Gulf Shores, Alabama
Tucked Along Alabama's Central Coast, Gulf Shores is Known for its Stunning Blue Waters and Sugar White Sand Beaches
On Alabama’s central coast, Gulf Shores is known for its gorgeous blue waters and miles of stunning sugar white oceanfront beaches. This is a popular tourist spot, with vacationers coming in the summer and “snowbirds” arriving during the winter.
Downtown is a mix of government buildings, retailers and restaurants. Many businesses are tourist-oriented.
Locals enjoy nine golf courses and a long pier perfect for fishing. Gulf State Park features nearly 30 miles of trails and open areas for walking, bicycling, canoeing, watching wildlife and more.
Housing includes everything from beachside condos and to elegant single family homes in communities such as Martinique on the Gulf. Stilt homes sit next to the canal that runs through town.
The National Shrimp Festival, the G-rated Mardi Gras Parade and the Hang Out Music Festival attract thousands of visitors each year. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Beach, 20 miles to the west, is a quiet spot for contemplation.
Population: 15,000
Median Home Price: $475,000
Crime Rate: Meets the national average
Age 45 or Better: 53%
Hospital: Baldwin Health, 20 miles away (Gulf Shores does have an emergency clinic)
Public Transit: No
Political Leanings: Conservative