SCENIC DRIVES

While the beautiful white sands are hard to leave, don’t miss the opportunity to explore. From Gulf Springs head west on the Alabama Coastal Connection Scenic Byway (State Route 180) to Fort Morgan, which played a significant role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. Then take the car-friendly Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island, home to Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Fort Gaines. Pick up the drive on SR 193 and continue along Mobile Bay as far north as time allows before heading back to Gulf Shores.

Or enjoy the coastal views to the east. Take SR 182 to the Alabama-florida border, stopping at Flora-bama for oysters and live music. Across the border, continue on SR 292 to Gulf Beach Highway and turn right. At South Blue Angel Parkway, turn right again and skirt Naval Air Station Pensacola until you arrive at Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum or the National Naval Aviation Museum.

Want to venture inland? Go east on SR 182 until you reach SR 161. Take it north to SR 180 and turn west. At Foley Beach Express turn north and follow it to US 98. Drive all the way to the coast and continue as far north as Spanish Fort. Believe it or not, this route is also part of the Alabama Coastal Connection.