Extra Day in Mobile after our cruise

[maldenmusic]

We cruise on the Elation next week and want to spend an extra day in the area when we return. We are specifically thinking about a day at the beach and are wondering if anyone could recommend a nice beach in the area? We did this last year and ended up in Pensacola for the day but want to try something different. Thinking maybe Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. Suggestions anyone?

[futaba951]

Gulf Shores is half the distance that going to Pcola would be and us probably just as nice. The beaches are groomed and replenished with sand courtesy of BP and have never looked better. You might also consider the beaches in Biloxi MS. They are pretty nice as well and pretty much as close as Gulf Shores.

[thescot123]

Was on the Elation a few weeks ago and spent the day before my cruise at Gulf Shores. It is an easy 50 mile drive from Mobile down I59.

[maldenmusic]

Was on the Elation a few weeks ago and spent the day before my cruise at Gulf Shores. It is an easy 50 mile drive from Mobile down I59.

Is there a public parking area close to the beach?

[thescot123]

Is there a public parking area close to the beach?

 

If you go straight down I59 then it will dead end where the beach starts. There is a public beach right there but not too sure what they charge. I decided to turn left and drive about 1/2 mile to the Gulf shores State Pier. This has a huge parking lot and does not charge unless you sight sea or fish from the long pier. They have beach access their so you will be able to enter the water. The fishing pier charges $2 to go on the pier with one entry only or $3 for an all day pass.

[ClarkBHM]

I just posted on another post that you can go straight south from Mobile and visit the beaches in Dauphin Island, Alabama. That may be more convenient (and is at least worth the look).