As summer comes to a close, there’s no better time than right now to experience Alabama’s beautiful Gulf Coast. We’ve mapped out a coastal drive that’ll allow you to travel along the Gulf Coast and experience gorgeous white-sand beaches, incredible restaurants, historic sites and more. This coastal drive is approximately 33 miles and takes less than an hour to complete (without stops). However, because you’ll want to spend some time at each stop, this drive could easily last an entire day.
For complete driving directions, you can view the actual Google map here.
Google Maps
- City Donut
tripadvisor/soonergal1969
The first stop along this stunning coastal drive is City Donut for breakfast. City Donut’s made-from-scratch donuts are incredible, and they’re the perfect breakfast treat to begin your adventure. Be sure to arrive early before they sell out.
Address: 26651 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
- Gulf State Park
flickr/Outdoor Alabama/Billy Pope After breakfast, you’ll take a short drive to Gulf State Park. While at this beutiful state park, you’ll have the opportunity to dip your toes in the sand, fish from the famous Gulf State Park Pier, and take a hike along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Gulf State Park truly is one of the most amazing places along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Address: 20115 AL-HWY 135, Gulf Shores, AL
- Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Cafe
yelp/Anthony Y. Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch. We recommend Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Cafe. Not only does this restaurant offer a great selection of seafood, but it also offers an incredible view.
Address: 601 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
google/Meghan Dunkin Following lunch, you’ll take a scenic drive to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. This breathtaking area, which covers approximately 7,000 acres, serves as a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. It’s also one of Alabama’s 10 natural wonders. Address: 12295 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Fort Morgan
wikimedia commons/Edibobb If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy this next stop - Fort Morgan. Fort Morgan, which was built from 1819-1834, is a historic masonry star fort that’s located at the mouth of Mobile Bay, Alabama. It’s rumored to be haunted. Address: 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- Tacky Jacks
After a long day of exploring Alabama’s Gulf Coast, it’s finally time for dinner. We recommend Tacky Jacks, which offers a great dining experience and a spectacular waterfront view. Tacky Jacks is also one of Alabama’s top seafood restaurants, and after your visit, you’ll understand why. Address: 1577 Hwy 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36547
What do you think? Could you see yourself taking this coastal drive? Share your thoughts with us!
Google Maps
tripadvisor/soonergal1969
The first stop along this stunning coastal drive is City Donut for breakfast. City Donut’s made-from-scratch donuts are incredible, and they’re the perfect breakfast treat to begin your adventure. Be sure to arrive early before they sell out.
Address: 26651 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
flickr/Outdoor Alabama/Billy Pope
After breakfast, you’ll take a short drive to Gulf State Park. While at this beutiful state park, you’ll have the opportunity to dip your toes in the sand, fish from the famous Gulf State Park Pier, and take a hike along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. Gulf State Park truly is one of the most amazing places along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.
Address: 20115 AL-HWY 135, Gulf Shores, AL
yelp/Anthony Y.
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch. We recommend Bahama Bob’s Beach Side Cafe. Not only does this restaurant offer a great selection of seafood, but it also offers an incredible view.
Address: 601 W Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
google/Meghan Dunkin
Following lunch, you’ll take a scenic drive to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. This breathtaking area, which covers approximately 7,000 acres, serves as a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. It’s also one of Alabama’s 10 natural wonders. Address: 12295 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
wikimedia commons/Edibobb
If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy this next stop - Fort Morgan. Fort Morgan, which was built from 1819-1834, is a historic masonry star fort that’s located at the mouth of Mobile Bay, Alabama. It’s rumored to be haunted. Address: 110 AL-180, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
After a long day of exploring Alabama’s Gulf Coast, it’s finally time for dinner. We recommend Tacky Jacks, which offers a great dining experience and a spectacular waterfront view. Tacky Jacks is also one of Alabama’s top seafood restaurants, and after your visit, you’ll understand why. Address: 1577 Hwy 180, Gulf Shores, AL 36547
To learn all about the hauntings at Fort Morgan, be sure to check out our previous article: The One Historic Battle Site In Alabama That’s Seen Its Fair Share Of Ghosts.
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