Getting to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach: Fly or Drive with Ease!
No matter how you travel, your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation is closer than you think!
Visitors from Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois—even Canada—flock to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach every year. With major highways leading straight to the coast, many families and groups opt for a scenic road trip. But if flying is more your style, you’re in luck—there are two convenient airports nearby!
Keep reading for the best travel tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Driving to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Planning a road trip to Alabama’s beaches? Whether you're coming from near or far, getting here is easy! Most travelers drive via Interstate 65 or Interstate 10, with many taking Highway 59 to the coast. However, we recommend the Baldwin/Foley Beach Express for a faster, less congested route.
Best Route:
- From I-65: Take Exit 37 (Bay Minette) to Highway 59 South, then merge onto I-10 East toward Pensacola.
- From I-10 (Westbound): Skip Highway 59 and continue to Exit 53 for the Baldwin Beach Express.
- The Beach Express has fewer stoplights and less traffic, getting you to the sand faster!
Travel Tips:
- Spring and summer are the busiest seasons—expect some traffic and plan for extra time.
- Fall and winter typically have fewer congestion issues, making for a smooth drive.
Estimated Drive Times to Gulf Shores:
- Atlanta: 6 hours (350 miles)
- Birmingham: 5 hours (285 miles)
- Chicago: 15 hours (950 miles)
- Dallas: 10 hours (650 miles)
- Memphis: 7 hours (420 miles)
- New Orleans: 3 hours (200 miles)
- Nashville: 8 hours (470 miles)
*Drive times are estimates and may vary due to traffic, construction, and stops along the way.
Airports Near Gulf Shores, Alabama
Planning your trip to Gulf Shores or Orange Beach? The two closest airports are:
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – Just over an hour’s drive from Gulf Shores, Pensacola is the larger of the two airports and offers more nonstop flights, especially in the summer. You may find a direct flight from your city!
- Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) – Located about 1.5 hours from Gulf Shores, Mobile is another convenient option for travelers.
Both airports have multiple rental car agencies, making it easy to reach your vacation rental.
Around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Getting Around Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
We recommend having access to a car during your stay for convenience. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are about 6 miles apart, separated by Gulf State Park. While a car is the easiest way to explore, local taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available if needed.
Parking Information
- Our office has plenty of parking for easy check-in.
- Each vacation rental includes parking, but availability varies by property size and location.
- Most one-bedroom condos allow one parking pass, while larger properties typically allow two. Check your rental details for specifics.
- Public beach parking includes both free and paid lots, with credit card payment options for added convenience.
Best Place to Stay in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach
Plan your beach escape with our Gulf Shores vacation rentals and Orange Beach vacation rentals. Whether you need pet-friendly rentals, Gulf-front vacation rentals, or a stay near top attractions, we have the perfect spot.
Relax on sugar-white sands, swim in clear waters, and enjoy fishing, golfing, or kayaking. After a day outside, explore local dining, shopping, and entertainment. Book your stay today and experience Gulf Shores and Orange Beach!