Harris Vacations Staff Writer | March 28, 2024
Have you been daydreaming about sugar-white sand and sparkling blue water? Does the thought of perfect weather and endless relaxation appeal to you? If so, it’s time for your next trip to the beaches in Gulf Shores!
Pristine, unspoiled, and still relatively undiscovered by the masses, our white sand beaches in the city of Gulf Shores, Alabama are some of the most beautiful in the country; once you visit, we think you’ll agree.
Situated to the southeast of Mobile and west of Pensacola, our coastline rivals Florida’s — just without the huge crowds! Are you ready for your next trip to paradise?
Let’s look at some of the best beaches in and around Gulf Shores, Alabama
This is the Gulf Shores main public beach and it’s unbelievably sugary-white sands make the perfect setting for a relaxing beach day. Washed down from the Appalachian Mountains thousands and thousands of years ago, these fine quartz granules feel especially soft between your toes. The vibrant white grains beautifully frame the clear, turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Spend your days lounging on the shoreline, building sandcastles with the family, or playing in the water at this pristine public beach.
Many local rental companies offer ocean kayaks, jet skis, parasailing opportunities, or even the latest fad hitting the waters — stand-up paddleboards — so there’s no limit to the amount of fun that can be had in the waters of Gulf Shores. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to The Original Oyster House on the boardwalk for a bite to eat.
Beach access is possible from several access points on the beach, making it easy to find a convenient beach area no matter where you’re staying. Beach safety makes this a family-friendly option and lifeguards are on duty between March and October — keep an eye on the beach flags though to ensure it’s safe to swim.
Gulf State Park is another picture-perfect recreation area perched on the Gulf of Mexico. With 6,500 acres on offer including secluded campgrounds and dramatic sand dunes, this huge outdoor space is a perfect escape from the city.
The beachfront pavilion is Gulf State Park’s best spot for a hassle-free, family-friendly beach day. The site is fully accessible with ramps and there are climate-controlled restrooms to keep you comfortable on your beachside getaway.
Watersports are a popular pursuit here and paddleboards can be rented to enjoy the calm waters. Lessons are available for beginners or you can go out alone with your buddies for a relaxing hangout if you’re confident on the board. If you don’t want to bring a picnic you’re in luck! Delicious food on offer courtesy of Beachin’ Eats. The park has a paid parking lot and if you’re driving you’ll find it between Highway 59 and SH 161.
Swimmers flock to Little Lagoon to enjoy its shallow waters and sandy floor with no undertow. For those who prefer to be on the water rather than in it, you can also rent kayaks, canoes, and jet skis here. Fishing is another popular pursuit that can be enjoyed in Little Lagoon, and dolphin cruises offer visitors a chance to see these playful creatures frolicking in their natural habitat.
The beach is well-equipped for a full beach day out as it has public parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers handily available on the north side.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach are near one another, making a perfect pairing for a spot of beach hopping. Cotton Bayou is in Orange Beach but is part of Gulf State Park Beach.
Orange Beach is also home to the Wharf, an indoor entertainment center with activities the entire family can enjoy, making it a great option for your next beach vacation. Orange Beach is also home to some of the best restaurants in the area, serving Southern favorites with a seaside twist.
One of our personal favorites at Harris Vacation Rentals is Fort Morgan. With all of its incredible historical background and great attractions, it is the perfect place to visit while on your Gulf Shores vacation. Being some of the only pet-friendly beaches in the nation, you can have fun with the whole family!
Another great bonus is that Fort Morgan is home to the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge. Located about 15 minutes West of Gulf Shores, in a quiet and secluded area, it offers a natural buffer from the busier Gulf Shores area.
Come see amazing and beautiful creatures up close in their natural habitat. And when you visit from June through October, you will even have the chance to see the sea turtle nests!
So bring your family, dog included, and stay at a Harris Vacation Rentals pet-friendly property during your visit to historic Fort Morgan!
Romar Beach is another part of the Gulf State Park and is an easy-to-access strip of picture-perfect white sand beach.
The convenient location of this beach (just 6.8 miles east of Highway 59) means it’s ideal for a morning run, a sunset stroll, or an impromptu picnic.
Currently, there are no amenities available at Romar Beach, so if you plan on staying a while be sure that you come prepared with water and snacks.
Are you ready for your next trip to paradise? Along with getting easy access to these incredible beaches, our properties feature top-notch amenities and are conveniently located near all of the best things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Whether you prefer quaint beach houses or modern condominiums, you’ll find them on offer at Harris Vacation Rentals. Come discover the joys of our luxurious vacation homes and magnificent beaches in Gulf Shores.
Don’t wait to start planning the vacation of your dreams!
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