Where to Eat | The Gulf Restaurant | A Local Favorite

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Located on Perdido Pass, at the western foot of the Perdido Pass Bridge in Orange Beach, Alabama, The Gulf restaurant is a local favorite for its views. You can grab a good meal and a drink (or 3) and look out over the Gulf of Mexico as the fishing boats come and go through the pass.

As an open air, casual restaurant, The Gulf offers a menu that, while limited, provides excellent flavor and satisfaction. You’ll find burgers, a Grouper Sandwich, a Chicken Sandwich, seafood tacos, peel-and-eat shrimp, a Lobster & Shrimp Roll, a daily “fresh catch” and more to choose from. There is a nice outdoor bar with friendly staff, locals, and other visitors to get to know on a big, grassy lawn with plenty of shady seating – all with the fantastic view.

LEARN MORE about The Gulf restaurant

VISIT OUR FOOD PAGE for more local favorite restaurants/bars

GORGEOUS CONDO AND BEACH VIEWS FROM THE 15TH FLOOR IN GULF SHORES!

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Experience the best of beachfront living in this beautiful 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo on the 15th floor. Enjoy breathtaking views of the gulf through the expansive 30 ft wall of windows, while the bedrooms offer serene lagoon views. The condo features high-end contemporary furniture that is both stylish and comfortable. The living room boasts two large leather sectionals for ample seating. The master bedroom offers a king bed, while the second bedroom has a queen bed and bunk beds, all adorned with luxury linens. The bathrooms feature dual sinks, a spacious vanity, and plush towels. 

For your convenience, a stacked washer/dryer is available inside the condo. The fully equipped kitchen has everything you need. We provide a beach cart and rolling cooler for your beach outings. Enjoy fishing, jet skiing, and boating just steps away from the lagoon. Gulf Shores offers a plethora of activities, from family entertainment to shopping, dining, and exploring historic sites. Don't miss the exciting festivals and events throughout the year.

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VISIT OUR WHERE TO STAY PAGE for a list of more great places to stay

Dining in Gulf Shores | Orange Beach | Fort Morgan | Alabama

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If you're planning a vacation to the beautiful coastal region of Alabama, be prepared for more than just sun and sand. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan offer an impressive array of culinary delights that will satisfy even the most discerning foodies. From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food and International food, these coastal gems have it all.

Gulf Shores: Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Shores boasts a vibrant dining scene. Sample locally caught shrimp, oysters, and fish at renowned seafood shacks, or indulge in upscale waterfront restaurants offering panoramic views with delectable seafood creations. Don't miss the opportunity to try the iconic Gulf Coast delicacy, the "Royal Red" shrimp, known for its unique flavor and vibrant red color.

Orange Beach: Just a short drive east of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach is another culinary hotspot. Here, you can savor a diverse range of cuisines, from casual beachside cafes to elegant fine dining establishments. Indulge in succulent steaks, Southern-style barbecue, and fresh Gulf seafood. For a memorable experience, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants that offer breathtaking sunset views while you savor your meal.

Fort Morgan: For a more laid-back and tranquil dining experience, head to Fort Morgan. This charming coastal community offers a handful of local eateries known for their friendly service and hearty Southern fare. Treat yourself to traditional dishes like fried chicken, catfish, collard greens, and cornbread. Don't forget to try some authentic Southern-style desserts like pecan pie or banana pudding.

Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, a lover of Southern cuisine, or simply enjoy exploring local flavors, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan are the perfect vacation destinations. With their diverse culinary offerings, ranging from casual beachside eateries to upscale waterfront restaurants, these coastal towns promise to delight your taste buds and create unforgettable dining experiences.

VISIT OUR FOOD PAGE for a list of more local favorites

Gulf Shores AL Live Cam

So your vacation to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fort Morgan, AL is coming and you just can't wait? Why not spend some time watching what is going on right now down on our white sand beaches and dream about your arrival day? 

You can also check out our advice about What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Shop, Where to Stay, Where to Golf, and the best Fishing Charters

Where to Eat: The Sloop | A Local Favorite

Located at the public boat launch under the Hwy 59 bridge in Gulf Shores, The Sloop is a locally owned restaurant/bar that features that awesome combination of "hole-in-the-wall" feel with top notch food. Locals frequent The Sloop for its menu blending fresh seafood, Southern dishes, and surprising daily specials. This writer's personal favorite is the Twin Cheese Burger which is among the best I've found anywhere - and I look everywhere. Plus, this sailing themed spot offers tons of TVs showing your favorite sports teams' games and an atmosphere filled with friendly staff and locals with great live music out back on the white sand courtyard.

LEARN MORE about The Sloop

VISIT OUR FOOD PAGE for a listing of more local favorite restaurants/bars

Best Orange Beach Golf Courses | Advice from a Local

Searching for the best Golf Course in Orange Beach, AL? While visiting Orange Beach, you may imagine that there must be a spectacular golf course or two just a short drive from your condo or beach house, but the truth is that the nearby cities of Gulf Shores and Fort Morgan are the golf meccas of the area. Orange Beach does offer one course, the public Orange Beach Golf Center course, which features a 9-hole, par-3 course, a lighted driving range, practice greens, practice bunkers, and a pro shop. It is open 7 days per week from 8am to 5pm (see link below).

Craft Farms

However, if you’re willing to drive just a little bit, there are much more spectacular and much more challenging golf courses nearby. The closest really nice course to Orange Beach is the Craft Farms Golf Club. Craft Farms is one of the premier golfing destinations in the entire Southeast United States, boasting two championship courses designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. The Cotton Creek course features wide fairways and strategically placed water hazards, while the Cypress Bend course presents a challenging layout amidst picturesque landscapes. With superb course conditions, attentive staff, and a welcoming atmosphere, Craft Farms Golf Club is a must-play for golf enthusiasts seeking an excellent experience while visiting Orange Beach. From most areas of Orange Beach, you can get to Craft Farms Golf Club in less than 20 minutes by setting your GPS to “3840 Cotton Creek Circle, Gulf Shores, AL” and ignoring its instructions until you cross north over the toll bridge next to The Wharf on Canal Rd. As you cross the bridge, start paying attention to what your GPS says, because you are nearly to Craft Farms!

LEARN MORE about Orange Beach Golf Center

LEARN MORE about Craft Farms Golf Club

VISIT OUR GOLF PAGE for a list of more local favorite courses

Beaches at Gulf Shores Alabama

Gulf Shores

The Gulf Coast of Alabama is home to some of the best white sand beaches in the United States. Nestled along this pristine coastline are the sun-kissed shores of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or simply the joy of sun, sand, and surf, these beach destinations offer something for everyone. Here is some information about each of the main beach options for you to enjoy while visiting:

1. Gulf Shores: Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, most of the beaches in Gulf Shores are public and can be accessed freely by visitors. The main attraction is the Gulf Shores Public Beach located at the foot of Highway 59 (Gulf Shores Parkway), with ample parking (for a small fee), access to very nice and well-maintained restrooms and shower stations, and convenient beachfront restaurants and bars. Gulf State Park also offers a public access beach with tons of parking (for a small fee), picnic pavilions, and convenient restroom facilities. Each condo tower and beach house in Gulf Shores has private beach access, but all are open to the public at the water’s edge, so it really doesn’t matter where you stay. You can walk the beach as much as you like.
2. Orange Beach: This area features a mix of public and private beaches, giving visitors a choice based on their preferences. Public beaches like Cotton Bayou Beach and Perdido Pass Beach offer free access and convenient amenities such as picnic areas, showers, and restrooms. Private beaches, often associated with resorts and condos, provide additional amenities like beach chair rentals, umbrella services, and beachside restaurants. Like Gulf Shores, even the private beaches are open to the public at the waterline for walking as much as you like.
3. Fort Morgan: Situated on the western end of the Alabama coastline, Fort Morgan offers a more secluded and tranquil beach experience. The beaches in Fort Morgan are not cleaned of seaweed every day, so it has a more natural look and feel and it's great for beachcombers who like to look for shells, driftwood, and mysterious creatures that wash up. There is no charge for parking, wherever you can find it. It is generally less populated, so you can set up your chairs and umbrellas with a bit more distance between yourself and the next beachgoers. Plus, Fort Morgan’s beaches are dog-friendly, so it’s the ideal area to stay if you bring the family pet along.

Whether you're seeking the convenience of public amenities or the exclusivity of private resorts, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan have beach options to suit every preference. These Gulf Coast destinations provide a range of experiences, from bustling public beaches with ample amenities to secluded stretches of pristine shoreline. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to create unforgettable memories along the magnificent shores of Alabama's Gulf Coast.

VISIT OUR WHAT TO DO PAGE for more local favorite activities

Gulf Shores Deep Sea Fishing | Saltwater Fishing | Fishing Spots

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Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan, AL offer an abundance of fishing opportunities that make it a paradise for anglers of all levels. In addition to the Gulf of Mexico, the region boasts expansive inland saltwater bays, lagoons, fertile estuaries, and freshwater fishing opportunities. 

Anglers can hook a variety of sought-after species, including redfish, speckled trout, flounder, snapper, shark, mackerel, and even the occasional trophy-sized tarpon. With its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and a plethora of fishing hotspots, this place is an angler's dream destination.

VISIT OUR FISHING PAGE for a list of local favorite guides and fishing spots

Golfing in Gulf Shores | Orange Beach | Fort Morgan

The Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan AL region is a golfer's paradise, offering a combination of stunning coastal scenery and exceptional golf courses. With a variety of courses designed by renowned architects, golf enthusiasts are treated to an unforgettable experience including top-notch amenities, well-manicured fairways, state-of-the-art practice facilities, and professional instruction available. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to improve your skills, you’ll have a great time and a memorable experience in our scenic coastal setting.

VISIT OUR GOLF PAGE for a list of locals' favorite courses

Where to Eat | Jesse's on the Bay | A Local Favorite

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Jesse's on the Bay restaurant opened in Gulf Shores, AL in 2023 as the second location of a much older, more famous restaurant by the same name in Magnolia Springs, AL. The Gulf Shores location stands as a culinary gem, captivating visitors with its exquisite cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views. This coastal eatery offers a dining experience that harmoniously combines stunning aesthetics with delectable dishes, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

With an extensive menu that showcases a fusion of coastal and international flavors, Jesse’s on the Bay offers the same quality and precision execution the original location became famous for. There is literally nothing bad on the menu, including many fresh seafood dishes, but it is STEAK that Jesse’s is most prized for. They serve unique cuts of dry and wet-aged steaks and bone-in cuts, overseen by Executive Chef Laurence Agnew. While the steaks aren’t exactly underpriced, they certainly over-deliver. Diners can also savor fantastic appetizers such as crab cakes with a hint of Cajun spice or indulge in their famous seafood gumbo, bursting with Gulf Coast flavors.

The mixologists behind the bar can make you anything you want, and they offer several signature cocktails that will delight any beach vacationer. You can get full service for dinner at the bar as well.

The restaurant's prime location overlooking the serene waters of Mobile Bay creates an enchanting atmosphere and a prime spot for seeing the sunset. Guests can relish their meals while basking in panoramic views and enjoying gentle ocean breezes. Jesse's on the Bay offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing ample opportunities to appreciate the stunning surroundings. Plus, there is a very cool open-air bar area downstairs where you can relax with a drink and play some games while waiting for your table.

The exceptional service at Jesse's on the Bay complements the outstanding culinary offerings. The friendly and attentive staff ensures that every diner feels welcomed and well-cared for, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Reservations are very much encouraged, unless you don’t mind spending up to 2 hours waiting at the downstairs bar enjoying the views, breeze, games, and dolphin watching.

LEARN MORE about Jesse’s on the Bay

VISIT OUR FOOD PAGE for more local favorite restaurants and bars

Gulf Shores AL for Rent

Gulf Shores/Orange Beach/
Fort Morgan, AL

Looking for a place for rent in Gulf Shores, AL? You're in the right place. Every year nearly 1 million people flock to the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, AL area for their beach vacations, beach getaways, beach weddings, beach bachelor trips, and beach bachelorette trips. Here at Gulf Shores Vacation Guide, we give you all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

Here are links to all the Gulf Shores Al for Rent content we've created just for you:

Gulf Shores AL Hotels on the Beach

Gulf Shores AL Beach Resorts

Gulf Shores AL RV Resorts

Where to Stay - A Guide to Local Favorite Vacation Rentals

And check the rest of the Gulf Shores Vacation Guide site for information about What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Shop, Golfing, and Fishing - all written by a Gulf Shores local.

Gulf Shores AL Hotels on the Beach | 8 Beachfront Hotels to Fit Your Budget

Gulf Shores/Orange Beach

Looking for the perfect hotels on the beach in Gulf Shores, AL, and Orange Beach, AL? Look no further! We've compiled a list of great, budget friendly options that offer both comfort and convenience for your coastal getaway.

1. Beachside Resort Hotel, Gulf Shores: This charming hotel is located just steps away from the Gulf Shores Beach. With spacious rooms, a pool, and a complimentary breakfast, it's an excellent choice for travelers seeking relaxation and easy beach access.
2. Best Western on the Beach, Gulf Shores: Offering stunning ocean views and direct beach access, this Best Western hotel is a favorite among visitors. Enjoy the convenience of comfortable rooms, a beachfront pool, and a fitness center.
3. Best Western The Tides, Orange Beach: Offers comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities and private balconies or patios overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and free parking.
4. The Lodge at Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores: Situated within the Gulf State Park, this eco-friendly hotel is nestled in a beautiful natural setting. It offers modern rooms, breathtaking ocean views, and access to hiking trails, a pool, and the beach.
5. Hilton Garden Inn, Orange Beach: Located in Orange Beach, this Hilton hotel provides a beachfront oasis. With stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center, it's an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers.
6. Holiday Inn Express, Orange Beach: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a host of amenities, including a complimentary breakfast, a pool, and beach access. It's an ideal option for families and leisure travelers.
7. Hampton Inn & Suites, Orange Beach: Just steps from the beach, this hotel features spacious rooms, a pool, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and explore nearby attractions.
8. Island House Hotel, Orange Beach: Nestled on the sands of Orange Beach, this beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with private balconies and beautiful ocean views. Relax by the pool or take a stroll along the shoreline.

With these beachside hotels in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a comfortable stay and easy access to the stunning beaches. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, these hotels provide the perfect base for an unforgettable beach vacation.

VISIT OUR WHERE TO STAY PAGE for a list of additional accommodations