flag warning system. Check our Beach Safety Page for daily updates. 

Girl swimming in ocean

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