8 Bars in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach You Can’t Miss
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach aren’t just about white sand and ocean views—they’re also home to some of the most welcoming, fun, and uniquely coastal bars in the South. Whether you’re after sunset cocktails, live music by the bay, or an easygoing dive with cold local brews, this stretch of Alabama’s coast delivers in style. From tiki vibes to beachfront decks and laid-back haunts tucked away from the crowds, these 8 bars are beloved by locals and visitors alike. Pull up a chair and raise a glass—you’re on beach time now.
The Hangout
A landmark in Gulf Shores, The Hangout blends Southern charm with a beach party atmosphere. With sand beneath your feet, frequent live music, and a massive open-air layout, it’s perfect for families during the day and a fun bar scene at night. Signature drinks like the Shark Attack are tourist favorites, and there’s always something happening—from dance-offs to foam parties. Its oceanfront location makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area’s social side.
Flora-Bama Lounge
Straddling the Alabama-Florida line, Flora-Bama is more than a bar—it’s a legendary institution. Famous for its live music on multiple stages, frozen bushwackers, and annual mullet toss, this place draws an eclectic crowd from all over. You’ll find dive-bar charm with Southern hospitality, and a lively mix of locals, bikers, and beachgoers. With its storied history and rowdy personality, Flora-Bama is a rite of passage on the Gulf Coast nightlife circuit.
Pink Pony Pub
Since 1956, the Pink Pony Pub has served up burgers, beers, and beachside bliss. Right on the sand in Gulf Shores, this classic pink-painted spot offers unbeatable views and a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re sipping a piña colada or diving into a seafood basket, the Pony’s no-frills charm is part of its appeal. It’s a great place for sunset-watching with friends or catching a game over drinks with your toes still sandy from the surf.
LuLu’s Gulf Shores
Owned by Lucy Buffett, sister to the late Jimmy Buffett, LuLu’s blends great food with tropical cocktails and a vibrant, family-friendly bar scene. The waterfront setting includes a sandy play area, live music stage, and tiki-style bars where margaritas flow freely. It’s a destination in itself, with a full gift shop and even an arcade. Come for the drinks, stay for the live bands and laid-back fun that defines coastal Alabama life.
Big Beach Brewing Company
Craft beer lovers will find their haven at Big Beach Brewing. This open-air brewery in Gulf Shores offers a rotating selection of house-made ales and lagers, brewed just steps from the taps. With plenty of patio seating and frequent live acoustic sets, it’s a chill and community-oriented spot. Bring your dog, grab a pint, and enjoy the local flavor—literally. It’s one of the best places to wind down after a day at the beach.
Cobalt, The Restaurant
Though known for fine dining, Cobalt’s bar area is a hidden gem with panoramic views of the bay and a stylish yet relaxed vibe. Sip craft cocktails as boats cruise past the dock, or enjoy happy hour oysters with a glass of wine. The upscale ambiance doesn’t compromise comfort—you can roll in straight from the water and still feel welcome. Their mixologists are known for refreshing citrus-based drinks perfect for warm Alabama evenings.
Tacky Jacks
Colorful, quirky, and full of character, Tacky Jacks is a coastal staple in Orange Beach. Known for their “Bushwacker with a Kick” and casual waterside seating, it’s an unpretentious place to relax and watch the boats go by. The multilevel decks offer a great breeze and unbeatable marina views. Visitors love writing their names on duct tape and sticking it to the walls—just part of the place’s funky personality. It’s laid-back Gulf fun at its finest.
Pirates Cove
Accessible by boat or road, Pirates Cove is a hidden treasure tucked away in Josephine, near Orange Beach. This rustic beachfront bar is beloved for its greasy burgers, cheap drinks, and dog-friendly picnic tables right on the water. With live music on the weekends and hammocks to lounge in, it’s the kind of spot where time slows down. If you’re after off-the-beaten-path charm and barefoot simplicity, Pirates Cove is your escape.
