Surf Side Shores beckons with pristine Gulf Coast shoreline and relaxed coastal living. This residential beach community offers private access to uncrowded white sand beaches. Crystal-clear waters invite swimming while dolphin sightings delight early risers. The area features holiday rentals from cosy cottages to luxury Gulf-front properties. Travellers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere with natural sounds of waves and sea breezes. Most visitors cook in rental kitchens since dining options require a short drive to Gulf Shores.
Discover the relaxed charm of Cabana Beach along Alabama's pristine Gulf Coast. This resort community offers peaceful beachfront holiday homes with direct access to white sands. Fort Morgan Beach invites you to swim, fish, and watch for dolphins. The natural beauty takes centre stage in this tranquil setting. Nearby Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge provides excellent birdwatching and coastal hiking trails. Stunning sunsets paint the sky while gentle waves create a soothing soundtrack for your beachside getaway.
While Plash Island may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Gulf Shores Beach and Gulf State Park.
Discover Fort Morgan's Morgantown, where history meets pristine coastline along Alabama's Gulf Shores. The star-shaped 19th-century fortress reveals Civil War stories through its brick ramparts and museum displays. Miles of uncrowded white sand beaches stretch beyond the fort, perfect for peaceful walks and spectacular sunsets. This coastal gem balances tourism with authentic local character. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge protects important sea turtle nesting grounds nearby. Holiday rentals and beach cottages offer relaxing stays with easy access to fishing piers, wildlife trails, and fresh seafood markets.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores Beach
9.4/10 (3,388 reviews)
White sands meet turquoise waters at this quintessential Gulf Coast paradise. Enjoy gentle waves perfect for families, then explore nearby Gulf State Park for additional coastal adventures.
Fort Morgan Beach
9.2/10 (15 reviews)
This secluded peninsula offers pristine white-sand beaches away from tourist spots. Enjoy serene walks, bird watching, and explore historic Fort Morgan while experiencing the tranquil coastal atmosphere.
Fort Morgan
8.8/10 (786 reviews)
This 19th-century masonry fort witnessed the pivotal Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay. Explore original artillery batteries, tour the museum's detailed exhibits, and savour panoramic Gulf of Mexico views.
Hangout Music Fest
8.8/10 (527 reviews)
Hangout Music Fest is just one of the places to see in Gulf Shores, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this relaxing area.
Waterville USA
8.6/10 (223 reviews)
This 20-acre Gulf Shores attraction combines thrilling water slides with family-friendly amusements like go-karts and mini-golf. Rent a private cabana at Cabana Cove for a premium experience with personalised service.
Gulf State Park Fishing Pier
9.0/10 (505 reviews)
Stretching 2,448 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, this pier offers excellent fishing for species like red drum and pompano. Enjoy covered seating areas or learn about local wildlife from displays along your walk.
Gulf Shores Golf Club
8.0/10 (128 reviews)
Traditional plantation-style golf course with lush fairways and scenic water hazards designed by Earl Stone. Book morning tee times to enjoy wildlife while navigating challenging holes through natural Gulf Shores terrain.
Kiva Dunes Golf Course
7.8/10 (106 reviews)
This award-winning links-style course by Jerry Pate weaves through coastal dunes with strategic water hazards. Enjoy post-round relaxation at the Kiva Grill after navigating its naturally beautiful challenges.
"Clean and spacious rooms with comfy pillows on bed. Breakfast at the hotel was as good as expected (typical waffle set up /omelettes/cereal/coffee&juice/pastries) just be prepared for it to be very busy but lines move quickly and you always have the option to take your food back to your room if there’s no tables available. Pool and beach towels were always available."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Why should I book my Gulf Shores holiday with Expedia?
With excellent-value airfares, car hire and accommodation choices all in the same place, Expedia makes arranging your Gulf Shores adventure easy. Plus, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can save even more. Pick from fantastic retreats, add your flights and/or a hire car (and maybe even some exciting activities!) and land incredible prices. Need to cancel? Expedia has a flexible cancellation policy for many reservations. To discover more, head over to our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Gulf Shores?
Into sightseeing but don't like crowds? Book your Gulf Shores escape for October, November and December. Typically, it's a lot quieter than in March, May and June. With daytime average temperatures of 12ºC, January is the coolest period in Gulf Shores. The warmest month is July, when you can experience average temperatures of 28ºC during the day. Whatever the weather, you'll discover plenty of things to keep you busy here.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Gulf Shores?
Book everything in one place with our Gulf Shores holidays. You'll discover deals on flights, hotels, tours and more that'll keep your bank account happy and adventurous side satisfied. And, with more than 400 partner airlines and 321,000 hotels across the globe to select from, you'll have the flexibility to mix and match all you want. Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you combine your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Gulf Shores?
There's so much to explore in Gulf Shores, so spend your nights close to its best sights and spend more time sightseeing. Gulf Shores Beach is one place to put on your to-do list.
Do I need a visa for my Gulf Shores holiday?
Official government websites will have all the information you need on visa requirements, application procedures and necessary documentation. Your nationality and reason for your visit, whether it be for work or holidays, will determine if you need a visa for Gulf Shores. Also be sure that your passport is up to date and has at least six months validity remaining after your planned date of return. Finalise all your travel planning well in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.
What should I wear on my Gulf Shores holiday?
First, think about the sorts of activities you have planned during your holiday in Gulf Shores and travel with pieces that can be mixed and matched. For fashion inspiration or even information on dress codes, browse style blogs or relevant social media accounts. Have a look at the weather forecast so you can pack appropriately. The warmest time of year in Gulf Shores is July, with average daily temperatures of 28ºC. If you're on holiday in the coolest month of January, the mercury hovers around 12ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Gulf Shores holiday include?
With Expedia, you can choose any combination of flights, hotels and car hires to build your perfect Gulf Shores package. Once you've made your booking, simply add on fun stuff like activities and tours. Remember — the more you bundle, the bigger the savings! Expedia features all sorts of properties, with the most sought after in Gulf Shores being condos and private holiday homes. With Expedia, you can expect the flexibility and freedom to personalise your holiday your way.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Gulf Shores holidays?
Expedia has partnered with online lender Klarna to make your next trip easier on your hip pocket. Paying by instalment means you can spread the costs of your dream holiday, leaving you with more cash to play with while you're travelling. Klarna has several payment plans to pick from, so you're sure to find something that falls within your budget. Take a look at these flexible payment options:
Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers easy monthly payment plans that suit all types of budgets, so you can have that well-deserved holiday now.
No-deposit holidays: If no upfront fee for your trip makes hitting that "book now" button more stress-free, choose a no-deposit holiday plan from Klarna so you can Book Now, Pay Later!
Can I choose my airline with a Gulf Shores Expedia holiday?
You sure can. We have more than 400 partner airlines worldwide, so pick the carrier that best suits your budget and travel needs.
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is ideal for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vibrant mix of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy excellent golfing opportunities, explore the renowned shrimp festival, and partake in thrilling watercraft excursions. With its shopping centres and luxurious resorts, Gulf Shores promises a delightful getaway filled with adventure and relaxation for all types of holidaymakers.
Shopping
In Gulf Shores, visit Perdido Beach Boulevard for a vibrant shopping experience with family-friendly vibes, just 8.0km away. For a broader selection, head to Tanger Outlet Center, located 14.5km away, where you'll find a variety of brands and entertainment options.
Recreation
The Gulf Shores Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience amidst lush landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For family fun, Pirate's Island Adventure Golf provides an exciting mini-golf course infused with adventure. Meanwhile, Craft Farms Golf Club combines stunning views with excellent golfing, ideal for both relaxation and recreation.
Adventure
At Waterville USA, enjoy thrilling water rides and family-friendly attractions in a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. For an adrenaline rush, experience the zipline and ropes course at the Gulf Adventure Center, offering an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Nightlife
In Gulf Shores, Alabama, experience vibrant nightlife at venues like The Hangout and Florabama, where beach bars, live music, and dancing create a lively atmosphere. Enjoy cocktails by the shore while local bands play, making for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
Find the best attractions in and around Gulf Shores
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is an idyllic beach destination perfect for outdoor and family-themed vacations. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, including the renowned Gulf Shores Beach and nearby Orange Beach, as well as explore historic forts and vibrant tourist precincts. With its captivating coastal scenery and a variety of activities, Gulf Shores caters to adventurers and those seeking relaxation alike, making it an ideal getaway for travellers from the UK.
Fort Morgan: This historic fort offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing its role in the Civil War. Visitors can explore its well-preserved structures, enjoy guided tours, and soak in panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, all while experiencing a rich cultural vibe.
Gulf State Park: A natural wonder, Gulf State Park provides adventure seekers with miles of scenic trails, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. Whether hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing in nature, the park's outdoor atmosphere is perfect for all ages.
Gulf State Park Fishing Pier: This welcoming pier is ideal for fishing enthusiasts and families alike. Enjoy friendly interactions with fellow anglers while taking in breathtaking sunset views over the water, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and camaraderie.
Best time to go to Gulf Shores
The best time to visit Gulf Shores is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Gulf Shores
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Gulf Shores.
Consider traveling to Gulf Shores during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.