Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Explore nature, history, and adventure along Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway, stretching more than 130 miles along the Gulf of Mexico. The byway connects many scenic coastal towns, including Bayou La Batre, Dauphin Island, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Elberta, Foley, Magnolia Springs, Fairhope, and Daphne. There's even an audio tour to enhance your explorations and provide interesting facts along the way.
Explore the history of Orange Beach at the Indian & Sea Museum and learn about our local Indian heritage, visit the original schoolhouse, browse through artifacts from the Civil War and learn how the shrimping industry got its start.
Paddle through Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge for an up-close look at colorful migratory birds and natural shorelines. You'll find multiple trails that allow visitors to explore the various ecosystems throughout the refuge, many featuring boat launches for canoes, kayaks, and boats with electric motors. While out on the water, you might even spot some playful dolphins popping up to say hello.
A short ferry ride across Mobile Bay puts you steps away from the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the fourth largest estuary system in the country. Enjoy the educational and informative exhibit hall, the stingray touch pool, and the scenic living marsh boardwalk while learning about the more than 100 species of plants and animals on display. At the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, you can stroll 137 acres of forest, marsh, and dune habitats, home to various species of native and migrating birds.
Discover our coast's natural beauty and rich history along Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway. With so many opportunities to connect with the environment and learn about the area, you won't want to miss out on visiting these great spots along Alabama's beaches. Whether you're looking to bike, hike, learn, kayak, or just explore, you'll find plenty of adventure on Alabama's Coastal Connection Scenic Byway.