With unique attractions, incredible dining experiences, fantastic lodging options, adventures on and off the water, and festivals and events all year long, this is the place to be.

With its 32 miles of sugary white sand beaches, amazing food, nature trails, and wildlife sanctuaries, Alabama's gulf coast has something for everyone. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets, where memories last a lifetime. Here are 5 amazing ways to shop, play, and stay at Alabama's gulf coast.

1. The Wharf

Visit The Wharf in Orange Beach on Canal road.

Located at The Wharf is one of the tallest ferris wheels in the southeast. After taking a spin on the big wheel, your family can enjoy the arcade, miniature golf, do some shopping, grab a meal, or catch a concert at the amphitheater.  

For more details, visit: alwharf.com

2.  Doc’s Seafood

Dig in for one of the best meals on the Gulf Coast at Doc's Seafood located on Canal road in Orange Beach. Doc's claims to have "The Best Fried Shrimp in the Entire Civilized World." If you are traveling to the coast during the week, you can get a great deal with one of Doc's excellent blue plate specials. Great food, for a great deal.

For more details, visit: docsseafoodshack.com

3.  The Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival

The Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival is a family favorite for many, each October. The 50th annual Shrimp Festival will be October 12th-15th 2023 and will have plenty of food, music, art, and fun!  When you are at the Shrimp Festival make sure to get a Cajun Pistol from Fish River Grill.

For more details, visit: myshrimpfest.com

4.  Waterville USA

Make a splash at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores.  The kids will thank-you later! Waterville USA has something for the entire family, including the shrimp village for small kiddos, a wave pool, family raft style slides, and thrill slides for those who dare. Plan for an entire day at Waterville.

For more details, visit: watervilleusa.com

5.  Lodge at Gulf State Park

Stay at the Lodge at Gulf State Park, a collaboration between the State of Alabama and Hilton Hotel. The rooms are very clean, affordable, and suitable for ALL beach-goers. The Lodge also has a mat that allows persons with a disability to access the beach via a wheelchair.

For more details, visit: lodgeatgulfstatepark.com