Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Overview
The Alabama Gulf Coast is warmed by sunshine, history, culture and unspoiled natural beauty. You’ll find 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches made almost entirely of fine, quartz grains washed down from the Appalachian Mountains thousands of years ago. Once you visit the Gulf Coast area of Baldwin County, you quickly realize these are some of the finest beaches in the world, and one of America’s hidden gem locations. You’ll yearn to return year after year to feel the sand between your toes, splash around in the turquoise water, smell the salty air and admire the jaw-dropping sunsets of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
From zip lines and water parks to golf courses and fishing charters, there is entertainment for everyone in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Nature lovers can enjoy kilometers of walking and biking trails, dolphin cruises, and diving or snorkeling trips. History buffs can step back in time and explore Fort Morgan and the local museums. You can also spend some time treasure hunting for the perfect souvenir in the island’s many boutique, gift and specialty shops.
To experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the coast on a grand scale, plan your trip around one of many popular festivals and events. The Wharf’s Boat and Yacht Show in March is the largest show of its kind on the Gulf Coast. The Hangout Music Festival takes place in May, right on the beach, and features three days of music on multiple stages. In October, the National Shrimp Festival attracts more than 250,000 seafood fans and features arts, crafts, children’s activities, live entertainment and, of course, shrimp. November’s Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival features Grammy Award-winning songwriters as well as up-and-coming artists. Visit during the annual Oyster Cook-Off in November and sample the culinary creations of celebrity chefs from across the USA, plus a wide variety of craft beers.