9 Underrated Places to Visit on the Gulf Coast
Some of the best Gulf Coast towns are quieter shorelines that deliver the same salt air without the crowds. Access points are straightforward, the water is the main draw, and the pace stays slower even in peak season. These underrated beach shores offer room to spread out and a clearer view of the Gulf, without the constant churn of large-scale tourism.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Laying just off the shore of mainland America, Dauphin Island is the best spot to visit before crossing the vast expanse of the Gulf of Mexico. Those who make their way to the Island are rewarded with exciting attractions for all types of travelers.
Explore the island’s history; Dauphin was once a strategic military stronghold. Visit the historic Fort Gaines to explore the region's military history. Visitors can also educate themselves on the diverse ecosystem surrounding the island, and head to the Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab to get up close and personal with varying species.
Remember to sit back and unwind during your visit. Fill your picnic basket and make your way to the pristine white sands of Dauphin Island Beach. The nearby waters are ideal for cooling down under the hot Gulf Coast sun.
Destin, Florida
Located in the Sunshine State, it doesn’t matter whether you came here for exciting entertainment, the beautiful beaches, or the sense of adventure, visitors are sure to lose themselves in the relaxing seaside ambiance of the town.
Start your day with a nice walk along Destin’s boardwalk. Choose from plenty of restaurants, cafés, or even street vendors as you fuel up for the exciting day ahead. The town is also known as a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Consider scheduling a Gulf-angler fishing charter for your chance to land the fish of a lifetime.
If you prefer to stay ashore, venture to the Henderson Beach State Park for the top-rated beach in Destin. There are also scenic hiking trails along the beach's dunes. After ridding yourself of all the sand, sit down for an exciting meal at Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill, where visitors dine inside the aquatic environment.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
It doesn’t matter whether you are seeking escape from the frigid temperatures or chasing the endless sunshine of the Gulf Coast, you always have a good reason to visit this amazing Alabama town.
Without a doubt, the main reason people visit the town is Gulf State Park. The Park possesses a public beach spanning the coastline while also providing opportunities to explore the inland portion of the park. The park contains approximately 28 miles of trails that wait for your exploration and are the perfect place for a scenic walk. Test out your sea legs and hop aboard a dolphin cruise tour which will take you out in the Gulf of Mexico to get a view of the ocean's most majestic creatures.
Marathon, Florida
Despite the name, the town is known as a peaceful oasis for those seeking an escape to a seaside town. There will be no running involved unless you want there to be during your visit to Marathon. The town’s coastal waters are some of the best for scuba diving and snorkeling expeditions. Schedule a guided excursion with the Deep Blue Dive Center to explore the mysteries of the ocean floor.
For those wanting to stay dry, take a scenic hike through Curry Hammock State Park, which is the largest piece of uninhabited land in the region, meaning that there is plenty of nature to enjoy. Visitors can also just relax at places such as Oceanfront Park which is the ideal place to catch up on reading while enjoying the scenic views of the ocean. If you aren’t feeling up the walking, hop in the car and cruise across the renowned Old Seven Mile Bridge, which takes you across the mesmerizing blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Rockport, Texas
Serving as a geographical divider on the peninsula between Copano and Aransas Bay, Rockport is a switch up from the popular image of Texas’s cowboy heritage.
Experience the ocean’s strangest creatures up close at the Rockport Harbor Aquarium. Visitors can also delve into Texas's nautical history at the Texas Maritime Museum, featuring everything from pirate artifacts to vintage war memorabilia.
Popular attractions that are highlighted by the warm Texas sun are the Rockport Beach Pavilion and the Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. During any warm day, find people trying to beat the heat by relaxing in shaded areas or wading into the refreshing waters.
South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is a barrier island that runs along the Texas coastline and serves as the initial line of defense against the Gulf of Mexico waves.
Numerous beaches await your exploration along the sandy 30-mile coastline. Head to Isla Blanca Beach, which is situated on the southern side of the island, to enjoy the clear water of the Gulf of Mexico. The northern side of the island has beaches on the Laguna Madre, which offer calmer waters perfect for kayaking and swimming. If you want to enjoy the beach atmosphere without having to deal with the hassle of sand, enjoy a stroll along the beach while mounted on horseback. Schedule a scenic trot along the beaches with South Padre Island Adventure Park Horseback Tours.
Visitors can even spend time amongst the ocean's most beloved creatures. Stop by Sea Turtle Inc., a rehabilitation center for sea turtles that allows visitors to familiarize themselves with these majestic animals.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Bay St. Louis serves as the gateway for those venturing up the Jourdan River. The Bay itself is known as a prominent docking spot for weary fishermen coming in off the ocean.
A dishing town means one thing: fresh seafood. Be sure to bring your appetite on your visit and dine at the many restaurants that serve up the freshest seafood dishes along the coast. Local favorites are Starfish Café and The Blind Tiger restaurant.
When you are not lounging in the sun at Bay St. Louis Beach, take a stroll in the downtown core to visit fascinating landmarks. Check out mesmerizing architecture at churches such as the Our Lady of the Gulf Parish and the St Rose De Lima Church. Visitors can also check out incredible creative pieces at local galleries like the Alice Moseley Folk Art Studio or Gallery 220.
Grand Isle, Louisiana
A day in Grand Isle promises to deliver an experience of discovery, relaxation, and natural beauty. From sunrise to sunset, the island is sure to keep you as busy as you desire.
For the early risers, head to one of Grand Isle's public beaches, such as Grand Isle State Park beach or Elmer's Island, and watch the sun begin to climb as you get your early morning steps in. Or maybe you prefer a more laid-back start to your day. If so, grab a coffee and a bite at the Starfish Restaurant to fuel your day of adventure.
For history enthusiasts, step into a Civil War-era outpost by visiting historic Fort Livingston. Visitors can explore the fort's defenses, barracks, and gun placements while learning about its role in safeguarding the Gulf Coast. As evening falls, take a sunset cruise and admire the cotton candy-hued skies as the town winds down its day.
Seaside, Florida
As the name reveals, the town is located along the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Seaside is a paradise unlike any other; visitors often enjoy a scenic walk among the pastel-colored cottages or a beverage while basking in the sun on a patio.
Slip into your sandals and head to the beach. Seaside Beach offers a perfect spot to lay your towel and soak up some vitamin D. You can also find shade under one of the town’s pavilions, ideal for escaping the Florida heat. For a fun challenge, try a surfing lesson with Austin Magee’s Surf School and discover if you can ride the waves.
Shop for fresh produce at the Seaside Farmers Market which is held every Saturday at the town’s main pavilion next to the beach.
In a society often rushed and bound by daily schedules, set aside time to channel your inner explorer. So, if you are searching for the perfect destination for your next getaway, consider heading to the Gulf Coast. Visitors can expect to learn about America’s earliest histories, relax on the sandy beaches, or dine on delicious meals in these Gulf Coast towns.
