The best ways to enjoy Sunrise Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama! We are blessed with amazing sunrises that will take your breath away.
Best ways to enjoy Sunrise Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
If you are wondering where is the best place to watch sunrise in Gulf Shores Alabama you have come to the right place!
One of my favorite things about living in Gulf Shores is being able to walk the beach in the morning for sunrise.
I find myself waking up at dawn and heading to the beach as often as I can. There is just something magical about starting the day with your toes in the sand watching the sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico.
Don't worry you don't have to walk the beach to get an epic view of sunrise!
Head to the Beach
Our favorite way to view sunrise in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is to head to the beach. Even living here, we find ourselves heading to the beach early in the morning to watch sunrise.
One thing to know is the sun direction over the beach changes during the year. During the winter you will find the sun directly over the Gulf of Mexico.
If you have mobility restrictions and don't want to walk on the sand we suggest heading to Gulf Place Beach in Gulf Shores. There is a paved walkway with benches right next to the beach perfect for viewing sunrise.
Sunrise Tip - Drop by Lickin Good Donuts in Gulf Shores or City Donuts in Orange Beach and pick up some fresh donuts and breakfast sandwiches to take with you to the beach. They open early!
Enjoy the Gulf State Park Pier
**The Gulf State Park Pier is closed until 2024 for repairs
Want to see the sunrise over the water in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach? Head to the Gulf State Park Pier and enjoy epic views.
Make sure to look for sharks and other marine life while checking out the pier. The pier is normally open well before sunrise giving you the opportunity to find the perfect spot.
Be mindful of early morning fishing and people moving around with fishing poles and carts.
Waterfront Vacation Rentals and Hotels
If you are staying in a beachfront rental you can enjoy walking out to see the sunrise over the beach or from your balcony.
We have stayed at Turquoise Place in Orange Beach multiple times before moving to Gulf Shores and love the epic sunrise views from the balcony.
You can enjoy a hot cup of coffee and stay in your comfy pajamas to enjoy these great views which makes it even more amazing.
Gulf Shores Sunrise Tips
Check the weather - We suggest checking the weather right before you head out. It changes so quickly here. Some mornings we head to the beach even if the weather report says it is going to be cloudy.
We have found that the weather shifts quickly and it is worth checking it out if you want to spend time on the beach.
The photo above was taken on a day that the weather report said it would be cloudy.
Check the sunrise time - Confirm what time sunrise is and then plan time to arrive early! Don't forget to set your alarm so you have time to get ready and head out to see sunrise.
First Light - I highly suggest arriving 20-30 minutes before the designated sunrise time. This will give you the opportunity to see the first rays of light crest over the horizon (as seen in the photo above).
Some of our best sunrise photos in Gulf Shores have been right before the official sunrise time. This also gives you time to get to the waters edge or a location that you have a clear view of sunrise.
You may have to get up a few days in the row if you are here on vacation to get the best sunrise photos.
Every morning is a new surprise when it comes to sunrise! Some days it is bright and vivid and other days it is calm and muted.
I know it means setting an alarm early but trust me it is so worth it! If you are not a sunrise person don't worry there are epic sunsets in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach too.
Restaurants and Attractions nearby
Waterville USA - This 20 acre waterpark and amusement park is filled with fun things to do.
Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - They offer amazing animal encounters! This little zoo is packed with fun.
The Wharf Ferris Wheel - One of the most popular attractions in Orange Beach, Alabama. Enjoy stunning views of the Gulf Coast. Check out all of the fun events, shopping, and restaurants at The Wharf.
LuLu's Gulf Shores - One of the most popular restaurants for locals and visitors. Enjoy great food and fun!
The Hangout - Enjoy the epic fun atmosphere right next to the Gulf Shores Beach.
Additional Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Articles
Gulf Shores Breakfast Restaurants - The best of the best breakfasts including southern comfort food, diner classics, and more.
Best Coffee Shops in Gulf Shores - Check out all of the different coffee shops in Gulf Shores, Alabama
Orange Beach Restaurants on the Beach - The best Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Restaurants on the Beach and or with a Waterview!
Epic breakfast restaurants in Orange Beach - Don't miss these local breakfast hot spots with delicious brunch/breakfast options.
Best Donuts Orange Beach - Check out all of the best places to grab a doughnut or beignet.
Things to do in Foley, AL - Don't miss all of the fun to be had in nearby Foley including the amazing Homes Medical Museum and the Railroad Museum.
Things to do in Fairhope, AL - The top things to do in Fairhope, Alabama, include attractions, dining, sunset, wildlife, nature preserves, and so much more!
Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Alabama and so many more!
Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!
Check out our Facebook and Instagram and Tik Tok pages for more great ideas for the Gulf Coast.
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