Hey there, beach lovers! If you’re dreaming of sandy shores, turquoise waters, and a laid-back vibe perfect for families or friends, Gulf Shores, Alabama, is calling your name. From beachfront breakfasts and dolphin cruises to lively restaurants and unique activities, this coastal gem has something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie, an adventure-seeker, or just looking to relax and soak up the sun, I’ve rounded up all the must-visit spots to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in and start planning your ultimate Gulf Shores getaway!
Where I Stayed: Beachfront Bliss
Our Airbnb was nothing short of perfection. Located right on the beach, it gave us front-row seats to those stunning Gulf Coast views. Morning coffee while listening to the waves? Yes, please! One of the highlights was how well-stocked the entire Airbnb was. It had everything we needed for cooking and baking, which made breakfast at the house a daily treat. Sitting on the outdoor furniture, enjoying pancakes with an ocean breeze—it doesn’t get much better than that!
Let’s talk about the beach! From sandcastle-building competitions to lounging under an umbrella with a good book, we soaked up every second. Being steps away from the water made it super easy to pop back to the house when we needed a snack or sunscreen top-up. Trust me, staying beachfront is a game-changer, especially when they have endless beach supplies like our Airbnb did! Tap here for more details and to book.
Where to Eat: Gulf Shores' Must-Try Spots
One of my favorite things about this trip? The food! Gulf Shores offers something for every taste bud, from classic Southern bites to creative eats. Here are my top recommendations for breakfast, coffee, lunch, and dinner:
Breakfast
Sunliner Diner
Retro vibes meet delicious eats at Sunliner Diner, where you can even dine inside a classic Corvette! From fluffy pancakes to hearty omelets, this spot is a breakfast dream come true. Don’t forget to snap a pic with the vintage cars and jukeboxes!
Parlor Doughnuts
If doughnuts are your love language (like they are mine), this is the place for you. These flaky, layered doughnuts are unlike anything you’ve ever had. With tons of flavors to choose from, there’s truly something for everyone. We couldn’t resist grabbing some to-go and visiting their fun storefront for a second round—worth every bite!
Ruby Slipper Café
If you’re craving a hearty, Southern-inspired brunch, Ruby Slipper is a must. Their eggs Benedict selection is legendary (don’t skip the Gulf shrimp version!), and their biscuits are melt-in-your-mouth good. Pair it with a mimosa flight for the ultimate morning treat.
Breakfast at the Airbnb
Some mornings, we kept things simple and made breakfast at our Airbnb. With the fully stocked kitchen, it was a breeze to whip up meals, and the beachfront setting made those breakfasts extra special. A view like that deserves a second cup of coffee!
Coffee
Foam
This trendy coffee spot quickly became a favorite. Their lattes are perfection, and the cozy indoor/outdoor vibe makes it a great place to recharge before a busy day.
Beach Girl Coffee
Don’t let the drive-thru format fool you—Beach Girl serves some seriously good coffee. They offer plenty of seasonal options, and the cute branding will make you smile. A quick stop here is a must!
Lunch
Picnic Beach
Looking for a spot with fun vibes and healthy options? Picnic Beach has you covered. From acai and poke bowls to BBQ plates, their menu is as versatile as it is tasty. Plus, there are games to keep everyone entertained!
The Gulf
This open-air restaurant is right on the water and the perfect place to kick back and relax. With an ever-changing menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you can’t go wrong. Bonus: there are games and plenty of seating areas to enjoy!
LuLu’s
Owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister, LuLu’s is all about good food and good vibes. With live music, a sandy play area for kids, and even an on-site ropes course, this spot is equal parts restaurant and entertainment hub. Their seafood nachos? Absolute perfection.
Poke Bowl
For a quick and fresh bite, Poke Bowl is a hidden gem. Their poke bowls are packed with flavor and might just be the best you’ve ever had. While the atmosphere isn’t anything fancy, the food absolutely steals the show.
Dinner
Zeke’s
For fresh seafood and stunning views, Zeke’s is a dinner spot you’ll remember. Their menu highlights the best of Gulf Coast cuisine, from shrimp to grouper, all served with a side of sunset magic. It was stunning during sunset hour overlooking the coast and boats and was our favorite spot the entire trip.
Coastal
This spot combines an upscale atmosphere with a laid-back coastal vibe. The seafood is top-notch, and their cocktails are just as impressive.
The Hangout
If you’re looking for dinner and entertainment, this is the place to be! With live music, fun games, and activities for all ages, The Hangout is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Lambert’s Café
Home of the thrown rolls! Yep, you read that right. At Lambert’s, rolls literally fly across the room, adding a fun twist to family dinner. The menu is loaded with comfort food classics, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
What to Do: Gulf Shores Adventures
From beach days to action-packed outings, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Gulf Shores. Here are my top recommendations for top family activities:
The Beach
You can’t come to Gulf Shores and not spend a day (or five) on the beach. Our Airbnb made it easy to enjoy long, relaxing days by the water, as it was located beach front.
The Wharf
This lively spot is packed with shops, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. The Ferris wheel offers the best views of the area, and the nightly light shows are pure magic.
The Track
Release your inner speedster with go-karts, bumper boats, and more! This is a must-visit if you’re traveling with kids or just want to feel like one again.
Dolphin Cruise Orange Beach
This was hands-down one of the highlights of our trip. We’ve done dolphin cruises before and haven’t always been lucky, but this time we saw so many dolphins up close, jumping and playing in the water. It was magical!
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Get up close and personal with over 300 animals at this charming zoo. From kangaroo encounters to exotic birds, it’s a fun and educational outing for the whole family.
Fort Morgan
Step back in time at this historic fort, which played a significant role in the Civil War. The views from the fort are incredible, and kids will love exploring the tunnels and imagining life as a soldier.
Gulf Shores is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, lounging on the beach, or chasing dolphins on a cruise, there’s something here for everyone to love.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your travel crew, and get ready to experience the magic of Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Where will I be jetting off of the runway to next?
XO,
Hanna Rose
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