Sometimes you drive to get from Point A to Point B. Other times, you cruise just for the joy of cruising. These scenic drives not only get you to great restaurants, attractions, historic sites, and more, but they provide picturesque, Coastal beauty along the way!
Explore the Coast
Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway is a unique experience even for the most traveled of road-trippers. The Byway winds through charming cities like Bayou La Batre, Dauphin Island, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Magnolia Springs, Fairhope, Daphne, Spanish Fort, and more. Along the way, you’ll find everything from a wildlife refuge to historic forts, from bird sanctuaries to botanical gardens, and from museums to a World War II-era Battleship. The dining options range from upscale to flip-flop casual, and nature, history, and adventure abound! To start planning your itinerary, visit AlabamasCoastalCOnnection.com.
Highway 182
For the ultimate beach drive, it’s all about Beach Boulevard (Highway 182). There’s no better cruise for views of the Gulf of Mexico, plus dining and shopping options galore! Start your drive at the intersection of Highways 182 and 59. Here you’ll find restaurants (which are attractions on their own) like The Hangout, Pink Pony Pub, Picnic Beach, and more! You’ll also see some of the best souvenir shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!
Take a stop while you cruise to checkout Gulf State Park, including the pier, Lake Shelby, and the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
Along the drive, look for even more dining options like Sea-N-Suds, The Gulf, Cobalt the Restaurant, Live Bait, Moe’s Original BBQ, Cotton’s, the Shrimp Basket, and more! Attractions are plentiful as well, including Fat Daddy’s Arcade, Adventure Island, plus opportunities for adventures on water and in the air with Ike’s Beach Service, Lost Bay Helicopters, and others. If you’ve been bit by the shopping bug, SanRoc Cay is ideal for shopping, dining, and marina views.
End your cruise at the world-famous Flora-Bama for a bite to eat, a cocktail, and a stroll on the beach!
Fort Morgan Road
Fort Morgan Road (Highway 180) begins in Gulf Shores where it intersects with Highway 59.Travelers of the road will find delicious cuisine at a variety of restaurants, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a Golf Course, and plenty of scenic beauty! Views of the bay, the Gulf, flora, fauna, and magazine-worthy beach homes make the winding road a dreamy drive. The road ends at the peninsula which houses the Fort Morgan Historic Site, as well as the ferry to Dauphin Island.
Want to stay on this gorgeous stretch of land during your beach vacation? Check out our variety of Gulf front and Gulf adjacent homes on Fort Morgan Road.
Need more ideas?
Want more ideas on things to do while you vacation in Gulf Shores? Be sure to check out our blog for dining, accommodations, attractions, and more!