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In Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the name tells the story – miles of pristine white quartz sand washed by blue-green Gulf waters. Please be advised that there will be no lifeguards on duty on Gulf Shores and Orange Beach public beaches from October through February. During this time, beach patrol and response will be limited. Always check the beach flags and surf conditions, before entering the water, and never swim alone. For those interested in open water swimming tips, remember to stay informed and cautious. Help keep Alabama's Beaches pristine by practicing responsible tourism and following beach rules & regulations.
Parking kiosks are now in place at most beaches. You can find more information about parking in Gulf Shores and parking in Orange Beach.
For a few weeks of the year, a small portion of this beach access near the Perdido Pass bridge is closed to the public. During spring break, this area receives an influx of boat traffic, which makes it a high-risk spot for beachgoers and swimmers. From March 8 through April 17, the area underneath the Perdido Pass bridge accessible from Alabama Point East access is closed. Visitors can still access the Gulf-facing beach area of the Alabama Point East access.
Additionally, alcohol is banned from all public beaches from March 1 through April 17.
Beach goers at Alabama Point East public access can borrow life jackets while enjoying their time on the beach. These life jackets are free and are available in various sizes. We encourage children and those who aren’t strong swimmers to take advantage of these vests. Remember to return them before you leave.
For those looking for wheelchair-accessible beach access points, there are three beach mats located at Gulf Place and one located at Cotton Bayou.
Maximize your beach time by booking a waterfront place to stay directly on our site and wake up to the sound of the waves!
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Gulf Shores Main Public Beach (Gulf Place)
Everyone loves Gulf Place Beach. This beach features plenty of things to do including sandy beach bars, eateries, beach boutique stores, pavilions, picnic areas, watersports, volleyball and beach hotels that let you stay and play. Highway 59 dead-ends at the main beach area, but there is public access up and down the coast.
Gulf State Park Beach
Gulf State Park offers a whirl of activities including boating, paddle boarding, fishing, from the Gulf State Park Pier, biking, golfing and camping. There’s even a play area just for dogs located at Lake Shelby on the park’s western end. From the main entrance at the Beach Pavilion in Gulf Shores, there are access points along Orange Beach (including Alabama Point East).
Orange Beach & Cotton Bayou
Cotton Bayou is set at the intersection of Highways 182 and 161 in Orange Beach and also part of Gulf State Park. Cotton Bayou is small in size but big on amenities, including outdoor showers and ample free parking. This beach is located within convenient walking distance of the primary Orange Beach condominiums.
Shore Excursions
Some beach goers plant their towels, open a good book and start working on the ultimate tan. Others like to stir things up with parasailing, kayaking and excursions to nearby islands. If you’re staying close to shore, a flood of beach equipment rentals will be on hand – beach bikes, buggies, beach wheelchairs, paddle boards, surf and skim boards and all kinds of flotation devices. Many companies offer delivery and pick-up service.
Beach Safety
When visiting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, it is important to remember beach safety and to be respectful of animal's natural habitats. Don’t forget the sunscreen before venturing out in the warm Alabama sunshine. Take care when exploring the sand. You might happen upon a sea turtle nest or a tiny bird’s nest. Please keep off the sand dunes. They preserve natural habitats. Take nothing but pictures and leave only footprints. Observe and obey the beach flag warning system. Check our Beach Safety Page for daily updates.
