Gulf Shores AL Neighborhoods: A Comprehensive Guide
Amanda Eckart
Shareholder Real Broker, LLC | Investor | Team Leader of Celebrate Your Home NY & Gulf Coast | Speaker & Coach
Gulf Shores, Alabama is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, warm climate, and Southern charm. However, it is also home to a variety of unique neighborhoods that offer a range of lifestyles and amenities.
Whether you're looking for a quiet residential area, a bustling shopping and dining hub, or a beachfront community, Gulf Shores has something for everyone.
Overview of Gulf Shores Neighborhoods The neighborhoods in Gulf Shores can be divided into several categories, including beachfront communities, inland residential areas, condominium and resort areas, historic districts, and shopping and dining hubs.
Each of these areas offers its own unique features and attractions, making it important to research your options before choosing a neighborhood to call home.
Beachfront Communities For those who love the beach, Gulf Shores offers several beachfront communities, such as West Beach, Gulf State Park, and Orange Beach.
These areas offer easy access to the beach, as well as a range of water activities, such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. In addition, many of these communities offer resort-style amenities, such as pools, fitness centers, and tennis courts.
Key Takeaways
Overview of Gulf Shores Neighborhoods
Gulf Shores, AL is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and outdoor recreational activities.
The city boasts several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. Here's an overview of some of the most popular Gulf Shores neighborhoods:
Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan is a popular neighborhood located on the westernmost tip of Gulf Shores. It is known for its secluded beaches, historic fort, and nature trails.
The neighborhood is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful retreat.
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park is a large neighborhood located in the heart of Gulf Shores. It is home to several campgrounds, hiking trails, and a fishing pier.
The neighborhood is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the natural beauty of the area.
The Peninsula
The Peninsula is an exclusive neighborhood located on a golf course in Gulf Shores. It is known for its luxurious homes, stunning views, and world-class amenities. The neighborhood is perfect for those who want to live in a prestigious community and enjoy an upscale lifestyle.
West Beach
West Beach is a popular neighborhood located on the western side of Gulf Shores. It is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and affordable homes. The neighborhood is perfect for those who want to live near the beach and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle.
Overall, Gulf Shores has a neighborhood to suit everyone's needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat, an outdoor adventure, or an upscale lifestyle, Gulf Shores has something to offer.
Beachfront Communities
Gulf Shores, AL is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning waterfront properties. Here are some of the top beachfront communities in the area:
Gulf Beach
Gulf Beach is a popular destination for those looking for a beachfront community in Gulf Shores. It is located on the eastern end of the city and offers easy access to the beach.
Gulf Beach is home to a variety of properties, including condos and single-family homes. Some of the amenities that residents can enjoy in Gulf Beach include private beach access, swimming pools, and tennis courts.
West Beach
West Beach is another popular beachfront community in Gulf Shores. It is located on the western end of the city and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
West Beach is home to a variety of properties, including condos and single-family homes. Some of the amenities that residents can enjoy in West Beach include private beach access, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
East Beach
East Beach is a quieter beachfront community located in Gulf Shores. It is located on the eastern end of the city and offers easy access to the beach. East Beach is home to a variety of properties, including condos and single-family homes.
Some of the amenities that residents can enjoy in East Beach include private beach access, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Overall, Gulf Shores, AL has a variety of beachfront communities to choose from. Whether you are looking for a bustling community with lots of amenities or a quieter community with easy beach access, there is something for everyone in Gulf Shores.
Inland Residential Areas
Gulf Shores, AL is home to several inland residential areas that offer a variety of housing options. Here are three popular neighborhoods:
Craft Farms
Craft Farms is a well-established and maintained neighborhood located in north Gulf Shores. It is the largest subdivision in the area and is home to 2 Arnold Palmer golf courses.
Homes in Craft Farms range from 1,700 - 3,500 square feet and are priced between $250k - $750k. The neighborhood offers a variety of amenities, including a community pool and clubhouse.
Cotton Creek Estates
Cotton Creek Estates is a gated community located in the heart of Gulf Shores. The neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with prices ranging from $300k - $600k.
Cotton Creek Estates is known for its well-manicured lawns and beautiful landscaping. The community also offers a clubhouse, pool, and fitness center.
Lakeview Estates
Lakeview Estates is a small, quiet neighborhood located just a few miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with prices ranging from $200k - $400k.
Lakeview Estates is known for its beautiful lake views and peaceful atmosphere. The community also offers a playground and picnic area.
Overall, these inland residential areas offer a variety of housing options for those looking to live in Gulf Shores, AL. Whether you are looking for a well-established neighborhood with amenities or a small, quiet community, there is something for everyone.
Condominium and Resort Areas
Gulf Shores, AL has a variety of Condominium and Resort Areas that offer a range of amenities and activities. Here are some of the top ones to consider:
The Beach Club
The Beach Club is a popular resort area located on the Fort Morgan Peninsula. It features several condominiums and villas that offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The resort also has several restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, tennis, and golf.
Lagoon Tower
Lagoon Tower is a luxurious condominium complex located on West Beach Boulevard. It features spacious units with private balconies that offer views of the Gulf of Mexico and Little Lagoon. The complex also has a pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and other water activities in Little Lagoon.
Crystal Tower
Crystal Tower is a high-rise condominium complex located on West Beach Boulevard. It features one, two, and three-bedroom units that offer views of the Gulf of Mexico. The complex also has an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a lazy river.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, and water sports.
Overall, Gulf Shores, AL has a variety of Condominium and Resort Areas to choose from. Visitors can find a range of amenities and activities to suit their interests and preferences.
Historic Districts
Gulf Shores, Alabama is home to several historic districts that offer a glimpse into the city's past. Here are two of the most notable:
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Gulf Shores Museum District
The Gulf Shores Museum District is a collection of historic buildings that have been preserved and converted into museums.
The district includes the Gulf Shores Museum, which houses exhibits on the city's history, and the Little Zoo That Could, a small zoo that is home to a variety of animals.
In addition to the museums, the Gulf Shores Museum District also features a number of shops and restaurants. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the district and enjoy the historic architecture while browsing the shops or grabbing a bite to eat.
Waterway Village
Waterway Village is a charming historic district located along the Intracoastal Waterway. The district features a number of historic buildings that have been converted into shops and restaurants, as well as a marina.
Visitors to Waterway Village can take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy views of the waterway, or stop in at one of the shops or restaurants. The district is particularly popular with boaters, as it offers easy access to the waterway and the Gulf of Mexico beyond.
Overall, the historic districts of Gulf Shores offer a unique glimpse into the city's past, and are well worth a visit for anyone interested in history or architecture.
Shopping and Dining Hubs
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Here are two of the best shopping and dining hubs in Gulf Shores:
Pelican Place
Pelican Place is a premier shopping and dining destination in Gulf Shores. It is located at 3800 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Pelican Place features a variety of shops, including clothing stores, gift shops, and specialty stores.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including fast food, casual dining, and fine dining. Some of the popular restaurants at Pelican Place include Five Guys, Moe's Southwest Grill, and Cactus Cantina.
Gulf Place
Gulf Place is another popular shopping and dining destination in Gulf Shores. It is located at 101 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Gulf Place features a variety of shops, including clothing stores, souvenir shops, and art galleries.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including seafood restaurants, pizza places, and ice cream shops. Some of the popular restaurants at Gulf Place include The Hangout, Sea-N-Suds, and The Scoop.
Both Pelican Place and Gulf Place offer ample parking space, and visitors can easily spend an entire day shopping and dining at these locations.
These shopping and dining hubs are perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends who are looking for a fun and relaxing day out.
Recreational Areas
Gulf State Park
Gulf State Park is a popular recreational area in Gulf Shores, AL. The park boasts 6,000 acres of land, including two miles of white sand beaches, a fishing pier, and a golf course. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, biking, and swimming in the park. The park is also home to a number of wildlife species, including alligators, deer, and coyotes.
The park's amenities include a nature center, a campground, and several picnic areas. There are also opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The park is open year-round, and admission is free.
Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge is a protected area located just west of Gulf Shores, AL. The refuge covers over 7,000 acres of land and is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, migratory birds, and endangered species such as the Alabama beach mouse.
The refuge has several hiking trails, including the Pine Beach Trail and the Jeff Friend Trail. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing.
The refuge is open year-round and admission is free.
Overall, Gulf Shores, AL has a variety of recreational areas for visitors and locals to enjoy. From state parks to wildlife refuges, there is something for everyone to explore and experience.
Schools and Education
Gulf Shores, Alabama is home to a variety of public and private schools that provide quality education to students of all ages. The Gulf Shores City School District serves approximately 2,600 students in one elementary school (Grades PreK-5), one middle school (Grades 6-8), one high school (Grades 9-12), and one virtual academy (Grades K-12) NeighborhoodScout. The district has set high expectations for students to reach their full potential and incorporates traditional and innovative instructional strategies based on the latest research and best practices Our District - Gulf Shores City Schools.
The Gulf Shores City Schools provide a quality education that prepares all of their students, regardless of background or circumstances, for success in college, career, and life Schools - Gulf Shores City District. The district's goal is to incorporate 21st-century learning skills into their academic and co-curricular programs.
In addition to the public schools, Gulf Shores also has private schools available. These include St. Benedict Catholic School, which serves students from Pre-K to 8th grade, and South Baldwin Christian Academy, which serves students from K-4 to 12th grade. Both schools offer a faith-based education and focus on academic excellence NeighborhoodScout.
Overall, Gulf Shores, AL, offers a variety of educational options for families with children of all ages. The schools provide a quality education and prepare students for success in their future endeavors.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Gulf Shores, Alabama is a growing city that has been investing in infrastructure and transportation to accommodate the increasing population and tourism. The city has a comprehensive Land Use Plan that outlines the goals and policies for land use and development. The plan aims to make the city more user-friendly and up-to-date with the current city visions.
The city has also adopted a 2019 Transportation Plan to meet the eligibility requirements of the Alabama Legislature's Rebuild Alabama Act. The plan includes a gas tax increase to help with transportation infrastructure funding. One of the highlights of the transportation plan is the widening of Alabama State Route 59 from Coastal Gateway Boulevard south over the W.C. Holmes Memorial Bridge to Fort Morgan Road [1].
Gulf Shores is also looking at building three interconnected projects by 2024, including a reroute of Canal Road around a Gulf Shores neighborhood [2]. However, the Alabama Department of Transportation has backed off on funding support for this project, causing frustration among residents.
In terms of public transportation, Gulf Shores does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. However, the city does have a trolley service that operates during peak tourism season, which provides transportation to popular destinations such as the beach, shopping centers, and restaurants. The trolley service is a convenient and affordable way for tourists to get around the city.
Overall, Gulf Shores is making strides in improving its infrastructure and transportation to accommodate the growing population and tourism. The city's comprehensive Land Use Plan and Transportation Plan are important tools in achieving these goals.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated neighborhoods to live in Gulf Shores, AL?
Gulf Shores has a variety of neighborhoods with varying degrees of desirability. According to Best Neighborhood, the most sought-after areas tend to be in the northeast parts of the city, while more affordable homes are located in the west regions. Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Gulf Shores include Craft Farms, The Peninsula, and The Retreat at Bon Secour.
How do the property prices compare in different Gulf Shores neighborhoods?
The median house prices in Gulf Shores, AL are $272,562, which is less expensive than the US median of $318,879. However, the prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood. Some of the most expensive neighborhoods in Gulf Shores include The Beach Club, The Peninsula, and The Ridge.
On the other hand, some of the more affordable neighborhoods include Cotton Creek Estates, Gulf Shores Plantation, and Martyn Woods.
What amenities are commonly found in Gulf Shores residential areas?
Gulf Shores neighborhoods offer a variety of amenities, including community pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, and golf courses. Many neighborhoods also have access to private beaches, boat docks, and fishing piers. Some of the more upscale neighborhoods offer additional amenities such as private clubhouses, spas, and restaurants.
Can you highlight the differences between living in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are both coastal towns located in Baldwin County, Alabama. While they share many similarities, there are some differences between the two. Gulf Shores is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a variety of activities for all ages.
Orange Beach, on the other hand, is known for its upscale resorts, high-end shopping, and fine dining. Gulf Shores tends to be more affordable than Orange Beach, but both offer a range of real estate options for those looking to buy or rent.
What factors contribute to the popularity of Gulf Shores as a residential location?
Gulf Shores is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and laid-back lifestyle. The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and golfing. Gulf Shores is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hangout Music Festival and the National Shrimp Festival. Additionally, the town has a strong sense of community, with a variety of local organizations and events that bring residents together.
What types of real estate options are available in Gulf Shores neighborhoods?
Gulf Shores offers a range of real estate options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. Many of the neighborhoods in Gulf Shores are gated communities with a variety of amenities.
Some of the more upscale neighborhoods offer custom-built homes with high-end finishes and features. Additionally, there are a number of new construction homes and lots available for those looking to build their dream home.