7 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Gulf Coast

Welcome to the Gulf Coast, where beautiful beaches, fascinating festivals, delectable seafood dishes, and endless outdoor activities await. Between captivating landscapes and one-of-a-kind landmarks across Texas, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Florida, prepare to see extraordinary coastal beauty across these five incredible states. From the powdery white sand shores of Gulf Shores to the historic lighthouses of Port Aransas, you can not miss these 7 off-the-beaten-path towns on the Gulf Coast!

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Situated on the northern shore of the Gulf of Mexico, this scenic small town offers picturesque views of the Alabama Gulf Coast. See the turquoise waters splash against the shore from Gulf State Park, where 6,150 acres of beautiful land and 28 miles of trails await. Find a piece of paradise getting sun-kissed on Gulf Shores Public Beach, or meet fascinating creatures in the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, home to 118 species, including 22 critically endangered species. Pick your animal encounters, whether you want to explore Destination Madagascar, head on a South American Adventure, try Giraffe Feedings, or discover Premium Experiences.

Anna Maria, Florida

Set your eyes on breathtaking new sights in Anna Maria, where powdery white sand beaches and crystal clear ocean waters will make you feel like you have stepped out of the United States and transported straight into a tropical paradise. Spend your days swimming and sunbathing on Bean Point Beach; do not miss the spectacular sunsets in the evening. Treat your tastebuds to mouthwatering, authentic dishes in Sandbar Seafood + Spirits; you have to try the Shrimp Gnocchi and Crab Risotto. From there, enjoy a peaceful walk through Bayfront Park where you can see lovely views of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key, and Florida’s famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Visit Ocean Springs, one of the most beautiful off-the-beaten-path towns on the Gulf Coast. Besides picture-perfect coastal scenery, this charming small town offers a vibrant arts scene and a historic downtown area, which will captivate the hearts of creatives and history buffs. Venture through the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, seeing the mesmerizing murals, gorgeous watercolors, and intriguing ink drawings by the artist himself. Explore the Davis Bayou Area, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. You can go fishing off the pier, hike through the trails, camp on the grounds, plan a scenic picnic, or kayak, canoe, and paddleboard on the waters. Pay tribute to those who passed in the Vietnam War at The Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a stunning black granite memorial surrounded by limestone and concrete walls.

Grand Isle, Louisiana

Recognized for its natural beauty and world-class fishing opportunities, Grand Isle is a wonderful place for fascinating new adventures in Louisiana. Find your fresh catch boating with Capt. John's Fin-tastic Charters; join the experienced Captain John on the search for Speckled Trout, Redfish, Snapper, or other fish depending on the season. Venture through the beautiful Grand Isle State Park, where you can swim in the Gulf Waters, hike through the land, or see captivating birds and other wildlife. To wrap up the day in style, grab a drink from the one-of-a-kind Pirate Island Daiquiri, a small bar where cold beer and handmade daiquiris are served with a warm smile.

Rockport, Texas

Get a taste of Texas in Rockport; where the landmarks are historic, the recreational opportunities are abundant, and the waters are rich with fish. Head on a journey back in time at the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This exquisite Victorian villa was constructed by George Ware Fulton between 1874 to 1877 and now stands as an incredible example of Second Empire-style architecture. Reconnect with nature at Goose Island State Park; see what birds you can spot through the park, explore the waters via kayak rentals, or test your luck fishing from the 1,620-foot-long pier. The Texas Maritime Museum is another spot you can not miss. Unravel the Lone Star State’s rich maritime history, shaped by ports, naval traditions, shipbuilding, and coastal communities as you see the exhibits, educational programs, and interactive displays.

Orange Beach, Alabama

Discover Orange Beach, one of the dreamiest off-the-beaten-path towns on the Gulf Coast for the whole family. Let yourself be swept away by the mesmerizing coastal scenery at Cotton Bayou Beach, one of the most breathtaking beaches in Gulf State Park. This captivating park boasts 6,150 acres and 28 miles of scenic trails through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system. Named “the best recreational trail in the country” by USA Today in 2025, the system was recognized for its diversity with nine different ecosystems. Take the kids for a day of fun at Adventure Island, where all kinds of attractions from glow golf to go-karts, bumper boats, Ferris wheels, roller coaster simulators, a 100+ game arcade, and more await.

Port Aransas, Texas

Make your way over to Mustang Island to explore Port Aransas, a picturesque small town perfect for nature lovers. Enjoy diverse fishing opportunities, with over 20 tournaments taking place in the summer. See the iconic Lydia Ann Lighthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and spend your days resting on the soft sand, fishing, or even surfing from Point A Beach. You can even take a rental car and drive to—and on the beach, allowing you to easily bring everything you need for a day of relaxation and water adventures. At the end of your day, enjoy a hearty seafood meal in the open air at Virginia's On the Bay.

Takeaways

Between powdery white sand beaches framing crystal-clear waters, vibrant arts scenes, incredible seafood restaurants, and remarkable landmarks dating hundreds of years back in time, the Gulf Coast is filled with fascinating cities across Texas, Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana, and Alabama. Discover hidden gems you may not have considered exploring before as you plan your dream vacation through five magnificent states. Get ready to see unparalleled beauty from Gulf Shores to Port Aransas, venturing these 7 off-the-beaten-path towns on the Gulf Coast.