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How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gulf Shores

How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gulf Shores

Ring in the New Year on the Flora-Bama line! Gulf Shores, Alabama, is situated just a stone’s throw from Pensacola, Florida, and boasts some of the best NYE parties on the Gulf Coast. We’re talking daytime bubble bashes fit for the whole family alongside wild and crazy beach parties that will have you celebrating until the wee hours of 2025. For those planning to visit during the cooler months, Winter in Gulf Shores offers a variety of seasonal events and activities that will make your trip even more memorable.

Our beachfront vacation rentals offer the perfect cozy getaway where you can attend the best NYE events and then retire to the iconic white sands. Here’s what to expect when you plan a visit to Gulf Shores this New Year’s Eve.

2024 New Year’s Eve Events in Gulf Shores, AL

Photo Credit: Impact Photography

Here’s a collection of all the best New Year’s Eve events happening in and around the Gulf Shores area.

Flora-Bama’s New Year’s Eve Bash

  • Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 at 6 PM
  • Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar | 17401 Perdido Key Dr., Perdido Key, FL.
  • florabama.com/new-years-eve

This 21 and over event is the biggest party in Gulf Shores. If you’re looking for great music, a lively party, excellent food, and a large crowd to ring in the new year, this is the event for you. Tickets should be purchased in advance as they usually sell out! Your $75 ticket includes full access to the dinner buffet, three stages of live music, champagne, party favors, and, at the stroke of midnight, access to the breakfast spread as the party continues all night long.

Reelin’ In the New Year at the Wharf

  • Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, All-day
  • Main Street on the Wharf + Marlin Circle
  • alwharf.com/events

Put on by Pepsi & Miller Lite, this New Year’s Street Party is fun for the whole family. A staple of the Alabama Gulf Coast, this festival is filled with family-friendly activities in the daylight hours before shifting to a full-on White Claw-fueled party at night. Kids will love the rock climbing wall, camel rides, and a 10 AM kids confetti drop.

After dark, you can expect a full firework display, live music, and the iconic “marlin drop” that makes this unique New Year’s celebration so popular.

Lulu’s Noon Year’s Eve

Lulu’s has got you covered if you’re looking for a family-friendly countdown to New Year’s Eve celebration. There is no need to keep the kids up until midnight when the colorful beach ball drop happens here at NOON. Enjoy face painting, a sandcastle-building contest, arts and crafts, kid-safe fireworks (by which I mean bubble wrap), and more!

Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip

Yet another spectacular event put on by the Flora-Bama crew. This “polar plunge” isn’t exactly polar bear-level frigid, but it is undoubtedly a crisp swim meant to shock the New Year’s Eve hangover straight out of you. Come frolic in the wintertime waters of the Gulf of Mexico and hang out on the sand in fun, festive costumes or your favorite swimsuit. The event itself is totally free and is a fun tradition that many locals attend every single year. It’s also a precursor to a fun, sun-filled beach party to kick off January the right way.

OWA New Year’s Eve Weekend Extravaganza

Photo Credit: Namwlan

These are actually two events rolled into one. On Saturday night, at around 8:45 PM, the annual Sparks and Sounds kick off the NYE festivities with live bands and a spectacular fireworks show.

This lively party is for those who wish to celebrate on the weekend rather than New Year’s Day itself. Sunday is a family-friendly Bubbles and Beats street party starting at 2 PM and continuing until 5 PM. Kids will love the music and the giant bubble pools!

Other Wintertime Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama

While New Year’s Eve celebrations are likely to occupy your weekend, here are a few other wintertime attractions you can enjoy throughout the duration of your stay.

Go Ice Skating at the Wharf in Orange Beach

Photo Credit: Maria Moroz

Nearby Orange Beach offers the illusion of a winter wonderland with a classic Ice rink to glide on from late November to late January. Grab your skates or rent a pair on-site at the Wharf during your next visit to Gulf Shores during the Christmas season.

Hike the Fort Morgan Road Trail

Photo Credit: GaudiLab

While the Gulf State Park and other nearby recreation areas offer plenty of bike trails and walking paths, the Fort Morgan Road Trail is often overlooked and an excellent addition to your wintertime itinerary. This 5-plus-mile coastal trail cuts through the urban territory and offers a scenic stroll through the heart of the community.

Stroll the Dunes of the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge

Photo Credit: Danny E Hooks

Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge is a lovely place to connect with nature in Gulf Shores, Alabama, even during the chilly winter months! Here, you can watch the seasonally migrating birds come in to nest or walk the scenic paths through the dunes, enjoying the natural landscapes of Alabama.

Try Some of Alabama’s Best Breweries & Restaurants

Tis’ the season for celebration! Gulf Shores has no shortage of foodie destinations to grab a comforting slice of pizza, a beer at one of the local breweries, or a platter of delicious locally sourced seafood. Whatever the mood of your crew, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Play a Round of Golf

Photo Credit: Mikael Damkier

While the sport is most popular during the balmy summer months, it’s often more enjoyable with a chilly winter breeze. There are plenty of golf courses around Gulf Shores to choose from, or you can head to the mini-golf links for some family fun.

Fish Among the World-Class Anglers

Fishing in Alabama is a year-round attraction. With a wide variety of species to catch and plenty of serious fishermen around to take you out to sea, this is a great wintertime attraction for those looking to explore the local’s favorite pastime. Book a guided fishing tour and try your hand with the world class deep sea fishing the region offers!

Enjoy the Beaches

While you might not be inclined to throw on a swimsuit this time of year, the picturesque sands of Gulf Shores are well worth a visit. You can enjoy the sunset, take a morning stroll through the silky white sand, or just sit out and enjoy the sunshine.

These are some of our favorite Gulf Shores beaches:

Packing for Your New Years Getaway

The Gulf Coast is blessed with a mild winter season. No snow to worry about here! But the otherwise balmy hot temperatures do drop a little this time of year. In fact, you can expect daytime temperatures to sit in the mid-50s. Here are a few essentials that you should be sure to pack with you before heading to the Gulf Coast for New Year’s.

  • Sunglasses
  • Warm Layers
  • Gloves and close-toed shoes
  • A cozy sweater
  • Festive costumes or NYE outfits fitting the party of your choice

Ring in the New Year at a Classy Beachfront Rental

Whether you choose the boozy late-night bashes of the Flora-Bama Bar or the chilled-out, kid-friendly daytime activities, Gulf Shores has plenty of events to help you ring in the new year right.

Our vacation rentals perched on the silky white sands of the Gulf Coast offer the best night’s sleep in the area. This will allow you to recuperate from the late-night festivities and enjoy all the other lovely wintertime attractions on offer in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area.

Book your holiday stay today!

A Visitor’s Guide to Christmas in Gulf Shores

Towering Christmas tree palms decked out in twinkling lights, sand-man contests, and Santa Claus has even traded in his heavy velvet suit for a breezy floral shirt—welcome to the Alabama Gulf Coast version of a “white” Christmas, where silky white sand just might be confused for snow. Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a popular destination for families, couples, and friends all year round, but the shores bring a little extra magic come Christmas time.

With most visitors looking to escape the seasonal frigid chill, our beachfront vacation rentals with panoramic ocean views become extra enticing this time of year. Here, you can spend the holiday season connecting with family and creating lasting memories you’ll cherish for decades. If you’re sticking around for the holidays, New Year’s Eve in Gulf Shores is the perfect way to ring in 2025 with spectacular beach parties and fun events to celebrate the end of the year.

This guide will help you fill your Christmas vacation with seasonal events and activities that guarantee this spectacular beach town feels like Christmas, even at 60 degrees!

2024 Christmas Events

Here’s a small collection of local events in and around the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area. Many are free to attend, but you should check the events calendar in advance to confirm.

Attend the White Tie Rock Ensemble (November 16 to 18, 2024)

Photo Credit: Bruce Alan Bennett

Ring in the holiday season with your favorite hits from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This is one of the year’s first “Christmas” events and easily a local favorite. Grab your tickets here.

Attend the Infamous Santa Drop (December 7, 2024)

It’s like the New Year’s Eve Ball drop with a little Christmas cheer and adrenaline sports thrown in. Every year at the Flora Bama Bar, Santa does a sky-high jump over the stark white sand and kicks off a fun day of kid’s games, crafts, live music, and celebration. This bar is an absolute staple of the community and well worth a visit regardless of the season.

Enjoy the Christmas Night Market (December 5, 2024)

Photo Credit: Laura Battiato

In Europe, Christmas Markets are a staple of the holiday season. This festive market is hosted at the Coastal Alabama Market and offers a similar ambiance for those looking to embrace the Christmas spirit. Here, you can purchase all your locally crafted gifts and try some tasty homemade Christmas treats.

Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck (December 25, 2024)

This beach bar isn’t just dropping Santa. It’s also cooking up one of the best Christmas day dinners in town. But this isn’t your average sit-down dinner. This is a full potluck with the community. Flora-Bama provides the Ham and Turkey, but each family should bring a side dish to share with their fellow diners.

Lulu’s Lighted Boat Parade (December 14, 2024)

Photo Credit: Cynthia Liang

Rather than hitting the streets searching for the best Christmas lights, gather your loved ones and let the lights come to you! Station yourself by the Intracoastal Waterway on Canal Street to see a boat parade and the city’s best light displays float by.

Flora-Bama Make It To The Line Run (December 28, 2024)

Is your family the kind that loves a 5k after Thanksgiving? Why not make it the 4-mile Flora-Bama Make It To The Line Run after Christmas, then? Participants receive free food and drinks after the event. Even better, some of the proceeds from the run go to benefit the local Secret Santa program that gives to families in need. So you can feel doubly good about your morning run.

Solve a Ho Ho Homicide at a Murder Mystery Dinner Show (December 5 & 6, 2024)

Set at the Brandon Styles Live Theatre, this themed murder mystery plated dinner is sure to intrigue and entertain. While not family-friendly, this is a unique way to get into the holiday spirit. Enjoy a spectacular meal with an up-close interactive show.

Other Christmas Time Things to Do in Gulf Shores

While there are plenty of single-day events, the month of December hosts a variety of activities for those not keen to book ahead or plan on specific dates. Here are some of our favorite things to do for the whole family.

Get Photos With Santa at the Wharf

Photo Credit: Ground Picture

Everyone gets a photo of Santa Claus in a red suit. But only the chosen few who vacation to Gulf Shores get to nab a family photo with a bearded Hawaiian shirt-clad Santa. Enjoy the unique vacation Santa this season down at the Wharf.

While You’re There…Grab the Perfect Gift

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

Known as Holly Days on Main, the gift shops and stores of Gulf Shores are bursting with goods this time of year. While the Wharf offers excellent shopping throughout the season, December 9 and 10 offers live music and a Santa-themed pub crawl for those 21+ visitors on the Wharf.

Still need help finding the perfect gift for your special someone? Make it yourself. The Clay Studio and The Hot Shop allow you to try your hand at pottery and glass blowing. Your friends and family will appreciate it even more as it’s homemade.

Carve it Up at the Ice Skating Rink

Christmas fun is synonymous with ice skating. You don’t have to be a professional on the ice to have some fun. This family-friendly activity is a great way to bond with the kids. The Wharf floods the rink every winter, and visitors enjoy beachfront skating for $15 a person. Buy a package ticket, and you can even throw in a ride on the sky-high Ferris Wheel.

Watch the Best Christmas Pageant Ever

This annual Christmas pageant is held at the South Baldwin Community Theatre for early visitors to Gulf Shores. Known to be comical and light-hearted, it’s a beautiful night of laughter and fun for theatre lovers.

Stroll Through Bellingrath Gardens Magic Christmas in Lights

Lit from late November through early January, the stunning Bellingrath Gardens will be luminescent with millions of lights. You can walk through the 16 Christmas scenes and get in the holiday spirit. Outside of the Christmas Season, you can also visit the gardens for a more traditional floral display that’s equally impressive.

Visit the Gulf State Park and Snaps Some Photos of Christmas Card Lane

Photo Credit: kjungmann

From December 4 to the 31st, you can head to the Lake Shelby Picnic area to see some of the best-lighted displays on the Gulf Coast. Pack up the car, grab a thermos of Hot Cocoa, and make an evening of it. Your stunning photos of Christmas Card Lane might make your Christmas card next year.

Packing for Your Christmas Gulf Shores Getaway

Gulf Shores in December is chilly—for Alabama’s beaches, that is, not for the average US town in winter. One of the main reasons people love to visit the Gulf in the wintertime is the comfortable temperatures and the lack of crowds.

Daytime temperatures range between 55 and 60 degrees, with nighttime lows around 45. This means you’ll want to pack at least a few Christmas sweaters in lieu of bathing suits. Here are a few other items besides your regular Gulf Shores packing list you should remember to throw in the suitcase for the holidays.

  • SPF 50 Reef-Safe Sunscreen
  • Beach towel
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sandals
  • Christmas Sweaters
  • High-quality beach bag or Daypack

Book Your Gulf Shores Holiday

For those not looking to savor the snow this holiday season, you can get outside and enjoy a beach vacation at Gulf Shores, Alabama.

With incredible beaches, delicious eats, and lots of family-friendly attractions, this is the perfect family vacation destination this December. Our luxurious beach houses allow you to revel in the natural beauty of the Gulf while still maintaining an easy distance from all the amenities and attractions that will bring you to the oceanside town in the first place.

With no shortage of holiday events to fill your time with, you’ll soak in the sea AND the holiday spirit of a coastal Christmas this year. Make this a holiday tradition to remember!

8 Must-Try Breakfast Spots in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach & Fort Morgan

You’ve heard it all your life… breakfast is the most important meal of the day. In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it’s not just the most important, but is also one of the most delicious!

No matter if you have an appetite for eggs or a craving for a cinnamon roll, you can start your day right during your next Alabama vacation with these Orange Beach and Gulf Shores breakfast restaurants.

After much taste-bud tempting research, we’ve compiled a list of our six favorite breakfast spots. Before you head off on an adventure to Gulf State Park or for a round of golf, feast on these drool-worthy selections. It’s also perfectly acceptable to take a nap after breakfast while on vacation. You might just need one!

1. The Ruby Slipper Café

Ruby Slipper Cafe

It’s hard to choose a favorite at The Ruby Slipper Café in Orange Beach is difficult because every item on the menu gets a thumbs-up!

However, what this slice of breakfast heaven may be best known for is its eggs benedicts. These aren’t your ordinary benedicts, either. Don’t order expecting your selection to be served atop an English muffin. Instead, you’ll find a monstrous, airy homemade southern biscuit. You have six extraordinary benedicts to choose from, including the Chicken St. Charles, which includes a fried chicken breast and two poached eggs finished with a pork Tasso cream sauce.

Tasty Tip: Order a side of Pig Candy Bacon or the French Toast Batons stacked up like a game of Jenga. The kids will love it, and so will you!

2. The Southern Grind Coffee House

The Southern Grind Coffee House is a local favorite. You can’t go wrong with breakfast in this relaxed, beachy coffee shop. There are two locations for you to get your caffeine fix: one at The Wharf and the newest location inside Hotel Indigo (both in Orange Beach).

This mom-and-pop shop serves up a great selection of breakfast items, but our favorites are Chef Jim’s Belgian Waffles topped with fresh strawberries, fresh whipped cream and drizzled in white chocolate. If that sounds like pure indulgence… it is! However, you’re on vacation and that’s allowed!

Another favorite at this Orange Beach restaurant is the Jalapeno Potato Scramble. Load up on your protein with three eggs scrambled with fresh baby spinach, Bella mushrooms, and either cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or feta cheese.

3. Brick & Spoon

Rise and dine at Brick & Spoon located on Canal Road in Orange Beach AL. Voted one of the “Top 10 Breakfasts in the US” by Travel + Leisure, it’s hard to pass up the restaurant’s shrimp & grits. It’s a meal big enough to feed you and a friend, or ask for a to-go box and save the rest for lunch! If you have a sweet tooth, opt for the bananas foster French toast with caramelized bananas and pecan pieces.

Tasty tip: Don’t miss their “build your own Bloody Mary” option where you choose the ingredients and the spice level to create your signature cocktail.

4. Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill

Fort Morgan Restaurant

When you want a down-home breakfast with made-from-scratch recipes, the locals know to head to Sassy Bass Amazin’ Grill in Fort Morgan. There’s nothing fussy about the food, and that’s what makes it so filling. In fact, grab a plate and head to the breakfast buffet filled with all your traditional favorites and a few unique dishes, too.

The owner swears by the savory porridge made with grilled beef, pork, and oatmeal porridge. Another one of our favorites at this Fort Morgan restaurant is the generously stuffed grilled shrimp burrito.

5. Café Beignet

When a quick breakfast is calling your name, and a sweet tooth is driving your breakfast choice, nothing beats Café Beignet in Gulf Shores. If you’ve never had the culinary pleasure of sinking your teeth into this puff of donut-like powdered sugary goodness, you’ve been missing out.

Order a dozen for $12. You can order them plain and covered in confectioners’ sugar or get the vanilla pudding-filled beignets topped with chocolate syrup. Either way, you really can’t go wrong. We think they’re best served alongside a delicious latte (dunking them is recommended).

Tasty Tip: Get them hot and devour them hot! Beignets are best when they’re just out of the fryer and dunked in powdered sugar. These are the pillowy delights a Gulf Shores breakfast dream is made of!

6. Sunliner Diner

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/JTTucker

You can’t beat Sunliner for breakfast in a classic diner setting, and you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the 1950s setting and the great food. The waffles are a must-try, as are the cheddar cheese omelets. For something lighter, try the avocado toast. Or, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t miss the banana nut French toast.

Don’t forget to bring some quarters for the jukebox for an authentic 1950s experience!

7. Tacky Jacks

Tacky Jack's in Gulf Shores

Tacky Jacks has locations in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Fort Morgan and each branch guarantees a great start to your day.

You’ll find classic American dishes on the menu including shrimp and grits, farmer’s omelet, and short stack pancakes. The crabcake benny is a top pick — it’s served with gouda grits that you won’t be able to get enough of.

For a boozy brunch, add a mimosa or a Bushwacker (a creamy frozen cocktail and the Gulf Shore’s signature drink) to your order.

8. The Hangout

This popular coastal spot will be a hit with the whole family with its extensive breakfast menu, beach access, and the famous foam pit.

This spot is also great value and the all-you-can-eat family-style breakfast will set you up right for the day. For $19.99 per adult and $8.99 per child, you’ll get all the breakfast classics including eggs and sausages. And they’ll keep ‘em coming until you say stop!

Enjoy the Best Breakfast in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Really though the number one spot for a Gulf Shores breakfast is…your own balcony or beachfront deck!

Smell the salt air and enjoy cool morning breezes without changing out of your pajamas. Our vacation rental homes in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan all come with fully equipped kitchens and everything you need for breakfast in paradise, minus the groceries and chef, of course!

Pick up breakfast-ready muffins and fruit or send someone out on a Café Beignet run. Sip your coffee and enjoy the views of Alabama’s beaches. It really doesn’t get any better than this.

8 Best Pizza Places in Orange Beach

Family-friendly, spacious, and stunning, our luxurious home rentals are just steps from one of Alabama’s most impressive stretches of sand – Orange Beach. Known for stunning shores with sparkling white, placid turquoise waters and loads of fun activities—notably without the “Spring Break-Style” crowds that many Gulf Coast beaches harbor.

While the beach’s namesake orange, satsuma, and grapefruit trees didn’t come to fruition, a diverse range of Orange Beach restaurants, attractions, and sugar-white sand beaches keep the visitors (and locals) coming to the shores. This guide will showcase the flavors of Alabama, cultivating a list of more creatively crafted, often New York-style, specialty pizzas that will fuel you and the whole family for a day exploring the Gulf Coast.

Here are our nine favorite places to grab a slice within Orange Beach and the surrounding area.

1. Rotolo’s Pizzeria

Photo Credit: mOai99

  • 25755 Perdido Beach Blvd ste f1, Orange Beach, AL
  • rotolos.com
  • $
  • Recommended: The Angry Pig Speciality Pizza with bacon, BBQ sauce, Italian sausage, and jalapenos. Or the Muffaletta Pizza.

This southern pizza chain offers a family-friendly atmosphere for dine-in or carry-out pizza, with a special emphasis on crafting the perfect crust. A poor crust can absolutely ruin a perfectly good pizza pie. Ensuring they make every sauce and crust fresh each day and utilize only high-quality vegetables and meats for the toppings, this pizza place isn’t like your typical chain. Offering chicken wings, subs, and our personal favorite, the Muffaletta sandwich, alongside traditional and non-traditional pizza.

2. Pizza at the Pass

  • 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd C2, Orange Beach, AL
  • pizzaatthepass.com
  • $$
  • Recommended: Greek Pizza with Mozzarella, Gyro Meat, Feta Cheese, Tomatoes, Red Onion, & a Drizzle of Greek Sauce

Pizza enthusiasts looking for a thin-crust pizza that’s perfectly crisp will be pleased by Pizza at the Pass. You can order from their hand-molded specialty pizzas or build your own pie with options for Gluten-free crust and vegetarians.

Try the cheesy garlic toast or the baked meatballs alongside a family-sized pizza if you plan on dining in. If you’re not feeling like driving from Orange Beach, Pizza at the Pass is also available for pizza delivery if you order online from Doordash or Uber Eats.

3. Perdido Beach Pizza Company

Photo Credit: DenisProduction.com

A variety of dining options with views of the Gulf. Perdido Pizza Company is part of the greater Perdido Beach Resort dining area, which offers not only excellent pizza at this shop but also craft burgers, exceptional ice cream, and tasty seafood in various restaurants within the premises.

Pop into this one-stop shop for dinner and dessert, and wash down your delectable pie with Hershey’s ice cream and Frios gourmet popsicles. Their flavorful pies are available in personal and family sizes, so come hungry.

Definitely one of the most kid-friendly meals in Gulf Shores.

4. Villaggio Grille

  • 4790 Main St F108, Orange Beach, AL
  • villaggiogrille.com
  • $$
  • Recommended: Happy Hour Half-Price Pizza!

Let’s class up pizza. This is the favorite pizza place when it comes to sit-down dining. It is also one of the best places to eat on the water in Orange Beach. With an ambiance fit for a date night, you can enjoy brick-oven pizza, delicious pasta dishes, and exceptional seafood at their year-round outdoor seating on the patio.

Here, you can take in the airy breeze of the Gulf of Mexico while savoring some authentic Italian pizza and pasta with the whole family. For those not looking to dine in, you can always order some takeaway pies or family-style pasta that serves four people in one of our luxurious beachfront homes.

5. Vinny’s Pizzeria

Photo Credit: New Africa

  • 4651 Main St K-1, Orange Beach, AL
  • vinnys.pizza
  • $
  • Recommended: Pepperoni Log or Pepperoni By-the-Slice

From the red-checkered tablecloths, Pac-Man arcade games, and extra large slices to the unpretentious attitude, Vinny’s will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back into a simpler time. Open every single day from 11 AM to 9 PM, you can always count on Vinny for a delicious slice or an excellent Italian-style sandwich.

Even better, it’s conveniently located right next to the Ferris wheel on the Wharf. Here, you can stick to the classic’s. It doesn’t get better than the tasty pepperoni pizza paired with a frothy Root Beer Float or a draft Yuengling beer for those 21+ guests.

6. Island Time Daquiris and Pizza

What’s a slice of Pizza without a sports bar? If your answer is nothing, then Island Time at the Wharf is just the spot for you. With fruit-forward cocktails, live music, a full bar, and plenty of outdoor seating, this hot spot is just the tropical New Orleans-themed pizza joint you’re looking for. Try the Shrimp Pizza or one of the many flavors of chicken wings available. Old Bay Seasoned is a local favorite.

7. Crico’s Pizza

Photo Credit: Ratov Maxim

  • 309 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
  • cricospizza.com
  • $
  • Recommended: Crico’s Favorite with pepperoni, bacon, ham, sausage, jalapenos, and onions. Or try an Italian sub filled with tasty cured meats.

Right off the main beachfront drag, you can enjoy a lunch buffet, delicious pizza, and some tasty subs in a casual dining environment with both indoor and outdoor seating. This has been a hot destination since it landed on the map in 1998.

You’ll find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with locals as well as fellow tourists. With loads of dressings to top your sandwich with, wacky concoctions like the Flying Pig Stick, and a preference for fresh local ingredients, this is a perfect pizza place day or night.

8. Lauria’s Italian Bar & Bistro

When it comes to reviews and ratings, we’ve saved the best for last. Lauria’s leaves every single customer writing rave reviews and especially satisfied. Maybe it’s the quaint, homey interior or the attentive service, or maybe the pizza is just that good. While it’s definitely not your typical New York Slice, Lauria’s pizza is excellent for those in search of a more flatbread-style pizza crafted with care.

You can grab a sandwich, a pasta dish, or a decadent slice of homemade cheesecake alongside your pizza as well. Another noteworthy mention of Lauria’s? It also hosts live music. There are actually two different locations right around the corner from one another, so choose the one that best suits you.

Grab a Slice in Orange Beach, Alabama

Our stunning rental properties await. We’ve got a collection of coastal homes to choose from for you and the whole family right in the heart of Orange Beach, Alabama. Here, you can plan the perfect family getaway or reunion and start the yearly tradition that will give you memories for decades to come.

Our homes are large and well-equipped, and they are centrally located within minutes of town and all these spectacular pizza places. Those who order takeout will have the amenities and comfort of eating their meals and feeling right at home.

Don’t wait; book your Orange Beach getaway today!

10 Best Pizza Places in Gulf Shores

The Alabama Gulf Coast is known for its stunning beaches, charming vacation rentals, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Whether you’re unwinding after a day at the beach or looking for a delicious family meal, there’s nothing quite like a great pizza.

Forget about Dominos! The Gulf Shores area offers a variety of local authentic pizzerias, each with its unique flair, atmosphere, and flavors. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best pizza places in Gulf Shores, perfect for satisfying your cravings during your stay.

1. Crico’s Pizza & Subs

Photo Credit: mohsin_gfx

  • Address: 309 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: cricospizza.com
  • Price Point: $
  • Atmosphere: Casual, family-friendly
  • Reservations: Not required

Crico’s Pizza & Subs is a popular neighborhood hangout that’s been serving up cheesy pies since 1998. You can dive into one of their classic pizzas or diversify by choosing one of their equally beloved sub sandwiches. Traveling with kids (or occasionally picky eaters?), their cheesy Crico Sticks are the way to go. Gluten-free options are also available – some say their version of wheat-free pizza is the best they’ve ever had!

2. Papa Rocco’s: Pizza and Oysters

  • Address: 101 W 6th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: paparocco.com
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Lively, beachy vibe with live music
  • Reservations: Not required but recommended during peak season

A restaurant with a sense of humor, Papa Rocco’s proudly proclaims itself as “The home of warm beer and lousy pizza,” although the reality is much more pleasant. This no-frills restaurant serves up cheese-laden pizzas and freshly shucked oysters, among other things. And with a different live music act every night, you’re able to get dinner and a show. Dine-in and takeout are available!

3. Tuscany Pizza and Grill

Photo Credit: Brent Hofacker

  • Address: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: tuscanypizzaandgrill.com
  • Price Point: $$$
  • Atmosphere: Classy bistro
  • Reservations: Recommended

Tuscany Pizza and Grill is the perfect spot for a fun family dinner or a cozy date night in Gulf Shores. Beyond great food, you’ll also find a nice ambiance.

With a delicious menu featuring delicious pizza, pasta, and tantalizing appetizers, there’s plenty to choose from. If you’re having trouble choosing between pizza or pasta, the shrimp or chicken alfredo pizza marries the best of both worlds. Make sure to leave room for their fried mozzarella, as they make their mozzarella fresh each morning! Afterward, head next door to the Yard Milkshake Bar for dessert!

4. Janino’s Pizza

  • Address: 984 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: janinospizzagulfshores.com
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Cozy, casual
  • Reservations: Not accepted

Janino’s Pizza prides itself on bringing a taste of the Big Apple to Alabama with its New York-style pizzas. Small and unassuming, this family-owned pizzeria lays on the toppings in a laid-back atmosphere. The menu extends beyond pizza to some other Italian favorites like stromboli and calzones–and chicken wings for good measure. Online ordering or carry out is also available here!

5. Surfside Pizza & Ice Cream

Photo Credit: Ryzhkov Photography

  • Address: E. 2nd. Street, Suite J, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: surfsidepizza.com
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Casual and beachy
  • Reservations: Not necessary

Once you spot the cheerful blue facade of Surfside Pizza & Ice Cream, you know that there’s tasty food ahead. Surfside specializes in thin crust pizza, with classic toppings or a build-your-own option. They also have gluten-free crust! Finish off with a slice of their New York-style cheesecake or pizza cookies.

6. Rotolo’s Pizzeria

  • Address: 25755 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL (A quick drive from Gulf Shores)
  • Website: rotolos.com/locations/orange-beach
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Casual and upbeat
  • Reservations: Not required

If you’re looking for a change in scenery, just a short drive over to Orange Beach will take you to Rotolo’s Pizzeria. You can try something a little different here with their Detroit-style pizza, cut in squares and crispy-edged. An order of Krewe Cheeseticks as an appetizer are a big crowd-pleaser, topped with pepperoni, bacon, cheddar, and feta. But you can also get classic pizzas, calzones, and wings here as well.

7. Nonna’s Pizza

Photo Credit: Jack7_7

  • Address: 1209 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: nonnaspizzagulfshores.com
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Casual and quaint
  • Reservations: Not required

As soon as you enter and see the checkered tablecloths, you can guess that Nonna’s serves up some classic Italian fare in the form of New York-style pizza. Go for a classic or one of their most popular specialty pizzas like the Abe Froman, which has sausage and caramelized onion. Go for a round pie, or mix it up with a crispy square slice. Don’t forget to add a side of garlic knots to round out the meal with soft, garlicky goodness.

8. Lauria’s on the Beach

Photo Credit: Elena Veselova

If you truly want a taste of Italy, then Lauria’s By the Beach is a delightful option for your Gulf Shores dinner. Before you even order food, choose a bottle from their ceiling-high shelves of imported wine and then browse the menu. The flatbread pizzas (BBQ pulled pork and buffalo chicken are two of the most popular) are a great light Italian dish. However, you may also be tempted by the robust charcuterie boards. And, of course, save room for dessert!

9. ByWater Beachside

  • Address:  20800 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: facebook.com/ByWaterBeachside
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Beachy and casual
  • Reservations: Recommended

ByWater Beachside has pizza on its menu, which is true, but most people come here first and foremost for the view. Enjoy a meal up close and personal with the ocean as you dine on the pier. This is a great spot for a breezy meal out with occasional live music and karaoke for entertainment.

10. Marco’s Pizza

  • Address: 160 Cotton Creek Dr #230, Gulf Shores, AL
  • Website: marcos.com
  • Price Point: $$
  • Atmosphere: Casual, quick service
  • Reservations: Doesn’t accept reservations

For a no-nonsense, no-frills slice, head to Marco’s Pizza for consistently solid pizza. A nationwide chain known for its quick and consistent pizzas, you can stop here for a casual bite or pick up a pie to take back to your comfy lodgings and enjoy from your rental home!

Book Your Gulf Shores Vacation

When you’re looking for a place to go out to eat while on vacation, sometimes pizza is the only thing that will hit the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheese pizza or a delicate flatbread piled with toppings, these pizza spots are some of Gulf Shore’s best restaurants. From Italian-inspired bistros to breezy beach spots, you definitely have the chance to find the perfect vibe for your evening.

Be sure to check out one (or all!) of these great pizza places during your stay in Gulf Shores, whether you go out to eat or just order a pie to take back to your cozy vacation rental to enjoy in peace.

Book your Gulf Shores getaway today!

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