There’s a different kind of rhythm on Alabama’s Beaches. It’s unhurried but never dull. A little salty, a little sweet, and totally set to Gulf Coast time. Down here, the rules of summer follow the tides, not a clock—and that’s exactly how we like it. Whether you’re here for the fresh-caught flavor, the barefoot adventures, or a splash in those crystal-clear coastal waters, these are the seven rules you’ll need to know.
1. Flip-flops are formal wear.
Kick off your shoes—figuratively and literally. The only thing you need for a proper day on the coast is sunscreen and good vibes. OK, maybe sunglasses, too. From the sugar-white sand of Alabama Point East to Lagoon Pass Park, Alabama’s Beaches are best explored with toes in the sand and your calendar cleared. Plan your visit.
2. Eat seafood like a local (which is to say: often).
Red snapper season (May 23–June 30) means it’s the perfect time to go full Gulf-to-table. Reel in your own catch on a chartered deep-sea trip or grab a table at spots such as Doc’s Seafood Shack for fried shrimp that’ll make you question every other shrimp you’ve ever had. So many seafood options, though! Bonus points if you top it all off with a Bushwacker—Alabama’s frozen cocktail legend turns 50 this year! An official Bushwacker Birthday Bash happens at the Flora-Bama on May 31.
3. The water isn’t just for swimming.
Sure, you could paddleboard at sunrise (do it—it’s peaceful magic). But if you’re more “hook and cook” than Zen on the bay, hit the waves in June for the Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo, the “everyman’s” tournament packed with local flavor and big bragging rights. Or keep it chill with pier fishing and dolphin cruises—there’s no wrong way to do the water here.
There’s a different kind of rhythm on Alabama’s Beaches. It’s unhurried but never dull. A little salty, a little sweet, and totally set to Gulf Coast time.
4. Nap whenever you feel like it.
Hammock on the balcony. Beach towel in the shade. Lounger at the pool. The world moves slower when the breeze smells like salt and sunscreen. Recharge however you need—especially if you stayed out late dancing to live music at The Hangout.
5. Dessert is never optional.
Between the key lime pie at Zeke’s Restaurant, the frozen treats at Scoops Ice Cream, and the half-dozen bakery stops you’ll pass on any scenic drive, there’s no shortage of sugar-spiked temptation. Speaking of key lime pie, enjoy three days and six meals worth of the beachy dessert on our key lime pie trail.
6. Book a place with a view—and enough room for the whole crew.
Summer is for group getaways: families, best friends, generations of sun-chasers. Choose from beach houses with bunk beds and porches to condos with full-equipped kitchens, beautiful waterfront views, pools for day, and so much more. Whether you’re watching kids dig for seashells or planning a sunset toast, it’s better together.
7. Don’t leave without a story.
It might be about the giant red snapper that got away. Or the giant sandcastle. Or the morning you biked Gulf State Park and spotted an alligator sunbathing like they owned the place. Whatever it is, your best summer story is waiting to happen—right here on Alabama’s Beaches.
Ready to break all the old rules of summer? Good. The Gulf’s got new ones. Start planning your trip now.
