Our Area Beaches

By Amy Gouger

The beaches are the major draw for Gulf Shores, Alabama. Beautiful and seasonally warm, they lure both humans and animals to partake of bounty. Activities in Gulf Shores include fishing, swimming, scuba diving, golfing, amusement parks, water parks, nature trails, museums and zoos. Snorkelers will enjoy the Gulf Shores vacation experience.
Location
Gulf Shores is located adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico on a snip of land on the heel of Alabama, about 15 minutes from Orange Beach and 45 minutes from Pensacola, Florida.
Weather
From May through September the average high air temperature is 86 degrees F with an average low of 74 degrees F. In the remaining seven months of the year, the coolest is January and even then the temperatures only drop, on average, to a high of 57 degrees F and a low of 43 degrees F.
Ocean Temperatures
The water averages around 80 degrees F during the peak warm months of May through September. The coldest water temperature occurs in January, when it drops to about 55 degrees F.
Dangerous Waters
Like most oceans, swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling contains a few risks. Gulf Shores uses a flag system to warm of water conditions. A double red flag indicates a closed beach and green flag signifies low hazards. Keeping an eye on the flags will ensure the best snorkeling adventure.
Prey
Man of Wars and jellyfish really don't view humans as prey, but they do pack a sting. Bring along a jar of meat tenderizer and a bottle of vinegar. A purple flag indicates dangerous sea life.