Sipping Your Way Through Gulf Shores
While it might be true that it’s “5 o’clock somewhere”, every hour is happy hour when you vacation in Gulf Shores. Home to some of the best coastal cocktails, it won’t be long before you’ll find yourself relaxing with a cold drink in your hand. Of course, there are a few standout spritzes all along our sugar white sand shores, so here is your guide to some of the best beverages and bars in Gulf Shores to raise a glass and take it easy. Hold on to your cocktail umbrellas!
Good Morning Libations
Start the day off right with a delicious full meal and a masterfully mixed cocktail from Foodcraft at Gulf State Park. Whether you choose the “Sunrise Mimosa” made with orange and pineapple juice or the “Morning Elixir” crafted with prosecco and citrus zest, there’s no doubt you’ll feel refreshed—not to mention the beautiful Gulf views from the patio of Foodcraft, perfect for sipping by the shore!
If you feel like crafting your own morning masterpiece, consider building your own bloody mary at Brick and Spoon in Orange Beach. By choosing your vodka, veggies, meats, and seasonings, you can put your cocktail creativity to the test while enjoying some upscale takes on a classic American breakfast cocktail. But, be sure to pace yourself if you’ve got a busy day ahead!
Mid-Day Drinks
Sometimes it may seem like the only way to combat the warm Gulf sun is with a cool daiquiri. Luckily, there are plenty of unique bars and cabanas to snag a well-deserved treat to help you escape the heat. Of course, you can’t take a vacation to Gulf Shores without getting a taste of the iconic mix of vanilla, coffee liquor, and a touch of coconut rum—the Bushwacker. Lulu’s, located on the intracoastal waterway, blends up one of the best bushwacker recipes on the coast. It goes great with the fun, beachy atmosphere that will keep the kids entertained while you take a siesta.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe, then grab yourself a crisp beer or cocktail from Woodside at Gulf State Park. Their extensive list of brews and original cocktails—like Front Porch Tea and Basil Mint Limeade—only add to the playful environment. At Woodside, enjoy some of the Gulf’s greatest live local music or play some classic yard games. Tossing a few back as you toss a few horseshoes or bean bags can be a nice change of pace as you unwind in the calm nature of Gulf State Park.
Best Sunset Sips
Once the sun starts to dip, it’s time to seek out some of the best coastal tastes to end a perfect day. If you’re looking for a vibrant cocktail that’s as picturesque as the sunset, then you need to make a stop at Perch at Gulf State Park. Set above the sugary white sand, Perch offers an elevated dining experience with locally sourced dishes and seafood that pair perfectly with one of their handcrafted cocktails. Reconnect on the terrace, warm up by the fire pits, and take it all in as the sun fades.
If you’re more of the type looking for a chill nightcap, then head on over to Roasted Oak Coffee & Wine Bar. Located in the lobby of The Lodge at Gulf State Park, Roasted Oak is a coffee shop by day that transforms into a full bar featuring handcrafted cocktails, a curated wine list, craft beers, and a selection of light bites when the night falls. Enjoy the perfect end to a Gulf Coast day with an irish coffee or espresso martini on “Alabama’s Front Porch” under the warm glow of amber sea turtle lights and the sound of waves crashing along the shore.
It’s probably worth mentioning that Gulf Shores is more than our tasty cocktails. We hope you will enjoy the moment and take in everything our coastal paradise has to offer while the sun sets as you sip! Although, when it comes time to refuel and indulge, Gulf Shores has you covered with an outstanding array of restaurants. So come drink, dine, and relish in all that makes Gulf Shores the perfect getaway. Cheers to that!
