West Beach in the southern state of Alabama could be called the quieter side of its sister-beach Gulf Shores Beach. This is because most tourists flock to the amusement parks and boardwalks; clubs and restaurants that make Gulf Shores popular with vacationers. West Beach Boulevard takes you right into the West Beach area, and there isn’t too much in the way of anything but high end homes. Still, you can sneak away to the public beaches here and enjoy this strip of paradise.
Best months to visit West Beach are June through the early part of November. There are always people coming over from Gulf Shores, but you’ll always have space as the beach is long and wide. Getting to the beach is easy. You can head out to the Fort Morgan peninsula and take it as it makes its way into Mobile Bay. Little Lagoon lake separates the beach from the actual shore. On the east side of the lake you can take the highway right in. And on the west, you’ll encounter the Fort Morgan-Dauphin Island Ferry that can take you out.
We said there were high rise homes, but there are a few restaurants as well. Two are good choices: Bahama Bobs Beach Side Cafe and West Beach Grill, both on West Beach Blvd.
To stay, check out the Phoenix All Suites Hotel West, the Surfside Shores, and the Shoreline Towers. All are awesome hotels and you’ll be right on the West Beach Blvd which can take to either West Beach or the other Gulf Shores beaches.
You’ll be out on a barrier peninsula and with that comes the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge which is full of migrating birds, turtles and that famous Alabama beach mouse!
There is a very cool museum nearby, too. It’s the Fort Morgan museum and was the site of the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War.
To get here you can fly into Pensacola, Florida (PNS) and drive 40 miles into Alabama. Mobile (MOB) is about 60 miles northwest. This area is about 25 miles south of Interstate 10, so plan to visit when you are driving through the south.
It’s hot here in the summers - we ain’t gonna lie. The highs are in the 90s and nights can be a tad muggy. But you’ll have a lot to do and lots to see and explore so we feel you should check out this beautiful beach in Alabama.
West Beach, Alabama, Beach Index:
- Fine, off white sand.
- Facilities at some areas - check as you drive along the shore.
- Sporting gear can be rented at hotels.