Alabama's Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have all the appeal of a Florida panhandle vacation, but none of the congestion.
For an under-the-radar alternative to a classic Florida Gulf Coast vacation, consider heading slightly west. Just over the state line, the neighboring cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, make up a low-key destination boasting the same white sugar-sand beaches and spectacular outdoor space as the Florida panhandle—with significantly fewer crowds.
About an hour's drive from Pensacola and within 90 minutes of Mobile, you'll find sun-soaked skies and crystal-clear blue-green waters to cool off in year-round.
Spend a peaceful night at The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, in Gulf Shores. Located on the shores of the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park, the property blends into the natural environment as if it has always been a part of the landscape.
Travelers will discover that the locals here are extremely passionate about protecting this environment and are eager to educate visitors on preserving the land and wildlife.