Gulf Shores Beach Spotlight
Islands Magazine spotlighted Gulf Shores, Alabama's Pleasure Island for white-sand beaches and iconic eats, calling it underrated. Half Moon Bay recommendations included beaches and seafood, while Santa Cruz was highlighted for redwood hikes and boardwalk experiences.
- In 2023, the majority of Baldwin County's 8.4 million visitors, totaling 6.5 million people, chose to visit Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and the Fort Morgan area. This influx of tourists contributed to nearly $6.7 billion in spending within the coastal community. - The tourism boom supports 55,000 jobs in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan region, an area with a resident population of just under 26,000. Projections for 2024 indicate that tourism revenue will likely match the previous year's figures, with taxable lodging revenue reaching $476 million by June 2024. - To accommodate the growing number of visitors, approximately 1,000 new lodging units have been added in the last 12 to 18 months, with another 1,000 planned over the next three years. A significant new development is the Embassy Suites in Gulf Shores, which is expected to open in the summer of 2025. - One of Gulf Shores' most iconic restaurants, The Hangout, has a history dating back to the 1950s as a popular spot for young beachgoers. After being destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, it was rebuilt and reopened in 2008, becoming a major entertainment venue that now hosts the annual Hangout Music Fest. - Another historic establishment, the Original Oyster House, has been a staple in Gulf Shores since 1983. It is located in the oldest specialty shopping center in the area and is the first restaurant in Alabama to participate in oyster shell recycling for reef restoration. - The iconic Pink Pony Pub, known for its distinctive pink color, has been a beachfront landmark since 1956. It was originally part of the Seahorse Cottages and operated as a bar and bait shop before being destroyed by Hurricane Frederic in 1979 and subsequently rebuilt. - Gulf Shores is actively working to enhance its appeal with projects like a new Beach Walking District as part of its Vision 2025 plan. The city is also focusing on becoming a year-round destination by attracting sports tourism, with plans for a new sports complex to host tournaments and events.
