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A LOCALS Guide to Gulf Shores, Alabama

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Local for 20+ years. Come take a peak inside what makes Gulf Shores Alabama a best kept secret. Food, Fun, and Sugar white sand!
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Outdoor Activities

 
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Rent eBikes and explore the nature. We have such a thriving ecosystem, you never know what you will see!
Gulf State Park
 
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Women owned and operated. Founded in 2024, this play cafe is the perfect spot if you need a break from the sun!
Coastal Cuties Play Cafe
 
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Parking is not free, unless you are local, but they do accept cards!
Gulf Shores Public Beach
 
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Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, this provides an area for both large and small dogs. Benches for humans too!
Dog Park | Gulf Shores, AL - Official Website
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Local playground and pavallions !
Meyer Park

Restaurants

 
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This is the second location for the highly rated, Jesses Magnolia Springs. This upscale restaurant is the perfect spot for date night without the kids.
Jesse’s On The Bay
 
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Try the Bisec al la Tampinquenia (idk how to spell it) but it is FABULOUS and and their guac - heavenly.
El Toro Mexican Restaurant
 
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The shrimp soup and cactus grits are our FAVS
Cactus Cantina Gulf Shores
 
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The Baklava is 5 stars - flaky and gooey. Their cheese fries, WOW. Can't go wrong. No indoor seating.
Efes Greek Kitchen
 
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I have been living off this place since I was 8 years old. Try the Cricos Sticks!
Crico's Pizza & Subs
 
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Wings are great and burgers too. Lots of Vegan options. The wasabi ranch is a HIT.
Island Wing Company - Gulf Shores
 
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Typically don't dine in here, but they do have great food. One of the few places that offers sushi. Our rec is to get it to go, because the place gets packed!
Mikato Japanese Restaurant
 
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They have AYCE Seafood but our fave is the smothered Redfish!
Mikee's Seafood
 
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The only chinese place on the island. Delivery through uber eats or you can call directly.
China Dragon
 
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A LOCAL FAV - Ms Amelia is the sweetest human. We went here for lunch 3 times a week in school. Try the soup and chicken salad. Rotating soup menu!
Amelia's Deli & Catering

Other Food & Drinks

 
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Locally owned and operated. Live music and outdoor seating. Dog Friendly!
Big Beach Brewing
 
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Literally like the friends coffee shop. We love the Marlyn Monroe add coconut milk on ice <3
Happy Pappys Coffeehouse
 
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The only person I trust with my cakes. As an event planner, I highly recommend. Locally owned and operated. Go say hi and tell them Bash Bestie sent you!
A Specialty Bakery & Party Shoppe
 
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Locally owned and operated by a Gulf Shores High School Alumni! This trendy funky coffee shop is sure to leave smiles on your face. Rotating menu and seasonal options.
Foam Coffee
 
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Home of the Low Country Boil - Locally owned and operated, this place is a must for seafood and CRAWFISH (when in season - March - May(ish))
Gulf Shores Seafood
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Arts & Entertainment

 
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Every October this event takes place on the beautiful beaches I call home. You can't go wrong attending.
National Shrimp Festival