Gulf State Park Pavilion: A Beachside Haven
Enjoy a relaxing beach day at Gulf State Park Pavilion with convenient amenities and access to miles of uncrowded shoreline on Alabama's Gulf Coast.
Located within Gulf State Park, the Gulf State Park Pavilion provides easy access to the Gulf of Mexico's shoreline [8, 18]. Situated six miles east of Highway 59, it offers access to three miles of uncrowded beaches [2, 8, 10]. The pavilion is equipped with air-conditioned restrooms and showers, offering a respite from the elements [2, 8, 10]. A seasonal concession stand provides refreshments, and shaded picnic tables offer a space to enjoy meals [7, 8]. For cooler days, a fireplace adds a cozy touch [8, 10]. The park's initial facilities were constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and the park officially opened in 1939 [8, 17, 20]. The pavilion provides easy access to swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing [8, 10]. The nearby Gulf State Park Interpretive Center highlights the park's dedication to sustainability [2, 8]. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, with over 28 miles of paved trails, surrounds the park, offering exploration opportunities [2, 8]. The beach at Gulf State Park Pavilion is accessible to everyone, with a Mobi-Mat ADA Beach Access Mat at the west boardwalk [3, 11]. The Gulf State Park Pavilion is available for rentals and weddings [3, 7, 15, 18]. The general public has access to the lower level, handicap ramp, and restrooms, even during event rental times [7]. The pavilion is a popular location for beach weddings, with the Alabama Parks Department managing rentals [3, 15].
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a parking spot [8].
- Bring beach chairs and umbrellas for added comfort, though shady spots are available at the picnic tables [8].
- Check the beach flag warning system before entering the water to ensure safe swimming conditions [8, 10].
- Take advantage of the air-conditioned restrooms and showers for a comfortable beach day [3, 8].
- Consider bringing fishing gear to enjoy surf fishing along the spacious beach [8, 10].
A brief summary to Gulf State Park Pavillion
- 22250 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- +1251-948-7275ext.92099
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
If you are staying in accommodations along East Beach Boulevard, you can walk to the Gulf State Park Pavilion [8]. Look for public beach access points and follow the shoreline east. The pavilion is a prominent structure [8]. Be mindful of the distance, as it may be several miles from some locations.
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Public Transport
The Coastal Express Route provides public transportation along the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area [8]. Check the current schedule for drop-off locations near Gulf State Park. From the nearest drop-off, you may need to walk or take a short taxi/rideshare to the pavilion. A single ride fare is approximately $1.50 - $3.00 [8]. A short taxi or rideshare could cost $7 - $12 [8].
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Driving
From Highway 59, head east on East Beach Boulevard for approximately 6 miles [2, 8]. The Gulf State Park Pavilion will be on your left. Parking is available in the pavilion's parking lot. Parking fees are $10 for personal vehicles [2, 7]. Passenger vans are $15, and buses or large RVs are $30 [6, 7]. Annual parking decals are available for $100 at the Park Headquarters [6, 7, 9].
