Gulf Shores holidays

Stretched along the Gulf of Mexico, this Alabama town is famous for its sugar-white beaches and laid-back coastal living. Rent a paddleboard and glide across serene backwaters, meet local dolphins on an afternoon cruise or explore the trails of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. With storied seafood shacks and stunning sunsets, a holiday to Gulf Shores just might be the perfect seaside getaway.

Gulf Shores: Know before you go

Language

English

Currency

United States dollar ($)

Time zone

UTC-6 (CST) and UTC-5 (CDT)

High season

June – August

Low season

December – January

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The best neighbourhoods in Gulf Shores

Laguna Key

With its location between the Gulf of Mexico and Little Lagoon, Laguna Key has the area’s best hiking and biking trails at its doorstep. Set up a base here if you love to get out in nature. The area is a top pick for kayakers, mountain bikers and outdoorsy types. And the best part is, it’s still close to shops, bars and restaurants.

Good for: Biking trails, kayaking, restaurants

Gulf Highlands

Geared towards families, nature lovers and golfers, Gulf Highlands is home to a handful of resorts, including Kiva Dunes. Tee off at its award-winning course and then relax at the beach club. Take the kids fishing, splash about in the clear sea water and mix in some history with a visit to Fort Morgan.

Good for: Beaches, golf, history

West Beach

West Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Gulf Shores if you’re craving a classic seaside getaway. Challenge your family to a mini-golf showdown and explore the undersea world on a snorkelling tour. Or play castaway and beachcomb the days away. The area is close to a handful of great bars and restaurants.

Good for: Mini-golf, snorkelling, beachcombing

Things to do in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores

Beaches

Gulf Shores offer miles of white-sand beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Love fossicking? Shell Beach is for you. Looking for convenience? Gulf State Park Pavilion has showers, a snack bar and picnic tables. If wheelchair access is a priority, Gulf Place and Cotton Bayou have beach mats to the water.

Places to eat

The best restaurants in Gulf Shores have been serving plates of local seafood for generations. The Original Oyster House and Sea-N-Suds Restaurant and Oyster Bar have been in business for over 40 years. We love the Pink Pony Pub, a beachside favourite that claims to have been ‘surviving hurricanes’ since 1956.

Shopping

Gulf Shores has everything from outlet centres to speciality stores. The Original Oyster House Boardwalk has a nice collection of souvenir shops. Just up the road at Orange Beach, the Coastal Arts Center offers local pottery, jewellery and artwork in garden surroundings. Travelling with kids? Pelican Place has plenty of ways to keep them entertained while you shop.

FAQs about Gulf Shores holidays

What is the rainiest month in Gulf Shores?

With an average rainfall of 18 cm, August is the wettest month to go on a Gulf Shores holiday. When the weather shifts, head indoors and make the most of the city's shops, museums, cafes and more.

What language is spoken in Gulf Shores?

English is the language you'll encounter most often while on your city break in Gulf Shores.

What is the coldest month in Gulf Shores?

Organise your Gulf Shores trip for January and you'll be there at the coolest time of the year. 5ºC (41ºF) is as cold as it gets.

What currency is used in Gulf Shores?

The official currency in Gulf Shores is the United States dollar (USD). It's always a good idea to bring some cash with you during your trip to Gulf Shores, but cards and digital payments usually work in most places.

What is the hottest month in Gulf Shores?

With temperatures hitting a maximum of 33ºC (91ºF), August is the warmest month in Gulf Shores.

How many days do you need for a holiday in Gulf Shores?

Gulf Shores is ideal for short breaks and weekend escapes. You’re never far from a beach, nature trail or oyster shack, so you can pack a lot of fun into just two or three days. For total relaxation, nothing beats a week-long holiday in Gulf Shores.

Is it safe to travel to Gulf Shores?

Gulf Shores is generally seen as a safe city for travellers, but like anywhere, it's best to take precautions. Don't carry too much cash, keep emergency numbers handy and only use licensed cabs or ride-share services. Also, stick to well-lit streets if you venture out after dark during your holiday to Gulf Shores.

Is Gulf Shores a good holiday destination?

Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, no trip to this city is ever the same. If seeing the sights is on your list of things to do in Gulf Shores, be sure to include Coyote Beach Sports and Posh Nail Salon.

How expensive is a holiday in Gulf Shores?

While you can certainly splash out on a luxury holiday in Gulf Shores, you can also save a bundle if you book in the shoulder seasons. If you’re on a budget, local diners and food trucks are good value. And the beaches and nature trails are free for everyone to enjoy.

When is the best time to visit for a cheap holiday to Gulf Shores?

The best times for budget-friendly flights and hotels to Gulf Shores are spring and autumn. Winters are mild here, and spring break can get wild. In summer, both the temperatures and the visitor numbers spike, making things more expensive.