Children playing on beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Gulf Shores

Discover the charm of Gulf Shores, AL; a beach haven that caters to couples, families, and retirees alike with its pristine sugar-white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The ideal weather makes it a year-round destination for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing. Bask in the beauty of Gulf State Park, or indulge in a round of golf at Craft Farms. Leaving this enchanting Alabama town will be the hardest part of your visit. One of the most iconic nearby cities to Gulf Shores is stunning Orange Beach.

Children playing on beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Don't miss the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, known as Animal Planet's "The Little Zoo That Could." This haven for exotic and endangered species, resilient through hurricanes, promises a memorable inland adventure. Families find it to be an affordable and captivating highlight of their vacation. Get up close and personal with the animals while gaining insight into wildlife conservation.

Visit the Gulf Coast Zoo
The Little Zoo That Could

Explore Gulf Shores

A man and woman smile while standing outdoors near a marina. They hold drinks with straws, and the woman wears a colorful dress and large sun hat, while the man wears a blue shirt.


The Best Places for Seafood Along Alabam...

If you’re looking for the best places for the most delicious seafood in Gulf Shores, we have you covered. We spent weeks researching, and five days eating nothing but seafood to determine the best places to get local seafood and fish.

Read Full Article
Two people sit on the steps of a tent set up in a wooded area. The two are relaxing and surrounded by nature on a sunny day.


Glamping Under the Stars

With 48,000 acres available and new funding to improve the experience, camping in Alabama’s state parks comes with all kinds of options, including luxury.

Read Full Article
An outdoor patio in front of a large building, surrounded by greenery and tall trees. The patio features numerous seating areas with chairs and tables.


Southern Comfort

Having a great vacation has a lot to do with where you stay. Check out (and check into) some of the best accommodations in Alabama.

Read Full Article
Two people hiking in the Alabama wilderness admiring the landscape.


An Alabama (Travel) 2024 Bucket List

The new year is quickly approaching and so is the time for planning exciting trips and lots of fun adventures in the coming year. We invite you to embark on a journey through the heart of the Deep South as we unveil Alabama’s captivating travel bucket list for 2024.

Read Full Article
A family of six poses in front of a mural at a waterpark and smiles for the camera.


Sweet Home Alabama: An unforgettable tri...

I see why it’s called Sweet Home Alabama! No seriously, if you are looking for your next trip, consider Alabama!

Read Full Article
People smiling and sitting outside of an RV


At Home on the Road

RVers find a range of places in Alabama to pull in overnight, from primitive sites to resort-like accommodations, many of which are located within easy distance of top attractions.

Read Full Article

#SweetHomeAlabama

Share your vacation shots using our hashtag on Instagram for your chance to be featured.

How to Get There

Outline drawing of a car.
Gulf Shores is surrounded by major highways 182, 180, and 59. Visitors have several scenic and interstate options to get there, and the zoo is right off of Highway 59 S.
Outline drawing of an airplane.
The Mobile Regional Airport is roughly an hour and a half away by car. The Pensacola International Airport is roughly an hour away by car.

Find Your Alabama Sweet Spot

Find the sweetest Alabama vacation spot perfectly suited just for you. Customize your next Alabama vacation by the type of experience you are looking for, then filter by the region of Alabama you want to visit. Don't know what your Alabama destination should be? Let our interactive location map be your guide. Now, where is your next Alabama Sweet Spot?