I bet you never thought about Alabama being a beach destination, did you? The good part about that is the vast majority of the population doesn’t either! This means you can visit some of the best Alabama beaches as nature intended. No crowds, no trash….just you, the sun, and some serious fun in the water!
Considering most of Alabama’s beaches are not common knowledge, let’s take a look at six of the absolute best.
Best Alabama Beaches
Dauphin Island
If you are going to be in Mobile County, the trip would not be complete without a visit to Dauphin Island Park and Beach. While this is not a coveted free beach, the small admission price is well worth it for a day in the Alabama sun!
There is much to see and do while you are here including some very nice trails and parks that give a little bit of escape from just lying on the beach. This is the only pet-friendly beach in the area and remains open all year long. There are really nice RV and campsites, so pack up Fido and come camping for the weekend!
There is absolutely no shortage of campground space as it boasts a significant 151 of which 99 are full hookups. In addition, you are going to find free Wi-Fi as well as a boat launch. Of course, there are picnic areas, dump stations, playgrounds, and a wooden walkway that takes you directly to the secluded beach…perfect!
Fairhope
The area of Fairhope is home to several artists and novelists, in addition, this area is going to give you some of the most spectacular views of Mobile Bay. If you are looking to grab some snaps of an incredible sunset, find a spot at dusk near the Municipal Pier of Fairhope, you will not be disappointed.
You will have a wide range of activities to enjoy during your day on Fairhope including speed boating, snorkeling, and of course, swimming. However, I have to admit, nothing beats a quiet picnic on the beach by the soothing sounds of water nearby!
This is a great beach to bring the family for the day and have some fun together.
There are a host of activities really close to the beach including a duck pond, rose garden, plenty of picnic area, and a relaxing boardwalk. If you spend any time on the pier, you will be surrounded by a variety of coastal birds, including some very curious pelicans.
Fort Morgan
If you like to get a little bit of a history lesson while working on your tan, there is no better peninsula in Alabama than that of Fort Morgan. Sitting on the west of the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Morgan is the perfect beach for rest, relaxation, and a little bit of time for inner-reflecting.
There is a good section of the area that is under the supervision of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, however, the Fort Morgan beach is open to the public. This area can be rather confusing, which is why I have to recommend staying at one of the areas beach hotels that is going to give you private access directly to the beach…which is a bonus.
If you are trying to make this a day trip and not stay in one of the area hotels, there are only two access points available to reach this stunning beach. Keep in mind that there are not any facilities nearby, so you will need to carry all of your provisions for the day.
Gulf Shores Beach
One of my personal favorites in Alabama is the Gulf Shores area, it is the perfect area for a beach vacation. Gulf Shores is actually a collection of various beaches, with the main public beach being the top dog among them.
The area is also full of shopping, attractions, and incredible food.
The Gulf Shores public beach has access to showers, free parking, lifeguards, and the much-needed restroom! Bring a volleyball with you and indulge in a game or two….or reimagine the Tom Hanks movie, Castaway.
Gulf State Park
Situated between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, you are going to find yourself smack dab in the middle of Gulf State Park, a stunning two-mile long beach that you must see to believe.
Take a break from the summer sun by the pavilion which also features restrooms and tables. The area is beautifully surrounded by sea oats and dunes.
Many people come to this area for sport fishing, so don’t forget your rod and reel. Or perhaps a bike ride or walk through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. You may even spot a deer or alligator in the natural habitat, so keep an eye out.
Orange Beach
Saving the best for last, we come to Orange Beach, one of the most popular family destinations in Alabama…it truly is the perfect beach vacation.
In addition to the gorgeous beaches and water, there is a wide range of activities surrounding the area, ensuring no one is going to be getting bored.
If you are feeling adventurous, maybe you might want to try a little bit of flyboarding. Or perhaps you may want to go dolphin sighting at sunset, check out a sunken ship, or just charter a sailboat for the day. The activities are truly endless, regardless of whether you want an adrenaline rush or just a peaceful cruise.