10 reasons we love Alabama’s Beaches as a summer tradition—plan your trip now

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For so many of us, hitting the road to Alabama’s Beaches is a summer tradition. For the uninitiated, it usually takes one trip to make it an annual must.

Ever wonder why that is? We put on our sunscreen and goggles for a dive into what makes our state’s coastal communities so special, keeping families and friends returning every year.

Read on for our top 10 summer traditions in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach + Fort Morgan with tips to plan your easy road trip now.

1. Alabama’s Beaches themselves

Miles of pristine white quartz sand washed by blue-green Gulf waters draw people from around the world.

For us, our beaches are less than 300 miles from Birmingham!

2. That first stop for souvenirs in Gulf Shores

For many families, the place is Souvenir City in Gulf Shores, which opened in 1956. Since the 1980s, the shop has had a gigantic shark-mouth entry—no doubt a satisfying sight for generations of children as an unforgettable answer to, “Are we there yet?”

3. Outdoor activities at Gulf State Park

Coastal Code Rule #11: 26 mph isn’t just a speed limit, it’s a way of life.

That’s the maximum speed at Gulf State Park by car, which you’ll want to get out of immediately to explore more leisurely by hiking, biking or paddling on trails, lakes and beaches across the park’s 6,000 acres.

4. The best Bushwackers along Alabama’s Beaches

Fourth on our list, these tasty frozen concoctions also land at #4 in the Coastal Code: Bushwackers at breakfast are research.

Check out the Bushwacker Trail to start your studies. Go for the classic adult beverage or skip the alcohol for a simple sweet treat.

5. Flora-Bama on the state line

Folks in search of a beach party will find one that doesn’t stop at Flora-Bama Lounge & Package, a local cultural institution since 1964 that features live music 365 days a year.

6. Fresh Gulf seafood in Gulf Shores + Orange Beach

While the kids in the back seat may have the Souvenir City shark chomping around their heads, the whole crew’s mouths start watering at the thought of vacation meals, signature Gulf-to-table seafood and iconic views.

A couple of longtime greats include Sea-N-Suds or the Pink Pony Pub, and also check out these other fan favorites.

7. Making family memories

While families span generations, so do the choices among things to do that make everyone happy. One group could relax in the sand or by a pool, while another strolls the pier or does a little shopping.

Plus, there are so many options for where to stay. Check them out and book one here.

8. The Wharf Ferris wheel in Orange Beach

The 112-foot Ferris wheel at The Wharf is a favorite sight and a thrilling ride for those up for great heights. Rides are $8 per person (free for kids age 1 and younger).

9. Easy vacations for groups of all kinds

With so many options for things to do, people can pick the pace that feels best at Alabama’s Beaches. Plan a whole trip around those goals or strike a balance, alternating days for thrill-seeking adventures and others for ultimate R&R spa experiences.

10. It’s our place, Alabama!

Coastal Code #87 says that summer isn’t really summer without a beach trip. That’s especially true here in Alabama.

Even when it’s become a tradition, the stories change and grow just as our families and we do. Same first stops, favorite meals and similar sunset snapshots hold a beautiful framework for shifting perspectives as we check in year after year. How fortunate are we as Alabamians to have that right here?

Summer officially begins on June 21! Keep the tradition + plan your summer trip to Alabama’s Beaches today.

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