The Gulf Coast is one of the prettiest stretches of beach in the United States. Spanning five states from Florida to Texas, the white sand beaches and azure-colored water beckon beachcombers and tourists worldwide. The towns along this coast have a unique, beachy vibe that is contagious in its laid-back charm and lively atmosphere.
Coastal communities take pride in their unique setting by preserving historical buildings and limiting the number of structures allowed. Downtown areas are often the hub of the community, and these seven towns have the best downtown strips along the Gulf Coast. The roads are lined with unique stores, entertainment venues, and funky beach bars with live music, keeping the coastal vibe going all night.
Panama City Beach, or PCB in local parlance, is a gorgeous seaside town on Florida’s Emerald Coast. It is a famous Spring Break destination with family-friendly attractions like Pier Park. The park is considered a premier shopping destination on the Emerald Coast, boasting over 1 million square feet of open-air shopping featuring national outlets such as Target and local boutiques, including Shimmering Seas Jewelry and Gifts. The area is considered PCB’s unofficial downtown and is the place to be for dining and other attractions.
Pier Park dining options include Margaritaville and Pompano Joe’s, which promise a fun night after spending a day at the outdoor mall. As you continue down the strip, you will find eclectic shops for every taste and thought-provoking galleries like Sun Bear Gallery and Studio. PCB is also known for its foodie scene, and you can find just about any cuisine on the main beach strip, like Bayou Joe’s and Harpoon Harry’s. PCB is fun to visit any time of the year, but expect heavy crowds during Spring Break. Still, there is plenty to see and do for a quiet retreat or a family vacation.
Seaside is a lovely planned community along Florida’s Emerald Coast known for its New Urbanist design centered around a European-style downtown district. The sophisticated downtown strip features boutique retailers, including Brothers and Headley Hat Co., and open-air eateries like The Daytrader Tiki Bar and Restaurant. Each provides an agreeable afternoon of shopping in the Florida sun and enjoying balmy breezes. While in town, enjoying a stunning sunset at Bud and Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant and Rooftop Bar is almost mandatory.
Lodging options complement the European flair and style of architecture. The Court is Seaside’s only Boutique hotel featuring eight elegant rooms overlooking a landscaped garden. The other option is the Homeowner’s Collection, which has over 190 homes in its portfolio. The onsite full-service rental agency provides high-quality amenities and delicate touches to make any stay a memorable experience. One of the best aspects of this designed community is how every detail fits the modern and chic aesthetic, providing a comprehensive and detailed stay.
Rosemary Beach is a planned community on the Emerald Coast with one of the Gulf Coast’s best open-air downtown districts. The district is reminiscent of the Dutch West Indies, with gas street lamps, cobblestone streets, and outdoor cafes. It is the perfect complement to the coast, with sophisticated galleries like Curate and spa treatments at Vivo. Charming lodging options complete a stay here next to the beach and the unique downtown area. Rosemary Beach Inn is a European-inspired boutique hotel featuring eight rooms in Barrett Square, just off Main Street. While on Main Street, grab a table at the Cowgirl Kitchen, a popular location for its service and outdoor seating. The atmosphere embraces the town’s spirit, and the outdoor seating provides fantastic views of the district and the Pearl Hotel.
The historic fishing village of Apalachicola is one of the most historic on the Gulf Coast. It was once the third-largest port on the Gulf of Mexico. The original town plan was laid out in squares, which still exist today, along with many original homes. Six historic squares, including Gorrie and City Squares, offer notable landmarks like Trinity Episcopal Church and Chestnut Street Cemetery. The squares and landmarks feel like stepping back in time, enabling guests to soak in the village’s culture and heritage.
Book a stay at traditional-style buildings like the Gibson Inn, which dates back to 1907 and is a short walk from the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, or Coombs Inn & Suites, an old-world bed-and-breakfast.
Alabama’s Orange Beach is known for its white sandy beaches, clear water, and Spring Break fun. One reason for its fun reputation is the Flora-Bama, one of the most famous beach bars in the world. It has an excellent menu and five music stages, so that guests can pick and choose between genres. The most popular downtown attraction is The Wharf, an entertainment venue featuring family-friendly attractions from a Ferris wheel to a SPECTRA Laser Light Experience.
The landmark Ferris wheel stands 112 feet tall and has 24 gondolas that can hold up to 140 people. It also provides one of the best ways to see the town and panoramic views of the Gulf waters. Afterward, stop by a local restaurant like The Gulf for a fresh seafood dinner or Wolf Bay Restaurant, famous for its atmosphere and service. This downtown strip is one of the best for its fun atmosphere, lively crowds, and shopping opportunities that are hard to pass up when traveling through Alabama.
