Gulf Shores
Trip to

Gulf Shores

19 picks

Sun-kissed luxury beaches and family adventures await in Gulf Shores

WeekendfamilyBeachyRelaxedLuxurious

Highlights

Relax on miles of powdery beaches ideal for family sandcastle building and sunset strolls.

Explore expansive nature trails and waterways by bike or private guided tour.

Stay in opulent properties with private beach access and family-friendly amenities.

Savor upscale Gulf cuisine with waterfront views and premium ingredients.

Embark on private boat charters for up-close views of playful dolphins.

Where to Stay

2 picks

Turquoise Place
STAY

Turquoise Place

Ultra-luxury beachfront condos with private balconies, infinity pools, and direct Gulf access.

The Lodge At Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel
STAY

The Lodge At Gulf State Park, A Hilton Hotel

Beachfront Hilton with expansive pools, on-site dining, and complimentary bikes for park exploration.

Where to Eat

6 picks

The Gulf
EAT

The Gulf

Upscale seafood spot with fresh Gulf catches; order the family-style lobster and oyster platter.

Villaggio Grille
EAT

Villaggio Grille

Italian fine dining with wood-fired pizzas and pasta; try the family Margherita and tiramisu.

The Hangout Gulf Shores
EAT

The Hangout Gulf Shores

Vibrant beachfront eatery with gourmet burgers and seafood towers; opt for VIP table service.

Seafood Shack Orange Beach
EAT

Seafood Shack Orange Beach

Casual upscale seafood with private dining; recommend the crab legs and shrimp boil.

Coyote Joe's
EAT

Coyote Joe's

Steakhouse with prime cuts and Gulf views; family surf-and-turf platters.

LuLu's Gulf Shores
EAT

LuLu's Gulf Shores

Waterfront family hotspot owned by Jimmy Buffett's sister; amberjack tacos and yacht club punch.

What to Do

6 picks

Gulf State Park
DO

Gulf State Park

Rent private bikes or e-bikes for 15-mile trails; includes fishing pier and freshwater lakes.

Gulf Shores Public Beach
DO

Gulf Shores Public Beach

Private cabana setup with chair service, umbrellas, and beach toys for kids.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
DO

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Private VIP tour with animal encounters and behind-the-scenes access.

Dolphin Cruises Orange Beach
DO

Dolphin Cruises Orange Beach

Private charter boat for dolphin watching and shelling excursions.

Waterville USA
DO

Waterville USA

VIP fast-pass for water slides, go-karts, and mini-golf.

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
DO

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Private guided nature hike spotting birds and wildlife.

Good to Know

5 picks

KNOW

Pack Sunscreen and Hats

Gulf sun is intense; use reef-safe SPF 50+ and wide-brim hats for all-day protection.

KNOW

Rent a Luxury SUV

Opt for a premium vehicle with beach driving permits for accessing remote shores.

KNOW

Book Private Charters Early

Reserve dolphin cruises and fishing trips weeks ahead for peak family slots.

KNOW

Check Tide Schedules

Use apps for low-tide beachcombing and safe swimming times.

KNOW

Bring Bug Spray for Evenings

Natural repellents for dusk walks near marshes and dunes.

Map

Map unavailable

Best For

Families with kidsBeach luxury seekersMulti-generational groupsRelaxation enthusiasts

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