Best Beaches in Gulf Shores for a Family Vacation

Gulf Shores, Alabama, features 32 miles of sugar-white quartz sand, warm Gulf waters and abundance of kid-centric attractions. It perfectly balances laid-back relaxation for parents with action-packed entertainment for toddlers, kids, and teens. For the best family-friendly beach vacation in Gulf Shores, enjoy visiting our favorite beach sites:

Morgantown

Morgantown is a family-friendly neighborhood in Fort Morgan featuring two swimming pools, lighted tennis and pickleball courts, and several beach access boardwalks. This unique seaside community is a guest favorite, with many visitors returning year after year.

We offer a wide variety of homes in various sizes and price points. Whether you prefer to be beachfront, near a pool, or on a quiet cul-de-sac, we have options to suit your needs.

Because the Morgantown beach is owned by the State of Alabama, we follow a "leave only footprints" policy. We ask that all personal items, including tents and chairs, be removed from the beach daily.

During your stay, you can enjoy strolling or biking along quiet streets lined with pastel-colored beach homes. If you are staying in a pet-friendly property, you will find conveniently located pet stations throughout the neighborhood. There are also four beach access boardwalks for your use. If you time your visit right, you may even see a private show during a Blue Angels practice session.

Morgantown is located about a 15-20 minute scenic drive from Gulf Shores—close enough to enjoy local attractions, yet far enough off the beaten path to avoid the crowds. Our homes are fully equipped for preparing meals at home; however, should you choose to dine out, you'll find several tasty options nearby.

Surfside Shores

Surfside Shores is a quiet, beachside community located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula. Visitors return to this neighborhood year after year for its white sand beaches, beautiful homes, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a wonderful area for strolling or biking down quiet streets, and since the beach is pet-friendly, several of our homes allow dogs.

If you are looking for beachfront accommodations, we have several options available. While you can take a scenic 15-20 minute drive into town for dinner, we also recommend considering some of the excellent local dining options nearby.

Fort Morgan

Tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay, you'll find the little taste of paradise known as Fort Morgan.  The lighter crowds, gorgeous white sand and pet friendly beaches keep visitors returning year after year.  

Several homes have private pools or access to a community pool for those days when you are looking for a non-beach option.  You won't want to miss seeing the historic Fort Morgan or hiking through Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.  If golf is on the agenda, check out Kiva Dunes and Peninsula Golf Golf and Racquet Club.   

Need to pick up a few groceries?  Forgot socks or sunscreen?  Officing from the beach and need a few office supplies?  We have a brand new Dollar General, around mile marker 10.  You'll find an impressive grocery selection, beer and wine (coming soon) and just about everything else you can think of including beach chairs, towels and umbrellas.   

Sassy Bass Marketplace is another great shopping option.  They have groceries, beer, wine and liquor and a sweet souvenir section.    Check it out before or after a tasty meal at the Amazin' Grill! 

If you select a vacation home that is pet friendly, your pup will fall in love with the soft, powdery sand, the ever changing surf and the sights and smells of the beach. 

Gulf Shores

If your group wants to be where the action is, consider staying in Gulf Shores. This popular destination offers something for everyone, with many vacationers returning year after year.

In addition to the beautiful white sand beaches, you can enjoy fabulous local restaurants and family-friendly activities like go-karts, kayaking, and mini-golf. For those interested in shopping, there are many local boutiques to explore, as well as the Tanger Outlet Mall in nearby Foley.     No matter which beautiful beach you choose, be sure to review current beach rules, flag conditions, and parking details via the City of Gulf Shores before heading out. P.S. Want to stay up-to-date on all of Coastal View Vacations' latest news? Sign up for our newsletter here, and you’ll be the first to know!   

Now that you know our best beaches, you’re one step closer to experiencing a fantastic family-friendly beach vacation. The next step in your vacation planning process is choosing the best vacation rental for your needs. That part is easy! When you stay in a  Coastal View Vacations family-friendly rental, you’ll experience the best accommodations Gulf Shores has to offer. 

Of course, the rental you choose will depend on your specific needs, but we’re confident you’ll find a great fit amidst our collection. Choose from dog-friendly homes, beachfront rentals, rentals with private pools. and more. Ready to book your stay? Browse our available rentals now and book your vacation directly with Coastal View Vacations!