Where to Eat | Fire Smoked Fish Company | A Local Favorite

Wanting to avoid the long waits at restaurants but still have something local and delicious? Look no further than Fire Smoked Fish Company in Gulf Shores! This local veteran-owned takeout-only shop opened in August 2020, just a week before Hurricane Sally slammed Gulf Shores – and they survived. No doubt because the food is delicious and unique.

Everything is smoked on-site and prepared from scratch daily. Their offerings include smoked fish, smoked gourmet dips, and other local specialty favorites such as their smoked “Big Daddy” pork chop. This writer is particularly addicted to the smoked pork chop, which is HUGE and mouthwateringly great. So, avoid those long restaurant waits and eat like royalty in the comfort of your condo or beach house – and it’s very reasonably priced, too.

Things to know: Fire Smoked Fish is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am to 3 pm. So, get there before 3pm to pick up your “dine-at-home” meals. Conveniently located in the heart of Gulf Shores in the blue shopping center across the street from Rouses Grocery and Arby’s.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FIRE SMOKED FISH COMPANY

Beach Flag Warning System | What it Means

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For the safety of all guests and local residents, a Beach Flag Warning System is present at all public beaches in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Gulf State Park. Gulf conditions are monitored continuously throughout the day. Keep in mind that the lack of red flags does not guarantee safe conditions. NOTE: ALWAYS enter the water with caution in mind, preferably with some kind of floatation device (boogie board, paddleboard, inflatable float, etc). Children should ALWAYS be equipped with floaties or a floatation device that is ATTACHED to them via lanyard, etc. (boogie boards, etc.) so that they cannot become separated from it. 

Yellow Beach Flag: Medium hazard due to moderate surf and/or currents.

Purple Beach Flag: Marine pests (such as jellyfish) are present; exercise caution.

Red Beach Flag: High hazard with high surf and/or strong currents.

Double Red Flags: Water is closed to the public. Entering the Gulf of Mexico is illegal within the corporate limits of either city when two red flags are displayed.

GET DAILY SURF CONDITIONS BY TEXT

Sign up to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777. At the end of your vacation, opt out of the text alerts by texting STOP.

GET DAILY SURF CONDITIONS BY PHONE

For beach conditions in Gulf Shores, call 251-968-SURF (7873)

For beach conditions in Orange Beach, call 251-981-SURF (7873)

GET DAILY SURF CONDITIONS ONLINE (FOR ENTIRE AL COAST)

For beach conditions across the entire Alabama coast, visit the National Weather Service website.

Seashell Hunting in Gulf Shores | A Guide

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Shelling is a favorite activity in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, attracting both residents and tourists alike. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, these beaches are a haven for a wide variety of shells. As a result, visitors can enjoy collecting a diverse selection along our shores. To help you make the most of your shelling experience, we've compiled essential tips and information.

What Kinds of Shells Might You Discover? The shells scattered across our beaches once served as protective homes for various mollusks such as clams, scallops, mussels, and oysters. These creatures lack a backbone and rely on their shells for support and safety.

Here are some typical shells you will encounter on Alabama’s beaches:

• Angel Wing
• Ark Clams
• Ballast Stones
• Common Egg Cockle
• Florida Fighting Conch
• Coquina Clams
• Lettered Olive
• Mermaid’s Purse
• Moon Snails
• Oyster Drill Snails
• Oyster
• Sand Dollars
• Scallops
• Snail Slipper
• Surf Clams

Optimal Times for Shelling in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach The best shelling on the Alabama Gulf Coast often occurs early in the morning as the sun rises. Low tides and periods following stormy weather, which push shells onto the beach, also provide excellent opportunities. Shelling is a year-round activity here, enjoyable at any time and in any season.

Several public beaches are known for their rich shell deposits, often recommended by locals:

• Alabama Point: Situated at the Perdido Pass Bridge, this beach spans 6,000 feet along the coastline within Gulf State Park and is ideal for shell collection. While it offers fewer amenities than other areas, it tends to be less crowded. Address: 28105 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561

• Beach at Little Lagoon Pass: This spot where Little Lagoon meets the Gulf of Mexico features amenities such as restrooms and a fishing pier. It has paid parking available near the Lee Callaway Bridge and is known for its clear, shallow waters, making it excellent for shelling. Address: 1660 West Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

• Gulf State Park Beach: This beach offers a full day of activities with 2.5 miles of shoreline and plentiful amenities including a snack bar, restrooms, a pavilion, and shaded areas. Address: 22250 East Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

• Fort Morgan: Located on Mobile Point at the junction of the Gulf and Mobile Bay, this secluded beach is near the historic Fort Morgan. It's an excellent place for a combined historical and natural exploration. Address: Fort Morgan Road, Gulf Shores, AL 36542

These locations offer prime spots for shelling, each with its unique appeal and beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned shell collector or a first-timer, the shores of Alabama are sure to provide a memorable experience.

What are Gulf Shores' Beach Rules?

As tourist season approaches, it's important to familiarize yourself with the beach guidelines set forth by the City of Gulf Shores. These regulations may be subject to updates or revisions by the City Council or relevant departments. It's advisable to keep a reference guide handy for potential visitors seeking information on social media or other platforms.

Here's a summary of pertinent information provided directly by the City of Gulf Shores:

The Beach Safety Division of Gulf Shores endeavors to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience for all residents and visitors throughout the year. Seasonal lifeguard services operate from March to October, and swimming in designated public areas with lifeguards present is encouraged.

Gulf Shores boasts eight public beach access points, including Lagoon Pass and various streets such as West 13th, 12th, 10th, 6th, 5th, and 4th, along with Gulf Place West and East Beach.

Residents within the city limits of Gulf Shores, possessing valid Hurricane Re-Entry / Beach Parking Decals, enjoy free parking at all paid city public parking lots. For non-residents, paid parking options are available at designated locations from March 1 to November 30 each year.

Free parking is offered in specific on-street areas such as East 1st Avenue, East 1st Street, East 2nd Street, West 1st Avenue, West 2nd Avenue, West 1st Street, West 2nd Street, and West 5th Street north of Beach Boulevard.

Pets are prohibited on all sand beaches and public beach areas in Gulf Shores, including Gulf Place. However, the Gulf Shores Dog Park provides an alternative for outdoor enjoyment with pets.

Weddings are generally not permitted on public beaches but may be allowed on private properties with the owner's consent. Gulf State Park offers pavilion rentals suitable for various events, including weddings (permit required).

Tent and shelter regulations dictate specific size and placement criteria, with certain restrictions and recommendations to ensure safety and preservation of the beach environment.

Various items and actions are strictly prohibited on Gulf Shores public beaches, including glass containers, alcoholic beverages*, oversized tents/canopies, fishing at Gulf Place, tobacco/e-cigarettes, motorized vehicles, digging deep holes, fires/grills, fireworks, drone operation, solicitation, and walking/standing on sand dunes. Additionally, leaving structures or equipment unattended on the beach after sunset is not permitted and may result in removal by beach patrol.

By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can contribute to a safe and enjoyable beach experience for all. For further inquiries, individuals can contact the City Clerk's office for additional information from the City of Gulf Shores.

*LOCAL TIPS: Regarding alcohol, technically it isn't allowed on the beach, but if you are discrete and don't behave like you're at a frat party, you'll be left alone by the beach police. DON'T smoke weed. It isn't legal here, and it won't be ignored by the beach police. It happens nearly every day - someone comes on vacation and leaves on probation. Don't let it be you :)

Best Sports Bars | Local Favorites

Wondering where the best places in Gulf Shores are

The Sloop

to watch college and NFL football, the Super Bowl, March Madness, and all the other sports? There are several sports bars that are locals’ favorites (at least in this writer’s opinion). So, read on and find your favorite spot to watch the big game like a local.

The Sloop is a locally owned unicorn (part dive, part fantastic food, part sports bar, part live music venue) with TVs everywhere, all the sports packages, and a crowd that is heavily local, friendly, and welcoming. Fair warning to get there EARLY on game days. The Sloop is not large, parking is not plentiful, and when people get their seats they tend to stay until their game is over (and longer).

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SLOOP

Island Wing Company

Island Wing Company offers everything you expect from a quality sports bar. The food is good, the service is good, there are TVs everywhere, and the place is huge with plenty of parking, so you don’t have to worry too much about being able to get a seat to enjoy your game, even if you are running a little late. It's little bit up Gulf Shores Parkway/Hwy 59 from the heart of Gulf Shores, so plan (and pace) accordingly for that drive home after the game - better yet, consider using that ride-sharing app on your phone!

LEARN MORE ABOUT ISLAND WING COMPANY

The Cove

The Cove Bar & Grill is a nice little dive in Gulf Shores that locals love for its friendly atmosphere, great food, pool tables, and live music – but it also doubles as a great game-day spot with plenty of TVs and fans rooting for (and against) the teams that excite them. The burgers are especially good, and the drinks are cold and delicious. Tucked away on Cove Ave in the heart of Gulf Shores, the Cove is not a large place, nor is there a ton of parking, so if you want to watch the big game like a local, get there early.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COVE

Big Beach Brewing

Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores is a terrific brewery offering great locally made craft beers and wine. The atmosphere is classy, open-air (when it’s warm) and offers plenty of comfortable seating (including couches) inside and outside where you can watch your games in style. Its a laid-back place complemented by an on-site food truck for those moments when hunger strikes. Located across from Tacky Jacks in Gulf Shores, Big Beach has more parking availability on-site and down the street than some of the other local favorites detailed in this article, but you will still want to be there early to secure you favorite seats. And one last bit of advice from this writer’s personal experience: Pace yourself! Those craft brews pack a punch!

LEARN MORE ABOUT BIG BEACH

Fourth of July 2024 | What to do?

The biggest week in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, AL is Fourth of July Week. Incredibly popular for its Independence Day celebrations, in 2024 the region is offering a ton of fantastic activities, live music, patriotic decorations, and awe-inspiring fireworks shows, including Gulf Shores’ incredible beach fireworks show that attracts hundreds of thousands of proud Americans. 

So, grab a cup of coffee and keep reading for details and important local advice to make your 4th of July go smoothly. Here is just a sample of what goes on here for Independence Day.

The City of Gulf Shores is set to celebrate the Fourth of July with a spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m. on July 4. The display will take place at the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier.

Here's the public access schedule for the Gulf State Park Pier:

Thursday, July 4:

7 a.m. – The pier will close for fireworks setup.

12 p.m. – The pier will partially reopen, with access allowed up to 100 feet north of the launch site.

8:30 p.m. – The Fire Marshal will close the entire pier and the on-site restaurant.

9 p.m. – Fireworks show starts.

Friday, July 5:

6 a.m. – The pier will fully reopen to the public.

**LOCAL ADVICE: If you are not staying on the beach or near enough to walk, you will NOT find parking for the fireworks show if you wait until after 10am or so to get down there. This local advises those who need to drive and park for the fireworks show to GET DOWN THERE EARLY IN THE DAY, pay for your parking at a self-serve kiosk, and just leave your car there if you leave the beach. You can call for an Uber, Lyft, or local cab to take you back to your hotel and arrange with the driver to take you back to the beach for the show. Bear in mind that the driver may not be able to return you all the way to the beach – but they can get you within walking distance. Think ahead about getting yourself an ice chest with wheels. DON'T plan to leave the show by cab, Uber or Lyft. There just won't be enough of them. You will be left walking however far it is back to your car or hotel. Regarding alcohol, technically it isn't allowed on the beach, but if you are discreet and don't behave like you're at a frat party, you'll be left alone by the beach police. DON'T smoke weed. It isn't legal here, and it won't be ignored by the beach police. After the show, be prepared for a lengthy traffic jam (ladies, you should definitely hit a beachside public restroom before you depart).

If the fireworks show on the beach sounds like a bit too much trouble for you, you can go to The Wharf in Orange Beach on JULY 3rd for its annual Independence Day Street Party. You’ll enjoy a full slate of fun activities, live music, great food, shopping, a really nice fireworks show, and FAR LESS TRAFFIC!**

Independence Day Street Party Hosted by Beachball Properties (The Wharf)

Celebrate America’s birthday early with us on July 3rd in a fun-filled event featuring red, white, blue, and plenty of excitement! The Entertainment District will be brimming with family-friendly activities, including a bubble truck, bounce houses, and face painting for $10. Enjoy camel rides for $10, capture memories at the Photo 360 Booth, and be amazed by stilt walkers, a balloon artist, a juggler, and the Reptile Bus. DJ Matt will keep the party lively with dance tunes, and special guests like Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam will make appearances. The evening will conclude with palm trees illuminated in patriotic colors and a spectacular fireworks display. This event is proudly brought to you by Beachball Properties. Don’t miss out!

Schedule:

Kids’ Activities: 5-9 pm

National Anthem & Fireworks: 8:45 pm

SPECTRA Laser Light Experience: Following the fireworks show

And for the adults, there is always the Flora-Bama's annual Independence Day party!

Celebrate the 4th of July at Flora-Bama

Join us at Flora-Bama for an unforgettable celebration of our Nation's Birthday! Spend the day enjoying the beach, grooving to live music, and capping off the night with a stunning fireworks display starting at 9 pm.

Whether you come with family or friends, you’re in for a fun-filled day on the beach at Flora-Bama!

Admission:

Cover charge begins at 6 pm

Finally, in addition to all the planned events, both Gulf Shores and Orange Beach will offer guests a ton of other entertainment opportunities for the holiday.

Live Entertainment: Local bands will take the stage, at most of the bars, restaurants, and other venues, filling the air with the sounds of toe-tapping music. Dance along to lively tunes and immerse yourself in the infectious energy of the crowd.

Family-Friendly Activities: These coastal towns are renowned for their family-friendly atmosphere, and the Fourth of July celebrations are no exception. From face painting to sandcastle contests, there will be a myriad of activities around the area to keep the little ones entertained. Engage in beach volleyball tournaments, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax and savor the tranquil coastal ambiance.

Delectable Dining: The culinary scene in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is second to none. Indulge in a wide array of mouthwatering options as local restaurants and food vendors dish up their specialties. From fresh seafood platters to Southern comfort favorites, there will be something to satisfy every palate.

As we conclude our exploration of the best things in Gulf Shores, consider these additional "Honorable Mention" points of interest such as Fort Morgan for Civil War history buffs, the USS Alabama battleship in Mobile and the Pensacola Naval Air Station museum for Naval warfare enthusiasts.

Check out these additional helpful links to plan your stay:

Where locals like to eat and drink

Things locals like to do

Places to shop

Great fishing charters

Local favorite golf courses

Take a moment also to review local advice about what to do, and NOT do, at Gulf Shores' public beaches.

How Hot is Gulf Shores?

According to official weather data providers, the average annual temperature in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach is 68.6° and ranges from 50.5° in the winter to 82.8° in the summer. Sounds great, right? Well, all that is true – BUT, by definition, those averages leave out the extremes and have little to do with when you are actually planning to visit Gulf Shores. Most people visit Gulf Shores between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which is the time when Gulf Shores experiences its hottest temperatures.

Here is the real story: In late May to late June you can expect it to be getting hot, but still pretty pleasant. You can count on having afternoon temperatures in the mid-80s to mid-90s on the warmer days, with some humidity that makes it feel a bit warmer than that. In July and August, you can expect it to be MUCH hotter. Temps are generally in the high 90s and into triple digits - with a level of humidity that makes it downright unbearable, even for locals who are used to it.

Here is some advice on how locals deal with it. First, we go to the beach in the mornings, before it gets super-hot, or in the evenings, after it begins to cool down. It is tourists who sleep in, go out to breakfast, and lollygag around until afternoon to hit the beach. They’ll roast out there for a few hours, wondering how in the HELL anybody can stand it, and leave the beach for a shower and a nap around 4pm. Locals will start arriving around 6:00 or 7:00pm to enjoy the last few hours of the day as the temperature drops a couple of degrees every 30 minutes and the Gulf breezes begin to feel refreshing.

So, if you want to live more like a local while you are here, go to the beach in the morning around 8 or 9 am. Have some beach time for a couple of hours and then head back to get ready for lunch somewhere airconditioned and enjoy some live music and some drinks. Then go shopping or something – explore some airconditioned shops, scope out some new bars and restaurants you might like to go back to later, get a massage, or enjoy a dolphin cruise out on the water, and have an early dinner. Then, around 6:00 -7:00pm, when EVERYBODY else is fighting traffic and waiting in long lines to be seated at restaurants, you can enjoy some more beach time on a much more comfortable and far less crowded beach!

Check out these helpful links to plan your stay:

Where locals like to eat and drink

Things locals like to do

Places to shop

Great fishing charters

Local favorite golf courses

Take a moment also to review local advice about what to do, and NOT do, at Gulf Shores' public beaches.

Spring Break 2024 Travel Guide

Photo by Bill Sutton

Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, Alabama stands out as a top spring break destination, drawing thousands of visitors with its extensive white sand shoreline along the Gulf of Mexico and pleasant springtime weather. Whether you seek adventure, history, culture, or relaxation, the Alabama Coast offers a diverse range of activities year-round, and spring is no exception.

Weather

Springtime along the Alabama Coast generally boasts near-perfect weather, with temperatures ranging from 75-80 degrees. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so it is advisable to bring clothing you can layer. Plus, springtime is not generally a rainy season for the area.

Essentials to Pack:

Layered clothing

Flip flops

Comfortable shoes

Light rain jacket

Beach necessities (sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuits, etc.)

Outdoor Enjoyment

For active families or groups, spring is an optimal time to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. With lower temperatures compared to summer and vibrant foliage, spring provides an excellent backdrop for exploration.

Parks and Trails to Explore:

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Gulf State Park

Wade Ward Nature Park

Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway

Eastern Shore Trail

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

Spring Events & Festivals

Experience several notable annual events during spring:

Orange Beach Festival of Art: March 9-10, 2024

Annual Outdoor Art Show at the Eastern Shore Art Center: March 15-16, 2024

National Collegiate Beach Volleyball Championship: May 3-5, 2024

Orange Beach Billfish Classic: May 14-19, 2024

Photo Credit: Bill Sutton

Valentines Day Planning

Gulf Shores Beach Sunset

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach provide an idyllic setting for a romantic retreat, surrounded by pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters that create an ambiance of tranquil serenity. The mild temperatures, exceptional dining choices, and the natural beauty of the Alabama Gulf Coast come together to offer a Valentine's Day experience unlike any other. Here is your guide to planning a getaway you'll never forget.

Select a Room with Scenic Views

Indulge in a room with a view for you and your valentine during your romantic beach escape. Fortunately, February marks the off-season, bringing fantastic deals on accommodations. Seize the opportunity to pamper yourselves with the room you've always desired for your couples' getaway, ranging from beachside cottages and luxurious hotels to resorts and spacious condos. Check out these local favorite places to stay.

Delight in Beachfront Fine Dining

Valentine's Day calls for a delectable meal, and what could be better than a memorable dining experience at one of the finest beachfront restaurants? Enjoy fresh Gulf seafood, mouthwatering steaks, or handcrafted cocktails while relishing waterfront views, live music, and breathtaking sunsets. Explore the array of upscale dining establishments along the beach, and prepare for an extraordinary culinary experience. Check out these local favorite restaurants.

Book a Relaxing Couples Massage

Indulge in a bit of self-care during your couples' vacation with a rejuvenating massage at one of the outstanding spas in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. Select from a comprehensive menu and relish a morning, afternoon, or a full day of pampering, including spa and beauty salon services for you and your valentine. Check out this local favorite spa.

Embark on Unique Experiences

While the beach may be a familiar destination, your vacation doesn't have to be ordinary. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer a plethora of distinctive activities and attractions to make your visit unforgettable. Explore the waters on a guided dolphin and wildlife kayak tour, interact with the furry residents at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, or indulge in an intimate, upscale dining experience with a meticulously crafted menu. Discover the signature experiences available and craft an unforgettable Valentine's Day trip. Check these local favorite things to do.

See the Sunset

Sometimes, the most meaningful moments come at no cost, and the sunsets on the beach are genuinely mesmerizing. Experience the romance of holding hands while strolling the beach in anticipation of a gorgeous sunset, or savoring a cocktail at dinner as the sky lights up in pinks and oranges over the water. Cherish these simple yet enduring moments that will become fond memories—moments that will always hold a special place in your heart. The best sunset viewing spot for Valentine's Day is Jesse's on the Bay (the downstairs bar is an ideal after dinner sunset spot) but here is a list of all the best local favorite fine dining restaurants. Make RESERVATIONS early if you want to get in!

State Record Caught from Shore

Photo by Chris Vecsey

A local resident has caught the apparent new state record bluefish from the shore near Alabama Point/Perdido Pass. Rustin Musgrove, a resident of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, fishes regularly – and successfully - from the shore for pompano, bluefish, and redfish just after dusk. 

Caught on the evening of January 26th, Musgrove’s massive bluefish measures over 37 inches and, pending formal certification, will surpass the existing Alabama state record by 4 ounces. Perhaps more impressively, the fish was not weighed until 60 hours after being caught while Musgrove sought a certified scale.

When finally weighed, the bluefish came in at 17 pounds, 8 ounces at the Alabama Marine Resources Office in Gulf Shores. Research indicates that a bluefish of this size is likely 12 to 14 years old and nearly doubles the typical mature Alabama bluefish length of 18 inches.

Fishing with a frozen finger mullet on the bottom using a "Carolina rig" with a monofilament leader to target redfish, Musgrove unexpectedly hooked the colossal bluefish. Musgrove said the battle with the fish took him nearly 1,000 feet along the east jetty, with the fish making two spectacular jumps clear of the water. Fortunately, the circle hook secured the fish in the corner of the mouth, preventing the monofilament leader from encountering its razor-sharp teeth.

LEARN MORE about fishing in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach

Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Ft. Morgan | Which is Better?

People planning a trip to Alabama’s beautiful white sand beaches in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan often ask: “Which is better?” Well, it depends upon what you prefer for your lifestyle. All three locations have tremendous upside that you will love, so long as you are aware of what you are choosing ahead of time.

Note: While none of the characterizations you are about to see apply fully to each of these locations, they ARE accurate, overall, in the opinion of this writer who has lived in this area for nearly 15 years. None of this is intended to upset any resident or past visitor to any of these areas. It is merely intended to help those who know very little about our slice of paradise to choose more wisely according to their own preferences.

For those who have never been here, or who have maybe only been to one specific area, you can think of it this way: Where you live, there is probably a “downtown,” a “suburban area,” and a “rural area.” The downtown area will be more densely packed with businesses, people, and things to do. The suburban area will be nearby all those downtown things, but will have more locally owned businesses, hole-in-the-wall type places, and a more “homey” feel. Finally, the rural area will be far less densely packed with businesses and people – and it will be much quieter, more laid-back, and a bit of a drive to go to places like grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and entertainment, right?

The same applies here, across the three areas you are considering.

MORE “DOWNTOWN” FEEL: Orange Beach

Orange Beach - photo by Orange Beach AL (.gov)

Orange Beach is mostly comprised of high-rise condo towers (there are some beach houses, of course, but far fewer than you will find in Gulf Shores or Fort Morgan). There are more bars and clubs there, more large restaurants, more marinas (with more fishing charters, jet ski rentals, etc.), and a more “hustle-and-bustle” feel to the area. You’ll be closer to the nearest major airport (PNS in Pensacola), further from golf courses, and you’ll find that it is pretty congested with traffic, especially during the peak of the tourist season in June/July/August. It is less walkable (in my opinion) but that is by no means to say it is as un-walkable as a large urban area like Atlanta, for example. Orange Beach is still small. I am talking about the “feel” of it here, as it compares to Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan. If having plenty of beach time and being close to more nightlife, attractions, stores, and restaurants is what you want, Orange Beach will not disappoint. 

MORE “SUBURBAN” FEEL: Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores’ beaches and lagoon are mostly comprised of beach houses and low-rise condos (there are some high-rise condo towers, of course, but far fewer than you will find in Orange Beach). There are plenty of bars and restaurants, but they tend to be smaller, more “hole-in-the-wall” type places. Yes, two of the biggest restaurants in the area are in Gulf Shores (The Hangout and Lulus), but they are more the exception than the rule. Things like grocery stores and Walmart are close by, and it is more walkable and bike-able, particularly around the Gulf Shores Parkway/Beach Blvd intersection (where The Hangout restaurant is). You’ll be close to multiple nice golf courses and lots of attractions like water parks, go-cart tracks, amusement parks, souvenir shops, and putt-putt golf. You’ll be further from most fishing charters and boat/jet ski rentals at marinas. Traffic can be congested in Gulf Shores during the peak of the season, but it tends to be that way for less of the day – in other words, you can plan around it. To me, it just has a more “homey” feel. If plenty of beach time and being close to lots of attractions, outdoor activities (like golf and biking the Gulf State Park trails), shops, and restaurants is what you want, Gulf Shores is a great place for you. 

MORE “RURAL” FEEL: Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan

Fort Morgan’s accommodations, like Gulf Shores’, are more houses than high rise condos. There are some mid-rise and high rise condos, of course, but there are even fewer than you will find in Gulf Shores. There are only a handful of restaurants, one gas station, and no grocery stores. There is one marina at the far end, where some fishing charters depart from, but not nearly as many as Orange Beach. There are some great golf courses in the area, as well. It’s much quieter and much less congested in Fort Morgan than either Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, but it is a bit of a drive into Gulf Shores for attractions, a better selection of restaurants and bars, or to buy things like groceries, beach supplies and souvenirs. Fort Morgan does offer easy access to the Mobile Bay Ferry, which gives you the opportunity to drive your car aboard and take a fun day trip over to Dauphin Island to visit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. From the far western end of Fort Morgan, the 15+ mile drive into Gulf Shores can take 40 minutes to an hour during the busiest times of the season so if you plan to stay out there, its best to plan your trips into town around getting everything you might need for your beach stay to avoid a lot of time running back and forth. If you want to go from the western end of Fort Morgan all the way over to Orange Beach to have dinner, rent a pontoon boat, or visit The Wharf, plan for it take an hour to and hour-and-a-half to get there during the busy times of the season. If a slower pace and maximum beach time is what you want, Fort Morgan will feel like a paradise to you. 

Margaritaville Restaurant/Bar Coming Soon

Click to enlarge photo

Gulf Shores is getting a new highly anticipated attraction. Jimmy Buffet’s world-renowned Margaritaville restaurant/bar company will be opening a new Gulf Shores location in 2024 or early 2025, putting Gulf Shores on par with other top destinations around the world that enjoy the Margaritaville experience. It will be located at the also brand-new Legendary Marina and Yacht Club on the Intracoastal Waterway just west of the Hwy 59/Gulf Shores Parkway bridge. The full-service marina will feature:

- Onsite fuel dockings

- Launch requests through an app

- Indoor boat storage for boats up to 50 feet

- Complimentary waste pump-outs

- Complimentary freshwater fills

- On-site service and parts department

Located on the water with beautiful views of the marina will be the new Margaritaville restaurant/bar will feature:

- Island themed décor

- Coastal-inspired, made-to-order food

- Hand-crafted cocktails

- 5-0’Clock Somewhere Bar

- Great live music & fun party atmosphere

Situated just west of the famous LuLu’s restaurant & marina by Jimmy Buffet’s sister, LuLu, the new Margaritaville restaurant/bar will give Gulf Shores’ visitors the opportunity to experience the full Buffet Family experience.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MARGARITAVILLE

LEARN MORE ABOUT LEGENDARY MARINA & YACHT CLUB