Best Alabama Beaches

Home to 32 miles of white sand beaches, Gulf Shores is one of Alabama's most popular coastal getaways thanks to the Gulf of Mexico's balmy waters. There are a variety of beach access points, but the one at Gulf Place is particularly popular thanks to its ample facilities, which include picnic pavilions, volleyball nets and restrooms. Off of the sand, there are plenty of activities to entertain the whole family, including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park (50 miles northwest) and Waterville USA – a 20-acre water park. While in town, indulge in plenty of fresh seafood, especially oysters – the area's specialty.

Dubbed the "Sunset Capital of Alabama," 14-mile-long Dauphin Island sits at the southernmost point of the state. For some of the best views of the Gulf, head to East End Beach. Or, spend the day shelling at West End Beach. Along with its pristine beaches, Dauphin Island is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions, including historic Fort Gaines, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Audubon Bird Sanctuary. You'll fall in love with the small-town feel here while browsing the boutique shops or chowing down on locally caught seafood at the island's laid-back restaurants.

This stretch of Alabama coastline beckons to beachgoers with its alabaster sands and ample outdoor pursuits. Alabama Point East Beach is popular amongst travelers for its beautiful blue-green water, sand dunes and picnic areas. You could easily spend all day lounging on the beach, but if you start to get restless, arrange a tee time at one of the area's golf courses, rent a bike or kayak in Wolf Bay. Meanwhile, families will find plenty to enjoy at Adventure Island, which boasts an arcade and a variety of kid-friendly rides. In the evening, head to The Wharf or Flora-Bama Lounge for live entertainment.

A popular daytrip option for boaters in the Orange Beach area, Robinson Island is a bird sanctuary and an important nesting area for wading herons and terns. You can only reach the island by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or boat, and once you've arrived there isn't much to do beyond lounging on the beach and enjoying the undeveloped land – but that serenity is exactly what makes it so popular with visitors. Since there are no facilities or amenities on the island, you'll have to bring everything you need and take it with you when you leave.

Gulf State Park is home to nine ecosystems, 2 miles of beaches and plenty of paddling and swimming opportunities in 900-acre Lake Shelby. Stretch your legs along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a 28-mile trail system featuring prime wildlife spotting, including birds, coyote, whitetail deer and alligators. There are cabins, cottages and campsites for budget-minded travelers, but those who don't want to rough it should book a room at the Hilton-affiliated Lodge at Gulf State Park. Meanwhile, relaxation-minded travelers should set up camp for the day at the Beach Pavilion or Cotton Bayou Beach, which both offer showers, parking and restrooms.

Sitting roughly 20 miles west of Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to 1834, when it was built to protect Mobile Bay. Though the site may initially only appeal to history buffs, Fort Morgan should also be on the to-do list for beach bums and bird-watchers. Designated a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy, the fort and its uncrowded beaches are an important stopover for spring and fall neotropical migrating birds. For a more traditional beach experience, travelers can head to nearby West Beach, which is backed by eateries, private homes and high-rise hotels.

This small town overlooking Alabama's Mobile Bay is a quiet alternative to the state's crowded Gulf-facing beaches. A boardwalk stretches along the coast, giving travelers fantastic views of Point Clear's Historic District. For the best experience, book a room at Marriott's bayside Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, which boasts its own private beach with cabana rentals. This beautiful property is dotted with live oak trees and is home to hundreds of bird species.  

Better known for its cafes, art galleries, souvenir stores and seafood restaurants than its beach, Fairhope draws vacationers who are on the hunt for a heavy dose of Southern charm. Unwind on North Beach Park's laid-back stretch of sand, or take advantage of the park's other offerings, which include a duck pond and several walking trails. When you're not admiring Mobile Bay from the 1,448-foot-long pier – located directly next to the beach – immerse yourself in the town's art scene by paying a visit to the Eastern Shore Art Center. Time your visit for March when the free Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival takes over the town.