The Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast may be small compared to Florida or Texas, but these states boast charming towns and gorgeous coastal areas along the Gulf that offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun. Let’s look at some of the traits of the Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast that make them unmatched summer destinations.
Picturesque Outdoor Settings
The Gulf of Mexico is famous for its world-renowned beaches and clear waters, and both Alabama and Mississippi have scenic settings that typify the Gulf’s appeal. From Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, and Gulf Shores in Alabama to Biloxi Beach, Gulfport Beach, and Ship Island in Mississippi, the incredible coastal settings in this region fill up with visitors seeking to escape the summer heat. Both states are filled with picturesque waterfront locations that have incredible sprawling landscapes with soft sand and lapping waves.
Gulf State Park is near Orange Beach in Alabama. This sprawling 6,000-acre park offers hiking trails, campgrounds, white-sand beaches, freshwater lakes, and marshland. Buccaneer State Park in Mississippi is a beach park near Waveland that has everything from a tranquil shoreline to a calm marshland with willows.
Some waterfront fun you can expect to enjoy there includes surfing, boating, swimming, and beach volleyball. The Gulf Coast is also one of the top places in the U.S. for fishing, and many charters in the area take visitors out on the water to reel in amazing catches.
Charming Communities to Explore
Alabama’s and Mississippi’s Gulf Coast cities are smaller and less crowded than relatively larger destinations in Florida and Texas. Yet, despite being relatively small, they provide the perfect base for a summer Gulf Coast getaway. Let’s take a look at some below:
Gulf Shores, AL: In Alabama, Gulf Shores is the best-known Gulf Coast city. This community is renowned for its coastal resorts, and it is home to the aforementioned Gulf State Park. It is a busy, touristy city with a zoo, amusement park attractions, and numerous golf courses.
Orange Beach, AL: Orange Beach is a smaller community near Gulf Shores. It has a lively nightlife and a great beach with vast open spaces and trails to explore.
Mobile, AL: Mobile, on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, was the first city founded in Alabama, and it is home to a marshy ecosystem that surrounds the city. It is a culturally vibrant place known for its excellent museums and Mardi Gras festivities.
Daphne, AL: Daphne is a charming little town along Mobile Bay, just a short drive from Mobile. It is a historic city with many preserved buildings, pleasant parks along the water, and popular spots for anglers.
Fairhope, AL: Fairhope is on Mobile Bay near Daphne. This pleasant community is known for its excellent arts scene and numerous museums. It has a charming, elegant downtown and a scenic waterfront to explore.
Biloxi, MS: Biloxi is a well-known city on Mississippi’s Gulf. It is famous for its major casinos but also has fantastic beaches and beautiful wildlife areas, including the nearby Deer Island.
Bay St. Louis, MS: Bay St. Louis is another popular Mississippi Gulf Coast destination. It has a clean, uncrowded beach and gorgeous homes along the water.
