Miles of undeveloped coastline, natural beauty, small towns, and plenty of great activities.
If you’re looking for a beach vacation that’s a little off the beaten path, Alabama and the Florida Gulf Coast might be just what you’re looking for. This stretch of coastline is dotted with sleepy towns, secluded beaches, and crystal-clear waters. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to get active, from fishing and kayaking to swimming and sunbathing. And if you’re looking to explore some of the area’s history and culture, there are plenty of charming small towns waiting to be discovered.
There are many great things to do along the Gulf Coast of Florida and Alabama. Some options might include:
- Visit Gulf State Park in Alabama, which offers hiking, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
- Take a trip to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, which spans both Florida and Mississippi and offers beautiful beaches, dunes, and marshes.
- Explore the city of Pensacola, Florida, which has a rich history and a number of interesting attractions, including the Pensacola Naval Air Station and the Pensacola Lighthouse.
- Visit the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a series of hiking and biking trails that wind through Alabama’s Gulf Coast’s natural beauty.
- Go deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.
- Visit the Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar, a popular beach bar located on the border of Florida and Alabama.
- Visit the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area of Alabama, which offers a variety of water sports, including parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.
- Visit the Florida Panhandle, which is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including the white sands of Destin and the crystal-clear waters of Panama City Beach.
- Take a boat tour of the Gulf Coast’s beautiful waterways, including the Choctawhatchee Bay in Florida and Mobile Bay in Alabama.
- Go scuba diving or snorkeling along the Alabama and Florida Gulf Coast to see the region’s colorful marine life.
- Go birdwatching along the Gulf Coast, which is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and seagulls.
- Go golfing at one of the Gulf Coast’s many golf courses, including the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Florida and the Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
The Gulf Coast regions of Alabama and Florida, renowned for their unspoiled white-sand shores and azure waters, provide travelers with a delightful fusion of natural splendor, lively traditions, and a wealth of leisure pursuits. To fully appreciate the alluring offerings of these coastal areas, it is recommended to schedule a visit during the months of April to May or September to October. In these transitional periods, the weather is comfortably warm and marked by minimal rainfall, ensuring a more peaceful experience compared to the bustling summer months when tourists congregate in large numbers. Consequently, guests can revel in the enchanting coastal ambiance, partake in aquatic adventures, and attend a diverse array of local festivities with increased serenity and convenience.
Gulf Coast Beaches – Alabama to Florida Road Trip Itinerary | © Geovea ©Mapbox ©OpenStreetMap
Trip Highlights: 1. Gulf Shores 2. Orange Beach 3. Perdido Key 4. Pensacola 5. Pensacola Beach 6. Destin 7. Miramar Beach 8. Santa Rosa Beach 9. Grayton Beach 10. Watercolor 11. Seaside 12. Seagrove Beach 13. Alys Beach 14. Rosemary Beach 15. Panama City Beach
Gulf Shores – Alabama | Nicholas Courtney | Dreamstime
White-sand beaches, variety of local restaurants, and fun-filled activities
Nestled in the southern corner of Alabama, Gulf Shores is a coastal gem known for its stunning beaches and an array of recreational pursuits. Every summer sees hordes of tourists visiting this idyllic vacation spot to soak up some sun on the beach, take part in fishing trips, go boating, or participate in water sports.
If you’d like something more active during your stay here then be sure to explore the 6500-acre park within Gulf Shores – The Gulf State Park! It has everything from a fishing pier and nature trails to biking and hiking opportunities along with Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trail. From golfing and shopping to dining, Gulf Shores has plenty of activities for everyone.
Furthermore, the area also hosts some renowned festivals like the National Shrimp Festival and Hangout Music Festival throughout the year. To sum up, if you’re looking for an outdoor destination with stunning beaches, then look no further than Gulf Shores!
Orange Beach – Alabama | George Dodd | Dreamstime
Coastal town is known for its white-sand beaches, fishing, and plenty of activities
Orange Beach, Alabama is a beautiful town is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is perfect for anyone who loves the beach. You can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and fishing, or explore the area’s many restaurants and shops. And don’t forget to check out Orange Beach’s nightlife scene – there’s always something going on.
Perdido Key Beach – Florida | Wirestock | Dreamstime
A barrier island bookmarked by rolling, white-sand dunes and views of the Gulf
If you’re looking for a beautiful and uncrowded Florida beach to relax on, Perdido Key is worth checking out. With crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation, this barrier island is a natural paradise. No more than a few hundred yards wide in most places, Perdido Key stretches some 16 miles, with almost 60 percent of it located in federal or state parks. There’s plenty to do in the area, whether you’re interested in swimming, fishing, kayaking, or simply taking a walk on the beach, or visiting one of the charming beach communities.
Pensacola Bay – Florida | John Evans | Unsplash
A historic beach city on Pensacola Bay and home to Naval Aviation
Pensacola is a historic city that has plenty of character, with buildings lining the pier, and streets winding through downtown. Over the course of its history, Pensacola has been ruled by the British, the Spanish, the French, the Confederacy, and the United States; hence, its nickname of “The City of Five Flags.” There’s no shortage of things to do in Pensacola, from visiting museums and touring fortifications to relaxing on the beach or taking a boat ride. Pensacola is the place where all naval pilots train and the world-famous U.S. Navy Blue Angels fly.
As the creators of Geovea, a premier custom trip planning platform, we have a unique ability to offer travel experiences customized to who you are, what you enjoy, and, most importantly, why you travel. Let’s Get Started >
Pensacola Beach – Florida | Annie Gray | Unsplash
Beach community on Santa Rosa Island with sugar-white sand beaches
If you’re looking for a place to soak up the sun, Pensacola Beach is the perfect spot. With white sand beaches and clear blue waters, it’s easy to relax and enjoy the views. Plus, there’s plenty of activities to keep you busy, from swimming and sunbathing to fishing and kayaking.
Destin – Florida | Sophia Simoes | Unsplash
Beach town known for its white beaches, and emerald green waters
If you’re looking for a fun, beachy vacation spot, look no further than Destin, Florida! This beach town is located on the Emerald Coast and is known for its gorgeous beaches and amazing seafood. You’ll be able to enjoy plenty of swimming, sunbathing, watersports, fishing and golfing in Destin, as well as unique attractions like aquariums and theme parks.
Miramar Beach – Florida | Ruth Peterkin | Dreamstime
A vibrant and diverse beach neighborhood with lots of family fun
Miramar Beach is a hidden treasure on Florida’s panhandle. With its sugar-white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s easy to see why this spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It is a fun-filled and diverse beach neighborhood offering everything from shopping to beach volleyball or spending your days and nights exploring a wide variety of dining options. On the beach, you’ll find beach lovers lounging and soaking in the sun, or adventure seekers renting jet skis or going on parasail rides.
Santa Rosa Beach – Florida | William Gibson | Dreamstime
This large beach neighborhood has you covered on everything
Located on Florida’s famed Emerald Coast, it is geographically the largest beach community in South Walton county, touching both the Choctawhatchee Bay to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. With that comes an incredible amount of diversity from Point Washington State Forest, to white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Beyond beach fun, the community also offers shopping, luxury beach houses, various dining options, and craft breweries.
Grayton Beach – Florida | Kenny42952 | Dreamstime
Secluded paradise with white sand beaches and crystal-clear emerald waters
Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach getaway? Then Grayton Beach, Florida is the place to be! Located in the gorgeous South Walton region along 30A, this quaint coastal village boasts breathtaking emerald waters, sugar-white sands, and a host of fun activities. Grayton Beach is home to a designated Blue Wave Beach and Grayton Beach State Park. Whether you’re looking to explore miles of untouched nature trails or just lay out on one of its award-winning beaches with a good book, visiting Grayton Beach will make your vacation dreams come true.
Watercolor – Florida | Joni Hanebutt | Dreamstime
Natural beauty galore and some of the most beautiful white sand beaches
Visiting Watercolor you can expect to find a range of activities and amenities to enjoy during your stay. Watercolor is known for its beautiful beaches, which offer a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and nature preserves areas, where you can go hiking, biking, or birdwatching.
WaterColor is home to one of South Walton’s most picturesque coastal dune lakes, Western Lake. You can rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the WaterColor Boathouse and spend your days paddling the lake or hike and bike your way through Grayton Beach State Park and Point Washington State Forest. Watercolor also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. The neighborhood also has a number of art galleries and studios, where you can view and purchase works by local artists.
Seaside – Florida | Julieschleifer | Dreamstime
This quaint town is home to sugar white sand beaches and crystal clear waters
Are you looking for a sunny, sandy getaway? If so, then Seaside Florida is calling your name! Located on the beautiful Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico, this 30A town offers some of the most picturesque and relaxing beach vacations around. Whether you’re looking for peace and nature or a little bit of shopping and fun activities to enjoy with friends, there’s something here for everyone. From quiet morning strolls along miles of wide sandy beaches to an array of delicious restaurants in town, Seaside is just what you need if you want to forget about all your worries simply by immersing yourself in its breathtaking scenery.
Seagrove Beach – Florida | Wirestock | Dreamstime
A vibrant community known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-blue waters
Located in one of the most scenic regions on the Emerald Coast, Seagrove Beach is a beautiful beach town that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax beneath a palm tree or partake in enjoyable outdoor activities like fishing and boating, there’s an activity sure to please each member of your party. A stay in Seagrove is full of adventure.
The proximity demands that visitors explore Deer Lake State Park and Eastern Lake, and biking along the Timpoochee Trail in Seagrove is the preferred way to get around. And because Seagrove Beach is still relatively undiscovered by larger crowds, it provides a unique getaway with ample coastal views and miles of open beaches. From finding dolphins during a lazy day at sea to exploring local shops along 30A highway
Alys Beach – Florida | Joni Hanebutt | Dreamstime
A picturesque coastal town with luxurious amenities and white sand beaches
Alys Beach is a picturesque coastal town that offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. With its whitewashed walls and European-inspired architecture, this beach community is like stepping into an entirely different world. Guests can relax on powdery white sand beaches with palm trees swaying in the breeze as they soak up some sunshine or take part in exciting outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, parasailing, and kayaking along crystal clear water.
When you’re not taking in sweeping views from nearby scenic overlooks at Sunset Park or exploring Alys Roundabout’s pedestrian walkways lined with architectural artwork installations to beautiful sculptures tucked away throughout the grounds – there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and yoga studios to explore throughout your stay
Rosemary Beach – Florida | | Dreamstime
From stunning beaches to fantastic restaurants, and exciting outdoor activities
Rosemary Beach in Florida is the perfect place to get away from it all and make memories that will last a lifetime. With its sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants, this vibrant coastal community offers something for everyone to enjoy – no matter what type of traveler you are.
Architecturally beautiful and lively, Rosemary Beach, this neo-traditional beach community mixes New Urbanism. Brick sidewalks line the neighborhood’s Main Street and town square, enticing guests to delve into the locally owned shops and boutiques where fashions and fun mix and mingle. From dining al fresco with mouthwatering seafood dishes to taking in breathtaking sunsets on the shoreline – there’s something magical about Rosemary Beach that needs to be experienced.
Panama City Beach – Florida | Hello19374 | Dreamstime
Gorgeous expanses of white sandy beaches, resorts, and great things to do
Come to Panama City Beach for your next beach getaway! With miles of pristine, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this stunning Florida destination can provide you with a relaxing escape. You’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of its lush landscapes, lively attractions, and abundant activities – all while enjoying year-round sunshine.
Whether you come to spend days lounging in endless summer heat or explore picturesque nature scenes, there is something here for everyone to enjoy! Whether it’s sunbathing on the beach during the day and hitting up one of PCB’s many restaurants at night; parasailing into a glittering ocean sunset; or going fishing with your family along Grand Lagoon – spending a few days (or more!) in Panama City Beach will be an unforgettable experience.
Travel Tips
An optimal period for exploring the Gulf Coast region is during the months of April and May, as the sky remains clear, the weather is pleasant with typical highs ranging between the mid-70s and 80s, and the sea is invitingly warm. It is advisable to avoid the summer season due to the increased number of visitors and higher costs. Another favorable window for travel is from early October until early November. Generally, the region experiences extended summers characterized by intense heat and humidity, while winters can be cool and blustery. Throughout the year, the area faces intermittent cloud cover and rainfall. Annual temperatures usually fluctuate between 46°F and 88°F, seldom dropping below 32°F or exceeding 92°F.
As the creators of Geovea, a premier custom trip planning platform, we have a unique ability to offer travel experiences customized to who you are, what you enjoy, and, most importantly, why you travel. Let’s Get Started >
Trip Links
Pre-built Road Trips
Related Trip and Vacation Ideas
- Trip Ideas
- Fall In New England: 27 Best Travel Destinations to see Autumn Colors
- 25 Best Places to Visit and See in New York in the Summer
- 25 Best Places to Visit and See in Florida in the Summer
- 25 Best Places to Visit and See in Colorado in the Summer
- 21 Best Places to Visit and See in Texas in the Summer
- 25 Best Things to See in Northern California in the Summer
- 24 Best Places to Visit in Southern California in the Summer
- 17 Best RV Parks in Colorado: Top Picks for Scenic Camping
- 22 Best Places to Visit in Texas in the Spring
- 25 Best Places to Visit in Arizona in the Spring
- 25 Best Places to Visit in Florida in the Spring
- Best Arizona Small Town Hidden Gems 2024
- Best Places in Florida To Travel 2024
- Las Vegas Travel Guide 2024
- 15 Best Places to Visit in Colorado in the Winter
Related Road Trip Itineraries and Guides
- Trip Ideas
- Epic Colorado Adventure: Ultimate Road Trip Guide
- Route 1 – Big Sur Coast Highway, California Road Trip Itinerary
- Gulf Coast Beaches – Alabama to Florida Road Trip Itinerary
- Best Cross-Country U.S. Road Trip: Southern Route Itinerary
- U.S. Route 1, Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary
- Florida Keys Scenic Highway US-1 Road Trip Itinerary
- Majestic Landscapes: Your Ultimate Utah Road Trip Itinerary
Common Links
- Add Destinations (up to 25) and unlimited Places
- Add optional Trip Plan Title (one will automatically be created)
- Select the “Create My Trip” button
- Then view and modify the trip for your travel needs
