8 Darling Small Towns on the Gulf Coast
The Gulf Coast spans five southern states from Florida to Texas. The landscape is painted with classic coastal towns with a laidback atmosphere. These towns are top travel destinations for people worldwide because of the white sand beaches and azure-colored water, but there are many other reasons to visit.
These eight darling small towns on the Gulf Coast offer charming shopping districts, fun attractions, and isolated beaches. They embody the region's best characteristics and are fun to explore. Some towns have famous party scenes while others offer a tranquil respite from the more populated cities. Peaceful respites are only a short walk away from the bustling crowds, making these the best towns to visit on the Gulf Coast.
Panama City Beach, Florida
Panama City Beach, Florida, or PCB, is a top destination for Spring Breakers and anyone looking for a Caribbean-style retreat in the US. Its dominant feature is the gorgeous beach, but there are many other points of interest for the whole family. Cultural attractions include St. Andrews State Park, Camp Helen State Park, and Gulf World Marine Park. Perhaps the most popular draw is the SkyWheel.
The SkyWheel is in Pier Park, an entertainment complex with a Mini-Golf course right off the beach. It is a 200-foot-high observation deck that offers panoramic views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico for those not afraid of heights. There are other shopping and entertainment districts in town, but what makes PCB so unique is the retail options within viewing distance of the clear blue water that made this town famous.
Seaside, Florida
Seaside is a planned resort town on Florida's Emerald Coast known for its New Urbanist architecture and coastal atmosphere. The Truman Show was filmed here because of the clean aesthetic, pastel-colored houses, and white picket fences. Downtown is notable for its many shops and restaurants like the Great Southen Cafe and Bud and Alleys.
Bud and Ally's has a charming rooftop bar, perfect for catching sunsets after exploring and shopping downtown. Or, head to Airstream Row, a collection of gourmet food trucks in vintage Air Streams. Walking and bicycling are everyday outdoor activities, especially on the Timpoochee Trail. The 18-mile trail runs from Dune to inlet beaches with many detours and restaurants.
Siesta Key, Florida
Siesta Key is a barrier island and one of the last vestiges of "old Florida" charm. The white sand beaches are within walking distance of Siesta Key Village, the primary shopping and dining area. The Siesta Key Breeze Trolley is a free service that is a unique way to discover boutiques like Foxy Lady and Boca. There is much to see and do on this eight-mile island.
The area is known for its dynamic sunsets, and one of the best ways to experience it is on a sunset cruise aboard Sarasota Boat Tours. On Sundays, there is a famed drum circle at Siesta Beach, and anybody can join the fun. The tranquil atmosphere, beach activities, and unique shopping center make Siesta Key one of the best beaches in the US.
Orange Beach, Alabama
On Alabama's Gulf Coast, Orange Beach is known for its white sand beaches and fun atmosphere. One of the world's most famous beach bars, the Flora-Bama, is here. It shares the property with two other counties across two states, hence the name. It is also a mecca for water sports enthusiasts, with places such as Waterfront Park.
The park has a 400-foot pier, covered pavilions, and a playground. Cultural points of interest include the Orange Beach Indian & Sea Museum, which features Native American exhibits. This darling town is full of fun, beauty, and natural attractions, making it one of the best beach towns along the Gulf Coast.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, near Orange Beach, is a darling beach town with family-friendly attractions. Gulf State Park is a big draw with pavilions, hiking, and an educational nature park. Lake Shelby provides excellent kayaking and canoeing options, too. The Gulf Coast Zoo is a charming habitat with 118 species, each with a personal name. Of course, the beaches are pristine and attract many visitors annually.
The beach is bigger than Orange Beach and has eight public accesses. At the end of West Beach is a coastal paradise, Laguna Key. The remote resort has private beach access and many modern conveniences and is within walking distance of local dining and shopping options. Gulf Shores has many other attractions, including the Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge and an entertainment district, ideal for sultry coastal evenings.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
The small town of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi has several notable casinos, including the Hollywood. It is also a resort that attracts many visitors for its sophisticated lodging and amenities. The coastal town also has many historical sites like the Historic L and N Train Depot. The mission-styled structure was built in 1928 and houses several museums like the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum.
The museum honors famed artist, Alice Moseley who started painting at 65 to combat Alheizmer's disease. Another cultural point of interest is the Little Theatre. The performing arts theatre opened in 1946 and sells out most of its shows. The beach is pleasant and near to several restaurants and quaint shops, adding an exclamation point on this historic town.
Grand Isle, Louisiana
Grand Isles is a barrier island in southern Louisiana, most notable for its offshore adventures. Not only does it have an attractive beach, but it is also home to Grand Isle State Park. It is a beach ridge that doubles as a natural barrier between the Gulf of Mexico and the tiny islands. The island contains many bird habitats, some of which can be seen on the Lafitte Nature Preserve/Nature Trail.
Water enthusiasts will love the Wake Side Cable Park. The cables allow wakeboarders to ride without a boat, instead being towed by a cable system. Various lodging options include hotels, camping, and the elegant Landry House. The bed and breakfast is a small, historic home within walking distance of Grand Isle's many attractions.
South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is known for its conservation efforts and natural habitats. The resort town is home to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, which has a five-story birding watch tower and an alligator sanctuary. Sea Turtle Inc. is a preservation center with educational and interactive exhibits. South Padre Island also has a thriving retail and restaurant scene.
There are plenty of nighttime entertainment options here at places like Louie's Backyard. The large bayfront nightclub has a DJ and offers karaoke on the weekends. The Quarterdeck has nightly live music and a crab race on Wednesdays. This darling coastal town is excellent for spending the day at the beach and is a popular Spring Break destination, but it also offers many cultural options.
These darling towns dot the Gulf Coast in the Southern United States and are big on fun, charm, and adventurous activities. Panama City Beach, Florida, is a renowned Spring Break hub, while towns like South Padre Island, Texas, have notable conservation areas. One of the best things about these towns is that they have much to offer, though small.
Seaside is known for its town center, while Orange Beach has one of the most famous beach bars in the world. Whether looking for a great party or a secluded beach to run away from the world, these coastal towns fit the bill. The Gulf region is gorgeous and unique, and it is easy to see why visitors flock to these towns in droves.
