The Top-Ranked Budget-Friendly Beach On The Gulf Coast

When one thinks of Alabama, it's unlikely that the first image that comes to mind is a beach. Not just any beach, but one with crystal-clear waters, white sands, and prices that won't break the bank. It's a best-kept American secret that Alabama has some of the USA's greatest beaches, but we're here to spill the tea. Gulf Shores, Alabama is the top-ranked budget-friendly beach on the Gulf Coast. Who knew there were impeccable beaches in Alabama? Skip overly crowded and overpriced destinations like Miami and Santa Monica for a one-of-a-kind unique tropical getaway in one of the best beach towns you've likely never heard of.

Gulf Shores is located on the southeast end of Alabama, closely situated to northwestern Florida. As a town that is directly on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, its prime location provides those vibrant blue hues that beachgoers often fly to far ends of Southeast Asia or the South Pacific to see. While Gulf Shores does have an airport (JKA), flight options are few. The best option for a nearby airport is Pensacola International Airport (PNS).

So, just how much does a getaway to Gulf Shores, Alabama cost? Well, of course it will be different for every person, but here's a breakdown of the average costs.

Hotels in Gulf Shores, Alabama can be done on the low end for around $60/night for a no-frills motel in high season (June-August). However, for those who want to splurge and get a little luxurious, there are plenty of chic resorts in town, such as Perdido Beach Resort, The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Kiva Dunes Resort & Golf, and more. While several factors will play into the cost of a nightly rate, including but not limited to party size, the time of year when traveling, and any additional accommodations needs, most of the high-end resorts in Gulf Shores can be done for under or around $300/night. If $300/night is still out of your price range, remember, that's for a high-end property, and there are many other styles of hotels and guesthouses that can be done for lower.

Accommodation aside, meals and activities won't break the bank, either. In Alabama, like other Southern US States, portions are large, and meals are often under $20 per person. A three-day all-in-one Alabama attraction pass for Gulf Shores, which includes access to top activities, is $35 for adults and $25 for kids.

While the picture-perfect beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama are the main draw to the area, there are plenty of other activities to partake in. Get out on the water and go kayaking to search for local wildlife. Head over to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo or explore the historic Fort Morgan, which was active during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II.

Above all, make sure to show up to Gulf Shores with an appetite. The food of Alabama is unmatched, and Gulf Shores is no exception. Seafood is naturally popular here, and dishes like grilled shrimp and fried soft-shell crab can be readily found on menus. Some restaurants, like Lucy Buffett's LuLu's, participate in what's known as the Fish Trax program, where diners can track exactly where their seafood came from. Other popular dishes in Alabama include shrimp and grits, fried chicken, oysters, barbecue brisket, and of course, not necessarily a dish, but the infamous tangy Alabama White Barbecue sauce.

Gulf Shores also offers a wide variety of live music at different venues around town, such as Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar, Angry Crab Shack, The Hangout, and more. So, what are you waiting for? Book that budget-friendly, fun trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama for your next beach getaway.