Shore Haven sits right on the sand on the west side of Gulf Shores, Alabama, and for a lot of guests the plan is simple: coffee on the deck, beach all day, sunset from the balcony. When you’re ready for something more, this stretch of the Alabama Gulf Coast has plenty to explore within a short drive.
Little Lagoon Pass
Just steps from the house, Little Lagoon Pass is where the long, shallow Little Lagoon meets the Gulf. It’s one of the most popular fishing spots on this side of town, with locals casting for redfish, speckled trout and flounder. Kids love wading in the calmer water on the lagoon side. Bring a rod (and check Alabama’s saltwater license rules), or just wander over at sunset and watch the anglers.
Fort Morgan
Drive west along Fort Morgan Road for around half an hour and the road ends at Fort Morgan, the brick fort that guarded the mouth of Mobile Bay. The 1864 Battle of Mobile Bay was fought just offshore. You can walk the walls and the arched passageways, and the views over the bay are worth the trip on their own. On the way, stop at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge for an easy trail through dunes and maritime forest. In spring and fall it’s one of the best spots on the coast for watching migrating birds.
Gulf State Park
Head east past the public beach and you’ll reach Gulf State Park, with miles of undeveloped beach and the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a network of paved paths through pine forest and past freshwater lakes. Rent bikes for the morning, then finish at the Gulf State Park Pier, which stretches more than 1,500 feet out over the water.
Easy family days
- The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores
- The Wharf in Orange Beach, with shops, restaurants and a Ferris wheel
- Dolphin-watching cruises from the local marinas
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm water of Little Lagoon
Where to eat
Order Royal Reds while you’re here: sweet, deep-water shrimp the Alabama coast is known for. LuLu’s on the Intracoastal Waterway is a big, easygoing family spot with a sandy play area, and the Original Oyster House has been serving Gulf seafood for decades.
After a busy day out, there’s nothing better than coming home to the deck and the sound of the water. Shore Haven sleeps 10, with two gulf-front master suites. Check availability at Shore Haven.