Hotels in Gulf Shores

Embrace the Serenity of Gulf Shores: Where Emerald Waters Meet Sun-Kissed Shores

Discover Gulf Shores, Alabama, where pristine white-sand beaches meet the vibrant Gulf of Mexico. This coastal paradise invites you to bask in the sun, indulge in fresh seafood, and enjoy thrilling water sports. Explore the scenic trails of Gulf State Park, or unwind on the shores of nearby Orange Beach. With its charming coastal vibes, family-friendly attractions, and romantic sunsets, Gulf Shores is the perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or a lively beach atmosphere, Gulf Shores promises unforgettable memories just waiting to be made. For the best hotel rates in Gulf Shores, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Gulf Shores

Some of the best places to stay in Gulf Shores are Orange Beach East, Cotton Bayou and Morgantown. Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers stunning coastal scenery and a laid-back atmosphere. Orange Beach East is perfect for first-time visitors, featuring beautiful beaches and family-friendly activities. Cotton Bayou offers a more tranquil experience with waterfront access, while Morgantown boasts charming vacation rentals. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from standard rooms to spacious suites, with options that cater to families and couples alike. Whether you seek gulf-front views or cozy retreats, Gulf Shores has something for every traveler. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Gulf Shores:

1. Orange Beach EastOpens in a new window: Orange Beach East is a fantastic area for family-friendly vacations, offering beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. The Wharf is a popular spot for entertainment, dining, and shopping, while Gulf State Park provides breathtaking scenery and recreational activities. For accommodations, consider Phoenix IX by Brett Robinson VacationsOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel with sports facilities and entertainment options. The Pensacola Beach ResortOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that features direct beach access and business amenities, perfect for families and business travelers alike. Hilton Pensacola BeachOpens in a new window is another great option, offering adventure sports nearby and facilities for business needs.
2. Cotton BayouOpens in a new window: Cotton Bayou is an ideal destination for beach lovers and families, with easy access to Gulf Shores Beach and Gulf State Park. The area is known for outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Hotel Indigo Orange Beach - Gulf Shores, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers and allows pets, with amenities for business travelers. Colonnades by VacasaOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel focused on family experiences, featuring a playground and arcade games. Island House Hotel Orange Beach - a DoubleTree by HiltonOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel with direct beach access and business facilities.
3. MorgantownOpens in a new window: Morgantown offers a unique blend of history and beach fun, with Fort Morgan and beautiful beaches nearby. It's perfect for travelers interested in culture and outdoor activities. Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star resort that provides direct beach access and business amenities, ideal for both leisure and corporate guests. For a more budget-friendly option, Home2 Suites by Hilton Mobile West I-10 Tillmans CornerOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that allows pets and offers business facilities. Holiday Inn Mobile West I-10, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is another 3.0-star hotel located in the city center, focusing on natural experiences and wellness.

Things to do in Gulf Shores for first time

A three-day getaway to Gulf Shores offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, vibrant parks, and lush coastal landscapes. Travelers can enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and diving, while also indulging in live music, festivals, and shopping, making it an unforgettable destination on the Gulf of Mexico. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gulf Shores:

• Day 1: Start your Gulf Shores adventure at Gulf State Park, where you can explore the beautiful nature trails and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. After soaking in the natural beauty, head over to the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier, perfect for some fishing or simply enjoying the views of the Gulf of Mexico. Conclude your day with a relaxing time at Romar Beach, where you can unwind on the sandy shores and watch the sunset over the water.
• Day 2: Begin at The Wharf, a bustling entertainment district filled with shopping, dining, and live music. After exploring the shops, take a peaceful stroll along Portage Creek, where you can appreciate the lush surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Orange Beach Indian and Sea Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the local Native American tribes and the fishing heritage of the area.
• Day 3: Your day kicks off at The Park at OWA, featuring thrilling rides and attractions for all ages. Next, immerse yourself in the local arts at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach, showcasing beautiful works and providing opportunities to participate in workshops. Finally, head to the Pensacola Lighthouse Museum, where you can climb the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf Coast and discover the fascinating maritime history of the area.

5 tips to find a great Gulf Shores hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Gulf Shores are January, November, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure better rates. For a great value trip, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the beautiful beach and other attractions in the area. This way, you can make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're planning a spontaneous getaway, Gulf Shores offers exciting last-minute hotel deals that could make your trip even more affordable. To explore these options, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find great discounts on accommodations just before your travel dates. Additionally, consider signing up for email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep an eye on flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save on your Gulf Shores adventure. Book today and enjoy the beach!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Gulf Shores.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Gulf Shores tends to be pricier. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you’re more likely to find affordable options. You can take advantage of transportation methods like driving, taking the bus, using a taxi, biking, or walking to explore the area while saving on expenses.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Gulf Shores and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Gulf Shores

Here are a few popular dishes in Gulf Shores, Alabama, United States of America:

• Shrimp and Grits: This classic Southern dish combines creamy, buttery grits with succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich, flavorful sauce. Often served as a breakfast or brunch option, it's a comforting meal that showcases the region’s coastal ingredients and culinary heritage, perfect for a leisurely dining experience.
• Fried Shrimp: A Gulf Shores staple, fried shrimp are typically seasoned, breaded, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with tangy cocktail sauce or remoulade, this dish is a must-try for its crispy texture and fresh seafood flavor, often enjoyed at beachside shacks or casual eateries.
• Seafood Gumbo: This hearty stew reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Gulf Coast, featuring a blend of shrimp, oysters, and sometimes sausage, all simmered in a dark roux with bold spices. It's a communal dish often served with rice, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.

Best time to go to Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 55.0°F (12.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.1°F (28.4°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Gulf Shores, March, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.