Road Trip Adventures: Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL Guide

Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL Guide

Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Join me as I take you on a journey from Destin, FL to Gulf Shores, AL, along some of the most scenic roads on the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re a beach lover, nature enthusiast, or foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. Pack your bags, buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

Key Takeaways:

Discover the best route to take from Destin FL to Gulf Shores Al
Explore must-visit attractions along the way
Find out where to stay in popular beach destinations
Indulge in local food and dining experiences

Exploring the Best Route from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL

As I planned my road trip from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the scenic beauty that awaited me on the Florida Panhandle and Alabama coast. There are multiple routes to choose from, but I opted for one that would take me through some of the most breathtaking coastal towns and natural wonders.

Starting from Destin, I traveled westward along the coastline on highway 98, passing through the charming towns of Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and Grayton Beach. These towns are known for their sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Route	Distance	Estimated time
Destin to Panama City Beach	42 miles	50 minutes
Panama City Beach to Port St. Joe	56 miles	1 hour 10 minutes
Port St. Joe to Apalachicola	27 miles	35 minutes
Apalachicola to Gulf Shores	136 miles	2 hours 30 minutes

Further down the coast, I veered off the main highway and headed towards Port St. Joe, a quaint town that is home to the stunning St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. This park has miles of unspoiled beaches, dunes, and marshes, and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

From Port St. Joe, I continued my journey towards Apalachicola, a historic town that is famous for its oysters. I made sure to stop at one of the local seafood shacks to sample some of the freshest oysters I’ve ever had.

Finally, I arrived in Gulf Shores, my ultimate destination. The route from Apalachicola to Gulf Shores took me through the picturesque towns of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, both of which offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and golfing.

Overall, the route I took was approximately 261 miles long and took me around 5 hours. However, I made several stops along the way to explore the attractions and soak up the scenery, so it’s possible to complete the journey in less time.

Must-Visit Attractions Along the Way

As you travel from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL, there are plenty of attractions to explore along the way. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or hidden gems off the beaten path, there’s something for everyone.

Fort Pickens

Located along the Florida Panhandle, Fort Pickens is a historic military fort that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort and learn about its important role in American history.

Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and even go snorkeling to see the local marine life up close.

The Gulf Islands National Seashore

The Gulf Islands National Seashore spans over 150 miles of coastline from Florida to Mississippi. Along the way, visitors can explore historic forts, hike scenic trails, and relax on pristine beaches.

The USS Alabama Battleship

Located in Mobile, Alabama, the USS Alabama is a retired battleship that now serves as a museum. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ship and learn about its fascinating history.

These are just a few of the many must-visit attractions along the road trip from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL. Be sure to carve out some time to explore these hidden gems and make unforgettable memories on your journey.

Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodations

During my road trip from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL, I found some amazing accommodations along the route. If you’re looking for beachfront options, you’ll find plenty to choose from in both Destin and Gulf Shores.

In Destin, I recommend the Henderson Beach Resort, a luxurious beachfront hotel with stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities like a spa, pool, and restaurant. Another great option is the Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village, which offers spacious condos with private balconies overlooking the harbor.

In Gulf Shores, the Lodge at Gulf State Park is a must-visit. This newly renovated hotel sits right on the beach and features eco-friendly amenities and a gorgeous rooftop pool. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Gulf Shores Surf and Racquet Club, a condo complex with its own private beach and tennis courts.

If you’re looking for a more secluded getaway, consider renting a beach house. Vacation rental sites like VRBO and Airbnb have plenty of options to choose from, many with direct beach access.

Indulging in Local Food and Dining Experiences

One of the best parts of any road trip is experiencing the local cuisine along the way. From fresh seafood to regional specialties, the Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL route offers plenty of delicious dining options.

Seafood Shacks and Beachfront Restaurants

When in Destin, be sure to visit The Crab Trap for the freshest seafood around. Situated right on the beach, you can enjoy your meal with an incredible view of the Gulf of Mexico. In Gulf Shores, head to Sea-N-Suds for the best seafood on the coast. This iconic spot has been serving up fish and shrimp baskets since 1967.

Regional Specialties

One must-try regional specialty in Florida is the Key Lime Pie. Head to Joe’s Crab Shack in Destin for a delicious slice. In Alabama, sample some of the famous barbecue at The Brick Pit. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up mouthwatering ribs and brisket since 1992.

Local Breweries

For the beer lovers out there, make sure to check out Grayton Beer Company in Santa Rosa Beach. This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers and even hosts tours and tastings. In Gulf Shores, Big Beach Brewing Company is a must-visit. Enjoy a cold beer on their outdoor patio with views of the beach.

From seafood shacks to local breweries, the Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL route has something for every foodie. Don’t be afraid to try something new and indulge in all the delicious regional cuisine along the way.

Conclusion

Overall, my road trip adventure from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL was unforgettable. The scenic beauty of the Florida Panhandle and Alabama coast exceeded all of my expectations, and the must-visit attractions along the way provided endless entertainment.

I highly recommend taking this road trip route to anyone looking for a beach vacation with a little something extra. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, the experience is sure to be memorable.

Don’t forget to indulge in the local food and dining experiences along the way. From seafood shacks to regional specialties, the Gulf Coast has plenty of delicious options to satisfy any appetite.

So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget. The road trip from Destin FL to Gulf Shores AL is waiting for you, and I promise, you won’t regret it.

FAQ

Q: What are some must-visit attractions along the road trip route?

A: Some must-visit attractions along the road trip route include the stunning white sand beaches of Destin, FL, the charming town of Fairhope, AL, and the historic Fort Morgan in Gulf Shores, AL.

Q: Are there any family-friendly attractions along the way?

A: Yes, there are several family-friendly attractions along the road trip route. The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach, FL, offers interactive marine animal shows, while the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores, AL, is a great place to see a variety of exotic animals.

Q: Where are some recommended places to stay along the route?

A: For a beachfront experience, check out the resorts and hotels in Destin, FL, such as The Henderson, a luxury beachfront resort. In Gulf Shores, AL, there are several beachfront options, including The Lodge at Gulf State Park and The Beach Club Resort & Spa.

Q: What are some popular local food and dining experiences?

A: Along the road trip route, be sure to try some of the fresh seafood at local restaurants and seafood shacks, such as The Back Porch in Destin, FL, and The Hangout in Gulf Shores, AL. Don’t forget to try regional specialties like gumbo and fried oysters!