How to Get to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Rentals: Fly or Drive with Ease!
Have you dreamed of white sand, sparkling Gulf waters, and warm Southern nights? Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, are two of the most inviting beach getaways on the Gulf Coast. Getting there is easier than you think! Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or just need the beach, the journey to these sun-soaked shores is all part of the adventure!
Visitors from Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Canada flock to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach every year. With major highways leading straight to the coast, many families and groups opt for a scenic road trip. But if flying is more your style, you’re in luck—two convenient airports nearby!
This guide'll explain the best ways to reach Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, including travel tips, major airports, scenic driving routes, and everything you need to plan your stress-free trip. No matter how you travel, your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation is closer than you think!
With convenient options for every traveler, your perfect beach vacation is closer than ever. Let’s get you to the coast — one step closer to your next unforgettable stay in our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vacation rentals.
How to Reach Gulf Shores and Orange Beach by Car: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Planning a road trip to Alabama’s beaches? Whether you're coming from near or far, getting here is easy! Most travelers drive via Interstate 65 or Interstate 10, with many taking Highway 59 to the coast. However, we recommend the Baldwin/Foley Beach Express for a faster, less congested route.
Best Route:
- From I-65: Take Exit 37 (Bay Minette) to Highway 59 South, then merge onto I-10 East toward Pensacola.
- From I-10 (Westbound): Skip Highway 59 and continue to Exit 53 for the Baldwin Beach Express.
- The Beach Express has fewer stoplights and less traffic, getting you to the sand faster!
Travel Tips:
- Spring and summer are the busiest seasons—expect some traffic and plan for extra time.
- Fall and winter typically have fewer congestion issues, making for a smooth drive.
Estimated Drive Times to Gulf Shores:
- Atlanta: 6 hours (350 miles)
- Birmingham: 5 hours (285 miles)
- Chicago: 15 hours (950 miles)
- Dallas: 10 hours (650 miles)
- Memphis: 7 hours (420 miles)
- New Orleans: 3 hours (200 miles)
- Nashville: 8 hours (470 miles)
*Drive times are estimates and may vary due to traffic, construction, and stops along the way.
Airports Near Gulf Shores and Orange Beach: Flying In Made Easy
If you're coming to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach from out of state, flying can save you a ton of time! Several airport options make getting here pretty painless.
The two closest airports are:
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – This is the closest major airport, only about an hour's drive from the beach. You'll find direct flights from dozens of cities, so it's a solid pick whether you're coming from the Midwest, the East Coast, or even farther away.
- Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) – Located about 1.5 hours from Gulf Shores, Mobile is another convenient option for travelers. It's a bit smaller, but you might snag a good deal, especially on regional airlines.
No matter which airport you choose, rental cars are easy to book, and the drive to the Alabama coast is mostly smooth, with plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or stretch your legs. Before you know it, you'll be crossing the bridge and smelling that salty Gulf air!
Getting Around Gulf Shores & Orange Beach: Tips for Your Vacation
Getting around is a breeze once you've made it to your Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation rental! Whether planning on lazy beach days or exploring every corner of the coast, most visitors find that having a car gives them more flexibility, especially if they want to hit up local restaurants, grocery stores, or see the sights at their own pace. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are about 6 miles apart, separated by Gulf State Park. While a car is the easiest way to explore, local taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available.
Parking Information
- Our office has plenty of parking for easy check-in.
- Each vacation rental includes parking, but availability varies by property size and location.
- Most one-bedroom condos allow one parking pass, while larger properties typically allow two. Check your rental details for specifics.
- Public beach parking includes free and paid lots, with credit card payment options for added convenience.
Best Place to Stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach
Plan your beach escape with our Gulf Shores vacation rentals and Orange Beach vacation rentals. Whether you need pet-friendly rentals, Gulf-front vacation rentals, or a stay near top attractions, we have the perfect spot.
No matter how you get here or choose to explore, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach welcome you with open arms, sugar-white sands, clear waters, and plenty of fishing, golfing, or kayaking. After a day outside, explore local dining, shopping, and entertainment. Ready to start planning your next getaway?
Book your stay today and experience Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!