If you ask me, my favorite relaxation holiday spot, I would always say a beach. I mean how can one not enjoy visiting any beach? There is so much serenity and peace to explore in the huge trembling waves. I just love that! And it’s not only the peace, you can also enjoy lots of fun activities there. If you have not been to Alabama, let me tell you that the beaches there are pleasantly surprising and a perfect spot to relax.
And if you ever want to visit the amazing beaches, I recommend you visit the Alabama Gulf Shores. When it comes to beaches in Alabama, this place has all the features like a family-friendly atmosphere, pristine white sand beaches, wildlife, and nearly perfect weather for most of the months. All this makes Alabama a beach destination with the most pristine beaches in the United States.
Beaches in Alabama are generally famous for the tiny granules that massage your toes as you stroll the shore. They are also famous for what local people describe as ”sugar white sands”. These beaches in Alabama are the main attraction for all kinds of water sports like surfing, parasailing, jet skiing, beach volleyball, beach bars, surf fishing, deep sea fishing, etc.
The best thing that I like about these beaches is that there is no shortage of remarkable resorts that extend your peaceful vacation with golf or spa excursions. In this article, I’ll talk about the best beaches there
1. Gulf Shores Main Public Beach
Gulf Shores Main Public Beach is quite popular among tourists and locals because of its easy access points to the water and bustle of seaside activity. This place is best for a beach vacation, as you can just walk the soft sand at sunrise to see the fishermen and some local wildlife.
I always look for something different and on this beach, you can take a stroll on the public pier. I’m sure you’ll enjoy watching the pelicans challenge local fishermen for their catch. With lots of pedestrian access points, the beach has undergone major changes like walking paths, wheelchair-accessible mats, greenspace, an amphitheater, and restrooms. Overall, it’s very clean and promotes sustainable travel.
2. Fairhope Beach
If you are looking for an active beach crowd and a variety of things to do besides making dunes or lying on the beach, this is the perfect beach for you. Fairhope Beach is known for its relaxing ambiance and crowd.
I can assure you that the minimal waves and tides make this beach a casual place to swim and play some water sports. However, the park near the beach has an entrance fee but it is worth it to enjoy all things together, i.e., shops, gardens, Fairhope Pier, etc.
Fairhope is a pedestrian-friendly town that you can enjoy with small eateries and boutiques. There are also many nature trails and walking paths around if you do not want to spend the full day at the beach. And if you are a foodie like me, you can enjoy lunch and dinner at the local culinary institution. There are also many spas, resorts, and golf clubs to make your visit more memorable, and these places have a rich history and luxury accommodations.
3. Fort Morgan Beach
Fort Morgan Beach is said to be one of the most unique beaches in Alabama, a small, quaint Fort Morgan peninsula. This beach is surrounded by a historic fort which was an active military site during some wars, including the Civil War. It is more remote than other beaches, and it is about 20 miles outside of the downtown Gulf Shores area, but it is worth the scenic drive.
Let me tell you that Fort Morgan Beach is not used as a public beach, it can only be accessed by paying the entry fee to the fort complex. I suggest you not spend the full day on the beach, you can make a fun day out of it by combining some historical sightseeing. The quiet beach is a good alternative to some of the more crowded public beaches and is located at a little distance from gulf shores.
Most of the area of this beach is part of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, so you will also get to see many species of birds and other animals. If you want some home-like feeling then you can always rent condos and beach houses according to your comfort. This beach will be a good weekend gateway for anyone with many good experiences.
4. Cotton Bayou Beach
The Cotton Bayou Beach is a small stretch of beach nestled between two highways, two broadways, and condominiums. This hidden retreat also has the same pure white sand as other orange beach area waterfront locations, but it is not as crowded as other public beaches.
I’m sure you’ll be impressed by the amenities there. The outdoor showers, recreation opportunities, and plenty of nearby bars and restaurants for beach snacks are available. If you are looking for a place to chill and enjoy a party at night, then this beach is for you. Enjoy occasional parties, but remember, parties do not always take place, but they are organized on certain occasions.
It’s convenient for its public beach access points, so you can enjoy the pulse of Orange Beach and many other amenities by staying at the resorts, condos, beach houses, etc.
5. Romar Beach
Next, I would recommend Romar Beach. It is one of those beautiful beaches with the best locations to observe stunning Gulf Coast Shores sunsets. You’ll love the beach scene; be it the kites, sandcastles, and volleyball. There is a lot to keep you engaged. So, if you are looking for an afternoon picnic area by the water or a post-dinner beach stroll; I would say it’s the perfect option.
The beach is a bit smaller as compared to other beaches there, but I believe that’s its beauty. Its cozy and peaceful environment is unique. Now, if you made up your mind to explore it, I suggest you should visit the beach only when you have booked or rented the nearby condominium, resort, beach house, etc. The reason I’m saying this is because parking is limited there.
6. Dauphin Island
Dauphin Island is a pet-friendly beach and safe for families. This public beach is worth the weekend getaway from famous beach scenes in the Orange Beach and Gulf shore areas.
The island is 14 miles long, with long sand and ocean surf stretches. You can also rent bikes or scooters to explore the beach or walk on one of the trails near the Dauphin Island public beach.
- Reach the island by taking the ferry from Gulf Shore or Orange Beach by mobile bay ferry from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island.
- Drive to Dauphin Island from mobile by heading south and accessing the island bridge.
- If you want easy access to Dauphin Island, you can always book or rent a condo, resort, beach house, etc.
7. Little Lagoon Pass
I also prefer family-friendly beaches like the Little Lagoon Pass. This beach is across the street from where Little Lagoon empties itself into the gulf. It is a good option to visit if you are searching for a place that can provide both, amenities like free parking, restrooms, showers, etc., and beach access.
So, if you want to enjoy a family vacation, I would strongly recommend Little Lagoon Beach. I’m sure its homely vibes will offer you a very memorable experience with your loved ones.
The shallower water of the beach is great for families with small children. And don’t miss the small public park there. This area is close to other nearby attractions like a fishing pier or Gulf State Park pier so you can make it a full beach fun day in only one location.
8. Robinson Island
Ah! now I’m going to reveal one of the best-known secrets of Orange Beach. Yes, the Robison Island. It’s one of three small sandbar islands located to the north of Perdido Pass Bridge. These islands are only accessible by boats and are generally popular with locals.
Believe me, it’s a small piece of paradise tucked away in back bays because the habitat around Robinson Island is protected. The scenery of this island is picturesque, and the city protects the natural flora and fauna around the water. Pets are not allowed there.
You can easily get to Robinson Island by taking an island cruise that includes a swimming stop. Another option to reach the island is to book a Kayak tour from coastal Kayaks which offers a day trip to the islands. I must say this beach is a favorite, especially with vacationing families, for its convenient location near the beach lazy river, fishing docks, onsite pools, marina, and restaurants.
9. Alabama Point Beach
Adding to my list, next is Alabama Point Beach. It has more than a mile of white sand beach access and is near the Gulf State Park since the beach is near the bridge. You get to see the front-row views of boat traffic passing through Perdido Pass, which is like a bonus for photographers.
One of the best features of Alabama Point Beach is its width which is approximately 6000 feet of the beach area to scout a spot for a fun day. You can always pack lunch to enjoy it at one of the picnic areas. Besides relaxation, explore other activities like boardwalks and dunes at the beach.
Alabama Point Beach is usually not that crowded and the water has mild waves which are comfortable for children. Keep your eye open for dolphins that sometimes swim through the beach for an additional treat. This beach also has paid parking like many other beaches in Alabama.
These beaches offer a perfect weekend with a very relaxing and peaceful experience. Anyone who wants to take a break from their boring corporate jobs and is tired of following the same routine can visit there. You’ll surely love the beautiful sunrise in the morning, sitting by the water having a peaceful lunch, and observing the stunning view of sunsets. What else can one ask for? I hope you’ll have a good time there.
