Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Conditions change. Always follow posted flags and lifeguards. Facts on this page were checked against the official sources linked here on Oct 28, 2026. How Shorlo works
Check today's beach conditions first
Shorlo doesn't rate swimming safety. Get today's official flag and report here:
Daily beach reportNWS rip current forecastWhat the flags meanGoing soon?
Enter your trip dates and we'll email you a countdown with events, packing tips, and links to the official daily beach report. These emails are not real-time safety alerts; for the daily flag, text ALBEACHES to 888777.
We only use your email for the countdown. Privacy
Beaches and public access
Gulf Shores' main public beach is around Gulf Place, where Highway 59 meets Beach Boulevard. The city staffs lifeguard towers at the protected public swimming areas (Gulf Place, West 6th Street and Lagoon Pass) from March through October; from November to February there are patrols but no staffed towers. West Beach is less crowded, and Fort Morgan to the west is quieter still. Source: www.gulfshoresal.gov, www.gulfshores.com
Gulf State Park
Trails for hiking and biking, the Gulf State Park Pier, and the Lodge. Check current hours on the official site before you go. alapark.com
With kids
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Check current hours on the official site before you go. www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com
The Track (go-karts, mini golf, arcade, 3200 Gulf Shores Pkwy). Check current hours on the official site before you go. funatthetrack.com
Rainy-day options
OWA in Foley has a theme park, shops and restaurants. Check current hours on the official site before you go. www.visitowa.com
Where to eat like a local
Look for local seafood spots rather than chains. Shorlo's planner shows local restaurants near your stay, sorted by walking distance. Open the planner
Gulf Shores vs Orange Beach
They sit side by side and share the same beach flag system. Gulf Shores has Gulf State Park and the zoo; Orange Beach has The Wharf and Perdido Pass. Things to do in Orange Beach
FAQ
Do I need a car in Gulf Shores?
Shorlo suggestion (not an official source): a car is usually the easiest way to get between the beach, Gulf State Park, Foley and Orange Beach. Plan your parking with your stay.
What does a double red flag mean?
The water is closed to the public. Within the corporate limits of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach it is illegal to enter the Gulf when two red flags are displayed (source: gulfshores.com).
How do I get the daily beach report by text?
Text ALBEACHES to 888777. Text STOP to opt out (source: gulfshores.com).
Going soon?
Enter your trip dates and we'll email you a countdown with events, packing tips, and links to the official daily beach report. These emails are not real-time safety alerts; for the daily flag, text ALBEACHES to 888777.
We only use your email for the countdown. Privacy